Satellite Imaging System Self-Calibration Without Ground Control Points

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Solution Overview

Problem

Satellite image correction methods require ground control points, which are not always available, and internal/external parameter changes over time can affect image accuracy, especially due to weight, space, and power constraints on satellites.

Innovation Solution

A method that provides at least three images of an area from different angles, establishes point correspondence, generates two sets of three-dimensional information, compares them for discrepancies, and uses these discrepancies to update internal and external parameters of the imaging system, allowing for image correction without ground control points.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If ground control points are used for image correction, then image accuracy is improved, but the method becomes inapplicable when ground control points are not available

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage accuracyVSAvoidapplicability without ground control points
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-calibration by using multiple images of the same area taken from different angles. The imaging system corrects its own parameters by comparing three-dimensional information derived from different image combinations, eliminating the need for external ground control points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system establishes feedback loops by comparing three-dimensional information from different image combinations and using the discrepancies to update imaging system parameters. This continuous feedback mechanism allows the system to self-correct and improve accuracy over time without external references.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If extra equipment is added to satellites for monitoring sensor changes, then measurement precision is improved, but weight, space, and power constraints are violated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor parameter monitoring accuracyVSAvoidsatellite weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging system monitors and corrects its own parameter changes using only the images it captures. By analyzing discrepancies in three-dimensional information from different image combinations, the system detects sensor drift and corrects it without requiring separate monitoring equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The same imaging system that captures images for mapping purposes is also used for monitoring its own parameter changes. The multi-functional approach allows the system to serve both imaging and self-diagnosis functions, eliminating the need for dedicated monitoring equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If extra equipment is added to satellites for monitoring sensor changes, then reliability is improved, but weight, space, and power constraints are violated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor parameter stabilityVSAvoidsatellite equipment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system maintains reliability by performing self-diagnosis and self-correction using its existing imaging capabilities. The system detects parameter drift through image analysis and automatically corrects it, maintaining reliable operation without additional monitoring equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Measurement precision

If multiple images from different angles are processed to generate three-dimensional information, then image correction accuracy is improved, but processing time and computational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage correction accuracyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The processing is divided into distinct segments: first establishing point correspondence across multiple images, then generating three-dimensional information from different image combinations, and finally comparing results to determine corrections. This segmentation allows for systematic and efficient processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary processing by establishing point correspondence between images before generating three-dimensional information. This preliminary step organizes the data in a way that facilitates efficient subsequent processing and comparison.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9709395B2Method and system for analyzing images from satellites
Publication Date: 2017.07.18 MAXAR INT SWEDEN AB
  • US9709395B2 patent drawing
  • US9709395B2 patent drawing
  • US9709395B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method is provided, which comprises generating at least three images of an area of interest from at least one imaging system, the generated images being provided from at least three different angles, establishing point correspondence between the provided images. The method further involves generating at least two sets of three-dimensional information based on the provided images, wherein the at least two sets of three-dimensional information are generated based on at least two different combinations of at least two of the at least three provided images of the area of interest. The method further includes comparing the at least two sets of three-dimensional information so as to determine discrepancies, and providing information related to the imaging system or errors in the images based on the determined discrepancies.