Sensor Angle Measurement for Target Coordinate Refinement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing long-range targeting techniques are inefficient and inaccurate due to cross-axis GPS drift in Global Positioning System Interferometer Subsystems (GPSIS) and time-dependent errors, leading to significant Circular Error Probability (CEP) and requiring time-consuming manual adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize image processing on sensor data from Long Range Advanced Scout Surveillance Systems or Improved Target Acquisition Systems to determine angles and refine coordinates between a target area and an impact area, allowing for rapid and accurate communication of adjustments for improved firing direction, independent of GPS errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPSIS is used to calculate target location, then target coordinates can be obtained, but cross axis GPS drift causes significant error and high CEP
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an optical sensor as an intermediary to measure the angle between the target area and impact area, replacing the direct GPS-based location determination. This intermediary measurement method avoids the cross-axis drift problem inherent in GPSIS, achieving more reliable coordinate accuracy through angular measurement and trigonometric calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the GPSIS mechanical/electronic positioning system with an optical sensing and image processing system. By using optical sensors to capture images and determine angles, then calculating refined coordinates through mathematical relationships, the system eliminates dependence on GPS signals and their associated drift errors.
2Ease of operation
If manual estimation and voice radio communication is used for target adjustment, then coordinate adjustments can be transmitted, but it takes precious time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically calculating refined target coordinates using image processing and angular measurement. The sensor operator directly obtains refined coordinates from the system without needing to manually estimate adjustments or communicate via voice radio, enabling rapid retargeting while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by using the impact area information to automatically calculate and provide refined target coordinates. The sensor operator receives immediate feedback in the form of corrected coordinates based on the actual impact location, enabling rapid adjustment without manual intervention or radio communication delays.
3Duration of action of moving object
If GPS location is updated every 1-2 minutes, then position data is available, but drift with time causes dramatically different locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by capturing the target area and impact area images simultaneously or in rapid succession before GPS drift can significantly affect the measurement. The angular relationship is determined from these preliminary images, and refined coordinates are calculated immediately, avoiding the time-dependent drift problem of periodic GPS updates.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables precise and rapid generation and communication of target coordinates, reducing errors caused by GPS drift and enabling more accurate long-range targeting without the need for manual voice radio updates, allowing for real-time adjustments and improved hit probability.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor performs target location... target area sensor data generated in response to sensing the target area and impact area sensor data generated in response to sensing the impact area
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for adjusting a direction of fire includes moving a view of at least one sensor between a target area and an impact area, where a sensor performs target location. Sensor data is received from the sensor. The sensor data includes target area sensor data generated in response to sensing the target area and impact area sensor data generated in response to sensing the impact area. Image processing is performed on the sensor data to determine at least one angle between a first line from the sensor to the target area and a second line from the sensor to the impact area. Further, a set of refinements to coordinates corresponding to the target area is determined according to the at least one angle and an impact distance between the at least one sensor and the impact area. The set of refinements is communicated in order to facilitate firing upon the target area.