Space Object Position Processing with Bright-Spot Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for observing satellite positions in space are limited by cloud cover for optical telescopes, regulatory restrictions for radar devices, and the high cost and narrow viewing angle of dedicated observation satellites, making continuous or periodic observations challenging without restrictions or regulations.
Innovation Solution
A system using a satellite constellation equipped with sensors, including optical cameras and radars, processes image data to extract and track the positions and movements of objects in space by identifying and distinguishing between known and unknown objects, allowing for continuous or periodic observations without regulatory constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical telescopes are used to observe objects in space, then observation can be made at night, but observation is not possible during daytime or when clouds are present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple observation methods (optical telescope observations and radar device observations) into a unified space object information management system. This allows the system to leverage the advantages of both methods: optical telescopes provide precise observations when conditions permit, while radar devices ensure continuous observation capability during daytime or cloudy conditions, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The space object information management device serves multiple functions: it collects data from both optical telescopes and radar devices, manages space object catalogs, determines positions using appropriate methods based on conditions, and provides comprehensive space situation awareness. This multi-functional approach enables the system to adapt to various observation conditions while maintaining reliable position determination.
2Adaptability or versatility
If radar device is used to observe objects in space, then observation is not affected by clouds or time of day, but the facility becomes large and requires large output power for geostationary orbit observations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines radar device observations with optical telescope observations in a unified management system. By integrating both observation methods, the system can use optical telescopes for their intended purpose while using radar devices only when necessary (during daytime or cloudy conditions), thereby reducing the overall complexity and size requirements compared to relying solely on radar for all observations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses radar device observations partially - only when optical observations are not feasible - rather than continuously. This partial action approach reduces the operational demands on the radar facility, allowing for smaller, less complex radar systems that don't require maximum output power for all observation scenarios.
3Measurement precision
If radar device is used to observe objects in geostationary orbit, then observation is possible, but large output power is required and antenna location must be carefully considered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines radar device observations with optical telescope observations for determining positions of objects in geostationary orbit. By integrating both methods, the system can use optical telescopes for routine observations of geostationary objects, reserving radar device usage for cases where optical observations are not feasible, thereby reducing the overall power requirements and eliminating the need for high-output-power radar systems.
4Measurement precision
If a satellite dedicated for observation is used, then observation capability is provided, but development and launch cost exceeds 10 billion yen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional space object information management system that can process and analyze data from multiple sources (optical telescopes and radar devices) using existing ground-based infrastructure. This approach provides comprehensive observation capability without requiring the development and launch of expensive dedicated observation satellites, thereby achieving the desired measurement precision at a fraction of the cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual model or catalog of space objects by processing and integrating data from multiple observation sources. This digital copy or representation of space object information provides the same analytical value as physical observation satellites would, but at much lower cost by utilizing existing infrastructure and data processing capabilities.
5Measurement precision
If star tracker is used to observe objects in space, then observation is possible, but viewing angle is narrow at about 20 degrees
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines data from multiple observation sources (optical telescopes and radar devices) to determine positions of space objects. By integrating multiple observation vectors from different locations and methods, the system achieves comprehensive coverage that overcomes the narrow viewing angle limitation of individual star trackers, while maintaining or improving measurement precision through data fusion.
Data Source
AI summary
In the operation processing unit, the position calculation unit calculates positions of objects corresponding to the bright spots based on positions of the extracted bright spots in the image, and calculating shooting times of image captured by the sensors. The object identification unit obtains position information of known objects from object catalog information, and associates the objects whose positions are calculated with a known object, based on the position information of the known object and the calculated positions. The position registration unit registers the calculated position and shooting time of image in the object catalog information, based on a result of association. The object identification unit extracts the bright spot to be monitored from the bright spots other than the predetermined objects, based on the result of association. The calculation unit identifies the position and shooting time of an object to be monitored.