Target Classification System with Visual Alignment Aid

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Solution Overview

Problem

Accurate and rapid location and classification of targets in military or emergency response operations are challenging due to time-consuming manual methods, limited operational ranges of existing systems, and vulnerability to jamming or detection.

Innovation Solution

A target classification system with a user device featuring a visual alignment aid, pose sensor, and processor that receives user inputs to determine and tag target classifications, outputting targeting data for improved situational awareness, even in stressful or jammed environments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual surveying and target classification methods are used, then operators can identify targets, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetarget classification speedVSAvoidtime for manual surveying
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical surveying methods with an automated optical system. A camera captures images of targets, and a processor automatically classifies them using image analysis algorithms, eliminating the need for manual visual inspection and significantly reducing classification time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-classification of targets through automated image processing. The processor analyzes captured images independently to determine target types, allowing the system to serve itself in the classification task without requiring continuous human intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Area of stationary object

If multiple individuals or systems collect target data, then more comprehensive coverage is achieved, but data integration becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesurvey coverage areaVSAvoiddata integration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal data format that can receive and process target information from multiple different sources including various camera systems and input devices. The standardized classification framework allows diverse systems to contribute data without requiring complex integration protocols for each source

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

3Length of stationary object

If traditional targeting systems are used, then target location can be determined, but operational range is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational rangeVSAvoidtarget location accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional planar targeting to three-dimensional spatial classification. By incorporating depth information and spatial coordinates into the classification system, the patent extends operational range while maintaining precision through volumetric target positioning and categorization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS12026235B2Target classification system
Publication Date: 2024.07.02 MORPHIX INC
  • US12026235B2 patent drawing
  • US12026235B2 patent drawing
  • US12026235B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Examples are disclosed that relate to target classification systems, weapons, and methods for classifying a target. One example provides a target classification system comprising a user device, a user input device, a pose sensor fixed to the user device, a processor, and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor. A visual alignment aid indicates a line of sight to one or more of a plurality of targets. The user input device is configured to receive at least a first input type and a second input type. The instructions are executable to receive a user input and determine the pose of the line of sight. The one or more targets are tagged with a first target classification when the first input type is received and tagged with a second target classification when the second input type is received. The instructions are further executable to output targeting data to another device.