UAV Target Tracking With Automatic Image-Based Position Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current UAV tracking methods require manual control, which can be challenging, especially when targets are moving quickly or partially obscured, and demand dual attention for navigation and camera operation, increasing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for UAVs to automatically or semi-automatically track targets by receiving target information from a control terminal, allowing the UAV to maintain the target's position and size within images captured, enabling a single user to control navigation and tracking concurrently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual tracking control is used by a dedicated user operating a remote control terminal, then the camera can be controlled to track the target, but the operation becomes difficult when the target is moving quickly or partially blocked, and additional personnel are required increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables the UAV to perform tracking autonomously by detecting target features in captured images and automatically adjusting flight parameters and camera orientation to maintain target positioning, eliminating the need for manual intervention and allowing a single operator to control both navigation and tracking
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual control system with an automated computer vision system that uses image processing algorithms to detect and track targets, substituting human operators' manual adjustments with automated digital processing and control
2Reliability
If a dedicated user controls the camera separately from navigation control, then tracking can be achieved, but the cost for aerial photography increases due to additional personnel requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges camera control and navigation control into a single integrated system where one operator can control both functions simultaneously through a unified interface, reducing operational complexity while maintaining tracking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The control terminal is designed to perform multiple functions including both navigation control and camera tracking control, allowing a single device and operator to handle tasks that previously required separate specialized controls and personnel
3Reliability
If manual tracking is used, then the camera can follow the target, but the attention required for manual tracking increases operator workload and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking system operates autonomously by continuously analyzing captured images to detect target features and automatically adjusting system parameters to maintain tracking, freeing operators from continuous manual attention and enabling them to perform additional tasks
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous automatic tracking operation without interruption or manual intervention, ensuring uninterrupted monitoring of targets while reducing operator workload and enabling sustained high-speed tracking capability
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention provides systems, methods, and devices related to target tracking by UAVs. The UAV may be configured to receive target information from a control terminal related to a target to be tracked by an imaging device coupled to the UAV. The target information may be used by the UAV to automatically track the target so as to maintain predetermined position and/or size of the target within one or more images captured by the imaging device. The control terminal may be configured to display images from the imaging device as well as allowing user input related to the target information.