3D UxV Viewing Interface for Hidden Object Face Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current unmanned vehicle (UxV) control systems, particularly in APCS, are inefficient in allowing operators to change viewing angles of imaging devices without repositioning the UxV, as they require direct communication with the control system and cannot view objects not visible in the displayed image, leading to inconvenient and time-consuming processes.
Innovation Solution
A graphical user interface with a 3D graphical control tool enables APCS operators to place a graphical control icon over a selected object, allowing them to direct the UxV to view desired angles, even if the angle is not exposed in the image, by generating pointing instructions based on the icon's manipulation, which can be resized and oriented to represent the object's hidden faces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If operators use current control systems to change viewing angles, then they can control the UxV, but they must reposition the entire vehicle which is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the viewing angle control into two independent components: UxV position control and imaging device orientation control. The graphical control icon allows operators to independently adjust the imaging device's viewing angle without triggering full vehicle repositioning, separating the orientation adjustment from the position change requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical control icon serves as an intermediary interface between the operator and the imaging device. It provides visual feedback showing the relationship between the UxV position, imaging device orientation, and target object, allowing operators to make precise orientation adjustments without direct communication overhead.
2Ease of operation
If operators want to view hidden object faces, then they need to reposition the UxV, but this requires direct communication with the control system which is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The graphical control icon enables operators to self-service the viewing angle adjustment by visually identifying hidden faces and directly manipulating the icon to achieve the desired view. The system automatically calculates the required orientation changes and executes them without requiring operators to formulate or transmit complex communication protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical control icon creates a visual copy or representation of the imaging device's orientation relative to the target object. This graphical representation allows operators to plan and execute viewing angle changes intuitively by manipulating the icon, rather than dealing with abstract control commands or communication protocols.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the graphical control icon is made resizable and orientable to represent hidden faces, then viewing flexibility improves, but the interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The graphical control icon introduces an additional visual dimension by displaying orientation information and hidden face representations on a 2D screen. This graphical dimension allows operators to perceive and control 3D spatial relationships and hidden surfaces without requiring physical movement of the UxV, enhancing viewing flexibility through visual representation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The presently disclosed subject matter includes a system and a graphical user interface configured to enable an Ux V operator (e.g. an APCS operator) to direct the Ux V to view a selected object from a desired viewing angle, notwithstanding the fact that the desired viewing angle of the object is not exposed in a displayed image.