Abstract: A real time digital correlation system is disclosed. Reference filters are constructed to define a region of filter space, and filters may be predictively selected based on a trajectory of selected filters through the filter space. In some instances, selected features of a spacecraft are selected for correlation to produce full 6DoF information. In other instances, portions of a correlation target are selected for correlation to produce 6DoF information. Digital filters of the invention are preferably 4-bit filters, and use unique mapping algorithms to map phase and intensity information from larger images, such as 12, 16, 32 and 64 bit images, to the 4-bit format.

Abstract: A system for recognizing objects in images, and using that recognition to solve mission problems, such as identifying, tracking, and reporting movement of mobile military targets of interest. The system incorporates preprocessor and postprocessor with an image correlator, control systems, and feedback loops functioning with a real-time operating system. Tracking includes correlating patterns in an image stream so as to monitor image changes that represent changes of location, shape, trends, or other attributes. Reporting may entail visual displays of correlation results, or other data outputs suitable for steering gimbaled sensors, aiming weapons, or for other functions. The instant invention has application in numerous areas where recognition and tracking of patterns and trends are desired in imagery or in other two-dimensional representations of data.

Abstract: A programmable multifunction electronic camera uses a commercial pixel digital energy sensor to generate detector element signal digital data normally generated by expensive, custom designed, detector element energy sensors. The camera performs this function by retrieving pixel signal digital data and pixel location data from the pixel energy sensor, retrieving detector element energy sensor masks containing information regarding the size, shape, and location of detector elements included in the detector element energy sensors, mapping the pixels included in the pixel energy sensor to the energy sensor masks to identify pixels that can be combined to create “virtual detector elements” having the same size, shape, and configuration as the detector elements in the detector element energy sensors, and combining the pixel signal digital data associated with the mapped pixels to generate the detector digital data. The camera can be programmed with a number of different energy sensor masks and mapping algorithms.