With Infrared Device Patents (Class 342/53)
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Patent number: 11851582Abstract: Subwavelength conducting particles can be arranged on conducting surfaces to provide arbitrary thermal emissivity spectra. For example, a thermal emissivity spectrum can be tailored to suppress a thermal signature of an object without sacrificing radiative cooling efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2021Date of Patent: December 26, 2023Assignee: Elwha LLCInventors: Gleb M. Akselrod, Erik Edward Josberger, Mark C. Weidman
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Patent number: 11840223Abstract: Provided is a driver assistance system including an internal camera installed in a vehicle to detect whether a driver is in a drowsy driving, and configured to photograph a state of eyes of the driver to acquire drowsiness data, a first sensor installed in the vehicle to have a front-side view of the vehicle, and configured to acquire first sensor data to detect an object in the front-side view, a second sensor installed in the vehicle to have a rear-side view of the vehicle and configured to acquire second sensor data to detect an object in the rear-side view, and a controller including at least one processor configured to process the drowsiness data, the first sensor data, and the second sensor data, wherein the controller is configured to: if a result of processing the drowsiness data is that the driver has closed the driver's eyes for a predetermined time or longer, transmit a control signal to at least one of a braking device or a steering device to perform a lane change for stopping the vehicle based onType: GrantFiled: July 30, 2021Date of Patent: December 12, 2023Assignee: HL Klemove Corp.Inventor: Junhyeok Yang
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Patent number: 11815906Abstract: An object detection method and apparatus for a vehicle in a confined space are provided. An object detection method for a vehicle traveling in a confined space, includes determining a first beam pattern and a second beam pattern based on geometric information of the confined space, detecting first candidate objects based on a first transmission signal emitted to form the first beam pattern using at least one antenna, detecting second candidate objects based on a second transmission signal emitted to form the second beam pattern using the at least one antenna, detecting at least one clutter object based on the first candidate objects and the second candidate objects, and detecting a target object based on the at least one clutter object.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2021Date of Patent: November 14, 2023Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Sungdo Choi
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Patent number: 11557127Abstract: The technology relates to an exterior sensor system for a vehicle configured to operate in an autonomous driving mode. The technology includes a close-in sensing (CIS) camera system to address blind spots around the vehicle. The CIS system is used to detect objects within a few meters of the vehicle. Based on object classification, the system is able to make real-time driving decisions. Classification is enhanced by employing cameras in conjunction with lidar sensors. The specific arrangement of multiple sensors in a single sensor housing is also important to object detection and classification. Thus, the positioning of the sensors and support components are selected to avoid occlusion and to otherwise prevent interference between the various sensor housing elements.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2020Date of Patent: January 17, 2023Assignee: Waymo LLCInventors: Kimberly Toth, Jeremy Dittmer, Giulia Guidi, Peter Avram
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Patent number: 11500086Abstract: An imaging system to reconstruct a reflectivity image of a scene including an object moving with the scene. A tracking system to track a deforming object to estimate an object deformation for each time step. Sensors acquire snapshots of the scene, each acquired snapshot of the object includes measurements in the object deformation for that time step, to produce a set of object measurements with deformed shapes over the time steps. Compute a correction to estimates of object deformation for each time step, with matching measurements of the corrected object deformation for each time step to measurements in the acquired snapshot of object for that time step. Select a corrected deformation over other corrected deformations for each time step, according to a distance between the corrected deformation and the estimate of the deformation, to obtain a final estimate of the deformation of the deformable object moving in the scene.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2020Date of Patent: November 15, 2022Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Shuchin Aeron, Yanting Ma, Petros Boufounos, Hassan Mansour
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Patent number: 11494598Abstract: An automotive sensor integration module including a plurality of sensors which differ in at least one of a sensing period or an output data format, and a signal processor, which simultaneously outputs, as sensing data, pieces of detection data respectively output from the plurality of sensors on the basis of the sensing period of any one of the plurality of sensors, calculates a reliability value of each of the pieces of detection data on the basis of the pieces of detection data and external environment data, and outputs the reliability value as reliability data.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2019Date of Patent: November 8, 2022Assignee: HYUNDAI MOBIS CO., LTD.Inventors: Young Shin Kim, Kyung Rin Kim, Sung Eun Jo, Won Gyum Kim
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Patent number: 11488392Abstract: The present disclosure relates to object detection and object distance determination by an assisted driving system of a vehicle. In one embodiment, a method includes receiving image data detected and detecting at least one object in the image data. Detecting includes determining a region of interest in the image, classifying the object and localizing the region of interest in the image data. The method may include determining a distance value for the at least one object, wherein the distance determination is determined based on the category determined, localization of the region of interest, and object size relative to the image data. The method may include outputting a distance value determination for the at least one object.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2018Date of Patent: November 1, 2022Assignee: Harman International Industries, IncorporatedInventors: Liangfu Chen, Zeng Yang
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Patent number: 11487297Abstract: The embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method of travel control, a device and a storage medium. In some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a self-mobile device collects three-dimensional environment information on a travel path of itself in the travel process, identifies an obstacle area and a type thereof existing on the travel path of the self-mobile device based on the three-dimensional environment information, and the self-mobile device adopts different travel controls in a targeted manner for different types of the area, such that the obstacle avoidance performance of the self-mobile device is improved by adopting the method of the travel control in the present disclosure.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2019Date of Patent: November 1, 2022Assignee: ECOVACS ROBOTICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Yilan Li, Kaixuan Xie
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Patent number: 11438062Abstract: Disclosed are systems for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency (RF) signal and an optical signal. One system may include a communication terminal comprising a primary concave reflector providing a first focal length to a focal point, and a secondary concave reflector providing a second focal length to the focal point. The communication terminal may further comprise an optical transceiver facing the secondary concave reflector, and one or more RF transceivers facing the primary concave reflector. The optical transceiver may be configured to transmit and receive the optical signal via the primary and secondary concave reflectors through the focal point, and the one or more RF transceivers may be configured to transmit and receive the RF signal via the primary concave reflector. The one or more RF transceivers may be positioned adjacent to the focal point and offset from a path of the optical signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2020Date of Patent: September 6, 2022Assignee: Honeywell Limited Honeywell LimitéeInventor: Graham Martin Arbery
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Patent number: 11363754Abstract: Systems and methods for vehicle controllers for agricultural and industrial applications are described. For example, a method includes accessing a map data structure storing a map representing locations of physical objects in a geographic area; accessing current point cloud data captured using a distance sensor connected to a vehicle; detecting a crop row based on the current point cloud data; matching the detected crop row with a crop row represented in the map; determining an estimate of a current location of the vehicle based on a current position in relation to the detected crop row; and controlling one or more actuators to cause the vehicle to move from the current location of the vehicle to a target location.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2019Date of Patent: June 21, 2022Assignee: Bear Flag Robotics, Inc.Inventors: David E. Bertucci, Igino C. Cafiero, Aubrey C. Donnellan, Thuy T. Nguyen, Vaibhav K. Viswanathan
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Patent number: 11277956Abstract: Systems and methods for vehicle controllers for agricultural and industrial applications are described. For example, a method includes accessing a map data structure storing a map representing locations of physical objects in a geographic area; accessing current point cloud data captured using a distance sensor connected to a vehicle; detecting a crop row based on the current point cloud data; matching the detected crop row with a crop row represented in the map; determining an estimate of a current location of the vehicle based on a current position in relation to the detected crop row; and controlling one or more actuators to cause the vehicle to move from the current location of the vehicle to a target location.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2019Date of Patent: March 22, 2022Assignee: Bear Flag Robotics, Inc.Inventors: David E. Bertucci, Igino C. Cafiero, Aubrey C. Donnellan, Thuy T. Nguyen, Vaibhav K. Viswanathan
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Patent number: 11277957Abstract: Systems and methods for vehicle controllers for agricultural and industrial applications are described. For example, a method includes receiving image data, captured using one or more image sensors connected to a vehicle, depicting one or more plants in a vicinity of the vehicle; detecting the one or more plants based on the image data; responsive to detecting the one or more plants, adjusting implement control data; and controlling, based on the adjusted implement control data, an implement connected to the vehicle to perform an operation on the one or more plants.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2019Date of Patent: March 22, 2022Assignee: Bear Flag Robotics, Inc.Inventors: David E. Bertucci, Igino C. Cafiero, Aubrey C. Donnellan, Thuy T. Nguyen, Vaibhav K. Viswanathan
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Patent number: 11173921Abstract: A method for an autonomous vehicle includes: receiving first object data from a first sensor module; receiving second object data from a second sensor module; comparing the first object data to the second object data; determining, based on comparing the first object data to the second object data, whether the first object data corresponds to the second object data; and in response to determining that the first object data does not correspond to the second object data, performing an action for the autonomous vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2018Date of Patent: November 16, 2021Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventor: Gil Golov
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Patent number: 11092669Abstract: A method using a radar system includes providing a radar pulse using an antenna, receiving radar returns using the antenna, and detecting target data using the radar returns. The target data is processed using ground data associated with transportation routes. Correlation of a transportation route of the transportation routes and a location of a first target associated with the target data is an indication of ground clutter.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2018Date of Patent: August 17, 2021Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.Inventor: Brian R. Wolford
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Patent number: 11086020Abstract: A position measurement system includes a movable body and at least one indicator including identification information. The movable body includes an optical sensor configured to acquire an image of the indicator, an information acquisition unit configured to acquire the identification information of the indicator and a bearing of the indicator as seen from the movable body based on the image of the indicator acquired by the optical sensor, a coordinate acquisition unit configured to acquire coordinates of the indicator based on the acquired identification information of the indicator, and a position calculation unit configured to calculate a position of the movable body based on the acquired bearing of the indicator and the acquired coordinates of the indicator. The indicator includes, as the identification information, at least one of a unique reflection spectrum, a spectrum change pattern, a hue change pattern, a brightness change pattern, or a temperature change pattern.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2018Date of Patent: August 10, 2021Assignee: SUBARU CORPORATIONInventors: Yoichi Onomura, Iwao Murata
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Patent number: 11027855Abstract: Systems and methods to provide alerts when a rotorcraft is in a low airspeed condition. During takeoff or go-around, an aural alert is provided to the pilot before the aircraft slows to less than the effective translational lift speed. The aural, visual, and/or tactile alert gets the pilot's attention to manage the aircraft's airspeed before it is too late in this critical flight phase.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2012Date of Patent: June 8, 2021Assignee: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventors: Gary A. Ostrum, Yasuo Ishihara, Steve C. Johnson
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Patent number: 10942257Abstract: The present disclosure describes a system and method for coaxial LiDAR scanning. The system includes a first light source configured to provide first light pulses. The system also includes one or more beam steering apparatuses optically coupled to the first light source. Each beam steering apparatus comprises a rotatable concave reflector and a light beam steering device disposed at least partially within the rotatable concave reflector. The combination of the light beam steering device and the rotatable concave reflector, when moving with respect to each other, steers the one or more first light pulses both vertically and horizontally to illuminate an object within a field-of-view; obtain one or more first returning light pulses, the one or more first returning light pulses being generated based on the steered first light pulses illuminating an object within the field-of-view, and redirects the one or more first returning light pulses.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2017Date of Patent: March 9, 2021Assignee: INNOVUSION IRELAND LIMITEDInventors: Junwei Bao, Yimin Li, Rui Zhang
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Patent number: 10868367Abstract: An antenna apparatus includes: an antenna module having a radiation-oriented surface in a first direction to transmit and receive a radio signal; and a radio-wave reinforcement member arranged in a second direction opposite to the first direction within a preset distance from the antenna module to amplify radiation performance of the antenna module, and including an electric conductor having a curved surface concave to the antenna module.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2017Date of Patent: December 15, 2020Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Seung-Bok Lee, Dong-yean Koh, Sang-hyuk Wi
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Patent number: 10773825Abstract: Apparatus and method for establishing and maintaining a visual reference on a surface below an aircraft for the purpose of landing the aircraft. The apparatus includes an infrared, green, and/or red laser that produces a laser beam terminating in a spot or pattern on a surface below the aircraft, the beam being no more than 1 mW. The laser can be mounted on a lower portion of the nose of the aircraft, and in a fixed direction that remains fixed during flight. The apparatus can also include a light assembly that houses the laser and maintains it in the fixed direction. The light assembly includes a shroud that extends around a front face of the light assembly, and extends from the front face of the light assembly in the fixed direction of the laser. The light assembly can also house non-laser light sources which produce white, green, and/or infrared light.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2019Date of Patent: September 15, 2020Inventor: Taylor L. Kiel
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Patent number: 10371792Abstract: A system for providing remote target identification is provided that includes a radar system and an electro-optical detector. The radar system is configured to locate a remote target. The electro-optical detector is configured to detect an optical signal transmitted from the target when the target is located. The optical signal includes identifying data for the target.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2015Date of Patent: August 6, 2019Assignee: Raytheon Command and Control Solutions LLCInventors: James W. Rakeman, David E. Stephens, Thomas W. Miller
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Patent number: 10352703Abstract: The present disclosure pertains to a system for effectuating presentation of a terrain around a vehicle on a display in the vehicle. In some implementations, the system receives information related to the vehicle's location, the height above the ground surface of the terrain, and the vehicle's orientation from one or more first sensors coupled to the vehicle; obtains a three dimensional topographical map of a terrain around the vehicle based on the location of the vehicle; and receives imagery data from one or more second sensors coupled to the vehicle, the imagery data corresponding to the terrain, wherein the imagery data comprises instantaneous imagery and previously recorded imagery. The system effectuates presentation of the imagery data corresponding to the terrain on the three dimensional topographical map based on the location, the height above the ground surface of the terrain, and the orientation of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2017Date of Patent: July 16, 2019Assignee: ROGERSON AIRCRAFT CORPORATIONInventors: Howard I. Royster, Michael Rogerson
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Patent number: 10317534Abstract: A LIDAR system is provided. The LIDAR system comprises at least one processor configured to: control at least one light source in a manner enabling light flux to vary over a scan of a field of view, the field of view including a first portion and a second portion; receive on a pixel-by-pixel basis, signals from at least one sensor; estimate noise in at least some of the signals associated with the first portion of the field of view; alter a sensor sensitivity for reflections associated with the first portion of the field of view; estimate noise in at least some of the signals associated with the second portion of the field of view; and alter a sensor sensitivity for reflections associated with the second portion of the field of view based on the estimation of noise in the second portion of the field of view.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2017Date of Patent: June 11, 2019Assignee: Innoviz Technologies Ltd.Inventors: Ronen Eshel, Amir Day, Amit Steinberg, Guy Zohar, Nir Osiroff, Omer David Keilaf, Oren Buskila, Yair Antman
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Patent number: 10175349Abstract: A multi-modal omnidirectional sensor includes an ovaloid aperture having a plurality of tapered square prismatic cells formed from a plurality of partition walls. A focal ovaloid is concentric with the ovaloid aperture, and the focal ovaloid has an outer surface dimension that coincides with a focal distance of the ovaloid aperture. A multi-mode sensor array is disposed on the focal ovaloid, and is configured to receive an optical signal and a radio frequency (RF) signal. One of the plurality of partition walls comprises a non-metalic dielectric mirror. One of the plurality of partition walls is configured to be reflective to a band of desired wavelengths of the optical signal while being transparent to the RF signal.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2015Date of Patent: January 8, 2019Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventors: Igor Ternovskiy, Tony Kim
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Patent number: 10171759Abstract: A first projection controller of an imaging device controls a first infrared projector, capable of projecting infrared light with multiple wavelengths, to selectively project the infrared light with the multiple wavelengths. An imaging unit of the imaging device images an object in a state where the first infrared projector projects the infrared light. A synchronous signal transmitter transmits outward a synchronous signal for synchronizing a timing of projecting infrared light from a second infrared projector controlled by a second projection controller included in another imaging device other than the imaging device, with a timing of projecting the infrared light from the first infrared projector controlled by the first projection controller.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2016Date of Patent: January 1, 2019Assignee: JVC KENWOOD CORPORATIONInventors: Satoru Sekiguchi, Takayoshi Sasao
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Patent number: 10042095Abstract: A dual-mode optical and RF reflector, and test system using the same. In one example the reflector is a mirror having a reflective surface including a first zone having a first surface precision, wherein a remainder of the reflective surface outside of the first zone has a second surface precision that is substantially lower than the first surface precision, the mirror being configured to collimate and reflect an RF signal from the reflective surface, and to collimate and reflect an optical signal from the first zone.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2015Date of Patent: August 7, 2018Assignee: RAYTHEON COMPANYInventors: John Okerson Crawford, David C. Cook, Patrick L. McCarthy
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Patent number: 9882277Abstract: Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, an antenna assembly that includes a dielectric antenna having an integrated dielectric feedline and a dielectric antenna element. The integrated dielectric feedline communicates inbound guided waves and outbound guided waves that are bound to the integrated dielectric feedline. The dielectric antenna element transmits outbound free space wireless signals in response to the outbound guided waves and generates the inbound guided waves from received inbound free space wireless signals. An actuated gimbal mount controls an orientation of the dielectric antenna element based on control signals. Other embodiments are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2015Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, LPInventors: Paul Shala Henry, Robert Bennett, Farhad Barzegar, Irwin Gerszberg, Donald J Barnickel, Henry Kafka, Thomas M. Willis, III
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Patent number: 9719924Abstract: A compact transducer system includes both an antenna subsystem and an optical transducer subsystem. The antenna subsystem may include multiple radio frequency (RF) radiating elements disposed adjacent to a ground plane. The ground plane may also serve as an optical reflector within an optical path of the optical transducer subsystem. A secondary reflector may also be provided within the optical path of the optical transducer subsystem. The secondary reflector may be formed of dielectric material (e.g., meta-material) in some embodiments to prevent undesired coupling with RF circuitry.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2014Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: Glafkos K. Stratis, David J. Knapp, Douglas Mills, Raymond A. Graffam, Michael S. Smith
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Patent number: 9678124Abstract: A phase measurement method in a microwave tomography system may include transmitting a first Tx frequency signal, receiving a signal corresponding to the first Tx frequency signal, and measuring a first phase value; transmitting a second Tx frequency signal separated by a predetermined discrete frequency from the first Tx frequency signal, receiving a signal corresponding to the second Tx frequency signal, and measuring a second phase value; calculating a first phase difference based on a difference between the first and second phase values; calculating a second phase difference based on the discrete frequency; and determining an unwrapped phase value through comparison between the first and second phase differences.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2014Date of Patent: June 13, 2017Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research InstituteInventors: Hyuk-Je Kim, Jong-Moon Lee, Seong-Ho Son, Soon-Ik Jeon, Hyung-Do Choi
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Patent number: 9030320Abstract: A real-time threat detection system incorporating a plurality of sensors adapted to detect radiation across the majority of the electromagnetic spectrum. The system also includes an aided or automatic target recognition module which compares the data from the sensors against known radiation signatures and issues an alert when an anomalous signature is detected. The system further includes an operator station which displays sensor information allowing the operator to intervene. The sensors detect radiation which is normally emitted by persons or other bodies and display areas to the operator where normal emissions are blocked.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2012Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: Thermal Matrix USA, Inc.Inventors: Michael A. Reinpoldt, Willem H. Reinpoldt, III, Lurama Wheeler Foster
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Patent number: 9030351Abstract: A land-based Smart-Sensor System and several system architectures for detection, tracking, and classification of people and vehicles automatically and in real time for border, property, and facility security surveillance is described. The preferred embodiment of the proposed Smart-Sensor System is comprised of (1) a low-cost, non-coherent radar, whose function is to detect and track people, singly or in groups, and various means of transportation, which may include vehicles, animals, or aircraft, singly or in groups, and cue (2) an optical sensor such as a long-wave infrared (LWIR) sensor, whose function is to classify the identified targets and produce movie clips for operator validation and use, and (3) an IBM CELL supercomputer to process the collected data in real-time. The Smart Sensor System can be implemented in a tower-based or a mobile-based, or combination system architecture. The radar can also be operated as a stand-alone system.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2012Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: Vista Research, Inc.Inventors: Phillip A. Fox, Joseph W. Maresca, Jr.
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Patent number: 9030347Abstract: Systems and methods for improving vehicle survivability. In some embodiments, threat information relating to at least one potential threat against at least one vehicle during a mission may be accessed. The threat information may comprise threat location information indicative of at least one likely location for the at least one potential threat and at least one model associated with the at least one potential threat. Prior to commencing the mission, the threat information may be used to assign a numerical measure to each potential action of a plurality of potential actions for the at least one vehicle based at least in part on at least one measure of the at least one vehicle resulting from executing the potential action. The plurality of potential actions may be compared based at least in part on the respective numerical measures assigned to the plurality of potential actions.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2012Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Carl R. Herman, James C. Rosswog
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Patent number: 8947295Abstract: A bistatic radar measurement system is provided having a radar source configured to produce a radio frequency signal. A transmitting antenna is configured to transmit the radio frequency signal toward a target. A receiving antenna is configured to receive a reflected radio frequency signal from the target. A support system is configured to support the receiving antenna. The support system includes a plurality of low scattering dielectric strings configured to orient the receiving antenna.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2012Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventor: Peter J Collins
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Patent number: 8890744Abstract: A method for detecting an object, comprising the steps of defining expected characteristics of scattered electromagnetic radiation to be received at a receiver; attenuating at least a portion of electromagnetic radiation received at the receiver by a presence of an object within a path of electromagnetic information; and detecting the attenuation to indicate a presence of the object. The object may be a low radar profile object, such as a stealth aircraft. The electromagnetic radiation is preferably microwave, but may also be radio frequency or infrared. By using triangulation and other geometric techniques, distance and position of the object may be computed.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2012Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Inventor: James L. Geer
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Publication number: 20140209678Abstract: System, device and method for protecting aircrafts against incoming threats. The system includes: (a) a dual-band Radio Frequency (RF) track-and-confirm module comprising: a dual-band RF receiver to receive high-band RF signals and low-band RF signals; a threat confirmation module to confirm a possible incoming threat based on processing of RF signals received at the dual-band RF receiver; a threat parameters calculator to calculate a fine angular position and a precise angular position of a confirmed incoming threat, based on processing of RF signals received at low-band RF for fine angular position and at high-band RF for precise angular position; (b) a countermeasure directed Laser module to activate a directed Laser countermeasure towards said precise angular position of said confirmed incoming threat.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2014Publication date: July 31, 2014Applicant: BIRD AEROSYSTEMS LTD.Inventors: Ronen FACTOR, David DRAGUCKI, Ariye Yehuda CAPLAN, Zahi BEN ARI, Semion ZELIKMAN, Royee LI-RAN
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Patent number: 8686326Abstract: In certain aspects, this invention is a “control system” that detects and minimizes (or otherwise optimizes) an angle between vehicle centerline (or other reference axis) and vehicle velocity vector—as for JDAM penetration. Preferably detection is exclusively by optical flow (which herein encompasses sonic and other imaging), without data influence by navigation. In other aspects, the invention is a “guidance system”, with optical-flow subsystem to detect an angle between the vehicle velocity vector and line of sight to a destination—either a desired or an undesired destination. Here, vehicle trajectory is adjusted in response to detected angle, for optimum angle, e.g. to either home in on a desired destination or avoid an undesired destination (or rendezvous), and follow a path that's ideal for the particular mission—preferably by controlling an autopilot or applying information from navigation.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2009Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Arete AssociatesInventors: John C. Dennison, David C. Campion
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Patent number: 8672223Abstract: The present invention includes a system for protecting an aircraft against one or more incoming threats. The system includes one or more electro-optic sensors to scan an area around the aircraft for one or more possible incoming threats, and to generate an indication signal once an incoming threat is detected; an integrated unit combining a Missile Approach Confirmation Sensor (MACS) with Directed Infra-Red Counter Measure (DIRCM), to verify the incoming threat and to activate a countermeasure against the verified incoming threat; and a processor to receive data from said one or more electro-optic sensors and the integrated MACS-DIRCM unit, and to select a countermeasure technique for deployment against the incoming threat.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2012Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: BIRD Aerosystems LimitedInventors: Ronen Factor, David Dragucki, Ariye Yehuda Caplan, Zahi Ben Ari, Semion Zelikman, Royee Li-Ran
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Publication number: 20140062758Abstract: A surveillance system includes a multi-propeller aircraft having a main propeller and a plurality of wing unit propellers; a housing that houses the main propeller and the wing unit propellers; an optical video camera; an ultra-wideband (UWB) radar imaging system; a control system for controlling flight of the multi-propeller aircraft from a remote location; and a telemetry system for providing information from the optical camera and the ultra-wideband (UWB) radar imaging system to a remote location.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2012Publication date: March 6, 2014Inventor: Farrokh Mohamadi
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Patent number: 8643532Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing a tunable absorption-emission band in a wavelength selective device are disclosed. A device for selectively absorbing incident electromagnetic radiation includes an electrically conductive surface layer including an arrangement of multiple surface elements. The surface layer is disposed at a nonzero height above a continuous electrically conductive layer. An electrically isolating intermediate layer defines a first surface that is in communication with the electrically conductive surface layer. The continuous electrically conductive backing layer is provided in communication with a second surface of the electrically isolating intermediate layer. When combined with an infrared source, the wavelength selective device emits infrared radiation in at least one narrow band determined by a resonance of the device. In some embodiments, the device includes a control feature that allows the resonance to be selectively modified.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2010Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Nomadics, Inc.Inventors: Irina Puscasu, Edward A. Johnson
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Patent number: 8614640Abstract: A forward facing sensing system for a vehicle includes a radar sensor device disposed within the vehicle cabin and having a sensing direction forward of the vehicle, and an image sensor disposed within the vehicle cabin and having a viewing direction forward of the vehicle. A control includes an image processor that is operable to analyze images captured by the image sensor in order to, at least in part, detect an object forward of the vehicle. The control, at least in part, determines that a potentially hazardous condition may exist in the path of the vehicle, with the potentially hazardous condition including at least one of (i) another vehicle, (ii) a person and (iii) an animal in the path of the vehicle. The radar sensor device and the image sensor collaborate to enhance the sensing capability of the sensing system for the potentially hazardous condition in the vehicle's path.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2012Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Assignee: Magna Electronics Inc.Inventor: Niall R. Lynam
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Patent number: 8581161Abstract: A molded dichroic mirror and a seeker comprising a molded dichroic mirror are provided. The dichroic mirror may be molded from polysiloxane or lithia potash borosilicate and may be coated to reflect an infrared signal and configured to transmit a radio frequency signal between 33 GHz and 37 GHz.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2010Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: Byron B. Taylor, W. Howard Poisl
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Patent number: 8581771Abstract: A system is disclosed to identify authorized EO devices and unauthorized EO devices within a scene. The system hampers the operation of the unauthorized EO devices detected within the scene.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2010Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Timothy Bradley
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Patent number: 8575527Abstract: A vehicle including electro-optic (EO) imaging has a vehicle body having an outer surface including a front portion and a side portion, wherein the side portion includes a plurality of portholes. A propulsion source is within the vehicle body for moving the vehicle. A fixed EO imaging system having a field-of-regard (FOR) includes a plurality of fixed EO imaging sub-systems arrayed within the vehicle body. The fixed EO imaging sub-systems each have a different field-of-view (FOV) for providing a portion of the FOR and include a camera affixed within the vehicle body and an optical window secured to one of the portholes for transmitting electromagnetic radiation received from one of the portions of the FOR to the camera, wherein the cameras each generate image data representing one of the portions of the FOR therefrom. A processor is coupled to receive the image data from the plurality of fixed EO imaging sub-systems for combining the image data to provide composite image data spanning the FOR.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2010Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventor: James A. Fry
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Patent number: 8569669Abstract: A SAR image recorded by a reconnaissance system is transferred as a reference edge image together with the data of the trajectory as a reference. The signal of the infrared seeker head of the missile is converted into a virtual SAR edge image and compared to the SAR reference image to calculate the precise position of the missile.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2011Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: LFK-Lenkflugkoerpersysteme GmbHInventors: Michael Holicki, Nikolaus Schweyer, Juergen Zoz
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Patent number: 8493261Abstract: A countermeasure device for directing a mobile tracking device away from an asset is provided. The countermeasure device includes a continuous wave laser source whose output is directed at a seeker head of the mobile tracking device. The countermeasure device causes the generation of localized sources within the mobile tracking device and confuses the mobile tracking device as to the true location of the asset.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2012Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Timothy Bradley
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Patent number: 8412486Abstract: Subject matter disclosed herein may relate to monitoring and/or estimating remaining life for a power converter.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2009Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: The University of Hong KongInventors: Man Hay Pong, Hon Man Pang
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Patent number: 8384583Abstract: A synthetic-aperture radar system, and related operating method, for the monitoring of ground and structure movements, particularly suitable for emergency conditions, characterized by a ground based platform with polarimetric capabilities, that able to quickly acquire, embeddedly process and post-process data by a novel data acquisition “On the Fly” mode of operation, reducing by at least an order of magnitude the data acquisition time. The inventive system characteristics allows to achieve on-field measurement results on three-dimensional maps georeferenced to absolute coordinate systems (WGS84, Gauss-Boaga, and so on).Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2010Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: Ellegi S.R.L.Inventors: Davide Leva, Carlo Rivolta
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Patent number: 8378880Abstract: An object of interest in a cloud of objects is identified by RF and IR sensing. The RF and IR signals are separately discriminated to determine the probability that the RF tracked object is one of a predetermined number of possible object types, and the IR tracked object is one of the possible object types. Joint probabilities are calculated for all pairs of RF and IR signals and all objects, and the joint probabilities are normalized. Marginal probabilities of the joint RF/IR discrimination results are calculated to produce a vector set of marginal optical probabilities. The vector set is normalized over all object types to thereby produce a vector set of normalized marginal optical probabilities. The object of interest is selected to be the IR object of said vector set of normalized joint optical probabilities with the highest probability of being the object type of interest.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2011Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Jeffrey B. Boka, Naresh Raman Patel, Joseph P. Tadduni
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Patent number: 8354952Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable storage media for radio phase retrieval. A system practicing the method gathers first data from radio waves associated with an object observed via a first aperture, gathers second data from radio waves associated with the object observed via an introduced second aperture associated with the first aperture, generates reduced noise data by incoherently subtracting the second data from the first data, and performs phase retrieval for the radio waves by modeling the reduced noise data using a single Fourier transform. The first and second apertures are at different positions, such as side by side. This approach can include determining a value Q which represents a ratio of wavelength times a focal ratio divided by pixel spacing. This information can be used to accurately measure and correct alignment errors or other optical system flaws in the apertures.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2010Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventor: Bruce H. Dean
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Patent number: 8330647Abstract: A land-based smart sensor system and several system architectures for detection, tracking, and classification of people and vehicles automatically and in real time for border, property, and facility security surveillance is described. The preferred embodiment of the proposed smart sensor system is comprised of (1) a low-cost, non-coherent radar, whose function is to detect and track people, singly or in groups, and various means of transportation, which may include vehicles, animals, or aircraft, singly or in groups, and cue (2) an optical sensor such as a long-wave infrared (LWIR) sensor, whose function is to classify the identified targets and produce movie clips for operator validation and use, and (3) a supercomputer to process the collected data in real-time. The smart sensor system can be implemented in a tower-based or a mobile-based, or combination system architecture. The radar can also be operated as a stand-alone system.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2007Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Vista Research, Inc.Inventors: Phillilp A. Fox, Joseph W. Maresca, Jr.
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Patent number: 8321070Abstract: In order to target and intercept a desired object within a number of objects detected in an environment, detection data is received from two different sensors, where the detection data includes spatial coordinates. A set of four-point subsets (tetrahedra) are selected from each set of spatial coordinates. A number of correlation maps are determined between the first set of spatial coordinates and the second set of spatial coordinates based on the plurality of four-point subsets. The mean sphericity for each corresponding plurality of four-point subsets in the plurality of correlation maps is determined, and a threat object map based on the correlation map having the greatest mean sphericity is created. The desired object is targeted based on the correlation map.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2009Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventor: Steven J. Manson