ElectroOptic Sensors Matt McKeever Jonathan Baker UAV Design Team 10/26/

Surveillance & Reconnaissance Used on manned and unmanned aircraft

Surveillance & Reconnaissance Monitor large areas for activity

Surveillance & Reconnaissance Take high definition shots of an area

Infrared Imaging Infrared wavelengths span from 750nm to 1mm Useful for targeting heat emitting bodies  People, vehicles, occupied buildings

IR Imaging IR camera types:  Cooled detectors – Vacuum sealed and cryogenically cooled to around 80 K to avoid self radiation flooding Heavy and very expensive  Uncooled detectors – Stabilized at ambient temperature Cheaper, smaller, and lighter Generally, sensors only respond to a single narrow IR wavelength range producing a monochromatic image. IR camera systems vary greatly in weight and size, from less than 1lb to more than 50 lb. Most medium sized systems require 18-32V and consume 200W-650W

Night Vision Increase situational awareness HUD compatible Converts weak light from the visible and near-infrared spectrum to visible light

Stereoscopic Imaging Two cameras spaced apart and focused at the same object Gives a 3D effect when the images are combined Can be used to estimate height of vegetation or structures Ratio of camera-to-camera distance and camera-to-subject distance needs to be greater than 1/400 to retain stereoscopic effects. Greater than 1/80 is ideal

Onboard and Exterior Monitoring Monitor passengers

Onboard and Exterior Monitoring Evaluate surroundings

Future Developments Cameras in refueling drogues Commercial airliners with interior and exterior cameras Lighter weight and higher definition cameras Integration into UAV’s for lower cost

Thoughts on Design Weight is not much of a concern on larger aircraft Camera requires a solid mounting location that allows for a wide field of view Space required in cockpit for related electronics and displays ElectroOptic components must be selected carefully for UAV’s and small aircraft

ElectroOptics and Design Teams AIAA:  Possible integration of general surveillance and reconnaissance technologies along with onboard and exterior monitering. HPA:  No real need for ElectroOptic sensors  Must be able to shave as much weight as possible UAV:  Platform is designed and built around advanced imagery technologies, including ElectroOptic sensors.  Space and payload are very limited  A stable aircraft is desired for aerial photography

Conclusion Increased safety to the aviation community Accounts for most of UAV missions Allows for increased ability for aircraft operating in non-ideal conditions

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