Maximizing Accuracy Through Stereo Vision Camera Positioning for Automated Aerial Refueling

Abstract

Aerial refueling is a key component of the U.S. Air Force strategic arsenal. AAR looks to improve the refueling process by creating a more effective system. This thesis focuses on an AAR scenario where stereo cameras are used on the tanker to direct a boom into a port on the receiver aircraft. The research seeks the optimal design for the camera system to achieve the most accurate navigational estimates. The testing process consist of simulations with both un-obscured scenarios and cases where the boom causes significant occlusion. The results define the improvements in position and orientation estimation of camera positioning from the consolidated simulation data. Conclusions drawn from this research will propose and help provide recommendations for future Air Force acquisition and development of aerial refueling systems.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 19, 2020
Accession Number
AD1103189

Entities

People

  • Kirill Sarantsev

Organizations

  • Air Force Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Aircraft Equipment
  • Aircrafts
  • Airframes
  • Computer Stereo Vision
  • Computer Vision
  • Department Of Defense
  • Fixed Wing Aircraft
  • Global Positioning Systems
  • Governments
  • Military Aircraft
  • Military Operations
  • Refueling
  • Refueling In Flight
  • Tanker Aircraft
  • United States Government
  • Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Readers

  • Aerospace logistics and air mobility.
  • Computer Vision.