Image Processing Algorithms for KKVS with IR Imaging Sensors,
Abstract
Image processing algorithms enable a kinetic kill vehicle (KKV) with an IR imaging sensor to intercept a missile warhead in space. The algorithms are required to determine the target position soon enough and with such accuracy that the KKV can divert itself toward a successful impact. This is affected by (1) target brightness, shape, rotational motion, and associated objects such as debris, (2) sensor characteristics including aperture size and signal to noise ratios, (3) the KKV's divert capability and IMU accuracy, and (4) the acquisition range and closing velocity for the target relative to the KKW. Furthermore, the algorithms are constrained to run on embedded digital signal processing (DSP) hardware with finite throughput and memory capacity. This paper presents image processing algorithms for KKVWs with IR imaging sensors and describes (1): the fundamental requirement for target position estimates; (2) the three potentially most difficult parts of the problem (detection, selection, and aimpoint); (3) various algorithms that can be used, and; (4) partitioning the algorithms for implementation in multimicroprocessor subsystems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA319958
Entities
People
- D. F. Elliott
- D. L. Webb
- L. L. Hung
- V. T. Chandler