Patent Application
20110267222
This document pertains generally to electronic detection methods and systems to determine location of a target, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to vehicle detection methods and systems, beacon detection methods and systems, and other target location detection methods and systems.
Location of targets is critical in many environments including security, military, rescue, and protection of vulnerable people. Detecting and tracking vehicles is an important part of a transportation system and border security. It has been recognized that drugs and possibly weapons are smuggled over the U.S. borders. Small vehicles are difficult to remotely sense when they cross or approach the U.S. borders. It is also important and desired to detect improvised explosive devices in military or police settings.
In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.
This overview is intended to provide an overview of subject matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the invention. The detailed description is included to provide further information about the present patent application.
This document also discusses, among other things, location detection methods and systems that can identify, track, and positionally locate targets using either passive sensing of stray signals emitted by a target. The detector according to aspects of the present invention can be handheld, in an example, with computing modules, interchangeable antenna units, and a display. The antenna can offer desired gain at specific frequencies of interest. In an example, the antenna is tuned to a narrow sensing area, e.g., swath of sensing. The computing modules can determine the location of the target to within a certain accuracy (less than five degrees, less than about 2.0 degrees, less than about one degree of accuracy, or about 0.1 degree of accuracy) from the point defined by the device out to a range of a few hundred kilometers. This accuracy is in the elevation and in the range (distance). A display can provide this data to a user. In an example, the detector can be a standalone device. In an example, the detector can be integrated into a further electronic device or a vehicle. In an example, the detector is part of a system that includes a server that can receive data from a plurality of detectors and transmit instructions to the detectors. In a further aspect, a plurality of detectors can communicate directly with other detectors. The detectors and the method of using the detectors described herein can, in various aspects, seek and find any radio frequency source.
This document also discusses, among other things, vehicle detection methods and systems that can identify, track, and positionally locate the vehicle using passive sensing of stray signals emitted by a vehicle. In an example, the vehicles to be detected are aircraft or boats, i.e., vehicles used in illicit border crossings. The detector can be handheld, in an example, with computing devices, interchangeable antenna units, and a display. The antenna can offer desired gain at specific frequencies of interest. In an example, the antenna is tuned to a narrow sensing area, e.g., swath of sensing. The computing devices can determine the location of the vehicle, e.g., aircraft, to within a certain accuracy (less than five degrees, less than about one degree of accuracy, or about 0.1 degree of accuracy). The display can provide this data to a user. In an example, the detector can be a standalone device. In an example, the detector is part of a system that includes a server that can receive data from a plurality of detectors and transmit instructions to the detectors.
While described herein as a vehicle detector, the present devices, systems, and methods can be adapted to track and identify people that are equipped with a transmitter that can be detected as described herein. Such transmitters can be linked to specific people that may be in need of locating. Examples of such people include people afflicted with Alzheimer's or other memory diseases, syndromes and impairments. Such people with the need to be located would need only wear an emitting device that sends a distinctive RF signal that could be detected as described herein. The RF signature would be chosen so as to not interfere with know RF transmissions in the area of where the people are located. The emitters could be integrated into a bracelet or attached to the clothing.
In an example passive aircraft detection system, it includes an antenna to receive stray radio frequency radiation and circuitry coupled to the antenna. The circuitry is to process the received stray radio frequency radiation and to automatically identify a possible aircraft and aircraft position. In an example, the circuitry and antenna do not emit (e.g., free from) an interrogation signal being sent to a target aircraft. In an example, the antenna and the circuitry are configured to sense stray radio frequency emission from an aircraft below 10,000 feet above the ground, or below 1,000 feet from the ground. In an example, the circuitry includes a battery and a solar power recharger to charge the battery. In an example, the circuitry is configured to locate a vehicle with traveling at a speed less than a certain speed, e.g., an aircraft with an airspeed of less than 150 knots. In another example, the circuitry is configured to locate a vehicle traveling at a speed that indicates a motor vehicle, e.g., greater than 10 miles per hour, greater than 20 miles per hour, greater than 30 miles per hour, greater than 40 miles per hour, etc. In an example, the circuitry includes a memory storing radio frequency data representing an aircraft and compares sensed radiation with the stored data to determine if an aircraft is present. In an example, the circuitry is to automatically determine the aircraft type. In an example, the antenna is a phased array antenna tuned to probable frequencies of targets' stray emissions. In an example, a display is provided to display a received signal and directional data. The circuitry can determine and produce signals that cause the display to show three dimensional data within one degree of the target aircraft. In an example, the accuracy is within about 0.1 degree. In an example, the circuitry includes a navigational positioning system. In an example, the circuitry includes topographical data used to determine aircraft position. In an example, the circuitry is to conduct a plurality of reads of received stray radio frequency radiation to identify an aircraft. In an example, the circuitry acts as a software-driven synthetic aperture passive radar device. In an example, a handhold is provided and releasably coupled to the antenna and/or a module containing the circuitry. In an example, the antenna is selected from a group of antennas and is selected to releasably couple to the handhold. Selection and attachment of an antenna can be based on its being tuned to a narrow frequency range and based on the antenna gain for the narrow frequency range. The antenna is tuned to sense in frequency ranges of a 2-3 MHz. In an example, the narrow frequency range is selected from a group consisting of about 120 MHz-123 Mhz, about 145 Mhz-148 Mhz, about 155 Mhz-158 Mhz, about 215 Mhz-218 Mhz, about 242 Mhz-245 Mhz, and 400 Mhz-900 Mhz.
The detector and methods described herein can detect other stray electro-magnetic signals. Examples of such signals can include elements associated with circuitry such as local oscillators, transmission wires, connections in circuitry and the like to name a few. The detector and methods described herein are also used to passively detect radio transmitters. In an aspect, the detector and methods can passively, remotely detect the broadcast of a signal from a radio transmitter, e.g., a handheld transceiver, a walkie-talkie, a two-way radio, an amateur radio transceiver, one-way broadcast radio transmitter, etc., and determine its location.
In an example, a further remote processor, e.g., a computing device or a server, receives data from a mobile detection unit, which can include the detector and circuitry described herein, to further process signals output from the mobile detection unit. In an example, the remote processor or the detector is configured to automatically notify authorities of vehicle detection or aircraft detection. In an example, the remote processor is to notify radar units such that radar unit can focus its radar on likely target area. In an example, the remote processor can further send signals to the mobile detection units to direct the mobile detection unit to focus detection efforts on specific frequencies or for certain vehicle emission patterns
The processing module 101 is configured to execute instructions that are stored in physical media and readable by an electronic device. The processing module 101 includes a memory to store the instructions. The instructions can include signal filtering instructions, comparison instructions that compare a received signal versus known, stored signals, signal processing instructions to determine location of a signal source, terrain correction functions, vehicle travel path determination instructions, among other functions that can be programmed as instructions. Instructions can be stored in physical media and transmitted in physical media that allows a signal with information to be transmitted from one physical location to a second physical location. Instructions can be executed by a machine. In an example, the processing module 101 provides a compass function to determine to with one degree or less the direction the detection device is pointing.
The antenna 102 is electrically coupled with the processing module 101. The antenna 102 senses broadcast electrical signals and communicates the signals to the processor 101. In an example, antenna 102 is a directional antenna, such as an HB9CV-type antenna. In an example, the antenna 102 is a YAGI-type antenna. The antenna 102 is shown as a single unit in
In an example, the antenna 102 includes a central spine, which can house the electrical connections and some of the circuitry of the antenna assembly, and at least one ½λ conductor at an end of the spine. In an example, ½λ conductors are at both ends of the housing. In an example, there are two antenna rods extending from each side of the central spine. In an example, the antenna rods are cross coupled front to back in the spine. The antenna spine can act as a housing that can enclose and support electronic circuits with active or passive elements to tune the antenna to a specific frequency band. The electronic circuits of the antenna can be designed to provide a high gain for only the frequency band to which each antenna is tuned. Once specific stray emission signal profiles for certain vehicles are determined, then antennas can be designed to provide high gain reception at the specific frequencies of the stray emission signal of interest. The antenna 102 can be mechanically fixed to the processing module 101. In another example, the antenna 102 is removably connected to the processing module 101 so that different antennas can be used with a single processing module 101. In an example, the antenna 102 can identify itself to the processing module 101 such that the processing module applies appropriate instructions to the sensed signals. The antenna 102 tuned for a specific frequency can be selectively connected to the processing module 101. In an example, the antenna 102 can identify itself to the processing module 101 such that the processing module applies appropriate instructions to the sensed signals.
The display 103 includes a liquid crystal display that receives display data from the processing module 101. The processing module 101 can produce display signals representing the received signals, filtered signals, virtual compass representations, text, distance indications, and other icons representing functionality of the detection device 100. The display signals shown on display 103 can include topographical maps and location of a sensed target on the topographical map. The display is hardened for filed use and, in an example, hardened to military specifications.
The detection device 100 can include a weather proof housing enclosing the processing module 101 and display 103 or just the processing module 101. In a handheld configuration the display remains visible. In an install and leave at a post, the housing encloses the processing module and display to protect same from the weather.
In an example, the detection device 100 is designed to passively receive RF signals, e.g., stray emissions from targets, e.g., vehicles and electronic circuitry. Detection device 101 does not emit an excitation signal to force a part of the target to re-emit a signal or to receive a reflection of an excitation signal.
Target, e.g., a vehicle or electronic signal producer, 104 can include a mechanism that produces and unintentionally transmits electromagnetic radiation. Many electronic devices and circuits emit some signature electromagnetic radiation. Most vehicles that use electricity in some form are very noisy in parts of the radio frequency spectrum. The present inventor recognized this property of vehicles, e.g., aircraft and boat motors, and developed the structures and methods described herein to capitalize on such properties. The present inventor recognized this property of some electronic and electrical devices, e.g., radio transceivers, radio emitters, circuits that form part of device, etc. Moreover, the present inventor recognized that types of motors, vehicles, aircraft, and boats would have unique radio frequency signature that could be stored in detector structures described herein. A detector, as described herein, can passively sense these stray signals, filter the unique signal from background noise, identify the target, e.g., a vehicle, based at least in part of the stray signal, and locate the position of the target also based at least in part on the stray signal. The present inventor further recognized that specifically tuned antennas with interpretation hardware and instructions allow a user to identify the position of the identified emitter. In an example, the position of a detected target can be with a few meters at distances up to about 100 kilometers.
In an example, the stray radiation can include a detectable signal, for example, a periodic signal. The periodic signal could be in the range of 120 MHz to about 500 Mhz. The periodic signal would have a unique spectral profile that repeats itself and, hence, would be detectable over time. In an example, internal combustion engines use spark plug wires that transmit a high voltage pulse to the spark plugs that in turn spark within the cylinder to ignite fuel to drive the piston. Obviously, this repeats for each spark generated. Spark plug wires consist of a conductor, usually, copper, surrounded by an insulator layer, e.g., thick silicone outer sheaths. The conductor is selected to conduct a pulse of high voltage, which can be in the range of 10,000 volts to 50,000 volts. A voltage step-up device, e.g., a coil or a solid state device, takes the vehicle operating voltage, e.g., 6, 12, 13.5, or 16 volts or in any range between these voltages and steps the voltage up to by orders of magnitude to trigger the fuel ignition spark. The spark plug wires can vary in length from a few inches to over a yard or meter. In an example, the wires range from about 10 inches to about 39 inches, +/−0.5 inch. Another source of a stray emission is the coil wire. Each of these wires can act as a radio frequency antenna, e.g., a half wave dipole.
The use of low-flying small aircraft, e.g., ultralights and other amateur-built aircraft, is known to be part of illegal border crossings and drug trafficking. These aircraft fly slow (less than 150 knots or less than 50 knots) and low (less than 5,000 feet or less than 1,000 feet). In an example, such aircraft include a single seat or a dual seat. The aircraft typically has an aluminum open frame with a fabric wing. The engines can be manufactured by Rotax, GmbH of Gunskrichen, Austria. These motors can emit the stray radio signals. Motors can be two, four, or in some cases, six cylinders. The payload carried by such aircraft can range about 200-400 pounds plus the weight of the pilot. When used for drug smuggling, the street value of some drugs can be $200,000-$500,000 for marijuana or at least $10 million of cocaine per flight can be flown into the US using small aircraft.
The use of this type of aircraft can also be used to aid in its detection using the structures and methods described herein. The motors for this type of aircraft are in the open and, hence, less shielded than other types of aircraft. The spark plug wires or leads carry a high voltage to the spark plugs. Moreover, there can be two spark plugs per cylinder. As described above, the spark plug leads act an antenna. The leads have a length that produces a specific frequency. The motor is design with specific requirements to properly spark the fuel in the cylinder. In an example, the pulse rate of the high voltage on the lead creates a signature at a specific motor speed. While generally speaking more leads provide a more distinct stray emission signal, this is due to a greater number of spark plug leads. The motors for ultralights include two spark plugs per cylinder for safety. This results in dual spark plug leads that must carry the high voltage to the spark plug at essentially the same time and at essentially the same power. However, the spark plug leads will be of slightly different length and produce a stray emission at two frequencies that pulse at the same rate. Moreover, the amplitude of these signals can be essentially the same. The present detector can sense and identify these signals.
In a specific example, the specifications for a lightweight aircraft motor are 80-100 hp output, 4 cycle motor at 4000 RPM, which produce 100 cycles per sec per spark plug lead with a pulse width of about 1 millisecond at about a 10% duty cycle and about 10 milliwatt/sec. In the known range of the spark plug leads the 100 milliwatt signal will be broadcast in a range of about 120 MHz-123 Mhz. In this example, the antenna will be tuned to sense this narrow band. The processing module will process this band of received signal, filter the background noise, and detect a known stray emission signal from the aircraft.
The database 129 can further store topological data that can be used in the signal processing by analysis module 126. The topological data can be elevational data for the terrain and also other geographic data, e.g., water features, type of soil, type of stone, type of vegetation. The terrain data can be downloaded from various sources, e.g., from the U.S. Geological Survey and stored in memory on the device 100. The processing module 101 can use the topological/terrain data to filter the data being sensed. For example, the processing module 101 can remove sharp edges from the sensed data as floes positives and can remove reflections from the terrain.
The processing module 101 takes in passively sensed data from the antenna 102 and performs a highest probability analysis on the data relative to the stored templates of targets. In an example, the processing module 101 counts the data points and then matches these counts to stored templates. The processing module 101 outputs a probability match. As more data points are sensed, the processing module 101 continues to compare the sensed data to the stored target templates. The processing module 101 outputs a probability match data, which can indicate a low likelihood of a match to a perfect match.
In an example embodiment, the device 200 operates as a standalone machine or can be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines. In a networked deployment, the machine 200 may operate in the capacity of a server or a client machine in server-client network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The other machines that can network with the device 200 can include a server computer, a client computer, a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a cellular telephone, a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that exchange electronic or optical data with the detector 100 and can specify actions to be taken by detector 100 or can act as a relay between the detector 100 and other detectors or base stations. Further, while only a single machine 200 is illustrated, the term “machine” shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein.
The example computing device 200 includes a processor 202 (e.g., a digital signal processor (DSP), an analog signal processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU) or both) and a main memory 204, which communicate with each other via a bus 208. A positioning system 206 is provided. Positioning system can include a position navigation satellite system, e.g., the Global Positioning System (GPS), other satellite-based positioning system, or a cellular triangulation system to determine location of the device 200. The computing device 200 can further include a video display unit 210 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD), plasma display, or a cathode ray tube (CRT)). The computing device 200 can also include user input devices, such as an optional alpha-numeric input device 212 (e.g., a keyboard) and a tactile input device 214 (e.g., push buttons, switches, and the like).
A drive unit 216 includes a machine-readable medium 222 on which is stored one or more sets of instructions 224 (e.g., software on a physical media or communication channel) embodying any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein. The instructions 224 can also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 204 and/or within the processor 202 during execution thereof by the computing device 200. The main memory 204 and the processor 202 can further comprise machine-readable media.
The instructions 224 can further be transmitted or received over a network 226 via the network interface device 220. While the machine-readable medium 222 is shown in an example embodiment to be a single medium, the term “machine-readable medium” should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term “machine-readable medium” shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the device and that cause the device to perform any one or more of the methodologies shown in the various embodiments of the present invention, including passive detection of stray (e.g., unintended) radio frequency that can be used to identify the source of the stray signal. The term “machine-readable medium” shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to, solid-state memories and optical and magnetic media, and physical carrier constructs.
The center spine housing 310 is secured on the handgrip 305. The housing 310 can be removed from the handgrip and from the processing module 101 to change the antenna assembly 102A to another antenna assembly. The housing 310 can include therein circuitry, with passive elements and active elements, which can tune the antenna to specific frequencies and focus the sensing beam path of the antenna assembly 102A. Examples of antenna circuitry can include radio frequency filters. Examples of specific frequency ranges that the antenna assembly 102A are tuned can include 120 MHz-123 Mhz, about 145 Mhz-148 Mhz, about 155 Mhz-158 Mhz, about 215 Mhz-218 Mhz, about 242 Mhz-245 Mhz, and 400 Mhz-900 Mhz. In an example, the antenna assembly 102A includes at least one ½-λ conductor 309 extending outwardly from at an end of the housing 310. In an example, ½-λ conductors 309 are at both ends of the housing 310. In an example, the ½-λ conductors 309 are foldable against the sides of the housing 310. In an example, the ½-λ conductors 309 are removably secured to the sides of the housing 310. The device 100 can have a width of about 32 inches with 14 inch antenna conductors 309. In an example, the device 100 weighs less than about six pounds for handheld use.
The processor module 101 is removably fixed to the antenna center spine 310 using mechanical and electrical connectors. The processing module 101 includes a weather resistant housing 320 through which the display 103 is visible to the user holding the handgrip. A plurality of user inputs 322 and interfaces are provided. The inputs 322 can include volume control buttons, attention buttons, frequency control buttons, and power buttons. In an example, the processing module 101 includes a speaker that can indicate when vehicles are detected or attention, e.g., for required inputs, of the user. The processing module 101 is configured to process sensed signals from the antenna assembly 102A to locate the position of an emitter of radio frequency signals, which can be used for rescue, interdiction, border patrol, or other identification and analysis.
It will be recognized that the vehicle 104 can be another type of vehicle, e.g., a ground based vehicle, such as a truck, automobile, motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle, military vehicle, marine vehicle, ship, boat, among others. Motor vehicles based on their motors, e.g., mechanical and electrical components, produce an identifiable repeating signal that can be sensed and identified. Similar processes can be used to passively identify targets other than vehicles.
The terrain data can be used in the processing module 101 to correct for the effects of the terrain on the sensed signals. In the example, shown in
Base station 425 can receive data from a plurality of detection devices 100. Base station 425 can run software (execute stored instructions on an electronic processor) specifically designed to process this type of information. The software can apply heuristics, adaptive resonance, and topographical clarification techniques to the data from the detection devices 100. The base station 425 can process information and make decisions on intelligent reporting of data that is to be collected and reported. In an example, the base station 425 can apply measurement and signature intelligence techniques to the data from the detection device to provide a more holistic or complete view of the area under surveillance by the detection device(s) 100.
A satellite network 140 can provide a communication link between the detection device(s) 100 and the monitoring base station 425 and, optionally, provide further data to the monitoring base station 425 (or to the server 450). In an example, the network 140 can communicate over the IRIDIUM™ satellite communication system. Additional data can be imaging data, either real-time of previously imaged data. Additional data from the satellite network 140 can provide additional positional and operational data relative to the vehicle 420. The satellite network 140 can focus, e.g., narrow, it surveillance to a specific area identified as of interest by either the detection device 100 identifying a likely target in the area based on the target's stray signal signature. While described as satellite system 140 other high-flying aircraft with sensing equipment can also be used. However, the sensing of the satellite and the high flying aircraft cannot efficiently detect low flying vehicles such as ultra-lights and small aircraft.
A further server 450 can be communicatively coupled through a communication network 110 to the monitoring base station 425 and/or the detection devices 100. The server 450 can be utilized to access and pull the positional and operational data and operational data associated with the asset 100 via the network 110, which can be an open architecture interface (Internet) or a closed communication system. Various communication protocols (e.g., Web Services) can be utilized in the communications occurring between the server 450 and the monitoring base station 425. The base station 425 can utilize telematics and intelligent data processing as well as software to make the information available via the network 410 to the server 450 or to responder units 470.
While illustrated as two separated systems, in an example, the base station 425 and the monitoring server 450 can be integrated and communication between the two systems occur as the vehicle is being monitored by the detection device 100.
The monitoring server 450 can be communicatively coupled to a database 455, in which the base station 450 may periodically store results after processing of the information received from either the base station 425 or the detection device 100.
The monitoring server 450 is optionally associated with an operator 470 operating the monitoring server 4500 via a computer 460. The computer 460 can include a Graphical User Interface (GUI) facilitating display and manipulation of the monitoring server 450. The computer 460 can also enable the operator 470 to view and manipulate reports 482 that can be used to manage and monitor one or more of the data from the detection device(s) 100. The operator 470 can receive real-time reports related to the vehicle detection and notify an intercept unit or response unit 490, e.g. over a communication network 410. Using detailed map views shown on any of the detection device 100, the computer 460 or the computing device 480, an authorized user can see up-to-date data related to location of the vehicle 420.
Data communication as described in
A vehicle 504, such as an aircraft, includes an emitter, e.g., and engine, turbine or other device, that unintentionally emits stray electrical signal, e.g., electromagnetic emission, 506. The detection device 100 can detect the presence and location of the vehicle 504 using its stray emission 506. Electrical signal 506 can be unique for any specific type of vehicle 504. In an example, the signal 506 for a given vehicle (or a given motor) can be periodic and have a consistently shaped waveform in the time and frequency domains.
A detection component 516 responds to input received from an operator (e.g., a human user at the device 100, specifically in the case of a handheld device or a remote user, e.g., a server or other computing device remote from the detection device 100). Detection component 516 senses the stray emission 506. Detection component 516 can apply signal processing algorithms to the sensed data and compare the data to templates 514. When a match occurs, an alert signal 520 is provided to an alert device 521 to notify the operator that a target, e.g., a vehicle, has been identified. The alert device 521 can include a display 522 operatively coupled to the computing device 505 for providing a visual alert to the operator. The alert device 521 can also include a sound generator 524 operatively coupled to the computing device 505 for providing an audible alert to the operator. A specific visual indicator and/or specific audio signal can be provided for each specific target type. It will be understood that the alerting equipment can be integral with the detector 100, e.g., mounted on a circuit board. The alerting device 521 can also indicate the position of the target. In an example, the position includes latitude, longitude, and elevation. The position information can be within a meter or a few meters of the actual location of the target. In a further example, the position information is in a range distance, the circumferential angle and the elevational angle.
A receiving module 628 of the detection component 516 is operatively coupled to the detection module 620 to receive the stray signal from the targete and measure same. The receiving module 628 digitizes the measured data to generate a digital measurement signal 680. A processing module 632 of the detection component 516 is operatively coupled to the receiving module 524 and processes the digital measurement signal 680. The processing module 632 can be executed on the computing device 505, which can include a digital signal processor. Processing the digital measurement signal 680 can involve retrieving a plurality of the sensed signal templates from a database 608 stored in memory.
The measurement signal 680 is correlated with the templates to determine if a target, e.g., a vehicle, is present in the sensing area. In an example, periodicity of the stray signal 506 can then be utilized to correlate it with a single square wave having repetition rate that matches the expected repetition rate found during classification and stored in the template. Many stray signals will vary relative to their specific emitters. For example, 4-cylinder engines may have a repetition rate that is different from a 6-cylinder engine. Dual (or multiple) spark plug leads per cylinder further provide a distinct stray signal. Amplitude of the signals may also vary in either the time domain of the frequency domain. Moreover, electronic components, e.g., local oscillators, will have different signals characteristics than other electronic components.
A detection threshold module 634, operatively coupled to the processing module 632, uses the information obtained from the processing module to compare the processed signal to a power threshold value. If the signal correlates to a known template and has a required power level, as determined by the detection threshold module 634, then the detection component 516 can indicate that a target has been identified by its stray signal.
Device 100 as shown in
A location component 640 is provided to process the received stray signal and determine the direction and location of the target of interest. Location component can look to the rate of change in the received stray signal. Location component 640 includes a memory module 641 and a processing module 643. Using algorithms the processing module 643 interprets the processed sensed stray signal and/or the raw sensed signal data, along with the directional data in the device 500, the position of the target is determined.
While the example of
The methods described in
The methods described in
In an aspect, the detector units/devices 100, 200 or sensing devices 901 can be integrated into airborne rescue vehicle(s) 918 and targeting/acquisition units 920. In an example, the detector units/devices 100 or sensing devices 901 are connected into airborne vehicles 918, 920 and sense radio frequency signals of interest. If a match is found to a target RF signature signal, then the device 100 or 901 sends the location to the vehicle 918, 920. If a piloted vehicle, the pilot decides to investigate the location either visually or with other sensing equipment. If the vehicle is an unmanned vehicle, its controller can receive the location and fly to investigate the location with other sensing devices, such an imager or a camera. The images from the camera as well as the data from the device 100 or 901 can be sent back to the controller, e.g., using structures and methods similar to those described above with regard to
The receiver circuitry 1100 can further include the mixer 1105, amplifier 1117, and I/Q mixer 1120 can be incorporated into a single chip. Additional connections (e.g., electrical interfaces) may be needed to run the receiver circuitry 1100, e.g., 4.2 Volt power and Ground from the DSP board, the physical releasable connector to RF output from the antenna assembly (e.g.,
The receiver circuitry 1100 operates to provide a heterodyning or super heterodyning function to the signal received from the antenna. As shown the receiving circuitry 1100 is a triple heterodyne configuration. It will be recognized that the receiving circuitry can be a quadruple or more heterodyne configuration. The receiver circuitry 1100 is thus tuned to the frequency of interest, e.g., by identifying the antenna assembly fixed in electrical communication therewith or by instructions being executed with the processing unit. The digital signal processing circuitry can control the operation and the function of the receiver circuitry.
The structures shown in
A graphic interface system 1315 provides a human interface and can display information to a user of the device 1300. System 1315 includes a display management module 1317 and a mapping module 1318. The display management module 1317 can display various information that is output from the data analysis unit 1310. The module 1317 can display the information, e.g., bearing, inclination, latitude, longitude, elevation, status of processing, indication that no target is found and other information that will be of interest to a user. In an example, display management module 1317 includes an icon based user interface that requires minimal keyed in input allowing a user to easily manage the application in a field based environment. The mapping module 1318 can display the terrain data in a visual form. The mapping module 1318 can display and keep current a view of the theatre of operations based on the user's current location, and setup parameters provided by the user. Onboard controls on the mapping module allow the user to change the viewing parameters real time in order to support the current search or tactical situation. The terrain data can be stored in the memory 1325. The target sensed by the device can be show on a topographical display. The terrain data can also be used as a navigational aid by the user of the device when displayed by the graphic system 1315. The interface system 1315 can further include user inputs, for example, a touch screen, other manual inputs, buttons or switches. The user inputs can be sent to a board module 1320 to control operation of the digital signal processing circuitry 1200.
The network communication management system 1330 can communicate with other electrical systems, e.g., base station 425, 1400, monitoring server 450, etc. A data transmission module can send or receive data from the device 1300. A data uploading module 1336 operates to control the uploading of raw data from the memory 1325. Web interface module 1333 operates to have the device 1300 communicate over a computer network using various computer network protocols. The network management module 1334 controls operation of the other modules in the system 1330. The system 1330 operates to keep the unit network agnostic, in an example. Accordingly, the unit can work with whatever network the system is currently hooked up to. The system 1330 feeds data analyzed by the data analysis unit 1310 or stored in memory 1325 to the base station and also makes requests to the base station for search and targeting information as analyzed by the base station. The network management system 1330 can also request any outstanding messages from the base station in the form of text messages or other data formats.
The memory 1325 and data management module 1320 operate to store a local database of all the information gathered from the hardware (e.g., antenna assembly 1000, RF circuitry 1100 and processing circuitry 1200). Each of the interfaces of the information analysis module 1311 produces further information that is stored in memory 1325 using different record formats. The data formats are custom designed to support storage using a minimum amount of data storage. The memory 1325 is on board the handheld unit example of the present invention and is portable with the handheld unit. The memory 1325 and data management module 1320 can also provide a full long term memory storage using a thread based lazy storage algorithm that maintains data integrity while minimizing the impact on device performance.
A sound management module 1321 allows the user to receive audible verification of the signal's strength as they use the unit to scan the environment. Module 1321 can be receive control data from the data analysis module 1310. The stronger the signal the louder the sound generated by the sound management module 1321 or the increased frequency of sound or an increased pulse rhythm can be produced by module 1321. In an example, the signal can be fed directly from the processing circuitry 1200 to the sound management module.
The units 100, which can, for example, include antenna assembly 1000, circuitries 1100 and 1200, can be frequency agile and search for patterns at various frequency bands of interest. The antenna assembly 1000 is tuned to specific frequency bands of interest. The units can have a sensitivity of −135 dB.
A network management system 1430 provides a communication interface with units in the field as well as any support systems that are registered to receive information from the base station 1400. The system 1403 is to receive data from units 100 and respond to requests from the field units 100 for information and data updates, including upgrades, latest terrain data, coordinates to search, etc. In an example, system 1430 does not proactively send information out to the field units 100, instead it awaits requests from the field units for updates or data downloads.
The data analysis system 1410 is to integrate the information from multiple units or further process data from a single unit. Data analysis system 1410 includes an information analysis module 1411 and a terrain/intersection analysis module 1413. Information analysis module 1411 further processes raw data from units 100 to identify targets or refine the database of targets. For example, if a signal is identified as a likely target but the signal does not match a target stored in the base station database in memory 1425, the data is flagged to link the data to target information. When targets are identified in the data analysis system 1410, it passes the results into the base station terminal interface, which can include a mapping interface module 1418 and a display module 1417. Personnel can view the results on the graphic interface system 1415 to ensure the information is relevant and correct. Then the personnel can trigger the system 1410 to pass data back into the field units 100 using the network communication management system 1430. A sound management module 1421 can receive instructions from the data analysis system 1410 to provide audio clues to the personnel to alert them to data that has changed or requires user attention.
The database management module 1420 records all data coming into the system and all analytical results and corrections in permanent storage, such as memory 1425.
An external system delivery 1450 responds to requests from a unit 100 and integrated support systems and modules to send data consistent with type of information requested. The system 1450 is capable of providing vector intersection points, coordinates information on other units in the field as well as instructional text messages. System 1450 includes a targeting management module 1451 and a rescue management module 1453. The targeting module 1451 can send data to units 100 in the field to instruct them on where to focus efforts in looking for targets. The targeting module 1451 can also interface with interdiction units, e.g., targeting/acquisition units 920. The rescue management module 1453 can send data to units 100 in the field to instruct them on where to focus efforts in looking for targets that may be in need in rescue. The targeting module 1451 discriminates for adversaries or potential criminals whereas the rescue management module 1453 looks for friendlies or people in need of assistance. The targeting module 1453 can also interface with rescue units, e.g., rescue vehicles 918, 919.
The databases and memory described herein with reference to both the units and the base stations can store RF signature patterns of various targets that emit stray RF signals. The RF signature patterns can be determined and then stored in memory, e.g., in look-up tables. The look up tables can be stored in memory. The look-up tables will include frequency patterns and, optionally, amplitude patterns of the stray RF signals for a given target. Other database storage forms can be used to quickly filter the processed data through the templates of the targets.
In summary, during the method as described in conjunction with
Another method for determining the stray RF emissions can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,464,005, titled “Electromagnetic emissions stimulation and detection system”, issued to Beetner et al., which is hereby incorporated by reference for any purpose, unless such incorporation conflicts with the present written disclosure and in which case the present written disclosure controls interpretation. However, this patent does not provide distance or location data to targets in the field.
While the above description refers to vehicles such as aircraft, particularly, ultralights and other small planes, it will be understood that the structures and methods described herein can be used to detect other vehicles. For example, boats also emit stray signals that could be passively sensed according to the teachings herein. An example would be sensing marine motors such as Verado brand, 4 or 6 cylinder motors by Mercury Marine of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. These engines use spark plugs and plug wires, which can be sensed according to the structures and methods described herein. The marine applications may be desirable by the Coast Guard to protect the U.S. borders from unwanted naval entry of people and cargo.
The devices and methods described herein can operate as a software-driven synthetic aperture passive radar device. In operation, a plurality of readings is made over time. These readings operate to simulating a large antenna. In operation, the user of the handheld detector points the detector outwardly and turns in a complete signal in a first direction and then in a complete signal in the other direction. This provides enough different sample points to calculate the position of the target. The user can then point the device at a target. In a further example, a moving target would provide the plurality of different readings over time as the target moves. In the example with the detector mounted to a vehicle or integrated into a vehicle, the movement of the vehicle with detector provides the different points in time to operate as a synthetic aperture radar device.
The software that drives the processing modules or processors can be written in standard programming languages, such as C++, and can be compiled for running on standard operating systems. The processors can be those in YUMA™ tablet computer a NOMAD™ personal data assistant
One approach to locating and identifying vehicles, such as aircraft, involves the use of an active, intentional beacon being broadcast from the vehicle. However, one problem with that approach is vehicles that are being used for nefarious or illegal purposes, such as drug smuggling or illegal border crossings, do not use such active beacons. In some circumstances, vehicles used for these undesirable purposes are specifically chosen for their ability to evade detection and notice. Examples of such vehicles are small aircraft or fast moving boats that can cross the border essentially undetected due to the volume of airspace or the area of the body of water, e.g., the ocean. While some approaches have been attempted, use of military surveillance aircraft, and other aircraft, there remains vulnerabilities that are exploited. One specific example is small, low-flying aircraft. The present inventor identified the problems with conventional detection techniques and arrived at the presently described invention. The beacon system can be used to locate the downed aircraft or boat lost/adrift at sea.
The present systems and methods described herein can further detect, track and local other electrical devices. In an example, a radio receiver can be the target of the present systems and methods. Many electrical signal receivers use crystal oscillators to calibrate the signal they are looking for, and these oscillators give off electrical magnetic interference (“EMI”) noise or stray RF signals. In addition, many receivers go into a different mode of operation, giving off a different EMI profile, when stimulated. Mobile devices and cell phones, when they find a base station, e.g., a tower, go into a more active mode. Many frequency modulation (“FM”) transceivers do the same. This change in signal is another tool that can be used to characterize a receiver and be used in the present devices, systems and methods to identify and locate the emitting device.
The identification of crystal oscillators creates a unique opportunity for the present disclosure to identify improvised explosive devices from a relative safe distance. Many IEDs are made from common, commercial off-the-shelf components. IEDS can be easily hidden on the side of the road, in vehicles, and in buildings. Critical to reducing the threat of IEDs is the development of tools that allow the soldier to easily detect these IEDs in the field. Fortunately, those same off-the-shelf electronics generate stray RF signals, e.g., from their crystal oscillators. The detection of properly profiled unintentional emissions from the IED electronics can be done very quickly from standoff distances (10s to 100s of meters) using the teachings of the present disclosure. The present disclosure can also identify specific electronics known to be associated with IEDs. The electronics used in wireless command-initiated IEDs are particularly good candidates for detection using RF emissions because they must use a receiver which is always active and is attached to a good antenna. The receiver cannot be turned off, the antenna cannot be removed, nor can the device be heavily shielded without disabling the IED. Further, the receiver is specifically selected to react to very small changes in its electromagnetic environment, providing an ideal opportunity to change its unintentional emissions using a very weak electromagnetic stimulation (for example, an FRS receiver will react very reliably to the signal from a 0.5 W transmitter from 2 miles away or more). By looking for this modulated signal from the receiver, the receiver can potentially be detected very accurately even at long range in significant noise, similar to the detection of the very weak signal from a GPS satellite. The present disclosure, e.g., use of a phased array antenna with RF signal profiles is believed to provide an advantage for hunting IEDs.
Various embodiments described herein are designed to provide a solid framework from which radiation based signals can be directionally located, monitored, acquired and targeted for rescue, acquisition, and or identification. The mobile based directional location units described herein come with a self-contained acquisition and analysis system that allows the field user to work autonomously to search for or monitor radio signals and can assist the field user in making decisions about where the source or sources are coming from. Various embodiments described herein can communication with a communication system, e.g., a satellite based network that allows the mobile units to also communicate their information to a base station for further analysis at a different level than the units in the field. The base station can coordinate all incoming data and makes the analysis results available to the units in the field or automatically report to a further analysis system or command center. The coordinated information makes the described technology a formidable solution for locating missing aircraft, Alzheimer's patients (equipped with a radio frequency emitter), and operators using fixed or portable radio equipment.
The present apparatus, systems, structures and methods work on the principals of electronics intelligence and signal intelligence. Electronics intelligence is technical and intelligence information obtained from foreign electromagnetic emissions that are not radiated by communications equipment or by nuclear detonations and radioactive sources. The present disclosure concerns itself with passive detection of stray RF signals from targets and vehicles that are typically not thought of as having stray RF signals. By analyzing the stray electronic emissions from a given target, the present disclosure can often determine type of target and make an educated guess as to its purpose based also on other data, for example, location, speed, height, changes to any of the preceding data, time of day, day of week, etc. The present disclosure uses the principal of electronic intelligence to sense particular band of radio frequencies at which vehicles or other targets, such as receivers, mobile communication devices, emit identifiable signals that can be quantified and identified. The electronics intelligence can identify potential targets to be further investigated, either by people or by signal intelligence systems. The present inventor identified the need for a precise location and detection unit that can identify and locate the position of a potential target. The present invention as described herein provides location and type information that is new and novel.
The present disclosure focuses on detection and identification of stray or unintended RF signals. However, the present device would also work when searching for a beacon or intended signal. In an example, a remote beacon, for example at a ranger station or other location in a remote wilderness, could periodically emit a signal. If a person was lost in this wilderness, then use of the innovations described herein would allow the person to identify the beacon and it exact location relative to the person. The person then could reorient themselves and leave the wilderness. A like scenario can be used to hunt for downed aircraft if it was emitting an RF signal, either a purposed signal or a known unintended signal. In this example, a passenger or pilot of an aircraft may leave their mobile device on as long as the battery holds out as the mobile device would emit some RF signal that could be sensed and located according to the teachings herein.
The units described herein can include a handheld phased array antenna means coupled to a sensitive receiver means for the detection and location of beacons or inadvertently emitted RF profiles. Hardware and algorithms have been developed to detect weak signals and lower the noise threshold to better detect the signals that are being hunted. The units can further include a mobile computer, GPS, and digital compass that can display latitude, longitude, and elevation of a target using heading and inclination from the user's position. The units are frequency agile as a result of its modular receiver that implements instructions to identify and locate stray RF signature profiles of interest. The phased array antenna means can have very narrowband detection for specific targets and have a high gain for that band. The use of the phased array antenna means provides a very selective directional detection, especially, when compared to loop or Doppler antenna.
Certain systems, apparatus, applications or processes are described herein as including a number of modules or mechanisms. A module or a mechanism may be a unit of distinct functionality that can provide information to, and receive information from, other modules. Accordingly, the described modules may be regarded as being communicatively coupled. Modules may also initiate communication with input or output devices, and can operate on a resource (e.g., a collection of information). The modules be implemented as hardware circuitry, optical components, single or multi-processor circuits, memory circuits, software program modules and objects (instructions that can be executed by electrical circuitry), firmware, and combinations thereof, as appropriate for particular implementations of various embodiments.
The above description includes references to handheld or mobile detectors or detection units. In various aspects a handheld unit is one that is capable of being held in a hand of a user and being manually used by that user to detect targets as described herein. In an example, the handheld detector has a size and weight to be carried by a person and then held pointing outwardly from the person to take readings. The handheld detector is held outwardly from the body while the person pivots 360 degrees in one direction and then 360 degrees in another direction. In an example, the person then holds the handheld detector toward a target identified by the handheld detector. In an example, the detector is less than six pounds, less than five pounds, and more preferably about four pounds.
The above description includes references to handheld or mobile detectors or detection units. In various aspects, passive refers to sensing and not broadcasting a signal force a response from a potential target. Examples of active sensing include radar. Aspects of the present devices and methods do not emit a signal as part of its sensing function.
The above description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown and described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown and described are provided.
All publications, patents, and patent documents referred to in this document are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety, as though individually incorporated by reference. In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and those documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in the incorporated reference(s) should be considered supplementary to that of this document; for irreconcilable inconsistencies, the usage in this document controls.
In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.
Method examples described herein can be machine or computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include a computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of such methods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code can include computer readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form portions of computer program products. Further, the code may be tangibly stored on one or more volatile or non-volatile computer-readable media during execution or at other times. These computer-readable media may include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the like.
The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/330,094, filed Apr. 30, 2010, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for any purpose.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61330094 | Apr 2010 | US |
