| Sol No.: |
Navy SBIR FY2009.1 |
| Topic No.: |
N091-021 |
| Topic Title: |
Littoral Zone Characterization Using Merged Multi-Spectral Visible Electro Optic (EO) and Infrared (IR) Imagery |
| Proposal No.: |
N091-021-0914 |
| Firm: |
Advanced Coherent Technologies
4022 Liggett dr.
San Diego, California 92106 |
| Contact: |
Jon Schoonmaker |
| Phone: |
(619) 838-1218 |
| Web Site: |
http://www.advanced-coherent.com |
| Abstract: |
dvanced Coherent Technologies, LLC (ACT) proposes to leverage recent ONR projects investigating surf zone dynamics and current programs developing low cost EO/IR imaging systems to show the utility of using an airborne EO/MSI/IR sensor to characterize the near shore and surf zone environments. ACT will utilize recently collected coastal EO/MSI/IR data as well as new data collected by ACT's new turreted MANTIS 4T sensor (EO/MSI/IR) to demonstrate this utility. The MANTIS 4T sensor is a relatively low cost system composed of zoom video, long wave infrared and 3 band (selectable) multispectral systems integrated into a five inch turret compatible with tier 2 UAV's (STUAS). Characterization algorithms will be advanced and new algorithms will be developed. Initial consideration will focus on the `surf zone index' developed initially during the ONR ROAR program. The algorithm will be extended to use fused EO/MSI/IR data rather than just MSI as originally published. |
| Benefits: |
As a result of this effort we will have determined the feasibility of littoral zone characterization algorithms and identified a plan for development of these algorithms. In addition, we will have documented and designed an approach to remotely collect necessary EO/MSI/IR imagery from a small, unmanned platform to adequately characterize the littoral zone. These efforts will result in remote characterization of the littoral zone which is necessary for adequate mission planning and to aid in the deployment of appropriate assets for littoral zone ISR activities. As the algorithms and data collection methodologies mature, they will directly support the development of future ISR hardware and deployment strategies and be able to transition to programs of record such as EPAS and COBRA as needed. In addition, the MANTIS 4T sensor system will grow in maturity and robustness making it a candidate for an advanced EO/MSI/IR system on Tier II UAV platforms such as STUAS. |