초록 ▼

A range estimation system and method which comprises a data base containing data for identification of certain targets and data for estimating the initial range to each of the targets as a function of the observed dimensions of the targets. A sensor (1) observes a scene containing a target a plurali

A range estimation system and method which comprises a data base containing data for identification of certain targets and data for estimating the initial range to each of the targets as a function of the observed dimensions of the targets. A sensor (1) observes a scene containing a target a plurality of spaced apart times while the sensor is moving relative to the target to provide data from each observation of the scene relating to the dimensions of the target within the scene. The remaining range to the target is estimated from the observed dimensions of the target from the range traveled since a prior estimation of range and from a prior estimation of the remaining range to the target. The sensor (1) provides electrical signals representing the observed scene (3) and can be a visible light or infrared sensor. A computer (9) is used to identify the target from the data base, estimate the initial range to the target and estimate the remaining range from the range traveled between successive observations of the scene and the change of dimensions of the target in the observed scene.

대표청구항 ▼

[ I claim:] [1.] A range estimation method which comprises the steps of:(a) providing a data base containing data for identification of certain targets and data for estimating an initial range to each of said certain targets as a function of observed dimensions of said targets;(b) observing a scene

[ I claim:] [1.] A range estimation method which comprises the steps of:(a) providing a data base containing data for identification of certain targets and data for estimating an initial range to each of said certain targets as a function of observed dimensions of said targets;(b) observing a scene containing a target a plurality of spaced apart times while moving relative to said target;(c) obtaining data from each observation of said scene relating to a dimension of said target;(d) identifying said target from said data base, and using the corresponding initial range from said data base to initially estimate a remaining range to said target; and(e) thereafter repeatedly estimating the remaining range to said target from said data obtained by a respective said observation and from a prior estimation of the remaining range to said target.