Selection
Choosing an EO system: search, tracking, integrated and split architectures
An electro-optical system is not just a camera with a long lens. It has to find a target across a wide sector, confirm it, hold it and pass data to effectors. Search, tracking, integrated and split architectures solve different problems.
Contents
Search and support are different tasksIntegrated and separate circuitsRange: detection and identificationOptics: visible, IR and rangefinderStabilization and precisionWeather and backgroundIntegrationChoosing an OES begins with the question: what should the system do - search, accompany, or both. The answer depends on the field of view, focal length, stabilization accuracy and cost.
Search and support are different tasks
The search engine has a wide field of view and a fast crawl cycle. Tracking system - narrow field, long focus and high accuracy of angular measurements. Trying to solve both problems with one block is always a compromise: either visibility or range.
Integrated and separate circuits
| Scheme | Pros | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated | Rapid deployment, one chassis | Compromise on visibility and range |
| Separate | Better range and position flexibility | Two blocks, more difficult to install |
| Search only | Cheaper, wider view | No exact tracking |
| Escort only | High accuracy | Need target designation from another sensor |
Range: detection and identification
The detection range is always greater than the identification range. To distinguish the type of target, you need to collect a sufficient number of pixels. Therefore, the tender indicates two numbers: “sees” and “recognizes.” If only the first one is indicated, this is marketing.
Optics: visible, IR and rangefinder
The visible channel operates during the day and in good weather. Thermal imager - at night and in haze, but depends on thermal contrast. A laser rangefinder gives an accurate distance, but requires caution with reflections. For round-the-clock operation, a combination of channels is needed.
Stabilization and precision
At a distance of a kilometer, the angular vibration of the platform and the wind shift the image. 0.05° accuracy may be more important than another 100mm of focus. Look at the type of stabilization, pointing speed and behavior in gusts of wind.
Weather and background
Rain, fog and dust reduce contrast. The urban background and thermal sources create false targets. Therefore, testing should take place at a facility similar to yours, and not at a test site with a clear horizon.
Integration
The OES must feed the trace, video and metadata into the common circuit. If it only works with its remote, you are buying a camera, not a system sensor. The integration protocol is a mandatory tender item.
