Dual-band optoelectronic poaching detection systems

Abstract

Subject of study. We present details regarding the development of dual-band optoelectronic scanning systems for surveillance and detection of poachers and poaching equipment and the inclusion of image fusion and geolocation capabilities. Aim. We present research on a dual-band optoelectronic system for scanning the surface along a quasicircular trajectory that supports overlapping of frames for efficient fusion of images made from different points of view into a single image used to detect, recognize, and geolocate poaching. Methods. We present simulation and experimental study of a prototype system including television and thermal vision channels, a Global Positioning System (GPS) antenna, and inertial navigation system modules mounted on a stabilized common platform. Main results. We propose a system design that will support simultaneous scanning of a search area in television and thermal imaging channels along a quasicircular trajectory, with the capability to expand the search area and provide 30% frame overlap for efficient image fusion. Gyroscopic sensors on the stabilized common platform for the system and global navigation system antennas will support the requisite accuracy of the surveillance platform and target geolocation. The change in system viewing angle per unit time that would enable the resulting image to be obtained without missing any lines was determined. The primary components of the error in the coordinates of the surveillance platform when surveilling an object were also determined. The combination of field-of-view scanning and use of geolocation equipment supports the recognition of poachers and poaching equipment and the determination of their coordinates within a global coordinate system. An integrated high-precision GPS receiver (ProPak-V3-424) with an inertial system and data processing technology using Tightly Coupled IMU algorithms (Inertial Explorer) was found to be capable of determining the horizontal coordinates of a surveillance platform to within 12 m at a probability of 95% or better. Practical significance. A prototype of the proposed design increased the maximum reliable detection and recognition range for poachers and poaching equipment (cars and trucks) in a forest through the fusion of data obtained in the visible and infrared spectral bands.