DESC:4. DESCRIPTION

Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention pertains to the realm of advanced surveillance and target acquisition systems, catering primarily to military, law enforcement, and security operations.

Background of the Invention

In the domain of military, law enforcement, and security operations, precision and efficiency in surveillance and target acquisition are crucial for success. Conventional methods, traditionally foundational in these spheres, often do not meet the high-speed, accurate demands required in contemporary environments characterized by rapid technological advancements and evolving tactical scenarios.

Modern military and security operations require swift and precise target identification and acquisition to facilitate optimal decision-making and successful mission execution. Traditional surveillance techniques, which are manual and heavily reliant on direct human involvement, present numerous challenges. The primary issues include the speed and accuracy of target identification, where manual processes are not only time-consuming but also prone to errors. In high-stress environments, even the most skilled operators can make critical mistakes, undermining the success of operations.

Moreover, the direct human involvement necessary in traditional methods poses significant safety risks, particularly in hostile environments. These methods are also resource-intensive and often inefficient, lacking the necessary adaptability and flexibility to cope with the rapidly changing conditions of modern battlegrounds and complex security situations.

Historically, surveillance and target acquisition systems have relied on technologies such as basic optical and radar systems, which provide limited capabilities under varied operational conditions. Optical systems, for example, typically involve binoculars or periscopes and are constrained by visual range and the necessity for a direct line of sight, which is not always feasible in complex terrains or urban environments. Radar systems, while useful for detecting movements, can be ineffective in differentiating between non-combatants and actual targets, particularly in densely populated areas.

Additionally, manual targeting systems require operators to manually identify and lock onto targets a process that is inherently slow and susceptible to human error. These systems' limitations are significant, particularly concerning range and visibility. Optical and radar systems are often impeded by environmental conditions such as fog, smoke, or dust, which can severely reduce effectiveness. The accuracy of manual systems is another major issue, as they depend on the operator's ability to perform under pressure and in less-than-ideal conditions.

The need for an improved system becomes clear when considering the shortcomings of existing technologies. There is a dire need for an advanced tactical surveillance and target acquisition system that not only addresses these limitations but also enhances operational capabilities significantly. Such a system would leverage cutting-edge technology to automate and streamline processes, thereby increasing speed and accuracy while reducing human error and safety risks.

The envisaged system would incorporate advanced imaging technologies, automated target recognition software, and enhanced communication tools to facilitate real-time data transmission and decision-making. By integrating these technologies, the system would provide operators with comprehensive situational awareness, enabling precise targeting and positioning in a variety of operational contexts.

In summary, the limitations of prior art create a compelling case for the development of an advanced system that can meet the demanding requirements of modern military, law enforcement, and security operations. An innovative approach that amalgamates diverse technologies to deliver enhanced performance and reliability is not just beneficial but necessary for the success of contemporary tactical operations.

Brief Summary of the Invention

The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure and it does not identify key/critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The advanced tactical surveillance and target acquisition system is designed to revolutionize the field of military, law enforcement, and security operations by offering a state-of-the-art solution that merges numerous cutting-edge technologies to address the limitations of current systems. This comprehensive system is geared toward enhancing operational effectiveness by providing real-time, accurate situational awareness and target identification, which are crucial for the successful execution of missions.

The primary objective of this invention is to significantly improve the speed and accuracy of target identification and acquisition, essential components in modern operational environments where rapid decision-making and execution can be the difference between success and failure. Traditional systems, often manual and labor-intensive, are fraught with challenges including slow response times, high susceptibility to human error, and inadequate adaptability to the dynamic nature of contemporary battlefields and security situations.

To address these issues, the system incorporates an advanced forward observer device equipped with a suite of sensors, including cameras for day and night vision, GPS for precise positioning, and laser range finders for accurate distance measurement. This device works in tandem with an aerial drone that provides a bird’s-eye view of the operational area, enhancing the system’s ability to monitor and react to evolving situations from a safe distance. The drone is designed with obstacle avoidance capabilities and autonomous flight technology, ensuring it can operate effectively in complex environments without direct human control.

Another significant component of this system is its sophisticated target recognition software, which automates the process of identifying and classifying potential targets based on predefined criteria. This software is integrated into the forward observer device, allowing for immediate analysis of the data captured by the device’s sensors. The system also includes a robust communication framework that ensures secure, encrypted transmission of data between the forward observer device, the aerial drone, and the command center. This real-time data exchange is crucial for facilitating informed decision-making and rapid response to threats.

The advantages of the advanced tactical surveillance and target acquisition system are manifold. Firstly, it enhances situational awareness by providing commanders and operators with a comprehensive view of the operational environment, allowing for more informed strategic planning and decision-making. Secondly, it significantly reduces the risk of human error through automation, thereby increasing the accuracy of target identification and acquisition. Additionally, the system’s ability to operate remotely minimizes the physical risk to personnel, particularly in hostile or dangerous environments.

The applications of this system are diverse and impactful. In military operations, it can be used for reconnaissance, surveillance, and the acquisition of high-value targets, improving the effectiveness of ground troops and aerial attacks. Law enforcement agencies can utilize the system for monitoring and managing large public events, tactical operations, and crisis situations, such as hostage rescues or active shooter incidents. Furthermore, the system’s capabilities make it highly suitable for border security operations, where monitoring large, difficult-to-manage areas is crucial for detecting and preventing illegal activities.

Moreover, the system’s versatility also extends to disaster response scenarios, where rapid assessment and continuous monitoring of affected areas are vital for coordinating rescue and relief efforts. By providing real-time imagery and data, the system aids emergency responders in making quick, informed decisions that can save lives and mitigate the impact of disasters.

In summary, the advanced tactical surveillance and target acquisition system represents a significant leap forward in operational technology. By integrating sophisticated surveillance hardware, automated software, and secure communication protocols, it not only addresses the limitations of existing systems but also sets a new standard for the future of tactical operations across various domains.

Further objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be readily apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The above and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from a consideration of the following detailed description presented in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic representation illustrating the components and interactions within the advanced tactical surveillance and target acquisition systems (100). The figure showcases the various integrated components that collectively contribute to the system's enhanced functionality as of present invention.

Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram representation of advanced tactical surveillance and target acquisition systems procedure as of present invention.

It is appreciated that not all aspects and structures of the present invention are visible in a single drawing, and as such multiple views of the invention are presented so as to clearly show the structures of the invention.

Detailed Description of the Invention

It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

The use of “including”, “comprising” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Further, the use of terms “first”, “second”, and “third”, and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an advanced tactical surveillance and target acquisition system has been developed to significantly enhance the capabilities of military, law enforcement, and security operations. This system integrates a forward observer device equipped with sophisticated surveillance tools, including a camera unit that offers both day and night vision capabilities. This versatility ensures operational effectiveness under various lighting conditions. Additionally, the device is equipped with GPS for accurate geolocation tracking and a compass to ensure precise orientation, crucial for navigating and mapping dynamic environments.

The forward observer device also includes an SDR radio communication unit, which plays a critical role in marking and identifying coordinates, essential for coordinating with other elements of the operation. A laser range finder is another integral component, providing the exact distances to targets, which is indispensable for accurate engagements.

To extend its operational capabilities, the system incorporates an aerial drone. This drone is equipped with its own GPS system for autonomous location determination and a compass for accurate distance measurements. The drone's camera can capture high-quality, real-time aerial imagery, offering a broader view and situational awareness that ground units might not have. This capability is particularly valuable in complex terrains and densely built-up areas where direct line-of-sight is obstructed.

An integral feature of the forward observer device is its integrated display, which allows real-time visualization of the captured imagery and data. This feature supports immediate analysis and decision-making, enhancing response times and operational efficiency. For missions requiring precise targeting, the device includes a laser designator, which allows for the accurate designation of targets for precision-guided munitions, thus minimizing collateral damage and enhancing mission success.

The system also includes a comprehensive set of communication tools and a ground control station that facilitates real-time target identification and positioning from a distance. This ensures that all components of the system are interconnected and operate in a synchronized manner, maximizing the effectiveness of surveillance and target acquisition efforts.

Furthermore, the method of using this advanced tactical surveillance and target acquisition system involves several critical steps. Initially, the forward observer device is operated to utilize its camera with day and night vision capabilities along with GPS and a compass for precise camera positioning. The device captures real-time imagery of the target area, which is immediately analyzed using built-in software to identify and classify potential targets based on predefined criteria.

Following the identification process, the device calculates the exact coordinates of these targets using the laser range finder data. This information, along with the classification details, is then transmitted to a remote control station. Concurrently, an aerial drone is deployed to perform additional aerial surveillance of the target area. The drone captures detailed aerial imagery, which is also transmitted back to the control station.

At the remote station, the captured imagery, along with target coordinates and classification information, is displayed on a computational system equipped with a monitor. This setup provides command and control with comprehensive real-time tactical analysis, enabling informed decision-making and strategic planning in ongoing operations.

In the patent document for the advanced tactical surveillance and target acquisition system, detailed descriptions of the schematic diagrams and their functionalities are crucial for understanding the intricate workings of the system. The system, as depicted in the various figures, consists of numerous components, each meticulously designed to function in unison to provide unmatched operational efficiency and precision. Each component, identified by specific reference numerals, plays a pivotal role in the system’s functionality.

Now referring to figures Fig 1 and 2,
Figure 1 presents a comprehensive overview of the system (100), illustrating the forward observer device (1) equipped with a multi-functional camera unit (2). This camera unit features advanced day and night vision capabilities, critical for operations in varied lighting conditions. The device also includes a GPS module (3) that offers high precision in geolocation tracking, essential for mapping and navigation in diverse environments. Adjacent to the GPS, a compass unit (4) is shown, which assists in the accurate orientation and positioning of the device.

A notable inclusion in Figure 1 is the SDR radio communication unit (5), utilized for identifying marks and coordinating with other system elements. This is connected to a laser range finder device (6), which provides exact distances to targets, a critical factor in enhancing targeting accuracy. The aerial drone (7), depicted alongside the observer device, is equipped with a drone-specific GPS module (8) to ensure its autonomous operational capabilities. The drone also contains a compass (9) for precise distance measurement and navigation, reinforcing the system’s overall situational awareness.

The forward observer device (1) in Figure 1 further integrates an advanced display (10) that offers real-time visualization of the operational field and target information, ensuring that operators can make informed decisions swiftly. A laser designator (11) is included for high-precision targeting, particularly useful in directing precision-guided munitions to their intended targets without collateral damage.

Additionally, Figure 1 shows the array of communication tools (12) that facilitate robust data transmission to and from the ground control station (13). This station acts as the command center, receiving all the real-time data and imagery from the forward observer device and the aerial drone, thereby enabling command personnel to monitor and direct operations effectively.

Figure 2 delves deeper into the operational procedure of the advanced tactical surveillance and target acquisition systems, illustrating the sequential steps involved in deploying the system effectively. It starts with the activation of the forward observer device, followed by real-time data capture and analysis. The subsequent steps involve precise target positioning and coordination with the aerial drone for extended surveillance and data capture, culminating in comprehensive data transmission to the ground control station.

Towards the end of the operations, comprehensive testing is carried out to ensure that the system complies with all relevant standards applicable to such advanced military equipment. This includes rigorous performance and accuracy testing under various operational scenarios to verify the system's reliability and effectiveness. Communication protocols, data encryption, and transmission mechanisms are thoroughly evaluated to ensure they meet the highest standards of security and operational integrity.

Additionally, the environmental adaptability of both the forward observer device and the aerial drone is tested in diverse conditions to assess their durability and functionality in extreme weather, temperatures, and obstructive environments. This ensures that the system is not only effective but also resilient, capable of performing optimally in a wide range of operational contexts.

In conclusion, the test results confirm that the system adheres to all applicable standards, demonstrating its capability to provide reliable and accurate surveillance and target acquisition in various military, law enforcement, and security scenarios. This compliance not only underscores the system’s technical proficiency but also its readiness to be deployed in field operations, promising a significant enhancement in operational capabilities and strategic advantages.

The features and functions described above, as well as alternatives, may be combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements may be made by those skilled in the art, each of which is also intended to be encompassed by the disclosed embodiments.

The described exemplary embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. Variations in the arrangement of the structure are possible falling within the scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
,CLAIMS:5. CLAIMS
We claim,
1. An advanced tactical surveillance and target acquisition system (100), comprising:
a forward observer device (1) equipped with a camera unit (2) featuring day and night vision capabilities, a GPS module (3), and a compass unit (4) for camera positioning within device (1);
an SDR radio communication unit (5) for identifying marks, and a laser range finder device (6) for target acquisition,;
an aerial drone (7) with a drone GPS module (8) for location determination, a compass (9) for distance measurement, and the said camera capable of capturing real-time aerial imagery;
the forward observer device (1) includes an integrated display (10) for real-time visualization of captured imagery and target information;
the forward observer device includes a laser designator (11) for designating specific targets for precision-guided munitions;
the said system also comprises a plurality of communication tools (12) and a ground control station (13) offering real-time target identification and positioning from a distance.
the forward observer device (1) also includes a rugged laptop (14) with a position computer software (15) for accurate positioning of the camera (2) imagery;
Characterized in that,
the forward observer device (1) includes an integrated display (10) for real-time visualization of captured imagery and target information also includes a laser designator (11) for designating specific targets for precision-guided munitions;
the said system also comprises a plurality of communication tools (12) and a ground control station (13) offering real-time target identification and positioning from a distance;
the forward observer device (1) includes target recognition software for automatic identification and classification of potential targets;
the aerial drone (7) features obstacle avoidance technology for safe and autonomous flight during aerial surveillance operations. Wherein the aerial drone (7) is capable of autonomously returning to a designated location or operator upon completing aerial surveillance tasks;
the aerial drone (7) is configured to capture high-resolution images and videos during both day and night conditions; and
wherein the forward observer device (1) includes advanced communication encryption for secure target information transmission.

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the forward observer device (1) includes target recognition software for automatic identification and classification of potential targets.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising communication tools (12) enables data exchange between the forward observer device (1) and the ground control station (13).

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the aerial drone (7) features obstacle avoidance technology for safe and autonomous flight during aerial surveillance operations.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the aerial drone (7) is capable of autonomously returning to a designated location or operator upon completing aerial surveillance tasks.

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the aerial drone (7) is configured to capture high-resolution images and videos during both day and night conditions.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the forward observer device (1) includes advanced communication encryption for secure target information transmission.

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the forward observer device (1) includes an environmental sensing unit (16) capable of detecting and measuring environmental data, which enhances the system's ability to adapt its surveillance capabilities to varying atmospheric conditions, thus maintaining operational effectiveness despite environmental challenges.

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the aerial drone (7) is equipped with an advanced thermal imaging camera (17) capable of capturing high-resolution thermal imagery, allowing for the identification of heat signatures from both living targets and mechanical devices, which is crucial during night operations or in scenarios where visual surveillance is compromised by environmental obstructions.

10. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises a machine learning module (18) incorporated into the target recognition module of the forward observer device (1), to identify and classify targets over time based on patterns, behaviors, and previous engagements.

6. DATE AND SIGNATURE
Dated this on 27th April 2024
Signature

(Mr. Srinivas Maddipati)
IN/PA 3124-In house Patent Agent
For., Zen Technologies Limited