Proceedings Article | 1 September 2004
KEYWORDS: Sensors, Reconnaissance, Remote sensing, Magnetic sensors, Sensor networks, Cameras, Unattended ground sensors, Imaging systems, Sensing systems, Visualization
Unattended Ground Sensor Systems (UGSS) are evolving from large (physical) scale sensing and processing to microelectronic systems capable of processing sensed information and imagery in near-real time on movement of vehicles and personnel. Equipment needed by Special Operations Forces (SOF) includes remote wireless sensor suites comprised of sensor arrays of 'Motes' (magnetic, acoustic, seismic and/or micro-impulse radar), Radio Frequency (RF) relays, remote sensor controllers, with supporting long haul exfiltration, methods to visualize and analyze the information returned, and finally, a command and control capability that allows the sensors to be remotely accessed for turn on and off. This presentation will discuss the technology requirements of UGSS for the Special Operations Community in the areas of special reconnaissance, environmental reconnaissance, coastal patrol, targeting, and threat assessment. Specific emphasis will be placed on power technology, image compression, communications, micro-robotics, sensing devices and technology to include biological and chemical sensors. Self-forming sensor networks, high resolution still and motion cameras, laser systems, and data collection will also be addressed. In addition, this presentation will present a set of scenarios used in experimentation with unattended sensors.
