Using Video Sensor Networks to Command and Control Unmanned Ground Vehicles

摘要

Most unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) used in defense and physical security applications have a limited onboard sensor range, and are only "aware" of their immediate surroundings. This limited range hinders the ability of UGVs to detect or respond to remote events, and limits their cost-effectiveness in securing large areas. The Distributed Interactive Video Array (DIVA) system is a network of wireless, man-portable vision sensors under development at Spawar Systems Center (SSC) San Diego. DIVA provides two primary capabilities: 1) the detection, tracking, and classification of moving targets in a variety of tactical environments, and 2) the autonomous coordination of a UGV response to detected events. The prototype network at SSC San Diego consists of three wireless, man-portable "smart" camera nodes, providing surveillance of approximately two square miles of area, including open space, roads, building clusters, and ocean. DIVA employs a communication protocol which allows it to communicate with a variety of resources, including other DIVA nodes and UGVs.