An automated system for accurately tracking and measuring multiple targets in six dimensions

The technique for accurately measuring the positions and orientations of targets in relation to a fixed reference is of fundamental importance to a number of military and commercial applications. For example, in the simulation experiments for testing of installed, integrated avionics, the configuration geometry data for hundreds of test assets, each having six-degree-of-freedom must be automatically recorded and logged. Currently available tracking technologies, such as magnetic ultrasonic methods or conventional imaging methods are either sensitive to ambient interference or not suitable for tracking multiple objects. A novel infrared direction indicator is proposed for simultaneously and individually tracking multiple objects with high accuracy. The tag is compact, light weight, without any wire connection, can be conveniently attached to the object. The link between the tag and the measuring instruments is wireless and remote. The system is robust to interference including electromagnetic, acoustic, optical, and mechanical interference. The system is compact, light weight, with reasonable cost, suitable for field use.