Virtual Panoramic Vision Blocks

We are proposing to develop Virtual Panoramic Vision Blocks (VPVB) to providing drivers of IVHS sensorized vehicles with a low cost means for gaining full driving situational awareness. This approach combines solid state sensors with advanced display technology and computing to implement an electronic view of the external world. Thus, the term "virtual" comes from the fact that data can be "over larid" over existing widows or viewing ports from within the vehicle. Under poor visibility conditions, the displayed information can be from IR or radar sensing systems, while under normal conditions the view can mix the actual outside view with computer generated overlays. For military applications, there need be no windows thus allowing for 100% armor. The term "panoramic" refers to a particular sensor configuration that utilizes multiple sensors arranged to cover a 360 degree field of view instead of costly and complex, inertially stabilized, gimbal-mounted sensors. Anticipated Benefits: Within both the military and commercial sectors, the same basic technology will support fusion of data from multiple sensors, overlay of vehicle status, and low-cost enhancement driver visual acuity. This technology can support low-data rate driving of autonomous fighting vehicles, totally enclosed and armored personnel compartments, enhanced viewing in commercial vehicles under adverse conditions, and fusion of vehicle map and status overlay with conventional through-the-windshield viewing.