Detection, Tracking, and Digitalization of Unknown Geometry Objects Using AI for Dynamic Rocket Sled Test and Evaluation

The Test & Evaluation (T&E) has a mandate to digitalize the development process. However, at present it is a complex challenge to measure and digitize dynamic objects without foreknowledge of their geometry at Air Force T&E Centers, such as Eglin, Holloman, and Edwards. The legacy methods rely on manual interpretation with significant man-hours required. As a result, T&E data can be incomplete and inaccurate, often relying on 70 year-old legacy technology of inferring the object’s dynamic performance based on “where it lands” after the event via witness panels, catch bundles, and post-event site surveys. After demonstrating the Mechanical Solutions, Inc. (MSI) modern high-speed camera and artificial intelligence digitalization techniques to the Chief of Capability Development for the 846th Test Squadron at Holloman AFB, it was clear that state-of-the-art techniques for unknown-geometry object tracking and characterization will substantially improve T&E digital test data and provide the completeness and accuracy necessary for digital capture of both ejection/egress and dynamic warhead tests. The digital information can then be used to create a digital development model of the egress ejection seat and dynamic warhead event, which will be translated into a digital engineering approach to the egress ejection seat and warheads and help move the T&E community into the new digital engineering age. The basis for these innovations is the VibVue® solution, which uses high-speed video to enable its users to characterize and comprehensively understand the sources and effects of object’s complex vibration issues.