Sentient Vision Systems introduced its new Vision Detection and Ranging (ViDAR) surface system for surface ships at Indo-Pacific 2022.
Using its artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and single-pixel analysis, the company is able to provide a passive lidar system that can detect very small moving targets in clutter.
Paul Harris Sentient’s vice president of business development told AMR That means its ViDAR system can perform wide-area surveillance, scanning a larger sea area “like through straw” compared to existing turret-mounted EO/IR systems.
affectionateThe ViDAR uses two versions of AI technology: the first is to take all the data from extensive scans and detect everything that moves, and the second is a deep learning AI capable of classifying objects. This is especially useful in grey area operations and maritime surveillance vessels.
Compared to other types of classification systems, Sentinel’s system eliminates obvious examples of clutter — such as white tops — leaving the remaining targets to the operator, Harris explained. This means that if a target cannot be identified, it will remain in the picture at sea, guaranteeing that no targets will be missed.
The benefit of the ViDAR system is that it is passive and can complement radar surveillance by adding an extra layer of situational awareness by providing undetectable surveillance options, Harris said.
He added that ViDAR can detect objects that are difficult for radar to detect, such as small inflatables and aircraft designed to avoid detection by radar, such as stealthy ships and ships hidden in waves.
ViDAR is also able to detect submarine periscopes, and if it’s moving, it can find wakes to help with detection. This means that the system has the potential to be used in anti-submarine warfare operations.
by Tim Fish
