Duration: from 11/2014 (can be later) to 11/2015
With our esteemed industrial partners, we are looking for a well-qualified and motivated MSc by research student to conduct the following fascinating research project:
Cranfield University and Sagem Defence and Security, SAFRAN Group, have defined a program of research on “3D Display for Man in The Loop Automatic Target Recognition”. This is a one-year program undertaken by a Master student, and involves original research work either developing entirely new techniques of study, or concerned with the application of novel and existing ideas in new ways. The area of work proposed by Cranfield University and Sagem Defence and Security, SAFRAN Group deals with the development of 3D Display system (algorithms) to use for Man in The Loop Target Recognition in missile seekers type of applications. Indeed, moving or removable small & medium size ground targets such as Tanks, Trucks, and other Air Defence systems are challenging to automatically recognize. These systems remain difficult to address using Ground to Ground or Air to Ground missiles with IR seekers: False alarm rate performances of “state of the art†Automatic Target Recognition algorithms are not optimal enough to allow an automatic and reliable selection of the target. Thus, a Man in The Loop (MiTL) designating or confirming targets is required close before impact.
A breakthrough innovation is expected by the use of 3D active sensors in future seeker systems, as the observation of 3D structure should allow a far better discrimination between the target and its background and between the target and other classes of vehicles/objects. The study will determine the factors in 3D imagery that influence image quality and subsequent decision making, how best this information can be presented to the operator and what impact this has on bandwidth and sensor characteristics. In terms of image presentation the display technology will be considered alongside the presentation method.
This will include consideration of factors intrinsic to the sensor (i.e. sensor field of view, range resolution, cross-range resolution, frame rate) and the display of information (i.e. 3D representation, use of pseudo colour, polarization, brightness and contrast adjustment) and will build upon previous research into factors effecting image quality in 3D Data/Display.
Developing 3D display technology (Passive Stereo, Active Stereo, Auto-stereoscopic Displays, Volumetric Displays) will also be considered, particularly whether advantages exist in the use of volumetric display technologies over standard 2D representations. Current methods to display 3D include stereoscopy (3D Glasses), auto stereoscopy (projected into the eye) and multiscopy (hologram). This will build upon previous reviews into 3D display technologies indicating potential performance benefits of 3D in Command and Control tasks.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must be UK nationals or EU students. Applicants should hold a Bachelor Degree of either First Class or 2.1 in Computer science or Electrical engineering any other relevant discipline.
Candidates should have a good basis in mathematics with very good scientific programming skills (C/C++). Experience in image processing/vision systems is an asset. Good interpersonal and communication (oral and written in English) skills are also required.
Funding
Applicants are eligible for a bursary of up to £15,000-£16,000p.a. for the duration of the award dependent upon qualifications and experience. This studentship will additionally cover the tuition fees for qualified UK/EU students.
How to apply
A CV and the name and address of two referees should be sent to Dr. Aouf at n.aouf@cranfield.ac.uk.