EP0490722B1 - Installation for aerial and/or terrestrial teledetection, particularly the detection of forest fires - Google Patents

Installation for aerial and/or terrestrial teledetection, particularly the detection of forest fires Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0490722B1
EP0490722B1 EP19910403141 EP91403141A EP0490722B1 EP 0490722 B1 EP0490722 B1 EP 0490722B1 EP 19910403141 EP19910403141 EP 19910403141 EP 91403141 A EP91403141 A EP 91403141A EP 0490722 B1 EP0490722 B1 EP 0490722B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
cable
installation according
camera
detection
lia
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EP19910403141
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0490722A1 (en
Inventor
Pierre Nicole
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Thales SA
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Dassault Electronique SA
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B17/00—Fire alarms; Alarms responsive to explosion
    • G08B17/005—Fire alarms; Alarms responsive to explosion for forest fires, e.g. detecting fires spread over a large or outdoors area
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B17/00—Fire alarms; Alarms responsive to explosion
    • G08B17/12—Actuation by presence of radiation or particles, e.g. of infrared radiation or of ions
    • G08B17/125—Actuation by presence of radiation or particles, e.g. of infrared radiation or of ions by using a video camera to detect fire or smoke

Definitions

  • the invention relates to aerial and / or terrestrial remote sensing.
  • Airborne and / or terrestrial remote sensing installations are already known for detecting forest fires.
  • the invention aims to remedy these drawbacks.
  • a first object of the invention is to provide an aerial and / or terrestrial remote sensing installation, in particular for the detection of forest fires, making it possible to permanently monitor, using a static machine at altitude, an area to risk with a view to immediately and precisely detecting the start of a fire.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide an installation making it possible to transmit information remotely between an on-board remote sensing system and a station on the fixed or mobile ground without polluting the radio environment.
  • Another object of the invention aims to provide an installation which supports strong winds of the order of 150 km / h.
  • Yet another object of the invention is to provide an installation whose implementation is easy, light, inexpensive, not too bulky for air space, modifiable, mobile and modular, i.e. capable of being combined with other similar installations to cover a larger area to be monitored.
  • the object of the invention is to offer an installation which has a high degree of safety in the event of a possible collision between the static machine at altitude and / or the cable connection and a flying object.
  • the cable comprises at least one optical fiber for ensuring the transmission of said remote sensing information from the on-board system to the reception means of the ground station.
  • the core of the cable is made of a light and resistant material of the Kevlar type.
  • the cable forms at at least a predetermined location a closed loop inside which extends a cylindrical spring to absorb the tension exerted on the cable.
  • predetermined location on the cable a mechanical fuse suitable for this purpose. predetermined location, in response to a specific command from the ground station, to break the cable or detach the cable.
  • the mechanical fuse is of the ball type explosive filled with a powder capable of exploding in response to an optical stress of a predetermined power emanating from the ground station and propagating through the optical fiber to said ball.
  • the cable comprises one or more monomode or multimode optical fibers.
  • the cable is filled with micro-particles of a talc type material so as to dampen any oscillations in the cable.
  • the reference INS designates an aerial and / or terrestrial remote sensing installation for the detection of forest fires according to the invention.
  • the INS installation is based on an observation from an ENG vehicle lighter than air, such as an aerostat or kite, including a NAC nacelle.
  • the ENG is static or fixed via a cable LIA link fixed at one of its ends to the ENG and at the other of its ends to a mobile or fixed ground station STA.
  • An aerial and / or terrestrial remote sensing system is embedded in the NAC nacelle and cooperates unidirectionally or bidirectionally with UT means equipping the STA station for receiving the detected information and processing it.
  • the LIA cable link provides unidirectional or bidirectional transmission of the information thus detected by the on-board system to the reception means UT of the ground station STA.
  • the means UT for receiving and processing the information detected by the on-board system can cooperate with means of intervention UAE to circumscribe, for example remotely the fire thus detected.
  • the lift of the craft is in calm weather (without wind) given mainly by inert gases such as helium suitable for filling the envelope of the aerostat.
  • Such an installation according to the invention makes it possible to detect, from the first minutes, the start of a forest fire with a view to allowing rapid and effective intervention and thus limiting not only the immediate damage caused to the forest, but also the risks incurred by civil security personnel and financial losses resulting from such a disaster.
  • the first problem encountered by the Applicant to provide a cable connection making it possible to connect a lighter-than-air machine at an altitude of the order of 4 to 5 km to a mobile or fixed ground station was to find a material allowing to resist winds higher than 150 km / h.
  • the Applicant has designed a cable whose main core is made of a light and resistant material of the Kevlar type (registered trademark).
  • the latter forms, at at least one predetermined location, a closed loop inside which extends, for example, a cylindrical spring.
  • the cable comprises one or more single or multimode optical fibers for the transmission of information originating from the on-board system to the autonomous station and vice versa.
  • the cable diameter is for example of the order of 5 mm.
  • the Applicant has planned to dampen any oscillations in the cable by filling said cable with micro-particles of a talc type material.
  • the envelope of the lighter-than-air craft is semi-rigid, which makes it possible to easily deflect the aerostat or quite simply to tear the envelope of said aerostat.
  • the system on board the nacelle is friable. As a result, in the event of an impact, its elements are liable to crumble without causing damage.
  • the stress waves in said connection can be strong enough for it to break in one or more places, thus releasing the flying object.
  • the mechanical fuse is of the explosive ball type filled with a powder capable of exploding in response to an optical stress of a predetermined power emanating from the ground station and propagating through the optical fiber to said ball.
  • the attenuation of the optical fiber incorporated in said cable will increase very quickly. It follows that by monitoring the levels transmitted by said optical fiber, by verification means which will be described in more detail below, it is possible, beyond a certain value, to order the cut-off. at the aerostat, or from an intermediate point of said link, and at the level of the ground station.
  • FIG. 2 represents a general diagram of the essential means of the on-board system according to the invention.
  • the on-board system according to the invention is based on sensor means constituted by the following means.
  • At least one CAM camera in visible, infrared, or ultraviolet light capable of delivering video signals.
  • the camera is of the infrared type operating in the 3-5 micrometer band.
  • the camera is arranged to observe the area situated vertically from the machine.
  • the CAM camera is a linear or matrix detector.
  • the CAM camera operating in the infrared is the one sold by MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION under the reference IR5120 A or C.
  • Such a CAM camera has a definition of 500 ⁇ 500 image points, which makes it possible to obtain a resolution on the ground for an image point of the order of 20 m when the machine is at an altitude of the order of 5 km. .
  • optical input means OE of the projector type and their control means connected to the camera is provided.
  • the camera / optical input OE assembly is mounted for example on an orientation system in site and deposit suitable for remote control in response to a specific command from the ground station.
  • the infrared CAM camera is for example supplied by a regulated supply ALIM whose primary source consists of CEL solar cells replaced at night by a buffer battery.
  • the ALIM regulated power supply also supplies CAT attitude sensors making it possible to deliver electrical signals representative of the attitude of the machine.
  • An electrical multiplexer MXE1 receives the video signals from the CAM camera as well as the electrical signals from the attitude sensors means CAT.
  • An optical transmitter EMO1 connected to the electric multiplexer MXE1 then transmits to the ground via the optical fiber or fibers LIA the information collected by the sensor means.
  • the optical transmitter EMO1 is for example with light-emitting diodes.
  • the ALIM regulated power supply also makes it possible to power an RTH thermoelectric cooler connected to the infrared camera.
  • the regulated power supply ALIM also makes it possible to supply electronic scanning and video formatting connected to the infrared camera SCAN.
  • the CAT attitude sensors comprise a first local vertical sensor (not shown) capable of delivering an electrical signal representative of the inclination of the machine relative to a vertical axis.
  • a second sensor (not shown) of the magnetic compass type is also provided, making it possible to deliver a signal representative of the direction of the machine relative to magnetic north.
  • a third sensor (not shown) of altimeter type makes it possible to deliver an electrical signal representative of the altitude of the machine.
  • All of these three sensors make it possible not only to give information intended to elaborate orders by the ground station to the different actuators, but especially in particular for the detection of forest fires to perform a registration and cropping of the image observed in relation to an ideal aerial shot at a strictly fixed point (that is to say in relation to a reference image corresponding to a shot without wind).
  • FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the reception means of the ground station.
  • the information collected by the sensor means on board the nacelle is received at the autonomous station by an optical receiver RO2.
  • the optical receiver RO2 for example with PIN photodiodes of current invoice (for example in silicon) thus receives the video signals emanating from the camera CAM and the electrical signals emanating from the attitude sensors CAT which are transmitted by the optical fiber or fibers.
  • An electrical demultiplexer DME2 connected to the optical receiver RO2 delivers the video signals as well as the electrical signals thus received to an ORD computer of the PC (Personal Computer) type.
  • the PC type computer UT is equipped with a video screen, a monitor, TI image processing means acting in real time or in deferred time and receiving the video signals and signal management means.
  • electrical units receiving electrical signals from CAT sensors.
  • the monitor has an EGA-VGA standard display card.
  • the electrical signal management card with means suitable for informing the operator OP as a function of the processing of information.
  • these means consist of an audible and / or visual ALARM alarm capable of warning the operator OP.
  • all the information thus detected is stored in mass memory, and can be viewed using a LIS listing.
  • Such a configuration has the advantage of being light, but its processing and control performance are reduced.
  • the Applicant has posed the problem of providing additional processing and control performance to such an installation.
  • the machine control means capable of delivering control signals for focusing the camera, adjusting the zoom, adjusting the threshold of the image points, the adjustment of the detection range scale, the orientation in elevation and in bearing of the camera / projector assembly, and of the ACT actuators of the GOV control surfaces of the aerostat ( Figure 2).
  • the aerostat must not exceed a certain mass.
  • the envelope of the aerostat has a mass of the order of 8 kg, with an on-board system of the order of 7 kg, therefore for a total of the order of 15 kg excluding cable which has a mass of the order of 5 kg.
  • active on-board stabilization comprising control means suitable for controlling the stabilization of the aerostat, we therefore exceed twenty kilos, which reduces the degree of safety of the installation.
  • the Applicant has posed the problem of providing an active remote stabilization of the aerostat.
  • Such remote active stabilization is made possible by a bidirectional transmission of information between the on-board system and the ground station and by the ground equipment of control means capable of delivering control signals for stabilization of the aerostat as well. than the camera setting.
  • an optical transmitter is also provided EO2 in the ground station suitable for transmitting said control signals to the on-board system via the optical fiber or fibers while the on-board system further comprises an optical receiver RO1 for receiving the control signals thus transmitted and own ACT actuator means in response to the control signals to carry out the focusing of the camera, the adjustment of the zoom, the threshold adjustment of the image points as well as the adjustments of scale of the range of detection and orientation in elevation and in bearing of the camera / projector and control of the GOV control surfaces of the aerostat.
  • the entire ultra-light structure has a mass of around 15 kg which breaks down as follows: 3 kg of electronics, 5 kg for the cable and mechanical fuses and 7 kg for the aerostat casing.
  • the Applicant also posed the problem of providing a security solution in the event of an accidental break in the cable connection.
  • VERI1 verification means (FIG. 2) pass through the cable link a predetermined signal which is looped back over said cable link, at the autonomous station via VERI2 verification means (FIG. 3). by the GS management card. If the VERI1 verification means do not detect a return signal, the result is that the cable is broken.
  • the verification means VERI1 and VERI2 respectively comprise a passive optical coupler (of the reflectometer type) connected in a particular way to the input (at the level of the on-board system) or to the output (at the level of the ground station) of the connecting cable.
  • the optical coupler is connected at the ground station to a standard PC reflectometry card housed in the computer ORD.
  • the VERI1 verification means detect a return signal, it follows that the ground station is down, then the VERI1 verification means send a signal making it possible to cut the video and a signal making it possible to trigger an alarm signal at the autonomous station.
  • the aerostat tanks are then locked in the neutral position.
  • verification means VERI1 and VERI2 are coupled respectively to electrical demultiplexers DME1 and DME2.
  • the aerostat type system is operational 24 hours a day thanks to the autonomy of the aerostatic part.
  • the bidirectional transmission of information by the way of optical fibers is an advantage insofar as it does not obstruct or it does not pollute the hertzian space. On the other hand it is a silent operation which is an advantage to avoid environmental degradation.
  • the installation provides a high degree of security against flying objects such as airliners, helicopters or motorized ultralights.
  • the envelope of the aerostat can be transparent. It follows that in association with the fact that the aerostat is in a position of equilibrium at high altitude (of the order of 5 km) and the use of a light-colored material for the cable, the installation can blend in completely with the landscape. This also has the advantage of not degrading the environment on the one hand, and conferring insensitivity to malicious attacks or sabotage on the other.
  • the on-board system has the advantage of using reliable and light electronics based on conventional and commercially available components such as infrared sensors, attitude sensors, multiplexing electronics, etc. ..
  • the installation provides a high degree of security.
  • the installation can be completed by a logic allowing to release part of the helium to make fall the material at reduced speed in the monitored area, and possibly detach the heaviest part to make it fall after a mini-parachute.
  • the invention finds a particular application in the detection of forest fires. However, it finds a more general application in aerial and / or ground surveillance.

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Description

L'invention concerne la télédétection aérienne et/ou terrestre.The invention relates to aerial and / or terrestrial remote sensing.

Elle trouve une application dans la surveillance aérienne et/ou terrestre et plus particulièrement dans la détection de feux de forêts.It finds an application in aerial and / or terrestrial surveillance and more particularly in the detection of forest fires.

On connaît déjà des installations de télédétection aérienne et/ou terrestre pour la détection des feux de forêts.Airborne and / or terrestrial remote sensing installations are already known for detecting forest fires.

Généralement de telles installations sont fondées soit sur une observation au sol (EP-A-0 117 162), soit sur des systèmes embarqués dans de petits avions ou hélicoptères.Generally such installations are based either on a ground observation (EP-A-0 117 162), or on systems on board small planes or helicopters.

Pour ce qui concerne les installations au sol, elles ne sont pas satisfaisantes dans la mesure où elles ne permettent pas une détection précoce et précise des feux de forêts.Regarding ground installations, they are not satisfactory since they do not allow early and precise detection of forest fires.

En effet, actuellement un observateur humain (par exemple une personne équipée de jumelles) ou automatique (par exemple une caméra classique) qui observe sensiblement horizontalement une zone à surveiller se trouve gênée par les frondaisons, les arbres ou autres obstacles du relief de ladite zone.Indeed, currently a human observer (for example a person equipped with binoculars) or automatic (for example a conventional camera) which observes substantially horizontally an area to be monitored is hampered by foliage, trees or other obstacles in the relief of said area .

Or, les feux de forêts commencent pratiquement toujours au niveau du sol et non sur les arbres.However, forest fires almost always start at ground level and not on trees.

Il en résulte qu'il faut attendre un incendie présentant un volume de feu suffisant pour pouvoir détecter, au-dessus des frondaisons ou autres obstacles, des poches de fumée qui permettent d'en déduire qu'il y a peut-être un incendie.As a result, it is necessary to wait for a fire having a sufficient volume of fire to be able to detect, above the foliage or other obstacles, pockets of smoke which make it possible to deduce therefrom that there may be a fire.

Pour ce qui concerne les installations à systèmes embarqués dans de petits avions ou hélicoptères survolant ponctuellement la zone à surveiller, elles ne sont pas non plus satisfaisantes dans la mesure où elles ne permettent souvent qu'une détection a posteriori d'une part, et elles sont rendues très onéreuses par le coût de l'heure de vol sur les petits avions ou hélicoptères d'autre part.As for systems with on-board systems in small planes or helicopters which occasionally fly over the area to be monitored, they are also not satisfactory insofar as they often only allow a posteriori detection on the one hand, and they are made very expensive by the cost of the hour of flight on small planes or helicopters on the other hand.

Par ailleurs, on connaît, par le document "Fluctuations in humidity, temperature, and horizontal wind as measured by a subcloud tethered-balloon system", M. Garstang et al, IEEE Transactions on Geoscience electronics, No. 4, Octobre 1971", une installation de télédétection météorologique comprenant un ballon, une nacelle, et une liaison par câble fixé entre le ballon et une station au sol. Un système de télédétection est embarqué dans la nacelle et coopère par radiofréquence avec des moyens équipant la station pour la réception des informations détectées et leur traitement.Furthermore, the document "Fluctuations in humidity, temperature, and horizontal wind as measured by a subcloud tethered-balloon system" is known, M. Garstang et al, IEEE Transactions on Geoscience electronics, No. 4, October 1971 ", a meteorological remote sensing installation comprising a balloon, a nacelle, and a cable connection fixed between the balloon and a ground station. A remote sensing system is on board the nacelle and cooperates by radio frequency with means equipping the station for the reception of information detected and its processing.

Toutefois, une telle installation a l'inconvénient de polluer l'environnement hertzien.However, such an installation has the drawback of polluting the radio environment.

L'invention a pour but de remédier à ces inconvénients.The invention aims to remedy these drawbacks.

Un premier but de l'invention est de fournir une installation de télédétection aérienne et/ou terrestre, notamment pour la détection des feux de forêts, permettant de surveiller en permanence, à l'aide d'un engin statique en altitude, une zone à risque en vue de détecter immédiatement et avec précision notamment un début d'incendie.A first object of the invention is to provide an aerial and / or terrestrial remote sensing installation, in particular for the detection of forest fires, making it possible to permanently monitor, using a static machine at altitude, an area to risk with a view to immediately and precisely detecting the start of a fire.

Un autre but de l'invention est de fournir une installation permettant de transmettre des informations à distance entre un système embarqué de télédétection et une station au sol fixe ou mobile sans polluer l'environnement hertzien.Another object of the invention is to provide an installation making it possible to transmit information remotely between an on-board remote sensing system and a station on the fixed or mobile ground without polluting the radio environment.

Un autre but de l'invention vise à fournir une installation qui supporte des vents forts de l'ordre de 150 km/h.Another object of the invention aims to provide an installation which supports strong winds of the order of 150 km / h.

Encore un autre but de l'invention est de fournir une installation dont la mise en oeuvre est facile, légère, peu couteuse, pas trop encombrante pour l'espace aérien, modifiable, mobile et modulaire, c'est-à-dire susceptible d'être associée à d'autres installations similaires pour couvrir une plus grande zone à surveiller.Yet another object of the invention is to provide an installation whose implementation is easy, light, inexpensive, not too bulky for air space, modifiable, mobile and modular, i.e. capable of being combined with other similar installations to cover a larger area to be monitored.

Enfin l'invention a pour but d'offrir une installation qui présente un haut degré de sécurité dans le cas d'une éventuelle collision entre l'engin statique en altitude et/ou la liaison par câble et un objet volant.Finally, the object of the invention is to offer an installation which has a high degree of safety in the event of a possible collision between the static machine at altitude and / or the cable connection and a flying object.

L'invention porte sur une installation de télédétection aérienne et/ou terrestre du type comprenant :

  • un engin plus léger que l'air du type aérostat ou cerf-volant comprenant une nacelle,
  • une liaison par câble fixée à l'une de ses extrémités à l'engin et à l'autre de ses extrémités à une station au sol mobile ou fixe, et
  • un système de télédétection aérienne et/ou terrestre embarqué dans la nacelle et coopérant avec des moyens équipant la station pour la réception des informations détectées et leur traitement.
The invention relates to an aerial and / or terrestrial remote sensing installation of the type comprising:
  • a lighter-than-air machine of the aerostat or kite type comprising a nacelle,
  • a cable link fixed at one of its ends to the machine and at the other of its ends to a mobile or fixed ground station, and
  • an aerial and / or terrestrial remote sensing system on board the nacelle and cooperating with means equipping the station for receiving the detected information and processing it.

Selon une définition générale de l'invention, le câble comprend au moins une fibre optique pour assurer la transmission desdites informations de télédétection du système embarqué vers les moyens de réception de la station au sol.According to a general definition of the invention, the cable comprises at least one optical fiber for ensuring the transmission of said remote sensing information from the on-board system to the reception means of the ground station.

Avantageusement, l'âme du câble est constituée d'un matériau léger et résistant du type Kevlar.Advantageously, the core of the cable is made of a light and resistant material of the Kevlar type.

De préférence, le câble forme à au moins un endroit prédéterminé une boucle fermée à l'intérieur de laquelle s'étend un ressort cylindrique pour amortir la tension exercée sur le câble.Preferably, the cable forms at at least a predetermined location a closed loop inside which extends a cylindrical spring to absorb the tension exerted on the cable.

En pratique, il est prévu de disposer à au moins un endroit prédéterminé du câble un fusible mécanique propre à cet endroit prédéterminé, en réponse à une commande particulière provenant de la station au sol, à rompre le câble ou à détacher ledit câble.In practice, provision is made to have at least one predetermined location on the cable a mechanical fuse suitable for this purpose. predetermined location, in response to a specific command from the ground station, to break the cable or detach the cable.

Plus précisément, le fusible mécanique est du type boule explosive remplie d'une poudre propre à exploser en réponse à une sollicitation optique d'une puissance prédéterminée émanant de la station au sol et se propageant à travers la fibre optique jusqu'à ladite boule.More specifically, the mechanical fuse is of the ball type explosive filled with a powder capable of exploding in response to an optical stress of a predetermined power emanating from the ground station and propagating through the optical fiber to said ball.

Avantageusement, le câble comprend une ou plusieurs fibres optiques monomodes ou multimodes.Advantageously, the cable comprises one or more monomode or multimode optical fibers.

De préférence, le câble est rempli de micro-particules d'un matériau du type talc de manière à amortir les éventuelles oscillations du câble.Preferably, the cable is filled with micro-particles of a talc type material so as to dampen any oscillations in the cable.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'installation conforme à l'invention, le système embarqué de télédétection aérienne et/ou terrestre comprend:

  • des moyens senseurs constitués par:
    • . au moins une caméra en lumière visible, infrarouge, ou ultraviolet propre à délivrer des signaux vidéo,
    • . des moyens capteurs d'attitude de l'engin propres à délivrer des signaux électriques représentatifs de l'attitude de l'engin,
  • un multiplexeur électrique propre à recevoir les signaux vidéo issus de la caméra ainsi que les signaux électriques issus des moyens capteurs d'attitude,
  • un émetteur optique connecté au multiplexeur électrique et propre à transmettre au sol via la ou les fibres optiques les informations recueillies par les moyens senseurs.
According to one embodiment of the installation in accordance with the invention, the on-board aerial and / or terrestrial remote sensing system comprises:
  • sensor means consisting of:
    • . at least one camera in visible, infrared, or ultraviolet light capable of delivering video signals,
    • . attitude sensor means of the machine capable of delivering electrical signals representative of the attitude of the machine,
  • an electrical multiplexer suitable for receiving the video signals from the camera as well as the electrical signals from the attitude sensor means,
  • an optical transmitter connected to the electrical multiplexer and capable of transmitting to the ground via the optical fiber or fibers the information collected by the sensor means.

En pratique, les moyens capteurs d'attitude comprennent:

  • un premier capteur de verticale locale propre à délivrer un signal électrique représentatif de l'inclinaison de l'engin,
  • un second capteur du type boussole magnétique propre à délivrer un signal électrique représentatif de la direction de l'engin par rapport au nord magnétique, et
  • un troisième capteur du type altimètre propre à délivrer un signal électrique représentatif de l'altitude de l'engin.
In practice, the attitude sensor means include:
  • a first local vertical sensor capable of delivering an electrical signal representative of the inclination of the machine,
  • a second sensor of the magnetic compass type capable of delivering an electrical signal representative of the direction of the machine relative to magnetic north, and
  • a third altimeter-type sensor capable of delivering an electrical signal representative of the altitude of the machine.

Par exemple, la caméra est équipée:

  • . de moyens de mise au point,
  • . de moyens de réglage de zoom,
  • . de moyens de réglage de seuil des points image,
  • . de moyens de réglage d'échelle de la plage de détection,
  • . de moyens optiques d'entrée du type projecteur et leur moyen de commande, l'ensemble caméra/moyens optiques d'entrée étant monté sur un système d'orientation en site et en gisement propre à être télécommandé en réponse à une commande particulière émanant de la station au sol.
For example, the camera is equipped with:
  • . focusing means,
  • . zoom adjustment means,
  • . image point threshold adjustment means,
  • . means for adjusting the scale of the detection range,
  • . optical entry means of the projector type and their control means, the camera / optical entry means assembly being mounted on a site orientation system and in a field suitable for being remote-controlled in response to a particular command emanating from the ground station.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation de l'installation selon l'invention, les moyens de réception de la station comprennent:

  • un récepteur optique propre à recevoir les signaux vidéo et électriques émanant du système embarqué ainsi transmis par la ou les fibres optiques,
  • un ordinateur du type PC équipé d'un écran vidéo, d'un moniteur, de moyens de traitement d'image agissant en temps réel ou en temps différé et de moyens de gestion des signaux électriques, et
  • un démultiplexeur électrique connecté au récepteur optique et propre à délivrer les signaux vidéo aux moyens de traitement d'image ainsi que les signaux électriques aux moyens de gestion.
According to another embodiment of the installation according to the invention, the means for receiving the station include:
  • an optical receiver capable of receiving the video and electrical signals emanating from the on-board system thus transmitted by the optical fiber or fibers,
  • a PC type computer equipped with a video screen, a monitor, image processing means acting in real time or in deferred time and means for managing electrical signals, and
  • an electric demultiplexer connected to the optical receiver and capable of delivering the video signals to the image processing means as well as the electrical signals to the management means.

Selon un autre aspect de l'invention, la station comprend en outre :

  • des moyens de commande propres à délivrer des signaux de commande pour la mise au point de la caméra, le réglage de zoom, le réglage de seuil des points image, le réglage d'échelle de la plage de détection, l'orientation en site et en gisement de l'ensemble caméra/projecteur, et des moyens actionneurs des gouvernes de l'engin,
  • un émetteur optique propre à émettre lesdits signaux de commande vers le système embarqué via la ou les fibres optiques,
tandis que le système embarqué comprend en outre:
  • un récepteur optique pour recevoir les signaux de commande ainsi émis,
  • des moyens actionneurs propres en réponse aux signaux de commande à effectuer la mise au point de la caméra, le réglage de zoom, le réglage de seuil des points image, le réglage d'échelle de la plage de détection, l'orientation en site et en gisement de l'ensemble caméra/projecteur et la commande des gouvernes de l'engin.
According to another aspect of the invention, the station further comprises:
  • control means capable of supplying control signals for focusing the camera, adjusting the zoom, adjusting the threshold of the image points, adjusting the scale of the detection range, the orientation in elevation and in the location of the camera / projector assembly, and actuator means for the control surfaces of the machine,
  • an optical transmitter capable of transmitting said control signals to the on-board system via the optical fiber or fibers,
while the on-board system further includes:
  • an optical receiver for receiving the control signals thus transmitted,
  • own actuator means in response to the control signals to effect the focusing of the camera, the zoom adjustment, the threshold adjustment of the image points, the scale adjustment of the detection range, the orientation in elevation and in the camera / projector assembly and the control of the control surfaces of the machine.

En pratique, l'engin est équipé d'une alimentation autonome. D'autres avantages et caractéristiques de l'invention apparaîtront à la lumière de la description détaillée ci-après, et des dessins annexés sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue représentant schématiquement l'installation selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 2 illustre schématiquement les éléments essentiels du système embarqué de télédétection ; et
  • la figure 3 représente schématiquement les éléments essentiels des moyens de réception de la station au sol selon l'invention.
In practice, the machine is equipped with an autonomous power supply. Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will become apparent in the light of the detailed description below, and of the appended drawings in which:
  • Figure 1 is a view schematically showing the installation according to the invention;
  • FIG. 2 schematically illustrates the essential elements of the on-board remote sensing system; and
  • FIG. 3 schematically represents the essential elements of the reception means of the ground station according to the invention.

Sur la figure 1, la référence INS désigne une installation de télédétection aérienne et/ou terrestre pour la détection des feux de forêts selon l'invention.In FIG. 1, the reference INS designates an aerial and / or terrestrial remote sensing installation for the detection of forest fires according to the invention.

L'installation INS est fondée sur une observation depuis un engin ENG plus léger que l'air du type aérostat ou cerf-volant comprenant une nacelle NAC.The INS installation is based on an observation from an ENG vehicle lighter than air, such as an aerostat or kite, including a NAC nacelle.

L'engin ENG est statique ou fixe par l'intermédiaire d'une liaison LIA par câble fixée à l'une de ses extrémités à l'engin ENG et à l'autre de ses extrémités à une station au sol mobile ou fixe STA. Un système de télédétection aérienne et/ou terrestre est embarqué dans la nacelle NAC et coopère de façon unidirectionnelle ou bidirectionnelle avec des moyens UT équipant !a station STA pour la réception des informations détectées et leur traitement.The ENG is static or fixed via a cable LIA link fixed at one of its ends to the ENG and at the other of its ends to a mobile or fixed ground station STA. An aerial and / or terrestrial remote sensing system is embedded in the NAC nacelle and cooperates unidirectionally or bidirectionally with UT means equipping the STA station for receiving the detected information and processing it.

La liaison par câble LIA assure la transmission unidirectionnelle ou bidirectionnelle des informations ainsi détectées par le système embarqué vers les moyens de réception UT de la station au sol STA. Dans le cas d'une application de l'installation pour la détection de feux de forêts FEU, les moyens UT de réception et de traitement des informations détectées par le système embarqué peuvent coopérer avec des moyens d'intervention EAU pour circonscrire par exemple à distance le feu ainsi détecté.The LIA cable link provides unidirectional or bidirectional transmission of the information thus detected by the on-board system to the reception means UT of the ground station STA. In the case of an application of the installation for detecting FIRE forest fires, the means UT for receiving and processing the information detected by the on-board system can cooperate with means of intervention UAE to circumscribe, for example remotely the fire thus detected.

Avec une longueur de câble LIA d'environ 4 à 5 km, une telle installation permet de surveiller des zones d'environ 10 km de côté.With a length of LIA cable of approximately 4 to 5 km, such an installation makes it possible to monitor areas of approximately 10 km per side.

Par exemple, la portance de l'engin est par temps calme (sans vent) donnée essentiellement par des gaz inertes tels que de l'hélium propre à remplir l'enveloppe de l'aérostat.For example, the lift of the craft is in calm weather (without wind) given mainly by inert gases such as helium suitable for filling the envelope of the aerostat.

Par vent plus fort, alors que la force exercée par ledit vent sur le câble devient croissante et tend à ramener l'aérostat vers le sol, il est possible d'apporter une portance supplémentaire à l'engin par l'adjonction de structures aérodynamiques à portance positive (non représentées), le cas échéant modifiable par transit d'informations de débit de la station au sol vers ledit engin via la liaison par câble.In stronger winds, as the force exerted by said wind on the cable becomes increasing and tends to bring the aerostat down to the ground, it is possible to provide additional lift to the craft by adding aerodynamic structures to positive lift (not shown), if necessary modifiable by transit of flow information from the ground station to said machine via the cable link.

Une telle installation selon l'invention permet de détecter, dès les premières minutes, le départ d'un feu de forêt en vue de permettre une intervention rapide et efficace et limiter ainsi non seulement les dégâts immédiats causés à la forêt, mais aussi les risques encourus par les personnels de la sécurité civile et les pertes financières résultant d'un tel sinistre.Such an installation according to the invention makes it possible to detect, from the first minutes, the start of a forest fire with a view to allowing rapid and effective intervention and thus limiting not only the immediate damage caused to the forest, but also the risks incurred by civil security personnel and financial losses resulting from such a disaster.

Le premier problème rencontré par la Demanderesse pour fournir une liaison par câble permettant de relier un engin plus léger que l'air à une altitude de l'ordre de 4 à 5 km à une station au sol mobile ou fixe a été de trouver un matériau permettant de résister à des vents supérieurs à 150 km/h.The first problem encountered by the Applicant to provide a cable connection making it possible to connect a lighter-than-air machine at an altitude of the order of 4 to 5 km to a mobile or fixed ground station was to find a material allowing to resist winds higher than 150 km / h.

Pour répondre à cette exigence, la Demanderesse a conçu un câble dont l'âme principale est constituée d'un matériau léger et résistant de type Kevlar (Marque déposée).To meet this requirement, the Applicant has designed a cable whose main core is made of a light and resistant material of the Kevlar type (registered trademark).

Par ailleurs, en vue d'amortir la tension exercée sur le câble, celui-ci forme à au moins un endroit prédéterminé une boucle fermée à l'intérieur de laquelle s'étend par exemple un ressort cylindrique.Furthermore, in order to absorb the tension exerted on the cable, the latter forms, at at least one predetermined location, a closed loop inside which extends, for example, a cylindrical spring.

Comme on le verra plus en détail ci-après, il est préférable que le câble comprenne une ou plusieurs fibres optiques monomodes ou multimodes pour la transmission d'informations émanant du système embarqué vers la station autonome et vice versa.As will be seen in more detail below, it is preferable that the cable comprises one or more single or multimode optical fibers for the transmission of information originating from the on-board system to the autonomous station and vice versa.

Le diamètre du câble est par exemple de l'ordre de 5 mm.The cable diameter is for example of the order of 5 mm.

Il est à remarquer également que la Demanderesse a prévu d'amortir les éventuelles oscillations du câble en remplissant ledit câble de micro-particules d'un matériau du type talc.It should also be noted that the Applicant has planned to dampen any oscillations in the cable by filling said cable with micro-particles of a talc type material.

Dans le cas d'une collision entre l'aérostat et des objets volants, les conséquences d'une telle collision sont minimisées de la façon suivante selon l'invention.In the case of a collision between the aerostat and flying objects, the consequences of such a collision are minimized as follows according to the invention.

Tout d'abord, l'enveloppe de l'engin plus léger que l'air est semi-rigide, ce qui permet de dévier facilement l'aérostat ou tout simplement de déchirer l'enveloppe dudit aérostat.First of all, the envelope of the lighter-than-air craft is semi-rigid, which makes it possible to easily deflect the aerostat or quite simply to tear the envelope of said aerostat.

Ensuite, le gaz inerte du type hélium qui remplit l'enveloppe est neutre. Il en résulte aucun risque d'explosion malencontreuse contrairement à ce qui se passerait avec de l'hydrogène.Then, the inert gas of the helium type which fills the envelope is neutral. This results in no risk of accidental explosion contrary to what would happen with hydrogen.

Comme on le verra plus en détail ci-après, le système embarqué dans la nacelle est friable. Il en résulte qu'en cas de choc, ses éléments sont susceptibles de s'effriter sans causer de dégâts.As will be seen in more detail below, the system on board the nacelle is friable. As a result, in the event of an impact, its elements are liable to crumble without causing damage.

Dans le cas d'une collision entre la liaison par câble et des objets volants, la Demanderesse propose en outre quatre solutions permettant de minimiser les conséquences d'une telle collision.In the event of a collision between the cable connection and flying objects, the Applicant also proposes four solutions making it possible to minimize the consequences of such a collision.

Premièrement, dans le cas d'une collision avec de petits objets volants tels que des petits avions de tourisme, la rencontre du câble avec une des ailes dudit objet, se traduit au pire par une légère rotation de l'objet volant autour du câble.Firstly, in the case of a collision with small flying objects such as small passenger planes, the meeting of the cable with one of the wings of said object, results at worst in a slight rotation of the flying object around the cable.

Deuxièmement, si la liaison par câble s'enroule dans l'hélice de l'objet volant, les ondes de contraintes dans ladite liaison peuvent être suffisamment fortes pour qu'elle casse en un ou plusieurs endroits, libérant ainsi l'objet volant.Secondly, if the cable connection winds up in the propeller of the flying object, the stress waves in said connection can be strong enough for it to break in one or more places, thus releasing the flying object.

Troisièmement, selon l'invention il est possible de répartir le long de la liaison par câble, l'équivalent de fusibles mécaniques propres, en réponse à une commande particulière provenant de la station au sol, à rompre directement le câble ou à déclencher des moyens propres à rompre ou à détacher ledit câble au niveau desdits fusibles.Thirdly, according to the invention it is possible to distribute along the cable link, the equivalent of clean mechanical fuses, in response to a specific command from the ground station, to directly break the cable or to trigger means suitable for breaking or detaching said cable at said fuses.

En pratique, le fusible mécanique est du type boule explosive remplie d'une poudre propre à exploser en réponse à une sollicitation optique d'une puissance prédéterminée émanant de la station au sol et se propageant à travers la fibre optique jusqu'à ladite boule.In practice, the mechanical fuse is of the explosive ball type filled with a powder capable of exploding in response to an optical stress of a predetermined power emanating from the ground station and propagating through the optical fiber to said ball.

Quatrièmement, dans le cas d'une contrainte subite au niveau du câble, par exemple dans le cas d'une rencontre avec un gros avion, l'atténuation de la fibre optique incorporée dans ledit câble va augmenter très vite. Il en résulte qu'en surveillant les niveaux transmis par ladite fibre optique, par des moyens de vérification que l'on décrira plus en détail ci-après, il est possible, au-delà d'une certaine valeur, d'ordonner la coupure au niveau de l'aérostat, ou d'un point intermédiaire de ladite liaison, et au niveau de la station au sol.Fourth, in the case of a sudden stress on the cable, for example in the case of an encounter with a large aircraft, the attenuation of the optical fiber incorporated in said cable will increase very quickly. It follows that by monitoring the levels transmitted by said optical fiber, by verification means which will be described in more detail below, it is possible, beyond a certain value, to order the cut-off. at the aerostat, or from an intermediate point of said link, and at the level of the ground station.

Nous faisons maintenant référence à la figure 2 qui représente un schéma général des moyens essentiels du système embarqué selon l'invention.We now refer to FIG. 2 which represents a general diagram of the essential means of the on-board system according to the invention.

Le système embarqué selon l'invention est fondé sur des moyens senseurs constitués par les moyens suivants.The on-board system according to the invention is based on sensor means constituted by the following means.

Tout d'abord, il est prévu au moins une caméra CAM en lumière visible, infrarouge, ou ultraviolet propre à délivrer des signaux vidéo.First of all, there is provided at least one CAM camera in visible, infrared, or ultraviolet light capable of delivering video signals.

Dans le cas d'une application de l'installation pour la détection de feux de forêts, la caméra est du type infrarouge fonctionnant dans la bande 3-5 micromètres. Avantageusement, la caméra est disposée pour observer la zone située à la verticale de l'engin.In the case of an application of the installation for the detection of forest fires, the camera is of the infrared type operating in the 3-5 micrometer band. Advantageously, the camera is arranged to observe the area situated vertically from the machine.

Par exemple, la caméra CAM est un détecteur linéaire ou matriciel.For example, the CAM camera is a linear or matrix detector.

Par exemple, la caméra CAM opérant dans l'infrarouge est celle vendue par MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION sous la référence IR5120 A ou C.For example, the CAM camera operating in the infrared is the one sold by MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION under the reference IR5120 A or C.

Une telle caméra CAM possède une définition de 500 × 500 points image, ce qui permet d'obtenir une résolution au sol pour un point image de l'ordre de 20 m lorsque l'engin est à une altitude de l'ordre de 5 km.Such a CAM camera has a definition of 500 × 500 image points, which makes it possible to obtain a resolution on the ground for an image point of the order of 20 m when the machine is at an altitude of the order of 5 km. .

Avantageusement, il est prévu des moyens optiques d'entrée OE du type projecteur et leur moyen de commande connectés à la caméra. L'ensemble caméra/moyens optiques d'entrée OE est monté par exemple sur un système d'orientation en site et en gisement propre à être télécommandé en réponse à une commande particulière émanant de la station au sol.Advantageously, there is provided optical input means OE of the projector type and their control means connected to the camera. The camera / optical input OE assembly is mounted for example on an orientation system in site and deposit suitable for remote control in response to a specific command from the ground station.

La caméra CAM infrarouge est par exemple alimentée par une alimentation régulée ALIM dont la source primaire est constituée de cellules solaires CEL remplacée la nuit par une batterie tampon.The infrared CAM camera is for example supplied by a regulated supply ALIM whose primary source consists of CEL solar cells replaced at night by a buffer battery.

L'alimentation régulée ALIM alimente également des capteurs d'attitude CAT permettant de délivrer des signaux électriques représentatifs de l'attitude de l'engin.The ALIM regulated power supply also supplies CAT attitude sensors making it possible to deliver electrical signals representative of the attitude of the machine.

Un multiplexeur électrique MXE1 reçoit les signaux vidéo issus de la caméra CAM ainsi que les signaux électriques issus des moyens capteurs d'attitude CAT.An electrical multiplexer MXE1 receives the video signals from the CAM camera as well as the electrical signals from the attitude sensors means CAT.

Un émetteur optique EMO1 connecté au multiplexeur électrique MXE1 transmet alors au sol via la ou les fibres optiques LIA les informations recueillies par les moyens senseurs.An optical transmitter EMO1 connected to the electric multiplexer MXE1 then transmits to the ground via the optical fiber or fibers LIA the information collected by the sensor means.

L'émetteur optique EMO1 est par exemple à diodes électroluminescentes.The optical transmitter EMO1 is for example with light-emitting diodes.

L'alimentation régulée ALIM permet également d'alimenter un refroidisseur thermoélectrique RTH connecté à la caméra infrarouge.The ALIM regulated power supply also makes it possible to power an RTH thermoelectric cooler connected to the infrared camera.

Avantageusement, l'alimentation régulée ALIM permet également d'alimenter une électronique de balayage et mise en forme vidéo connectée à la caméra infrarouge SCAN.Advantageously, the regulated power supply ALIM also makes it possible to supply electronic scanning and video formatting connected to the infrared camera SCAN.

Il est important de remarquer que le contrôle de l'attitude globale de l'aérostat permet de conférer à l'installation un degré de sécurité supplémentaire.It is important to note that controlling the overall attitude of the aerostat provides the installation with an additional degree of safety.

Par exemple, les capteurs d'attitude CAT comprennent un premier capteur (non représenté) de verticale locale propre à délivrer un signal électrique représentatif de l'inclinaison de l'engin par rapport à un axe vertical.For example, the CAT attitude sensors comprise a first local vertical sensor (not shown) capable of delivering an electrical signal representative of the inclination of the machine relative to a vertical axis.

Est prévu également un second capteur (non représenté) de type boussole magnétique permettant de délivrer un signal représentatif de la direction de l'engin par rapport au nord magnétique.A second sensor (not shown) of the magnetic compass type is also provided, making it possible to deliver a signal representative of the direction of the machine relative to magnetic north.

Enfin un troisième capteur (non représenté) de type altimètre permet de délivrer un signal électrique représentatif de l'altitude de l'engin.Finally, a third sensor (not shown) of altimeter type makes it possible to deliver an electrical signal representative of the altitude of the machine.

L'ensemble de ces trois capteurs permet non seulement de donner des informations destinées à élaborer des ordres par la station au sol aux différents actionneurs, mais surtout en particulier pour la détection des feux de forêts d'opérer un recalage et un recadrage de l'image observée par rapport à une prise de vue aérienne idéale en un point rigoureusement fixe (c'est-à-dire par rapport à une image de référence correspondant à une prise de vue sans vent).All of these three sensors make it possible not only to give information intended to elaborate orders by the ground station to the different actuators, but especially in particular for the detection of forest fires to perform a registration and cropping of the image observed in relation to an ideal aerial shot at a strictly fixed point (that is to say in relation to a reference image corresponding to a shot without wind).

Nous faisons maintenant référence à la figure 3 qui illustre schématiquement les moyens de réception de la station au sol.We now refer to Figure 3 which schematically illustrates the reception means of the ground station.

Les informations recueillies par les moyens senseurs embarqués dans la nacelle sont reçues au niveau de la station autonome par un récepteur optique RO2. Le récepteur optique RO2 par exemple à photodiodes PIN de facture courante (par exemple en silicium) reçoit ainsi les signaux vidéo émanant de la caméra CAM et les signaux électriques émanant des capteurs d'attitude CAT qui sont transmis par la ou les fibres optiques.The information collected by the sensor means on board the nacelle is received at the autonomous station by an optical receiver RO2. The optical receiver RO2 for example with PIN photodiodes of current invoice (for example in silicon) thus receives the video signals emanating from the camera CAM and the electrical signals emanating from the attitude sensors CAT which are transmitted by the optical fiber or fibers.

Un démultiplexeur électrique DME2 connecté au récepteur optique RO2 délivre les signaux vidéo ainsi que les signaux électriques ainsi reçus à un ordinateur ORD de type PC (Personal Computer).An electrical demultiplexer DME2 connected to the optical receiver RO2 delivers the video signals as well as the electrical signals thus received to an ORD computer of the PC (Personal Computer) type.

Avantageusement, l'ordinateur UT de type PC est équipé d'un écran vidéo, d'un moniteur, de moyens de traitement d'image TI agissant en temps réel ou en temps différé et recevant les signaux vidéo et de moyens de gestion des signaux électriques GS recevant les signaux électriques provenant des capteurs CAT.Advantageously, the PC type computer UT is equipped with a video screen, a monitor, TI image processing means acting in real time or in deferred time and receiving the video signals and signal management means. electrical units receiving electrical signals from CAT sensors.

Par exemple, le moniteur est doté d'une carte d'affichage au standard EGA-VGA.For example, the monitor has an EGA-VGA standard display card.

Il est possible de doter la carte de gestion des signaux électriques de moyens propres à informer l'opérateur OP en fonction du traitement des informations. Par exemple ces moyens sont constitués d'une alarme ALARM sonore et/ ou visuelle propre à avertir l'opérateur OP. En outre toutes les informations ainsi détectées sont stockés en mémoire de masse, et peuvent être visualisées à l'aide d'un listing LIS.It is possible to provide the electrical signal management card with means suitable for informing the operator OP as a function of the processing of information. For example, these means consist of an audible and / or visual ALARM alarm capable of warning the operator OP. In addition, all the information thus detected is stored in mass memory, and can be viewed using a LIS listing.

L'installation que nous venons de décrire, permet une stabilisation passive de l'aérostat qui ne nécessite qu'une transmission unidirectionnelle air-sol des informations.The installation which we have just described allows passive stabilization of the aerostat which requires only a unidirectional air-to-ground transmission of information.

Une telle configuration a l'avantage d'être légère mais ses performances de traitement et de commande sont réduites.Such a configuration has the advantage of being light, but its processing and control performance are reduced.

La Demanderesse s'est posé le problème d'apporter des performances supplémentaires de traitement et de commande à une telle installation.The Applicant has posed the problem of providing additional processing and control performance to such an installation.

Ainsi, il est prévu d'incorporer dans le système embarqué dans l'engin des moyens de commande propres à délivrer des signaux de commande pour la mise au point de la caméra, le réglage de zoom, le réglage de seuil des points image, le réglage d'échelle de la plage de détection, l'orientation en site et en gisement de l'ensemble caméra/projecteur, et des actionneurs ACT des gouvernes GOV de l'aérostat (figure 2).Thus, it is planned to incorporate into the system on board the machine control means capable of delivering control signals for focusing the camera, adjusting the zoom, adjusting the threshold of the image points, the adjustment of the detection range scale, the orientation in elevation and in bearing of the camera / projector assembly, and of the ACT actuators of the GOV control surfaces of the aerostat (Figure 2).

Toutefois, une telle configuration consistant ainsi en une stabilisation active embarquée de l'aérostat a l'inconvénient d'être lourde.However, such a configuration thus consisting of an active on-board stabilization of the aerostat has the drawback of being heavy.

En effet, l'aérostat ne doit pas dépasser une certaine masse. Dans l'exemple décrit ci-avant, l'enveloppe de l'aérostat a une masse de l'ordre de 8 kg, avec un système embarqué de l'ordre de 7 kg donc pour un total de l'ordre de 15 kg hors câble qui lui a une masse de l'ordre de 5 kg. Avec une stabilisation active embarquée comprenant des moyens de commande propres à commander la stabilisation de l'aérostat, nous dépassons donc la vingtaine de kilos, ce qui diminue le degré de sécurité de l'installation.Indeed, the aerostat must not exceed a certain mass. In the example described above, the envelope of the aerostat has a mass of the order of 8 kg, with an on-board system of the order of 7 kg, therefore for a total of the order of 15 kg excluding cable which has a mass of the order of 5 kg. With active on-board stabilization comprising control means suitable for controlling the stabilization of the aerostat, we therefore exceed twenty kilos, which reduces the degree of safety of the installation.

Pour remédier à un tel inconvénient, la Demanderesse s'est posé le problème de fournir une stabilisation active déportée de l'aérostat.To remedy such a drawback, the Applicant has posed the problem of providing an active remote stabilization of the aerostat.

Une telle stabilisation active déportée est rendue possible par une transmission bidirectionnelle d'informations entre le système embarqué et la station au sol et par l'équipement au sol de moyens de commande propres à délivrer des signaux de commande pour la stabilisation de l'aérostat ainsi que le réglage de la caméra.Such remote active stabilization is made possible by a bidirectional transmission of information between the on-board system and the ground station and by the ground equipment of control means capable of delivering control signals for stabilization of the aerostat as well. than the camera setting.

Dans ces conditions, il est prévu en outre un émetteur optique EO2 dans la station au sol propre à émettre lesdits signaux de commande vers le système embarqué via la ou les fibres optiques tandis que le système embarqué comprend en outre un récepteur optique RO1 pour recevoir les signaux de commande ainsi émis et des moyens actionneurs ACT propres en réponse aux signaux de commande à effectuer la mise au point de la caméra, le réglage du zoom, le réglage de seuil des points image ainsi que les réglages d'échelle de la plage de détection et d'orientation en site et en gisement de l'ensemble caméra/projecteur et la commande des gouvernes GOV de l'aérostat.In these conditions, an optical transmitter is also provided EO2 in the ground station suitable for transmitting said control signals to the on-board system via the optical fiber or fibers while the on-board system further comprises an optical receiver RO1 for receiving the control signals thus transmitted and own ACT actuator means in response to the control signals to carry out the focusing of the camera, the adjustment of the zoom, the threshold adjustment of the image points as well as the adjustments of scale of the range of detection and orientation in elevation and in bearing of the camera / projector and control of the GOV control surfaces of the aerostat.

Dans le cas d'une transmission bidirectionnelle entre la station au sol et le système embarqué, il est prévu avantageusement d'équiper à chaque extrémité de la liaison par câble à fibres optiques d'un multiplexeur optique respectif MXO1 et MXO2 pour l'émission/réception des informations.In the case of a bidirectional transmission between the ground station and the on-board system, it is advantageously provided to equip at each end of the fiber optic cable link with a respective optical multiplexer MXO1 and MXO2 for transmission / receipt of information.

Dans le cas d'une stabilisation déportée de l'engin, l'ensemble de la structure ultra-légère a une masse de l'ordre de 15 kg qui se décompose de la façon suivante : 3 kg d'électronique, 5 kg pour le câble et les fusibles mécaniques et 7 kg pour l'enveloppe de l'aérostat.In the case of remote stabilization of the machine, the entire ultra-light structure has a mass of around 15 kg which breaks down as follows: 3 kg of electronics, 5 kg for the cable and mechanical fuses and 7 kg for the aerostat casing.

La Demanderesse s'est posé aussi le problème d'apporter une solution de sécurité dans le cas d'une rupture accidentelle de la liaison par câble.The Applicant also posed the problem of providing a security solution in the event of an accidental break in the cable connection.

La solution selon l'invention consiste à faire circuler un signal dans la boucle constituée par le système embarqué, la liaison par câble et la station au sol. Il suffit alors de détecter en permanence le signal se propageant dans la boucle au niveau par exemple de la station au sol. La non-réception de ce signal permet ainsi de déduire les conséquences suivantes :

  • 1) le câble est cassé ;
  • 2) la station autonome est en panne ou le système embarqué dans la nacelle de l'aérostat est lui-même en panne.
The solution according to the invention consists in circulating a signal in the loop formed by the on-board system, the cable link and the ground station. It then suffices to permanently detect the signal propagating in the loop at, for example, the ground station. The non-reception of this signal thus makes it possible to deduce the following consequences:
  • 1) the cable is broken;
  • 2) the autonomous station is faulty or the system on board the aerostat's pod is itself faulty.

En pratique, des moyens de vérification VERI1 (figure 2) font transiter par la liaison par câble un signal prédéterminé qui est rebouclé sur ladite liaison par câble, au niveau de la station autonome via des moyens de vérification VERI2 (figure 3), sans passer par la carte de gestion GS. Si les moyens de vérification VERI1 ne détectent pas de signal de retour, il en résulte que le câble est cassé.In practice, VERI1 verification means (FIG. 2) pass through the cable link a predetermined signal which is looped back over said cable link, at the autonomous station via VERI2 verification means (FIG. 3). by the GS management card. If the VERI1 verification means do not detect a return signal, the result is that the cable is broken.

En pratique, les moyens de vérification VERI1 et VERI2 comprennent respectivement un coupleur optique passif (de type réflectomètre) branché de façon particulière à l'entrée (au niveau du système embarqué) ou à la sortie (au niveau de la station au sol) du câble de liaison. Avantageusement le coupleur optique est raccordé au niveau de la station au sol à une carte de réflectométrie au standard PC logée dans l'ordinateur ORD.In practice, the verification means VERI1 and VERI2 respectively comprise a passive optical coupler (of the reflectometer type) connected in a particular way to the input (at the level of the on-board system) or to the output (at the level of the ground station) of the connecting cable. Advantageously, the optical coupler is connected at the ground station to a standard PC reflectometry card housed in the computer ORD.

En revanche, si les moyens de vérification VERI1 détectent un signal de retour, il en résulte que c'est la station au sol qui est en panne, alors les moyens de vérification VERI1 envoient un signal permettant de couper la vidéo et un signal permettant de déclencher un signal d'alarme au niveau de la station autonome. Avantageusement, les gourvernes de l'aérostat sont alors bloquées en position neutre.On the other hand, if the VERI1 verification means detect a return signal, it follows that the ground station is down, then the VERI1 verification means send a signal making it possible to cut the video and a signal making it possible to trigger an alarm signal at the autonomous station. Advantageously, the aerostat tanks are then locked in the neutral position.

Il est à remarquer que les moyens de vérification VERI1 et VERI2 sont couplés respectivement à des démultiplexeurs électriques DME1 et DME2.It should be noted that the verification means VERI1 and VERI2 are coupled respectively to electrical demultiplexers DME1 and DME2.

En résumé, et de façon non limitative, les avantages de l'installation selon l'invention sont les suivants.In summary, and without limitation, the advantages of the installation according to the invention are as follows.

Le système de type aérostat est opérationnel 24 h sur 24 h grâce à l'autonomie de la partie aérostatique.The aerostat type system is operational 24 hours a day thanks to the autonomy of the aerostatic part.

La maintenance de la partie aérienne est réduite car l'aérostat est alimenté de façon autonome.Maintenance of the aerial part is reduced because the aerostat is powered independently.

Il n'y a pas lieu d'équiper la partie aérostatique de moyens cryogéniques ou de fonctions complexesThere is no need to equip the aerostatic part with cryogenic means or complex functions

Pour ce qui concerne la partie au sol, la maintenance est rendue aisée dans la mesure où il s'agit d'un ordinateur de type PC ou compatible associé à des cartes internes standard et à un logiciel qui peut être portable. Il en résulte une utilisation et une mise en place aisées et faciles.With regard to the ground part, maintenance is made easy insofar as it is a PC type or compatible computer associated with standard internal cards and software which can be portable. This results in easy and easy use and installation.

Il est à remarquer que la transmission bidirectionnelle des informations par la voie de fibres optiques est un avantage dans la mesure où elle n'encombre pas ou elle ne pollue pas l'espace hertzien. D'autre part il s'agit d'un fonctionnement silencieux ce qui est un avantage pour éviter la dégradation de l'environnement.It should be noted that the bidirectional transmission of information by the way of optical fibers is an advantage insofar as it does not obstruct or it does not pollute the hertzian space. On the other hand it is a silent operation which is an advantage to avoid environmental degradation.

L'installation confère un haut degré de sécurité vis-à-vis des objets volants tels que les avions de lignes, hélicoptères ou ultra-légers motorisés.The installation provides a high degree of security against flying objects such as airliners, helicopters or motorized ultralights.

Avantageusement, l'enveloppe de l'aérostat peut être transparente. Il en résulte qu'en association avec le fait que l'aérostat est en position d'équilibre à haute altitude (de l'ordre de 5 km) et l'utilisation d'un matériau de couleur claire pour le câble, l'installation peut se fondre totalement dans le paysage. Ceci a pour avantage en outre de ne pas dégrader l'environnement d'une part, et de conférer une insensibilité aux attaques malveillantes ou aux sabotages d'autre part.Advantageously, the envelope of the aerostat can be transparent. It follows that in association with the fact that the aerostat is in a position of equilibrium at high altitude (of the order of 5 km) and the use of a light-colored material for the cable, the installation can blend in completely with the landscape. This also has the advantage of not degrading the environment on the one hand, and conferring insensitivity to malicious attacks or sabotage on the other.

Pour ce qui concerne le système embarqué, il a l'avantage de faire appel à une électronique fiable et légère fondée sur des composants classiques et disponibles dans le commerce tels que des capteurs infrarouge, des capteurs d'attitude, une électronique de multiplexage etc...As regards the on-board system, it has the advantage of using reliable and light electronics based on conventional and commercially available components such as infrared sensors, attitude sensors, multiplexing electronics, etc. ..

Comme mentionné ci-avant, en cas de cassure du câble, l'installation confère un haut degré de sécurité. En outre, l'installation peut être complétée par une logique permettant de libérer une partie de l'hélium pour faire chuter le matériel à vitesse réduite dans la zone surveillée, et éventuellement détacher la partie la plus lourde pour la faire chuter au bout d'un mini-parachute.As mentioned above, in the event of a cable break, the installation provides a high degree of security. In addition, the installation can be completed by a logic allowing to release part of the helium to make fall the material at reduced speed in the monitored area, and possibly detach the heaviest part to make it fall after a mini-parachute.

La détection de plusieurs feux de forêt survenant simultanément et/ou de la naissance brusque desdits feux est possible selon l'invention dès les premiers instants de ceux-ci, ce qui peut permettre de déduire facilement les origines criminelles éventuelles de tels sinistres.The detection of several forest fires occurring simultaneously and / or of the sudden onset of said fires is possible according to the invention from the first moments thereof, which can make it possible to easily deduce the possible criminal origins of such claims.

L'invention trouve une application particulière dans la détection de feux de forêts. Toutefois elle trouve une application plus générale dans la surveillance aérienne et/ou terrestre.The invention finds a particular application in the detection of forest fires. However, it finds a more general application in aerial and / or ground surveillance.

Claims (15)

  1. Installation for the remote detection via air and/or land of the type comprising
    - a lighter-than-air craft of the aerostat type or kite comprising a pod (NAC,
    - a link (LIA) via cable connected to the aircraft at one end, the other end being connected to a mobile or fixed land-based station (STA), and
    - a system of remote detection via air and/or land on board the pod (NAC) and cooperating with means (UT) equipping the station for the reception of data detected and processing thereof, characterised in that the cable (LIA) comprises at least one optic fibre for effecting the transmission of said data obtained by remote detection of the on-board system to reception means of the land-based station.
  2. Installation according to claim 1, characterised in that the core of the cable (LIA) consists of a light, strong material such as Kevlar.
  3. Installation according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the cable (LIA) forms in at least one predetermined site a closed loop, inside which extends a cylindrical spring in order to soften the tension exerted on the cable.
  4. Installation according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that it is proposed to dispose at in least one predetermined site on the cable (LIA) a mechanical fuse which, for this predetermined site and in response to a particular command coming from the land-base station, is capable of breaking the cable or of triggering means capable of breaking or detaching the cable at this predetermined site.
  5. Installation according to claim 4, characterised in that the mechanical fuse is of the explosive ball type filled with a powder capable of exploding in response to an optical signal of a predetermined strength emanating from the land-based station and travelling along the optic fibre until it reaches the ball.
  6. Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the cable (LIA) comprises one or more monomodal or multimodal optic fibres.
  7. Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the cable (LIA) is filled with micro-particles of a material such as talcum, so as to deaden any oscillations of the cable.
  8. Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the on-board remote detection system operating via air and/or land comprises:
    - sensor means consisting of:
    . at least one visible light, infrared or ultraviolet camera (CAM) for sending video signals
    . means for detecting the attitude of the device (CAT) and capable of sending electrical signals representing that attitude,
    - an electric multiplexer (MXEL) for receiving the video signals issuing from the camera (CAM) as well as the electric signals issuing from the attitude detection means (CAT),
    - an optic transmitter (EMO1) connected to the electric multiplexer (MXE1) and capable of transmitting to land via the optic fibre(s) (LIA) the data collected by the sensor means.
  9. Installation according to claim 8, characterised in that the attitude detection means (CAT) comprise:
    - a first local vertical sensor for transmitting an electrical signal representing the incline of the aircraft,
    - a second sensor of the magnetic compass type for transmitting an electrical signal representing the direction of the aircraft relative to magnetic north, and
    - a third sensor of the altimeter type for transmitting an electrical signal representing the altitude of the aircraft.
  10. Installation according to claim 8, characterised in that the camera (CAM) is equipped with:
    . focusing means,
    . zoom adjustment means,
    . means for adjusting the threshold of points of the image,
    . means for adjusting the scale of the area of detection,
    . optical input means (OE) of the projector type and their operating means, the whole of the camera/optical input means being mounted on a system for determining the vertical and horizontal orientation and capable of being operated by remote control in response to a particular command emanating from the land-based station.
  11. Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the reception means (UT) of the station comprise:
    - an optical sensor (RO2) for receiving video and electrical signals emanating from the on-board system as well as transmitted by the optic fibre(s),
    - a PC-type computer (ORD) equipped with a video screen, a monitor, image processing means (T1) acting in real time or in deferred time and means for managing (GS) electrical signals, and
    - an electric demultiplexer (DME2) connected to the optic sensor (RO2) and capable of transmitting the video signals to the image processing means (T1) as well as electrical signals to the management means (GS).
  12. Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the station further comprises:
    - control means for transmitting command signals for focusing the camera, zoom adjustment, threshold adjustment of the points of the image, adjustment of the scale of the area of detection, a system for determining the horizontal and vertical orientation of the camera projector unit, and actuating means (ACT) for the rudders (GOV) of the aircraft (ENG);
    - an optical transmitter (EMO) for transmitting the command signals to the on-board system via the optic fibre(s);
    whereas the on-board system further comprises:
    - an optical receptor (RO1) for receiving command signals thus transmitted;
    - actuating means (ACT) for responding to the command signals for effecting the focusing of the camera, zoom adjustment, threshold adjustment of the points of the image, adjustment of the scale of the area of detection, a system for determining the vertical and horizontal orientation of the camera projector unit, and command of the rudders (GOV) of the aircraft (ENG);
  13. Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that it is proposed to equip the remote detection system and the ground station respectively with verification means (VERI1 and VERI2) for detecting the attenuation of the optic fibre(s) and/or breaking of the cable link (LIA).
  14. Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the missile is equipped with an autonomous power supply.
  15. Application of the installation and aircraft according to any one of the preceding claims in the detection of forest fires.
EP19910403141 1990-11-21 1991-11-21 Installation for aerial and/or terrestrial teledetection, particularly the detection of forest fires Expired - Lifetime EP0490722B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9014540A FR2669455B1 (en) 1990-11-21 1990-11-21 AIR AND / OR TERRESTRIAL REMOTE DETECTION INSTALLATION, PARTICULARLY FOR THE DETECTION OF FOREST FIRES.
FR9014540 1990-11-21

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EP0490722A1 EP0490722A1 (en) 1992-06-17
EP0490722B1 true EP0490722B1 (en) 1996-09-11

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FR (1) FR2669455B1 (en)

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CN103456124A (en) * 2013-03-27 2013-12-18 北京科实医学图像技术研究所 Early warning system for forest fires
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CN105277662A (en) * 2015-11-12 2016-01-27 上海市环境监测中心 Balloon-borne integrated atmospheric pollution monitoring and collecting system
CN105513247B (en) * 2015-11-25 2018-01-16 北京环境特性研究所 A kind of fire monitoring alignment system and method that ship is tethered at based on floating
CN105717919B (en) * 2016-01-16 2018-09-28 深圳先进技术研究院 A kind of scenic spot tour guide's salvage system based on dirigible
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DE69122060D1 (en) 1996-10-17
DE69122060T2 (en) 1997-03-13
FR2669455B1 (en) 1993-01-08
EP0490722A1 (en) 1992-06-17
FR2669455A1 (en) 1992-05-22

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