Video data acquisition and analysis system (DSA 3000)

Today's weapon systems require sophisticated algorithms to capture end analyze target and scene video. Many of the same algorithms are commonly used throughout video-based munitions and technologies. Consequently, Raytheon Missile Systems has developed a standard tool to support the design and validation of systems using video imagery. The DAS 3000 provides an integrated test environment for imaging missile systems, machine vision systems, and surveillance systems. The DAS 3000 is a video capture, sensor/seeker characterization, and analysis tool, which provides a total test solution capable of supporting a product throughout its life cycle. In today's market, a low cost standard tool, which incorporates test requirements for video, capture and display, real-time processing analysis, and video reduction across multiple product lines is extremely valuable. This paper initially discusses and elaborates on the video capture, display, and real-time requirements challenging our engineers to date. The paper then discusses the internal modularity of the software to provide technology specific algorithms. The interface of the tool is discussed to demonstrate the video reduction and editing that may be applied to frames and sequences of video to enhance and simplify the test environment of video based products. Finally, various engineering environments the DAS 3000 is capable or supporting are discussed. These areas include standalone-engineering analysis typically used for research and development, design validation, operational testing, integration and test, and automated production test equipment.