| |
White Papers - Trident's Family of
Unattended Ground Sensors
|
 Click
here to view or download PDF of Trident's Family of
Unattended Ground Sensors
- White Paper |
|
GOALS AND CHALLENGES
Unattended ground sensors have been widely used in remote
battlefield and other tactical applications over the last
few decades due to the advances of the digital signal
processing (DSP). Unattended ground sensors can be
applied in a variety of areas including border surveillance,
special force operations, airfield protection, perimeter and
building protection, target acquisition, situational
awareness, force protection, remote monitoring, and etc.
Typically, unattended ground sensors have limited ranges of
detection and identification. These limitations are
generally due to background noise or weather and
environmental changes. In addition, communication bandwidth
and transmission power should preferably be low. And data
compression and data encryption can be used for secure Low
Probability of Intercept (LPI) and Low Probability of
Detection (LPD). Miniaturization and cost reduction of
components will be a key factor to provide affordable
unattended ground sensors.
Tridents unattended ground sensor
nodes
are compact, low cost, low power, and robust, and are
expected to last in the field for extended periods of time
after deployment. They are capable of transmitting target
information back to a remote operator. These devices can be
used to perform various mission tasks including perimeter
defense, border patrol and surveillance, target acquisition,
and situation awareness. In order to support the varied
missions, Tridents unattended ground sensors provide robust
and reliable communication links for timely message
transmissions back to a command and control (C2) center.
WHO CAN BENEFIT?
Any
wireless, unattended ground or airborne-based wireless
network system or program can benefit from Tridents
unattended ground sensors. The products deliver an advanced
system that provides an end-to-end network solution of
unattended sensors capable of being integrated into existing
platforms or unattended ground sensor nodes. The components of
the unattended network (sensors, triggers, nodes, and
gateways) in a network of sensors have been designed into a
"toolbox" that enables warfighters, policemen, or on-duty
officers to tailor their needed tools based on mission
requirements, threat, and environment. In addition to
expeditionary force and SOF, these tools can be used by
tactical logistic forces, other area-area forces, homeland
security assets, and police units to improve situational
awareness or C4ISR resources.
TRIDENT'S
UNATTENDED NETWORK AND SENSOR PRODUCTS
Sentry Nodes
The Sentry Unattended Ground Sensor Node couples
lower data rate RF technology with a reliable mesh network
protocol to deliver a long-lasting sensor network. The nodes
have RF ranges in excess of 300 meters and are completely
compatible with Trident's WiNC (Wireless Network
Controller). Using the proprietary Terrain Adaptive
Networking Protocol (TAN-P), the Sentry delivers data and
maintains network stability for extended operational
periods.
Recce Nodes
The Recce Ground Sensor Node couples recent
advances in ultra-wideband RF technologies and Low
Probability of Intercept/Low Probability of Detection (LPI/LPD)
with the inherent advantages of a remote unattended ad-hoc
mesh network. Ideal for movement of high resolution images
or low frame rate video. Plenty of on-board processing to
host your sensor algorithms or other custom networked
applications. Maintaining RF ranges in excess of competing
technologies and using a proprietary Terrain Adaptive
Networking Protocol (TAN-P), the Recce Node delivers imagery
or other high-density sensory data, whether stationary or
mobile, to the user within moments of image/data capture.
This is all done automatically or on demand while operating
in the most extreme environments.
Nightwatch Nodes
The Nightwatch Unattended Ground Sensor Node couples
multiple RF technologies into a variable data rate system
with reliable network protocols that deliver a long-lasting
sensor network.
The nodes
have RF ranges in excess of several thousand meters and when
used with Trident's Terrain Adaptive Networking Protocol
(TAN-P), the Nightwatch delivers data and maintains
consistent network stability for extended operational
periods.
Wireless Network Controller
(WiNC)
WiNC provides the tactical operator the capability
to set-up, configure, and access unattended wireless
networks and remotely control network sensors. WiNC is a
lightweight handheld device that enables the tactical
operator to easily and rapidly emplace the wireless nodes,
improving operational effectiveness, and mission success.
Radio Network Interface
Controller (RNIC)
The RNIC-Eagle is an RNIC designed to provide the
interface between a handheld computing device and various
standard military radios with secure messaging and
communications capabilities. This small, handheld RF device
provides the capability for military personnel to
communicate and pass situational awareness, messaging, and
text data via a Windows-mobile PDA over existing military
radio networks. The RNIC-Eagle, utilizes an embedded GPS and
has the capability to inject SAASM GPS information if
desired. Forward Error Correction (FEC) and Mil-STD 188-220
protocols are currently supported.
Tactical Gateway and Bridge
The Wireless Bridge collects networked data over
longer distances and connects dissimilar wireless networks
such as military radio, 802.11b, cellular or Ethernet.
CONOPS (CONCEPT OF
OPERATIONS) OF TRIDENT'S UNATTENDED GROUND SENSOR NETWORKS
SENTRY NODES
The Sentry Node
is especially effective as a trigger for other nodes and
networked sensors and complements long-lasting clandestine
LPI/LPD sensor network. This node is currently in production
and available with a lead time of approximately 12 weeks.
|
Description:
Provides an ad-hoc mesh network and capability to
relay network information, communicate and pass
situational
awareness data, and messaging
Data rate up to 100kbps, Ad-hoc, self-healing mesh,
Onboard GPS, 256 AES encryption
Onboard sensors include IR and acoustic. Also
available temperature, accelerometer, magnetometer
Antenna can be attached directly to the node or also
available in a remote configuration
Life Span: 30-45 days depending on power source and
duty cycle. Powered by Standard AA cells. Supplemental
power
sources and configurations available
RF Range: Terrain dependent, >300m Clear Line of
Sight (CLOS)
Custom camouflage and other packaging available
Input Types: Serial, USB or RF remote and OTA
commands
Features:
Standard military issue AA batteries
Compact Size:2.5 in. dia. x 6 in H (not including
antenna)
Lightweight (16 oz. with batteries)
RF range dependent on radio type and antenna. Current
system exceeds 300 meters Clear Line of Sight (CLOS)
Embedded GPS
All Weather, watertight ruggedized housing
Custom wireless RF solutions available
|
 |
Environmental:
Operating Temperature:
-30 °C to +60 °C (-22 °F to +140 °F)
With Alkaline Batteries: -18 °C to +55 °C (0 °F to
+130 °F)
With Lithium Batteries: -20 °C to +60 °C (-4 °F to
+140 °F)
Storage Temperature: -40 °C to +70 °C (-40 °F to +158
°F)
With Alkaline Batteries: -40 °C to +70 °C (-40 °F to
+158 °F)
With Lithium Batteries: -20 °C to +60 °C (-4 °F to
+140 °F
Humidity: MIL-STD-810F, Method 506.4 and 507.4
Sand and Dust: IP67, MIL-STD-810F, Method 510.4,
Procedures I & II
Water: Sealed against accidental immersion (1 m for
30 minutes) IP67, MIL-STD-810F, Method 512.4, Procedure I
Drop: Withstands drop from 1.22 m (4 ft)
Vibration: MIL-STD-810F, Method 514.5
Altitude : MIL-STD-810F, Method 500.4
Rain: MIL-STD-810F, Method 506.4
Regulatory Testing: UL60950 & UL94V-O
Enclosure:
PCB Card Stack:
PCB Stack Block Diagram:
RECCE NODES
The Recce Node is ideal for movement of high
resolution images or low frame rate video. These nodes are
inherently LPI/LPD owing to their unique Ultra Wideband
waveform. This node will be available in production
quantities in the summer of 2008.
|
Description:
Provides an
ad-hoc mesh network and capability to relay network
information, communicate and pass situational
awareness, and messaging
High data-rate (1-5 Mbps), optimized for LPI/LPD, AES
encryption. >5Mbps in standard mode, >1Mbps in low
power mode. Ad-hoc, self-healing mesh
Onboard sensors include IR and acoustic. Also
available temperature, accelerometer, magnetometer
Antenna can be attached directly to the node or also
available in a remote configuration
Life Span: up to 30 days depending on power source
and duty cycle
Powered by Standard D-cells. Supplemental power
sources and configurations available
RF Range: Terrain dependent, 300m Clear Line of Sight
(CLOS)
Custom colors and other shapes available
Input Types: Serial, USB or RF remote and OTA
commands
Features:
Size: 4 in.
diameter x 6.75 in height (not including weighs 3.5
lbs or 1.6 kg with batteries
RF range dependent on terrain and antenna. Current
system up to 300M Clear Line of Sight (CLOS)
Embedded GPS
All Weather, watertight ruggedized housing
Custom wireless RF solutions available |
 |
Environmental:
Operating Temperature
-30 °C to +60 °C (-22 °F to +140 °F)
Storage Temperature -40 °C to +70 °C (-40 °F to +158
°F)
Humidity MIL-STD-810F, Method 506.4 and 507.4
Sand and Dust IP67, MIL-STD-810F, Method 510.4,
Procedures I and II
Water Sealed against accidental immersion (1 m for 30
minutes) IP67, MIL-STD-810F, Method 512.4, Procedure I
Drop Withstands drop from 1.22 m (4 ft)
Vibration MIL-STD-810F, Method 514.5
Altitude MIL-STD-810F, Method 500.4
Rain MIL-STD-810F, Method 506.4
Regulatory Testing UL60950 & UL94V-O
3rd Generation Recce PCB Stack:
Nightwatch NODES
The Nightwatch Node is ideal for longer distances
between nodes and its spread spectrum radio can establish
mesh networks within buildings where other radios cannot. It
can be applied for remote monitoring and surveillance of
isolated but critical areas. This node will be available in
production quantities in the spring of 2008.
|
Description:
Supports up to 100 node mesh
Organic IR and Acoustic Detection with USB or Serial
port for other sensors. Temperature, accelerometer,
magnetometer organic
sensors also available
Long range (1.5 km) Spread Spectrum Type FHSS radio
(terrain and antenna dependent) with throughput Data
Rate 9600 kbs or
115200 kbs
Encryption 256-bit AES Encryption
Life Span: 30 days depending on power source and duty
cycle. Longer persistence with supplemental battery
packs.
Powered by Standard D-cells. Fuel cell option.
Supplemental power sources and configurations
available.
Custom colors and other shapes available
Features:
Height 6.75"(17.14 cm) with out antenna
Diameter 4" (10.16 cm)
Weight: 3.6 lbs with batteries
RF range dependent on terrain and antenna. Current
system up to 1.5km @ .5w Clear Line of Sight (CLOS)
Embedded GPS
All Weather, watertight ruggedized housing
Custom wireless RF solutions available
|
 |
|
|
ACOUSTIC-SEISMIC SENSORS
|
Conformal Microphone Array |
5
sensor array, one wakeup microphone |
|
Three
component geophone |
Provides bearing to personnel |
|
External power and RS-232 connectors |
|
|
Self-mapping, internal compass and GPS |
|
|
Military Standard BA5590/BA5390 battery |
6
month field life at 50 targets/day (transmit data only) |
|
Lightweight and compact |
Size: 8.5" x 5.3" x 4.5" |
| |
Weight: 2.04 Kg (4.5 Lb) including battery |
| |
Rugged, weatherproof housing |
|
Detection/Tracking Capabilities |
Detection range against heavy military vehicles: > 1km |
| |
Detection range against civilian vehicles (SUVs and
pickup trucks): ~100 to 300 m depending on road and
environmental conditions. |
| |
Tracking accuracy: better than 3 degrees RMS within 700
m of sensor |
| |
Personal detection and tracking to 30-50 m or more
depending on soil condition |
Communication
Chain
Trident
Local Alert System Message in support of:
[1] Trigger and Status Messages
[2] Internal and External Sensors
[3] Image Capture and Transfer
286-bit
Serial Message in support of:
[1] Five-element Microphone Array for vehicle tracking
[2] Three-axis Geophone, for Ambient Seismic Monitoring
[3] WAAS enabled GPS
[4] Heading/Roll/Pitch Sensor
RS232
Serial Message containing:
[1] Trident LAS Message Header
[2] Acoustic / Seismic Sensor Data
[3] Custom Format possible if needed
TACTICAL
RELAY GATEWAYS
Tactical gateways are ideal for movement of collected network
data over longer distances and delivering network information
directly into the forward operating bases (FOBs) without
requiring satellite access. Additionally, tactical gateways can
bridge incompatible waveforms.
|
Description:
Selectable data rate: 9.6Kbps to 115.2 Kbps, Ad-hoc,
self-healing mesh, Onboard GPS, AES 256 encryption;
Combat data
rate mode of 300 Kbps, up to 1 mile
Weatherproof NEMA 4X housing
Weight: 4lbs without batteries
Size: 8 in. L x 4 in H x 6 in W (not including
antenna)
Power: BA-5590 or other, external auxillary options
available
Life Span: 60-120 days depending on battery type and
duty cycle
RF Range: Terrain and antenna dependent, up to 500m;
Ground Wave RF up to 6 KM Terrain dependent
Input Types: Serial, USB or RF remote and OTA
commands
Bridging options include ITT Mesh, IEEE waveforms,
cell phones, or military radios
Optional solar power panel for increased persistence |
 |
WIRELESS BRIDGE
The
Wireless Bridge gateways are ideal for movement of collected
network data over longer distances converting and then
delivering network information directly into the forward
operating bases (FOBs) directly downloading to exfiltration
platforms without requiring continuous satellite access.
|
Description:
Links
dissimilar network environments
900 MHz / 2.4 GHz Dual Band 3 dBi Omni
Pole or fixed station mounting option
Long range (1-7 Km) Spread Spectrum Type FHSS radio
(terrain and antenna dependent)
Throughput Data Rate 9600 kbs or 115200kbs
Encryption 256-bit AES Encryption
Currently WiFi; Capable of Ultra-wide Band and other
wireless radios
Selectable data rate: 9.6Kbps to 115.2 Kbps, Ad-hoc,
self-healing mesh, Onboard GPS, AES 256 encryption;
Combat data rate mode of 300 Kbps, up to 1 mile
Weight: 4lbs without batteries
Size: 8 in. L x 4 in H x 6 in W (not including
antenna)
Life Span: 60-120 days depending on battery type and
duty cycle
RF Range: Terrain and antenna dependent, up to 500m;
Ground Wave RF up to 6 KM Terrain dependent
Input Types: Serial, USB or RF remote and OTA commands
Bridging options include ITT Mesh, IEEE waveforms,
cell phones, or military radios
Optional auxiliary supplies include fuel cell or solar
power panel for increased persistence |
 |
WIRELESS NETWORK CONTROLLER (WiNC)
WiNC (Wireless Network/Node Controller) improves field
operational effectiveness and mission success.
Description:
Provides the tactical operator the capability to
emplace, configure wireless nodes; impresses node with
GPS location;
access unattended wireless networks;
remotely control network sensors
Supports text messaging and file data transfer across
wireless networks
Harnesses reliable wireless mesh protocols and
military mapping technologies to deliver a ruggedized
and
environmentally hardened tool that
optimizes network topology while delivering vital sensor
information and point to
point text communications while
maintaining persistence of an unattended network
Provides in-Garrison (reach-back) control of deployed
tactical network and sensors; monitors network status;
and
downloads images or information via a
Gateway
Waterproof to 1 meter and pressure-tested to required
lockout depths
Supports a variety of IEEE networks and mesh
protocols and PDAs (Recon, Amrel, Tacticompt, iPac) and
standard PC
or notebooks
Features:
Image Capture/Edit
Mobil Node
Node Controller
Node Set-Up Assistance
Node Programming
Wireless Text Messaging (Point to Point) |
 |
RADIO NETWORK INTERFACE CONTROLLER
RNIC (Radio Network
Interface Control) is a small rugged device that provides an
interface between any Windows CE or XP computing device,
wireless networks, and various standard military radios.
Description:
Provides the capability to communicate and pass
situational awareness, messaging, access unattended
wireless networks and text data via a
Windows-mobile PDA over existing military radio networks
Utilizes an embedded GPS and has the capability to
inject SAASM GPS information if desired
Incorporates Forward Error Correction (FEC) and
Mil-STD 188-220 protocols
Provides the tactical operator the capability to
emplace, configure wireless nodes; impresses node with
GPS
location
Provides the capability to map situational awareness
(SA) data using Tridents DISM mapping software
(CADRG) or can map SA data to other
GIS mapping products
Features:
Standard military issue AA batteries
Compact (3.250 in. X 4.125 in. x 1.125 in.) and
lightweight (1.2 lbs. with batteries)
RF Range: Military Radio- Radio type and antenna
dependent, Wireless Radio-300M Clear Line of Sight
(CLOS)
Max baud rate 16kbps for military radio; >100kbps
depending on IEEE waveform
Embedded GPS
All Weather, watertight ruggedized housing
Many IEEE waveform
Interoperable with PRC-148, PSC-5D, SINCGARS,
PRC-150, PRC-117, SINCGARS (C,F) |
 |
UNATTENDED GROUND SENSOR NETWORK FOR AREA FORCE
PROTECTION
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
