The new version comes with two modules - Performance Analysis Training Tool (PATT) and Automated Target Recognition (ATR) using Computer-Aided Detection and  Computer-Aided Classification (CAD/CAC) components.

Designed to provide a higher level of awareness, accuracy and confidence in the individual systems’ sortie and overall MCM Mission these modules are visualised in the current COIN and SeeTrack Military software, originally developed by SeeByte specifically for US Navy EOD Forces, but that are also now deployed in 10 NATO and NATO Friendly Nations’ Navies. 



The ATR module uses CAD/CAC to detect specific regions in side-scan sonar data, that potentially correspond to an object previously learned by the system.

Multiple CAD detectors identify and discriminate objects several times, with better accuracy for mine detection. Obvious false alarms are removed by CAC to create an accurate map of contacts for operators to examine in the surveyed area.

The new module is also being used as an engine to run third party CAD/CAC algorithms, as those developed by the US Navy. 

PATT allows users to add synthetic, highly realistic images of objects to real mission data, providing a clear understanding of the actual performance of the MCM system and sensors in use.

ATR algorithms, MCM systems and operators can use PATT to train and to analyse performance and segment the mission area in a visual layer, based upon the region’s seafloor complexity and mine-huntability.



Jon Wood, VP of SeeByte US-Operations said: “The software has been provided to allow evaluation and operator feedback. One of the strengths of COIN is its upgradeability and the spiral development approach taken by the US Navy during acquisition.

These modules can be used to significantly improve overall performance of all the systems used in MCM missions and allow the operators to make rapid, well informed decisions. We’re confident that this additional software will prove to be a useful, useable and relevant tool for the US Navy.”



He adds, “MCM operators come with a variety of individual skills, preferences and abilities, as do the systems they use in the minefield, therefore the system has to account for each operator’s likes and dislikes, skill level, and specialty.

"The difficulties lay in timeliness of mission, post mission analysis execution and being able to successfully identify objects and characterise the environment in a repeatable fashion from one operator and/or system to the next (i.e. detecting mine-like objects efficiently and accurately every time).

"Due to varying degrees of experience, ability, and conditions, missions are not always completed resourcefully. These newly developed modules assist operators and the ATR algorithms to tune their abilities to a specific environment and analyse their performance; allowing for greater accuracy and overall improvements in mission efficiency.”



Todd Webber, of Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center, PACIFIC, commented that “successfully integrating these two new modules into COIN and SeeTrack Military will bring new efficiencies to the way we operate.

"Speedier and smarter decisions, enabled by the intuitive assistance provided by PATT and ATR, will significantly enhance the timeliness and effectiveness of our operations. We are excited and intrigued to review the latest capabilities offered by SeeByte.” 
 

SeeByte Ltd founded in Edinburgh by (left) David Lane, with Bob BlacK (right) as CEO, SeeByte has been creating advanced awareness control systems for the latest generation of unmanned systems, including autonomous underwater vehicles and remotely operated vehicles since 2001.

With signal and image processing expertise, as well as control system, intelligent systems diagnostics, robotics, navigation and sensor processing technologies have been successfully integrated into land, air and sea solutions for military, security, offshore, subsea and renewable energy sectors.

The integrations have earned a remarkable number of world-first technologies that showcase SeeByte's unique capabilities and its innovation.