Distance estimation using handheld devices

Abstract

The different capabilities mobile devices can offer in the field of distance estimation for military applications are explored in this thesis. Of particular interest is the potential for using computer vision techniques to estimate distance in an operational military environment. The methods used for this investigation include a review of past literature on computer vision techniques in this domain, as well as an exploration of the different capabilities mobile devices offer in terms of sensors and networking. We present two potential solutions. The first is a simulation of a distance estimation algorithm that gives the distance to the target using a pair of hyper stereo images. The second solution is a web-based mobile application prototype developed in HTML5. This prototype is intended for the use of untrained forward observers. It goes through the basic steps of a call for fire mission as required by a forward observer, with a focus on distance estimation.