| Popis: |
This paper outlines the principles behind the software architecture design for a real-time processor for airborne SAR data. This processor is implemented on an MIMD parallel computer (the Meiko CS1) using a point-to-point message passing system. The processing algorithms are the result of research by the DRA, Malvern, and are capable of yielding focused, undistorted SAR imagery. Processing functions considered include: initial motion compensation (based on accelerometer data), autofucus with phase correction, and azimuth focusing. Real time processing rates of about 10 MBytes/s are now routinely achieved. We indicate the compromises between processor power, available local memory and communications bandwidth needed to achieve real-time operation. A recent development of the SAR processor has been the addition of a generic post-processing module to allow image interpretation algorithms to operate on the imagery as it is produced. Real-time SAR segmentation has been demonstrated using this facility; ports of other algorithms are planned. |
