Aircraft Search Light Tracking Using RF Target Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing search light systems on aircraft require human intervention to direct and adjust light output, making it difficult to continuously illuminate moving targets and increasing operator workload, especially in dark environments.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous search light system using RF transceivers and controllers to determine the position of a target relative to the aircraft, allowing the light output to be adjusted autonomously and continuously illuminate targets without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a human operator manually directs and adjusts the search light output, then the light can be directed towards identified targets, but it becomes difficult to continuously illuminate moving targets and operator workload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The search light system autonomously tracks and illuminates targets using automated detection and control mechanisms. The system self-adjusts the light beam direction based on target position data from sensors and RF transceivers, eliminating the need for continuous manual operator intervention while maintaining reliable illumination of moving targets
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment of the search light with an automated control system that uses RF transceivers, sensors, and electronic actuators to dynamically position the light beam. This substitution of mechanical manual control with electronic automation enables continuous tracking of moving targets without increasing operator workload
2Illumination intensity
If the search light continuously tracks and illuminates moving targets, then target visibility is enhanced, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic RF signals from transceivers to detect target presence and position, and only activates the high-intensity search light when a target is detected. The light illumination is periodically adjusted based on target movement, maintaining visibility while reducing energy consumption during periods without targets or when targets are stationary
Solution Approach 2:
The search light system dynamically adjusts illumination parameters such as intensity, duration, and direction based on real-time target detection data. The system changes operational parameters to provide sufficient illumination only when and where needed, optimizing the balance between target visibility and energy consumption
3Measurement precision
If the RF transmitter operates continuously in transmitting mode, then position data can be continuously provided for autonomous tracking, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RF transmitter operates in periodic transmitting modes rather than continuous operation. It sends position data signals at intervals sufficient for autonomous tracking accuracy, and switches to standby mode between transmissions, thereby maintaining measurement precision while significantly reducing energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the autonomous search light controller to determine when position data is needed. The RF transmitter receives control signals to activate transmitting mode only when the autonomous system requires updated position information, optimizing the balance between tracking accuracy and energy usage
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables reliable and continuous illumination of targets, reducing operator workload and enhancing visibility, even in dynamic conditions, while conserving energy by switching to standby mode when not in use.
Implementation Method 1
an RF (RF = radio frequency) transmitter for emitting RF signals; an RF receiver with at least two antennas for receiving RF signals emitted by the RF transmitter
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4
AI summary
Autonomous search light system (4) for being mounted to an aircraft (2), the autonomous search light system (4) comprising: a search light (12) for emitting an adjustable light output (6); an RF receiver (16) with at least two RF antennas (18a, 18b, 18c) for receiving RF signals emitted by an RF transmitter (10); and a controller (14) for determining a position of the RF transmitter (10) in relation to the search light (12) from the received RF signals and for controlling the search light (12) based on the determined position of the RF transmitter (10).