Atmosphere Profiling System Using Mobile Beacon for Optical Turbulence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing atmosphere profiling systems are inadequate in accurately characterizing the optical properties of the atmosphere, which affects the accuracy and effectiveness of optical devices like laser weapons due to variations in optical turbulence and transmission over location and time.
Innovation Solution
An atmosphere profiling system comprising a base platform, an airborne platform, and a transmitter-reflector system that measures optical properties along a flight path, using a beacon and optical receiver to collect data on atmospheric turbulence, transmission, and scattering, and a control station to determine a three-dimensional profile of these properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a static atmosphere profiling system is used, then the system structure is simple, but it cannot capture temporal variations in optical properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static atmosphere profiling system into a dynamic one by introducing a mobile platform (vehicle, aircraft, or satellite) that moves through the atmosphere. This allows the system to capture temporal variations in optical properties by sampling different locations over time, effectively converting a spatial measurement system into one that also captures temporal dynamics without requiring complex temporal sampling mechanisms at a fixed point.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the dimension of motion to the atmosphere profiling system. Instead of measuring only at fixed spatial points, the mobile platform introduces temporal and spatial progression, allowing the system to profile atmospheric optical properties along a flight path or trajectory. This dimensional addition enables capture of both spatial distribution and temporal evolution of atmospheric properties.
2Measurement precision
If multiple measurement points are used to characterize three-dimensional atmospheric properties, then measurement accuracy improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the atmosphere into multiple measurement volumes along the flight path, with each segment characterized by local optical properties. By dividing the three-dimensional atmospheric volume into discrete segments that are sequentially sampled as the mobile platform moves, the system achieves comprehensive 3D profiling without requiring simultaneous multi-point measurements, thus reducing system complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary spatial sampling by moving the platform through predetermined flight paths that cover the region of interest. This preliminary action of systematic traversal allows the system to collect data from multiple locations in a structured manner, building up a three-dimensional profile over time without requiring complex real-time multi-point coordination.
3Productivity
If real-time atmosphere data is collected along flight paths, then optical device performance optimization is improved, but data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback loop where real-time measurements of atmospheric optical properties along the flight path are immediately processed and used to optimize the performance of optical devices. The system continuously monitors transmission, turbulence, and scattering parameters, and this feedback enables dynamic adjustment of optical device operations to compensate for atmospheric conditions, improving productivity through real-time optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary data processing system that acts as a mediator between the mobile measurement platform and the optical devices. This intermediary processes the raw atmospheric data, extracts relevant parameters, and translates them into control commands or optimization parameters for the optical devices, reducing the complexity burden on both the measurement and execution systems.
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
Enables precise characterization of atmospheric optical properties, improving the accuracy and effectiveness of optical devices by providing real-time data for optimizing their performance.
Implementation Method 1
a beacon configured to transmit an optical beam and an optical receiver configured to receive the optical beam
Implementation Method 2
Transmission may refer to the absorption and scattering of electromagnetic waves such as, for example, visible light. Absorption and scattering of electromagnetic waves may also be called extinction
Implementation Method 3
Absorption and scattering of electromagnetic waves may also be called extinction and may be caused by dust and gases in the atmosphere
Implementation Method 4
Optical turbulence may refer to the change in direction of electromagnetic waves as they travel through medium(s) with varying index of refraction. Optical turbulence may be caused by temperature variations in the atmosphere
Data Source
AI summary
An atmosphere profiling system is disclosed. The atmosphere profiling system is configured to characterize optical properties of the atmosphere.