Camera-Mounted Laser Dazzler with Dynamic Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-lethal laser systems for dazzling or stunning individuals are limited by their difficulty in aiming, limited range, and the risk of causing irreversible retinal damage, making them inconvenient and potentially harmful for use in security situations like mass shootings or robberies.
Innovation Solution
A hand-held or fixed non-lethal dazzling device equipped with a low-power laser, on-board computer, camera, and servo motors for precise aiming, along with a power adjustment mechanism to ensure the laser intensity does not cause permanent eye damage, and can be remotely operated or autonomous, using range finders and AI for targeting and power control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If high-intensity laser is used to dazzle targets, then dazzling effectiveness is improved, but risk of causing irreversible retinal damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laser system dynamically adjusts its intensity based on real-time range measurements from the target. As the target distance changes, the laser power is automatically modulated to maintain effective dazzling while staying below the threshold for retinal damage. This dynamic control allows the same system to effectively engage targets at varying distances without causing permanent harm.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the laser operating parameters (intensity, pulse duration, repetition rate) based on detected target characteristics and distance. By adjusting these parameters in response to environmental conditions and target type, the system optimizes dazzling effectiveness while maintaining safety margins below retinal damage thresholds for different engagement scenarios.
2Measurement precision
If fixed-location camera-mounted dazzler is used, then aiming precision is improved, but adaptability to moving targets worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously receives feedback from the camera identifying target location and motion, processes this information through the processor, and adjusts the laser pointing direction accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system allows a fixed-mounted dazzler to accurately track and engage moving targets by constantly updating its aim based on real-time visual information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual aiming mechanisms with an automated optical-electronic system. The camera captures target position, the processor calculates required laser direction, and electro-optical actuators adjust the laser beam direction without mechanical movement of the entire dazzler assembly. This substitution enables precise tracking of moving targets while maintaining a fixed installation location.
3Length of stationary object
If laser power is increased to extend range, then engagement distance is improved, but safety margin for retinal damage decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The laser system dynamically adjusts its output power based on real-time range measurements to the target. At longer distances, lower power suffices for effective dazzling, while at closer distances, power is reduced further to maintain safety margins. This dynamic power management extends effective engagement range while consistently maintaining reliable eye safety across all distances.
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 device allows for effective dazzling of targets without causing permanent eye damage, providing a safe and efficient means to neutralize hostile actors at various ranges while minimizing risk to the operator, and can be used in both fixed and mobile platforms.
Implementation Method 1
high intensity and laser light can present a glare that degrades vision and cause discomfort for the target
Data Source
AI summary
A non-lethal dazzling turret includes a laser operable in the visible spectrum. The non-lethal dazzling turret can be deployed, for example, behind a counter at a convenience store or a gas station, and can include a camera as well as an on-board computer. The non-lethal dazzling turret can stream video to a remote location where an operator can aim and fire the non-lethal dazzling turret at potential targets as needed. Alternatively, a fully autonomous version is disclosed that can be activated by, for example, a panic button.