Conformal Load-Bearing Sensor Arrays for Aerodynamic Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-spectral sensor arrays for vehicles are not conformal, leading to increased drag and inefficient volume usage due to their rigid structures, which protrude into the airstream and do not integrate seamlessly with the vehicle's structure.
Innovation Solution
A conformal load-bearing distributed sensing array system that integrates RF and optical sensors into a single panel with a structural core, allowing for flush mounting on a vehicle's surface, using a method that includes an outer skin, an inner skin, and a core with receivers and transmitters disposed within openings on the outer skin, enabling easy replacement and aerodynamic design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a rigid structure (pod or turret) is used to assemble multi-spectral sensor arrays, then the sensors can be integrated onto the vehicle platform, but the structure protrudes into the airstream creating drag and consumes excessive volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using a conformal array structure that follows the contour of the vehicle surface, eliminating the need for rigid protruding pods or turrets. The sensor apertures are distributed directly on the vehicle's skin, allowing the array to conform to the aerodynamic shape and minimize drag while maintaining sensor integration capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a three-dimensional rigid structure (pod/turret) to a two-dimensional conformal surface array. By distributing sensors across the vehicle's surface in a planar configuration, the system eliminates volume consumption and aerodynamic interference while maintaining sensing coverage
2Ease of manufacture
If a rigid structure (pod or turret) is used to assemble multi-spectral sensor arrays, then the sensors can be integrated onto the vehicle platform, but the structure consumes excessive volume
Solution Approach 1:
The conformal array structure utilizes the vehicle's existing surface area, transforming the integration approach from volumetric (rigid pods) to areal (surface-mounted). This eliminates the need for additional volume while providing sufficient space for multiple sensor apertures through distributed positioning on the vehicle skin
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves the sensor array from a 3D volumetric structure to a 2D surface distribution. By spreading sensors across the vehicle's exterior surface, the system achieves high sensor density without requiring additional volume, effectively utilizing the vehicle's surface area rather than consuming internal or external space
3Object-affected harmful factors
If receivers and transmitters are disposed within openings on the outer skin, then the EM panel can be flush mounted for aerodynamic efficiency, but the structural integration becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the structural functions (load-bearing, aerodynamic skin) with the sensor array functions (receiver/transmitter mounting) into a single integrated EM panel. The core structure simultaneously provides mechanical support, maintains aerodynamic contour, and houses the sensor apertures, eliminating the need for separate mounting structures and reducing overall system complexity
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 provides a secure, efficient, and aerodynamically optimized multi-spectral sensor array that minimizes volume usage and allows for easy maintenance, while establishing secure free space optical links between vehicles, reducing reliance on gimbaled optics and enhancing communication security.
Implementation Method 1
an EM panel may include an outer skin, an inner skin, and a core disposed between the outer skin and the inner skin
Implementation Method 2
at least one receiver to receive at least one first signal (e.g., an EM radiation signal, such as an optical frequency signal or a radio frequency (RF) signal)
Implementation Method 3
at least one transmitter to transmit at least one second signal (e.g., an EM radiation signal, such as an optical frequency signal or a radio frequency (RF) signal)
Implementation Method 4
at least one receiver is an optical sensor(s) (e.g., an optical telescope)
Implementation Method 5
at least one transmitter is a laser(s) (e.g., an optical laser)
Implementation Method 6
at least one transmitter is a RF antenna(s) (e.g., a phased array antenna or a patch antenna)
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatus for an electromagnetic (EM) panel are disclosed. In one or more embodiments, a disclosed electromagnetic (EM) panel comprises an outer skin, an inner skin, a core disposed between the outer skin and the inner skin, and at least one receiver to receive at least one first signal. In at least one embodiment, at least one receiver is disposed within an opening on the outer skin of the EM panel. At least one receiver is an optical sensor(s) and/or a radio frequency (RF) antenna(s). In one or more embodiments, the EM panel further comprises at least one transmitter to transmit at least one second signal. In at least one embodiment, at least one transmitter is disposed within an opening on the outer skin of the EM panel. At least one transmitter is a laser(s) and/or a RF antenna(s).