Single IR-Detector for DIRCM Laser Return Characterization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Directed Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM) systems face challenges in accurately determining countermeasures effectiveness due to the need for additional processing, camera blanking, long integration times, lack of camera sensitivity, and asynchronous returns when assessing the lethality of heat-seeking missiles.
Innovation Solution
A single IR-detector is mounted on the last optical stage of the DIRCM head to characterize laser returns from a missile's reticle, allowing for rapid and robust assessment of countermeasure effectiveness by detecting when the missile is no longer acquiring the aircraft, and also used for missile characterization, range determination, and automatic gain control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single IR-detector is mounted on the last optical stage of the DIRCM head, then measurement precision and response speed improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection function from the imaging camera by adding a dedicated single IR-detector for laser return detection. This separate detection path allows precise measurement of countermeasure effectiveness without burdening the main imaging system, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single IR-detector acts as an intermediary component that specifically detects laser return signals from the missile reticle. This intermediary detector bridges the gap between the DIRCM laser and the effectiveness assessment system, providing accurate measurements without requiring complex modifications to existing systems.
2Reliability
If conventional IR imaging camera is used to detect jam-laser optical return, then detection capability is achieved, but integration time increases and sensitivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the laser return detection function from the general-purpose IR imaging camera by implementing a dedicated single IR-detector. This extraction allows the detector to be optimized specifically for detecting weak laser return signals, achieving high sensitivity and fast response without the time constraints of camera integration cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical camera system with an electronic single IR-detector for laser return detection. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical shutter operations and long integration times, providing immediate detection capability with superior sensitivity for assessing countermeasure effectiveness.
3Ease of operation
If DIRCM camera is used for determining countermeasure effectiveness, then assessment is possible, but subjective assessment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the single IR-detector continuously monitors laser return signals and provides immediate objective data on countermeasure effectiveness. This real-time feedback eliminates subjective assessment delays, allowing operators to instantly determine whether the DIRCM has successfully defeated the incoming missile threat.
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 a 100% effective countermeasure assessment and simultaneous determination of missile characteristics and range, reducing subjective assessment times and improving sensitivity by continuously monitoring laser returns and background noise.
Implementation Method 1
a single IR-detector mounted on the last optical stage of the DIRCM head... receives the laser return from the reticle of a missile
Implementation Method 2
DIRCM defeats heat seeking missiles by confusing the seeker's electronics with a high intensity laser
Data Source
AI summary
In a method for laser return characterization in a DIRCM system, the improvement locating a single IR detector in an aperture in an image mirror so that its output can be used for countermeasure effectiveness measurement, missile range measurement, missile characteristic determination and to provide an AGC signal for tracking camera gain control.