DIRCM Laser Return Characterization via Split Optical Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional DIRCM systems face limitations in efficiently characterizing laser returns due to additional processing requirements, long integration times, reduced camera sensitivity, and asynchronous returns, which hinder effective threat classification and jam code algorithm selection.
Innovation Solution
A split or shared path method is implemented in the DIRCM system, utilizing a single detector mounted on the gimbal to collect laser returns, providing rangefinding data and enabling background noise measurement, with a wide-band wavelength detector to correlate missile types, thereby unburdening the track camera from processing limitations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional approaches use existing fine-track-sensor or IR imaging camera to detect jam-laser optical return, then laser return detection is achieved, but additional processing requirements and long integration times are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The optical path is segmented into two separate paths: a dedicated return-path for collecting laser return signals and a primary path for normal tracking operations. This segmentation allows the return-path detector to specialize in laser return detection with optimized parameters, eliminating the need for long integration times required by conventional shared-path approaches.
Solution Approach 2:
A dedicated detector is introduced as an intermediary component specifically for laser return detection. This intermediary device handles the specialized task of detecting weak laser return signals without burdening the main tracking camera, thereby reducing processing requirements and integration time while maintaining detection precision.
2Measurement precision
If conventional approaches use existing fine-track-sensor or IR imaging camera to detect jam-laser optical return, then laser return detection is achieved, but camera sensitivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into a dedicated return-path with specialized detector, separating laser return detection from normal tracking operations. This prevents the main camera from being affected by the demanding requirements of laser return detection, preserving its sensitivity for primary tracking functions while achieving high precision in laser return characterization.
Solution Approach 2:
A dedicated detector serves as an intermediary that handles the challenging task of detecting weak laser return signals. This intermediary protects the main tracking camera from sensitivity degradation by isolating the demanding detection requirements to a specialized component optimized for this specific function.
3Measurement precision
If conventional approaches use existing fine-track-sensor or IR imaging camera to detect jam-laser optical return, then laser return detection is achieved, but processing burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments processing functions by dedicating a separate optical path and detector to laser return detection. This segmentation allows specialized signal processing for return-path signals, reducing the processing burden on the main tracking system and enabling more efficient threat classification and jam code selection.
Solution Approach 2:
A dedicated detector acts as an intermediary that pre-processes and characterizes laser return signals before they reach the main tracking system. This intermediary handling of signal characterization reduces the processing burden on downstream systems, enabling faster and more efficient threat response.
4Measurement precision
If conventional approaches use existing fine-track-sensor or IR imaging camera to detect jam-laser optical return, then laser return detection is achieved, but asynchronous returns occur
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented optical path with dedicated return-path detector enables precise timing and synchronization of laser return detection. The separate path can be optimized for synchronous detection with the transmitted laser pulses, improving reliability by eliminating asynchronous returns that occur in shared-path conventional approaches.
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
This approach enhances the determination of threat lethality, improves camera sensitivity, and reduces processing burdens, enabling more accurate threat classification and efficient jam code selection.
Implementation Method 1
A single detector is added and dedicated to collect laser returns
Data Source
AI summary
A method for laser return characterization in a DIRCM system, wherein the improvement comprises the step of using a split or shared path.