Distance Determination via Spectral Intensity Gradient
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the distance of an object emitting an IR signature, such as missiles, are imprecise and slow, particularly when using passive sensors like DE 195 46 873 C1 and DE 34 14 798 A1, which rely on discrete wavelength measurements and are influenced by atmospheric conditions.
Innovation Solution
Measuring the spectral intensity distribution in atmospheric absorption structures, specifically around CO2 absorption lines, and using an electrically tunable wavelength filter with a periodically varying control voltage to determine the spectral position of intensity flanks, allowing for precise distance calculation independent of the object's spectral distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If discrete wavelength measurements are used to determine distance, then the measurement method is simple, but the measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from discrete wavelength measurements (one-dimensional sampling) to continuous spectral intensity distribution measurements (adding the spectral dimension). By measuring the entire spectral distribution rather than isolated wavelengths, the system gains additional information dimensions that enable more precise distance determination through analysis of the spectral shape and atmospheric absorption features.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from discrete wavelength points to continuous spectral intensity distribution. This parameter change allows exploitation of the spectral shape characteristics, particularly the points of maximum gradient in the intensity distribution, which contain encoded distance information through atmospheric absorption effects that are not accessible through discrete measurements.
2Measurement precision
If spectral intensity distribution is measured and analyzed, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the critical feature from the spectral intensity distribution - the point of maximum gradient - rather than processing the entire spectral curve. This extraction approach maintains high measurement precision by focusing on the most informative part of the spectrum while significantly reducing computational complexity and processing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical scanning systems with an electrically tunable wavelength filter that can be controlled by periodic voltage variations. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while enabling rapid spectral scanning and measurement of the intensity distribution without moving mechanical components.
3Device complexity
If discrete wavelength ranges are used, then the sensor system is simpler, but the detection speed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic variation of the control voltage to the electrically tunable wavelength filter, creating a periodic scanning action through the spectral range. This periodic action enables rapid cycling through wavelengths without mechanical movement, significantly increasing detection speed while maintaining a relatively simple sensor structure based on electrical control.
4Measurement precision
If atmospheric absorption structures are utilized for distance determination, then measurement precision improves, but the method becomes more sensitive to atmospheric conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses feedback by comparing the measured spectral intensity distribution with known atmospheric transmission data. This comparison enables the system to account for and compensate for variations in atmospheric conditions, maintaining high measurement precision even when atmospheric parameters change. The feedback mechanism allows real-time adjustment based on actual atmospheric state.
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 faster and more precise determination of object distance and speed by focusing on the point of maximum gradient in the spectral intensity distribution, improving accuracy and signal processing to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio and detect weak structures.
Implementation Method 1
the spectral intensity distribution, also referred to as the intensity distribution spectrum, of a detected object is measured in the area of an absorption structure in the atmosphere
Implementation Method 2
an imaging passive sensor that detects the approaching object in at least two wavelength ranges
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining the distance of an object flying through the atmosphere and emitting radiation energy, wherein the spectral intensity distribution of the radiation emitted by the object in a predetermined wavelength range is detected, in the region of an absorption structure of the atmosphere an intensity distribution spectrum of the object is measured, a point having an extremal gradient on a flank of an intensity increase or drop caused by the atmospheric absorption structure in the measured intensity distribution spectrum is determined, and by comparison to the known transmission data of the atmosphere the path length traveled by the radiation through the atmosphere, and consequently the distance between the detector and object are determined.