Dual-Wavelength Turbulence Estimation via Ratio Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current turbulence measurement methods provide inaccurate estimates, especially for shorter wavelengths due to factors like scintillation and sky background, which can impact applications such as laser weapon performance and imaging systems.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses both shorter and longer wavelengths to form optical patterns on an image sensor, generating turbulence estimates for each and adjusting the shorter wavelength estimate based on a ratio of the two to correct for errors, thereby improving the accuracy of turbulence measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If turbulence estimation is performed using shorter wavelengths, then measurement sensitivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to scintillation and sky background errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a longer wavelength as an intermediary measurement to correct errors in the shorter wavelength turbulence estimate. The longer wavelength measurement serves as a mediator that is less affected by scintillation and sky background, allowing correction of the primary shorter wavelength estimate through ratio-based error correction data
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by using the longer wavelength turbulence estimate to generate error correction data that is applied back to the shorter wavelength estimate. This closed-loop approach continuously refines the turbulence measurement by feeding the more reliable longer wavelength data back into the estimation process
2Measurement precision
If single wavelength turbulence measurement is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to wavelength-specific errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by using two different wavelengths for the same turbulence measurement purpose. The shorter wavelength provides primary measurement sensitivity while the longer wavelength provides error correction capability, allowing a single system to perform both high-precision measurement and error correction functions
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 accuracy of turbulence estimation by reducing errors associated with shorter wavelengths, providing a more reliable assessment of turbulence conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The first optics are configured to form a first optical pattern on the image sensor. The second optics are configured to form a second optical pattern on the image sensor.
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes an image sensor, first optics, second optics, and a processor. The first optics are configured to form a first optical pattern (OP) on the image sensor. The first OP is associated with a first wavelength. The second optics are configured to form a second OP on the image sensor. The second OP is associated with a second wavelength that is longer than the first wavelength. The processor is configured to generate a first turbulence estimate based on relative motion of the first OP, to generate a second turbulence estimate based on relative motion of the second OP, and to generate error correction data. The processor is also configured to adjust the first turbulence estimate based on the error correction data and the second turbulence estimate to determine an estimated turbulence value. The processor may also be configured to estimate a wind profile, a turbulence profile, or both.