Focal Plane Array Switching Modes for DIRCM Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional directed infrared countermeasures (Dircm) systems face inefficiencies due to the need for pre-composed disturbance codes that may not effectively target specific missiles and the complexity of aligning sensors, leading to reduced effectiveness and range in detecting and classifying fast-moving threats.
Innovation Solution
A Focal Plane Array that can switch between integrating and pulse modes, allowing for real-time conversion of light signals into electrical signals, enabling the detection of both slow and fast events, and integrating pulse detection to filter out background noise, thus enhancing the detection of laser pulses and improving the classification of aircraft types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional open-loop DIRCM system uses pre-composed disturbance codes, then the system structure is simple, but the effectiveness is reduced because the codes may not target specific missiles and waste time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between integrating mode and pulse mode in the focal plane array, allowing the system to adapt its detection characteristics in real-time based on the detected missile type, transitioning from static pre-programmed codes to dynamic mode selection
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (integration time, pulse width) based on detected missile characteristics, adjusting the focal plane array's response time and sensitivity to match the specific threat, thereby improving countermeasure effectiveness
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate sensors are used for tracking and closed-loop detection, then the field of view requirements are met, but the system complexity increases and alignment precision is difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The focal plane array is designed to perform multiple functions (tracking and closed-loop detection) within a single sensor platform, eliminating the need for separate tracking sensors and closed-loop detectors while maintaining the required fields of view for both functions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the tracking sensor and closed-loop detector into a single focal plane array unit, merging previously separate optical paths and sensor systems into one integrated detector that handles both functions simultaneously
3Measurement precision
If the focal plane array operates in integrating mode only, then the detection of slow events is good, but the detection of fast laser pulses is poor due to background noise
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between integrating mode and pulse mode based on the detected event type, using integrating mode for slow thermal events and pulse mode for fast laser pulses, thereby optimizing detection sensitivity for each scenario
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the focal plane array by adjusting the integration time and pulse width settings, reducing integration time for pulse mode detection to minimize background noise accumulation while maintaining sensitivity for fast transient signals
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 solution simplifies the system structure, increases sensitivity, and extends the range by eliminating the need for separate sensors, allowing for more efficient adaptation and classification of threats with improved signal-to-background ratios and reduced data rates.
Implementation Method 1
Each pixel comprises a photodiode configured to receive light and to convert it into electrical charge carriers
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5(A)~5(C)
AI summary
A focal plane array for a detector is configured to switch between an integrating mode, in which the focal plane array is configured to receive light over an integration time and convert it into an electrical signal after the integration time has elapsed, and a pulsed mode, in which the focal plane array is configured to receive light and convert it directly into an electrical signal, without waiting for the integration time to elapse.