Laser Scintillation Crosswind Measurement for Precise Aiming
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Manual estimation of crosswind speed by weapon operators introduces inaccuracies, leading to projectile miss, especially at longer ranges, due to variability in crosswind speed along the projectile's trajectory.
Innovation Solution
Measuring crosswind speed through optical detection of laser scintillation patterns caused by atmospheric eddies, using a system that projects radiation, receives scintillation patterns, and calculates a cumulative weighted average cross-movement to determine crosswind speed, enabling real-time accurate adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual visual observation is used to estimate crosswind speed, then the operation is simple and quick, but the measurement precision is low leading to projectile miss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual observation (mechanical/human system) with an optical measurement system that detects laser scintillation patterns. The system uses a laser source, photodetector array, and processing unit to automatically measure crosswind speed by analyzing scintillation pattern movements, thereby eliminating human estimation errors while maintaining operational simplicity through automated calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces laser scintillation patterns as an intermediary medium between the wind and the measurement system. The laser beam interacts with atmospheric eddies caused by crosswind, creating scintillation patterns that encode wind speed information. This intermediary allows indirect but precise measurement of crosswind speed without direct contact with the wind flow.
2Reliability
If manual estimation is used, then no additional equipment is needed, but the reliability of projectile impact is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the optical measurement device continuously monitors crosswind speed and provides real-time data to the weapon system. The processed scintillation pattern information feeds back to adjust aiming calculations, ensuring that projectile impact accuracy is maintained despite varying wind conditions. This closed-loop feedback enhances reliability while the automated nature keeps operational complexity low.
3Measurement precision
If manual observation is used, then the process is quick, but the measurement precision deteriorates at longer ranges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurement setup by positioning the laser source and photodetector array before engagement. The system pre-calibrates the optical path and establishes baseline scintillation patterns. This preliminary action allows rapid subsequent measurements at any range without requiring time-consuming manual observation or recalibration, thereby maintaining both precision and speed across varying distances.
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
Enhances projectile accuracy by providing highly accurate, real-time crosswind speed measurements, allowing for precise weapon aiming adjustments, independent of weather conditions, and reducing the need for manual estimation.
Implementation Method 1
a laser transmitter to emit laser radiation
Implementation Method 2
laser radiation scintillating when passing through the atmospheric eddies
Implementation Method 3
a photodetector array to receive the laser radiation scintillating
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes methods and systems for measuring crosswind speed by optical measurement of laser scintillation. One method includes projecting radiation into a medium, receiving, over time, with a photodetector receiver, a plurality of scintillation patterns of scattered radiation, comparing cumulative a radiation intensity for each received scintillation pattern of the received plurality of scintillation patterns, and measuring a cumulative weighted average cross-movement within the medium using the compared cumulative radiation intensities.