Laser Source Location System Using Pixelated Sensor Mask
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current avionics systems are inadequate in accurately detecting the source of laser beams during critical flight events due to imprecise location reports and the high cost of existing detectors that can only determine the angle of incidence along a single axis.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a pixelated sensor with a mask to project an image of a window portion onto the sensor, allowing for the calculation of laser beam angle of incidence along two orthogonal axes, combined with position and attitude sensors to determine the source direction of the laser beam relative to the aircraft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sensor system capable of locating a laser beam source in three dimensional space is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-axis angle of incidence measurement to two-axis measurement by adding a second detector array positioned perpendicular to the first. This dimensional expansion enables three-dimensional source location determination while maintaining cost-effectiveness through the use of relatively simple detector arrays rather than complex single-point sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the measurement function across multiple components: a first array of detectors for one axis, a second array of detectors for the perpendicular axis, and a processor that integrates the data. This segmentation allows each component to be simpler and more cost-effective while achieving the combined goal of precise three-dimensional source localization
2Device complexity
If existing detectors determining angle of incidence along a single axis are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two single-axis detection systems into a unified two-axis measurement platform. The first and second detector arrays, along with their respective processing circuits, work together to provide comprehensive angular measurement in both dimensions, thereby achieving precise source location determination while keeping individual components relatively simple
3Loss of time
If location reports are made based on momentary perception during high-speed flight, then response time is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is pre-positioned and continuously monitoring, ready to capture laser beam data immediately upon incidence. The mask and detector arrays are already in place to project and measure the beam position, eliminating the need for complex real-time calculations during high-speed flight and enabling accurate measurement without delaying response
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 precise detection of laser beam sources in three-dimensional space at a lower cost, improving flight safety by providing accurate location information and reducing the risk of future laser strikes.
Implementation Method 1
When the laser impinges upon the mask an image of the window portion is projected onto the pixelated sensor
Implementation Method 2
A pixelated sensor that is sensitive to the laser beam
Data Source
AI summary
A system for detecting a direction of a source of a laser beam includes a pixelated sensor that is sensitive to the laser beam. A mask is disposed between the source of a laser beam and the pixelated sensor. The mask includes an opaque portion that is opaque to the laser beam and a window portion that is at least translucent to the laser beam. When the laser impinges upon the mask an image of the window portion is projected onto the pixelated sensor. A processor determines an angle of incidence of the laser beam with respect to the mask by determining a number of pixels that the image of the window is offset from where the image of the window would be if the laser beam had been normal to the mask.