Micro-Photonic Laser Threat Detection System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current threat detection systems are inadequate in rapidly and effectively detecting and attributing laser threats to aircraft and unmanned aerial systems, which pose risks of disorientation, eye injury, and equipment damage due to the increasing incidents of laser illumination.
Innovation Solution
A laser detection, avoidance, and attribution system comprising low-profile, micro-sized photonic detectors optimized to detect specific wavelengths and exploit the coherent nature of laser light, integrated with a control unit for high-speed signal processing and a display for near-instantaneous warning cues, and a countermeasure system for protective actions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional threat detection systems are used, then detection capability is limited, but system complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple independent photonic detectors, each optimized for specific wavelength ranges. This allows the system to maintain high detection capability across broad spectral ranges while keeping individual detector components simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The photonic detectors are designed with multi-functionality to detect various laser wavelengths and types through a unified detection architecture. This universal approach eliminates the need for multiple specialized detection systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive detection capability.
2Speed
If traditional detection systems are used, then response time is slow, but detection precision may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The photonic detectors are pre-configured with wavelength-specific optimization and coherent light detection capabilities before threat exposure. This preliminary preparation enables immediate high-precision detection upon laser threat exposure, achieving both rapid response time and high detection precision simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system utilizes parameter changes in laser characteristics (wavelength, coherence, polarization) to enhance detection precision. By monitoring these physical parameters, the system achieves high precision threat identification while maintaining fast response times through optimized detection circuitry.
3Reliability
If laser detection system is added to aircraft, then detection capability improves, but aerodynamic impact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The photonic detectors are housed in thin, aerodynamically streamlined enclosures that minimize disruption to airflow. The low-profile design of detector housing and integration into aircraft surfaces reduces drag and aerodynamic interference while maintaining full laser detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is integrated into the aircraft's surface geometry, transitioning from protruding external sensors to flush-mounted detectors. This dimensional integration eliminates protrusions that would create aerodynamic disturbances, allowing the detection system to operate effectively without compromising flight performance.
4Volume of moving object
If micro-sized photonic detectors are used, then system profile is reduced, but detection coverage may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple photonic detectors with different spectral sensitivities are nested within a compact integrated housing. This nested arrangement allows small micro-sized detectors to work together in a coordinated manner, achieving comprehensive wavelength coverage and broad detection coverage while maintaining a minimal system profile.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple detectors are merged into a unified detection system with shared signal processing and control electronics. This combination allows the system to achieve extended detection coverage across multiple wavelength ranges while keeping the overall detector package compact and low-profile through shared structural and electronic resources.
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
The system provides continuous, three-dimensional surveillance and rapid detection of laser threats, enabling immediate warning and protective measures to safeguard aircraft and personnel, minimizing aerodynamic impact and ensuring effective threat attribution and geo-location.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor system illustratively comprises a photonic detector
Implementation Method 2
the sensor system may exploit the coherent nature of laser light
Implementation Method 3
the sensor system may exploit the polarization state of the laser
Data Source
AI summary
A threat detection system is disclosed. The threat detection system may also determine the location of the threat. The treat detection system may determine the threat attributes. The threat detection system may detect lasers.