Actuator for Positioning Optical Filters in Laser Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical devices for remote interchanging of optical filters in high energy laser systems are cumbersome and difficult to operate, especially in locations where personnel access is restricted, due to the need for manual installation and removal of neutral density filters, which complicates camera settings and positioning.
Innovation Solution
A remotely actuated filter system comprising a base, frames, an axial shaft, filter housings, and pivotable drivers allows for the remote deployment and withdrawal of optical filters, enabling precise control and adjustment without disturbing the camera's position or settings, using miniature electric linear actuators and oil-impregnated bronze bushings for smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual installation and removal of neutral density filters is used, then the camera can be accessed and filters can be installed, but the process becomes burdensome when the camera is located where personnel access is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical filter installation with an automated actuation system. Electric motors drive a series of gears and linkages that automatically position filters into and out of the camera's field of view, eliminating the need for personnel to physically access and manually install filters.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter positioning system is self-actuating through an automated control mechanism. The system monitors camera settings and automatically positions the appropriate filter without human intervention, allowing the system to serve itself in filter management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If neutral density filters are installed manually, then filters can be changed, but camera positioning and optimization must be disturbed during filter installation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary positioning of the camera and optimization of camera settings before filter installation is required. The automated filter positioning mechanism is pre-configured to install filters without moving the camera, allowing camera positioning and optimization to be completed in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter positioning system is divided into separate modular components including individual filter holders, actuation mechanisms, and control systems. This segmentation allows the filter changing function to be independent from camera positioning, enabling filter changes without disturbing camera placement.
3Extent of automation
If remote filter control is implemented, then manual intervention is reduced, but the mechanism becomes more complex with multiple moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is designed as a universal system that can position multiple different filters of varying sizes and types. A single actuator assembly with adjustable linkages can handle various filter configurations, reducing the need for separate mechanisms for each filter type.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter holders and actuation components are designed with nested structures where smaller components fit within larger ones. The filter holders can be nested within the housing, and the actuation linkages are compactly arranged to minimize overall mechanism size and complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator mechanism is provided for disposing a plurality of filters into and out of a camera line-of-sight. The mechanism includes a base, a pair of frames, an axial shaft, a plurality of filter housings and a plurality of pivotable drivers. The base includes an auxiliary platform. The frames flank the base, and the shaft is disposed between the frames. Each filter housing holds a corresponding optical filter and is disposable in a deployment position in the line-of-sight and a withdrawn position out of the line-of-sight. The drivers are disposed on the platform. Each driver corresponds to an associated housing and is rotatable along the shaft to swing at least one housing between deployment and withdrawn positions upon command.