Optical Proximity Fuse Testing Using Spiral Surface Velocity Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for testing laser proximity fuses are not cost-effective, do not allow for a range of scenario testing, and pose significant safety risks due to the use of high-velocity projectiles and explosives.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for testing laser proximity fuses by simulating a closing velocity to a target along a line of sight using a static spiral surface, a folding mirror, and a drive motor to rotate the mirror, or a rotor, with converging optics for miniaturization, allowing for synchronous actuation of the fuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If shell tests or steel plates test are used to simulate closing velocity, then high closing velocity can be achieved, but safety risks and costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the target object that moves along a predetermined spiral path instead of using physical high-velocity projectiles. The virtual target replicates the optical characteristics and motion profile of a real target at high closing velocity, eliminating the need for dangerous shell tests or explosive steel plates while maintaining testing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of high-velocity physical projectiles with an optical system. A camera captures images of a virtual target displayed on a screen, and image processing algorithms calculate the apparent closing velocity. This substitution eliminates the need for actual high-speed mechanical motion, thereby removing safety risks associated with shells and explosives.
2Speed
If shell tests or steel plates test are used to simulate closing velocity, then high closing velocity can be achieved, but testing flexibility and cost-effectiveness decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic testing system where the virtual target can be programmed to follow various predetermined paths and velocity profiles. The system can adapt to different testing scenarios by modifying the virtual target's motion parameters, allowing flexible testing of multiple closing velocity scenarios without requiring physical reconfiguration of test equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal testing platform that can simulate various closing velocity scenarios, target types, and operational conditions using a single virtual target system. The same hardware infrastructure (camera, display, processing system) can be used for different test cases by software configuration, eliminating the need for multiple specialized test setups.
3Speed
If conventional testing methods are used, then high closing velocity can be simulated, but the testing system size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a virtual copy of the target object that can be displayed on a standard screen. This virtual target replaces the need for physical high-velocity target systems, reducing the testing apparatus to basic components like a camera, display device, and processing system. The virtual target can be rendered at any size and position, eliminating the need for large physical test ranges.
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
Provides a safe, cost-effective, and flexible method for testing laser proximity fuses, enabling simulation of high closing velocities without the need for pyrotechnic elements, and allowing for miniaturization of the testing system.
Implementation Method 1
a folding mirror deployed for deflecting the line of sight towards the static spiral surface
Implementation Method 2
a drive motor deployed for rotating the folding mirror such that the line of sight scans along the static spiral surface
Implementation Method 3
converging optics deployed between the support arrangement and the folding mirror, the converging optics having a focal length
Data Source
AI summary
A system (10) for testing a laser proximity fuse (PF) (12) by simulating a closing velocity to a target along a line of sight (14) includes a static spiral surface (16) and a support arrangement (18) for supporting the proximity fuse (12) with the line of sight (14) directed towards an inside of static spiral surface (16). A folding mirror (20) is driven by a drive motor (22) so as to deflect the line of sight (14) towards progressively closer regions of static spiral surface, thereby simulating a closing velocity. The system can be miniaturized by employing converging optics (24). An alternative embodiment employs a shaped rotor (32) to achieve a similar effect.