Panoramic Laser Detection Device with Non-Contiguous Sensor Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser detection systems for large structures and naval vessels are large in size due to multiple optical channels and lack the ability to distinguish between different wavelengths, making it difficult to identify specific laser threats.
Innovation Solution
A panoramic laser pulse detection device with multiple optical channels, each containing two non-contiguous linear sensor arrays sensitive to at least two wavelengths, allowing for continuous angular coverage and wavelength differentiation using optical juxtaposition and wavelength separation means like dichroic plates or filters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical channels are used for detecting different wavelengths, then wavelength discrimination capability is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the detection function by using non-contiguous linear sensor arrays within each optical channel, where different segments (sensor arrays) detect different wavelengths. This allows wavelength discrimination without requiring completely separate optical channels for each wavelength, thereby reducing the overall device size while maintaining multi-wavelength detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a spatial arrangement where each wavelength requires a separate optical channel to a spectral arrangement where wavelengths are separated within the same optical channel using dichroic plates and non-contiguous sensor arrays. This dimensional change in the detection architecture allows multiple wavelengths to be handled within a compact shared optical path.
2Reliability
If separate optical channels are used for each sensor array, then detection sensitivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple detection functions into a single optical channel by using non-contiguous linear sensor arrays that are optically coupled to one telescope. Different segments of the sensor array detect different wavelengths simultaneously within the same optical path, eliminating the need for multiple separate optical channels and reducing system complexity while maintaining detection sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single optical channel is designed to perform multiple detection functions simultaneously by using non-contiguous sensor arrays that can detect different wavelengths. The same optical components (telescope, dichroic plates) serve multiple wavelength detection purposes, making the system multi-functional without requiring separate dedicated channels for each wavelength.
3Area of stationary object
If non-contiguous sensor arrays are used in each optical channel, then device size is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dichroic plates as intermediary optical elements that facilitate the separation of wavelengths within the single optical channel. These plates are positioned at specific angles (typically 45 degrees) to reflect certain wavelengths toward specific sensor array segments while allowing other wavelengths to pass through. This intermediary component enables precise wavelength routing without requiring extremely tight mechanical tolerances on the sensor array positioning itself.
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 solution reduces the overall size of the detection system while enabling the discrimination between different laser threats across a wide angular field, providing effective panoramic surveillance for naval and building security.
Implementation Method 1
two linear sensor arrays sensitive to said two wavelengths separated from each other in order to observe separate angular fields
Implementation Method 2
optical means for guiding said light beams in said optical channel
Implementation Method 3
optical means for guiding said light beams in said optical channel
Implementation Method 4
wavelength separation means like dichroic plates or filters
Data Source
AI summary
A panoramic device for detection of laser pulses is provided, sensitive to at least two wavelengths and including a plurality of optical channels and a set of linear sensor arrays, each linear sensor array including a photosensitive area. Each optical channel includes at least two linear sensor arrays, the respective photosensitive areas of said at least two linear sensor arrays being non-contiguous, so that said at least two linear sensor arrays of each optical channel observe non-contiguous angular fields. Moreover, the optical channels are optically juxtaposed to obtain a continuous angular field of surveillance.