Phased Array LIDAR for Ballistic Ordnance Topography Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuse technologies for ballistic ordnance, such as Height of Burst (HoB) fusing, cannot adjust explosive direction based on topographical features of the ground surface, leading to suboptimal explosion patterns.
Innovation Solution
A phased-array LIDAR system integrated with the ordnance maps ground surface topography using coherent light beams, allowing for non-mechanical steering and detection, enabling control of the timing and direction of the explosive burst based on calculated topography.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a HoB sensor is used to detect vertical distance, then the height above ground surface can be determined, but the sensor cannot detect topographical features and the explosive direction is predetermined
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical scanning systems with a phased array LIDAR system that uses electronic beam steering to detect topographical features. The phased array technology allows multiple beams to be directed at different angles simultaneously by controlling the phase of light emitted from different elements of the array, enabling comprehensive terrain mapping without mechanical movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from one-dimensional vertical height measurement by HoB sensors to three-dimensional topographical mapping by LIDAR. The LIDAR system measures not only height but also horizontal position and angle information, creating a comprehensive 3D representation of the terrain that enables adaptive explosive direction control.
2Ease of manufacture
If predetermined explosive patterns are used, then the explosion direction is fixed prior to launch, but the patterns do not optimize explosion direction based on real-time terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback loop where LIDAR continuously maps the terrain during flight, and this real-time topographical data feeds back to the control system to dynamically adjust the explosive direction. This closed-loop control allows the ordnance to adapt to actual terrain conditions rather than relying on predetermined patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transforms the static, predetermined explosive patterns into dynamic, adaptive patterns that can change in real-time based on terrain feedback. The control system can modify the explosive direction and timing during flight to optimize the burst pattern according to the actual topographical features detected by LIDAR.
3Measurement precision
If traditional LIDAR systems with mechanical scanners are used, then terrain mapping is possible, but the systems are complex and cannot be integrated into small ordnance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical scanning components by using a phased array LIDAR system with electronic beam steering. This solid-state approach removes moving parts, reducing mechanical complexity and enabling integration into small ordnance platforms where space and weight are constrained.
Solution Approach 2:
The phased array LIDAR system performs multiple functions: it maps terrain topography, determines distance to ground, identifies target locations, and provides data for explosive direction control. This multi-functional capability reduces the need for separate sensing systems, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
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 the explosive charge to be directed optimally relative to the ground surface, improving the precision and effectiveness of the explosion event by considering real-time terrain features.
Implementation Method 1
a laser that generates, in response to receiving from the controller a timing signal at an emission time, a pulse of coherent light
Implementation Method 2
a phased array that modulates, in response to receiving from the controller a plurality of signals indicative of a plurality of emission angles, phases of the pulse of coherent light to form a beam of light directed at one of the emission angles
Implementation Method 3
detecting, at a detection time, the beam of light reflected by a ground surface
Implementation Method 4
the beam of light reflected by a ground surface
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus and associated methods relate to controlling an explosive burst event of a ballistic ordnance, based on a ground surface topography mapped by a phased-array LIDAR system. The ground surface topography is mapped using an integrated photonics LIDAR system configured to: generate a beam of coherent light; non-mechanically steer a beam of coherent light over a solid angle about an ordnance axis; and detect the beam reflected from the ground surface. The integrated photonics LIDAR system is further configured to map the ground surface topography, based on a functional relation between an angle of the beam and a time difference between generating the beam and detecting the beam reflected from the ground surface. A timing and/or direction of the explosive burst can be controlled, based on the calculated ground surface topography, so as to advantageously realize a desired effect of the explosion.