Programmable IR Beacon Synchronization and Code Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current beacons used in night vision applications for identifying friend or foe in low light conditions have limitations in range, battery efficiency, code storage, and synchronization, leading to inefficiencies and potential fratricide in military and law enforcement operations.
Innovation Solution
The development of programmable infrared (IR) beacons with enhanced features such as extended signaling range, improved battery utilization, constant brightness, increased code storage, synchronization capabilities, and ergonomic design, allowing for centralized code management and transfer, and activation by trip-wire or monitoring methods, enabling precise identification and classification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If prior art beacons are used for identification in low light conditions, then covert signaling is achieved, but the signaling range is limited and battery efficiency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The beacon employs periodic flashing patterns of infrared LEDs to transmit identification codes. By using intermittent signaling rather than continuous emission, the system extends signaling range through pulse concentration while conserving battery power through periodic rest intervals.
Solution Approach 2:
The system varies the flash rate and pattern parameters of the infrared LEDs to encode different identification information. By changing temporal parameters (flash duration, interval, pattern sequence) rather than increasing power continuously, the beacon extends effective signaling range while maintaining improved battery efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple signaling codes are stored in volatile memory, then code changing is enabled, but codes are lost when battery is disconnected
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines both volatile memory (for active code storage and rapid access) and non-volatile memory (for permanent code retention) into a unified code management system. This merging allows the beacon to maintain multiple signaling codes with different retention characteristics, enabling both code changing capability and reliable code preservation across power cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
Signaling codes are pre-loaded into non-volatile memory during manufacturing or initial setup. This preliminary action ensures that identification codes are already available and retained permanently, eliminating the need for re-entry after battery disconnection while maintaining the ability to change codes when needed.
3Reliability
If beacons are deployed for identification, then fratricide risk is reduced, but synchronization between multiple beacons is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where beacons can detect and respond to signals from other beacons. Through infrared communication and timing analysis, beacons automatically adjust their signaling to achieve synchronization, enhancing identification accuracy without requiring complex manual coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple beacons are synchronized to operate at the same temporal reference level, creating equipotential timing across the network. This synchronization ensures that all beacons transmit their identification codes simultaneously or in coordinated sequences, improving reliability of group identification while managing complexity through standardized timing protocols.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual code entry is required for each beacon, then individual customization is possible, but time and operational efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables copying of signaling codes between beacons through direct infrared communication or centralized distribution. Codes can be replicated from a master beacon or central authority to multiple field beacons, maintaining individual customization capabilities while dramatically improving deployment efficiency by eliminating manual code entry for each unit.
Solution Approach 2:
A centralized code management system performs multiple functions: storing master code lists, generating unique codes, validating code integrity, and distributing codes to multiple beacons. This universal system handles all code management tasks across the entire beacon network, improving productivity while maintaining adaptability for individual beacon customization.
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 improved beacons provide a more reliable and efficient means of identification and classification in low light conditions, extending range, conserving battery power, and ensuring consistent signaling, reducing the risk of fratricide and enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a beacon emits a unique flashing Infrared (IR) signature that facilitates effortless nighttime identification and classification of a distant target or location by a remote observer using night vision equipment
Implementation Method 2
Night vision equipment are light-intensifying systems and operate by amplifying visible and near infrared light
Implementation Method 3
The IR beacon signature is distinguished from operational surroundings by means of an intense concentrated energy pulse, coupled with a unique flashing sequence, referred to as the signaling code of the beacon. When viewed through a night vision device, the beacon signature cuts through fog, smoke and darkness
Data Source
AI summary
A programmable infrared beacon having an electronics circuit with a microprocessor contained within a transparent housing. A number of signaling infrared light emitting diodes are provided within the housing and connected to the electronics circuit. The beacon has a number of pins for inputting programs and controls and a number of color-coded light emitting diodes within the housing indicating the inputted program. An infrared received sub-circuit is provided to receive instructions from an external source. A programmer unit is also provided to prepare and transmit programs and controls to the beacon. Synchronization and cascading among beacons is provided with synchronization and delay programs within the microprocessor. An infrared detector is also provided to allow synchronization reception among beacons. In an alternate embodiment, a radio frequency transceiver and antenna is added to each beacon.