Pulsed Laser Target Jamming for Remote MEMS Disruption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for jamming micro electromechanical systems (MEMS) devices are either ineffective or costly, and methods using physical shockwaves require direct proximity to the target.
Innovation Solution
A method using an amplitude-modulated or pulsed laser to remotely jam MEMS devices by sweeping through a frequency range to find and disrupt the target frequency, generating plasma-induced sound waves within 5 ft of the target.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical shockwaves are used to disrupt MEMS devices, then the disruption effect is achieved, but direct proximity to the target is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical shockwave system with an optical system (laser). Instead of using physical shockwaves that require direct contact or proximity, the invention uses a laser beam to remotely generate plasma at the target location, which then produces acoustic waves to disrupt MEMS devices. This substitution of mechanical action with optical action enables remote operation while maintaining disruption effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces plasma as an intermediary substance. The laser beam does not directly disrupt the MEMS device but instead creates plasma in the air near the target, which then generates acoustic waves that affect the MEMS device. This intermediary plasma allows the laser to indirectly influence the target at a distance, solving the proximity requirement problem.
2Reliability
If traditional jamming methods are used, then electronic systems can be blocked or disrupted, but the equipment is expensive and ammunition is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a laser system that uses light pulses as its 'ammunition.' Unlike traditional jamming equipment that requires expensive hardware and limited physical ammunition, the laser can fire virtually unlimited numbers of light pulses at minimal cost. Each pulse creates plasma that disrupts the target, and the laser can rapidly fire successive pulses without reloading or significant wear, making it an economical solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the jamming medium from physical projectiles or RF signals to optical energy. By using laser light with specific pulse durations and intensities, the system achieves jamming effects through plasma generation rather than traditional electromagnetic interference, resulting in lower equipment costs and unlimited 'ammunition' supply.
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
This approach is more effective and economical than traditional methods, as it disrupts MEMS devices remotely and efficiently without the need for direct proximity, using inexpensive equipment with abundant ammunition.
Implementation Method 1
emitting a pulsed laser beam from the pulsed laser at the target, thereby generating plasma that causes sound waves equal to or less than 5 ft from the target
Implementation Method 2
emitting a pulsed laser beam from the pulsed laser at the target, thereby generating plasma that causes sound waves
Implementation Method 3
The pulsed laser beam is swept through a frequency range to find a target frequency, thereby jamming the target
Data Source
AI summary
A method for jamming a target includes aiming a pulsed laser at the target using a tracking system. The pulsed laser emits a pulsed laser beam at the target, thereby generating plasma that causes sound waves equal to or less than 5 ft from the target. The pulsed laser beam is swept with a frequency range to find a target frequency, thereby jamming the target.