Quick-Mount Laser Warning Receiver for Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser warning receivers (LWRs) are ineffective in detecting continuous wave (CW) laser threats from individuals on the ground, which can distract pilots and cause eye damage, especially during takeoff and landing, and there is a lack of affordable solutions for retrofitting commercial or military aircraft.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained, quick-mount laser warning receiver that can be detachably mounted on the inside of a window with a manually rotatable field-of-view (FOV) and human-machine interface (HMIF) to detect CW and pulsed laser threats, providing visual or audio warnings, and is configured to accommodate both flat and curved surfaces with various mounting mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional LWR systems are used, then detection capability for military laser threats is provided, but detection of CW laser pointer threats from individuals on the ground is ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameters by enabling the LWR to detect both pulsed and continuous wave laser threats. The system uses adjustable detection modes and sensitivity settings to differentiate between military laser threats and CW laser pointers, improving reliability for the previously undetected threat type while maintaining capability for traditional threats.
Solution Approach 2:
The LWR system is designed with multi-functionality to detect various types of laser threats including both pulsed laser threats from military systems and continuous wave laser threats from individuals. The universal detection capability allows a single device to address multiple threat scenarios, making the system adaptable to different laser threat types without requiring separate specialized detectors.
2Ease of operation
If fixed mounting systems are used, then installation is simple, but adjustment of FOV and HMIF orientation is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustability where the FOV and HMIF can be manually rotated and repositioned after mounting. The mounting system combines a simple fixed mounting interface with dynamic adjustment capabilities through rotatable mounting brackets and adjustable positioning mechanisms, allowing operators to optimize the orientation of both the field of view and human-machine interface according to specific operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is segmented into separate adjustable components including rotatable mounting brackets and independent FOV/HMIF positioning mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be adjusted independently, providing flexibility in orientation while keeping the overall mounting structure relatively simple and modular.
3Productivity
If integrated mounting systems are used, then the LWR is securely attached, but quick removal and repositioning is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates preliminary positioning features such as alignment guides and pre-configured mounting brackets that facilitate quick and accurate attachment. The design includes pre-prepared mounting interfaces and alignment mechanisms that enable rapid installation while ensuring secure attachment, reducing the time required for both mounting and demounting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system transitions from a static fixed mounting to a dynamic quick-release mechanism. The rotatable mounting brackets and adjustable positioning features allow for rapid repositioning and secure attachment, enabling operators to quickly adjust the LWR position during operations while maintaining reliable mounting security when in place.
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 provides effective detection and warning of laser threats, enhancing pilot safety by allowing manual adjustment of the FOV and HMIF for optimal threat visualization and warning display, addressing the specific vulnerability to CW laser pointers and other laser-based threats.
Implementation Method 1
an optical detector positioned to detect laser radiation within the field-of-view through the optically transparent window
Data Source
AI summary
A laser warning receiver that can be detachably mounted on the inside of a window of a manned platform to detect laser threats within its field-of-view (FOV) and to provide visual or audio warnings to the human occupant. The LWR is fully self-contained and independent of any systems on the manned platform. In different packaging configurations, the receiver's FOV can be manually rotated to better visualize the threat and/or the receiver's human-machine interface (HMIF) can be manually rotated to better display the warnings. Although most typically used in manned aircraft the LWR can be used in other manned vehicles or ships.