Remote Platform Munitions Detection Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional remote optical detection of munitions is hindered by signal-to-clutter ratios, limited range due to atmospheric interference, and the risk of pre-detonation from high-powered beams, requiring prior knowledge of target locations and posing safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A remote platform enhanced munitions detection system separates the signal source from the detector, using a mobile platform with an articulating arm and reflector to position detectors closer to targets, enabling non-line-of-sight measurements and leveraging advanced spectroscopy techniques like LIBS, CARS, and DIAL, with a remote processing system for signal analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If high powered optical beams are used for sensing, then detection range is extended, but explosives or other munitions may be pre-detonated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the wavelength parameter of the optical beam to eye-safe wavelengths (1050-2100 nm range), which allows extended detection range while reducing the harmful effect of pre-detonation. This parameter change enables the system to operate at higher powers without the same level of risk to personnel and targets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a remote platform as an intermediary between the operator and the detection process. The platform carries the optical sensing equipment and can be positioned at safe distances, allowing high-powered beams to be used for extended range detection while the operator remains protected from potential pre-detonation effects.
2Device complexity
If conventional optical sensing techniques are used, then equipment complexity is reduced, but signal to clutter ratios deteriorate in areas surrounding measurement targets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs advanced spectroscopy techniques (Raman, CARS, LIBS, DIAL) that operate at specific wavelength parameters to achieve molecular fingerprinting of explosives. These techniques provide superior signal-to-clutter ratios by targeting specific molecular vibrations and transitions, enabling precise detection even in complex environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a mobile remote platform that can dynamically position itself to optimize detection angles and distances. This dynamic positioning capability allows the system to adapt to different measurement scenarios and maintain optimal signal-to-clutter ratios by adjusting the platform's location and orientation relative to targets.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If remote detection is performed from standoff positions, then personnel safety is improved, but signal loss increases due to atmospheric clutter and attenuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent selects specific wavelength parameters within the eye-safe range (1050-2100 nm) that correspond to atmospheric transmission windows. These wavelength choices minimize atmospheric absorption and scattering, reducing signal loss while maintaining personnel safety through extended standoff distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical sensing systems with advanced optical spectroscopy techniques that are inherently more sensitive and can detect explosive signatures at longer ranges. This substitution enables meaningful detection signals to be obtained from standoff positions despite atmospheric attenuation.
4Measurement precision
If prior knowledge of specific locations is required, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability to unknown targets deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs advanced spectroscopy techniques (Raman, CARS, LIBS, DIAL) that provide molecular fingerprinting capabilities, enabling the system to identify and characterize unknown explosive materials based on their unique spectral signatures. This allows the system to adapt to previously unknown targets while maintaining high measurement precision through spectral analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-characterization of unknown targets by automatically analyzing their spectral signatures. The advanced spectroscopy techniques enable the platform to identify explosive materials and their properties without requiring prior knowledge or manual input, making the system self-sufficient in adapting to new threats.
Data Source
AI summary
Remote platform enhanced munitions detection can support improved detection of munitions by separating the signal source platform from a detector on a remote mobile platform. The source platform may support a large, complex, or expensive optical laser or radio frequency source. The source platform may also support a remote signal processing system. The electromagnetic source may be used to illuminate munitions or threat material from a standoff distance. The mobile platform may be maneuvered and positioned closer to the measurement target. The mobile platform may be equipped with an appropriate electromagnetic detector to obtain measurement data at different ranges and positions around the measurement target. The mobile platform may also provide an articulating arm with a mirror or reflector to support non-line-of-sight measurements.