Semi-active laser seeker synchronization via external clock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional semi-active laser (SAL) systems face challenges in reducing locking time due to asynchronous laser pulse operations, which can result in missed detections if the available time for lock acquisition is short.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an external clock, such as a global positioning system, to synchronize the emission and detection of laser pulse signals, allowing the digital signal processor to search for the laser pulse during predetermined time intervals, thereby reducing the need to determine phase shifts and shortening the lock acquisition time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the SAL system scans for laser pulses at the same frequency as the laser is pulsing in asynchronous mode, then the system can operate with simple timing, but the locking time increases and short pulses may be missed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-synchronizing the seeker's scanning frequency and phase with the laser pulse frequency using a synchronization signal received before or during laser designation. This allows the seeker to be ready to detect pulses immediately when the laser is activated, eliminating the need for lengthy lock acquisition and preventing missed detections of short pulses
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by receiving a synchronization signal from the laser target designator that contains frequency and phase information about the laser pulsing. The seeker uses this feedback to adjust its scanning parameters and maintain synchronization with the laser pulses, ensuring reliable detection without increasing locking time
2Adaptability or versatility
If the SAL system uses asynchronous laser pulsing mode, then the system has flexibility in operation, but the unknown time shift requires longer locking time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary synchronization signal that mediates between the laser target designator and the seeker. This signal carries timing information that allows the seeker to bridge the asynchronous operation gap, maintaining operational flexibility while reducing lock acquisition time by knowing when to expect pulses
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A system (100) for semi-active laser seeker synchronization includes a laser target designator (12) configured to emit a laser pulse signal (120, 122, 220, 222) and a seeker (116) configured to detect the emitted signal from the laser target designator. The laser target designator and the seeker are operatively connected to synchronize the emission of the laser pulse signal and the detection of the seeker.