Shared Laser Source for Multi-Beam HEL Weapon Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing high-energy laser (HEL) effector systems face challenges in optimizing system structure regarding mass, space requirements, and integration effort, particularly when multiple HEL effectors are mounted on a single object, such as a maritime vessel, due to restrictions in beam quality and power delivery caused by the length and non-linear processes in optical fibers.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves sharing key components like the laser source or pump source among multiple HEL effectors, with each effector having its own beam guidance system, and using optical switching units to distribute the laser or pump power, allowing for centralized placement of the common source and reducing the weight, space, and integration complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple HEL effectors are mounted on a single object, then the defensive capability against multiple targets is improved, but the total weight and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple HEL effectors into a single integrated weapon system with a shared laser source, optical switching unit, and control unit. This merging approach allows multiple beam guidance systems to operate simultaneously while sharing common components, thereby maintaining enhanced defensive capability against multiple targets while significantly reducing the total weight compared to having separate HEL effectors for each target.
Solution Approach 2:
The shared laser source and optical switching unit serve multiple functions by distributing laser beams to different beam guidance systems targeting various threats. This multi-functional design enables a single component to support multiple HEL effectors, reducing redundancy and overall system weight while maintaining the ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple HEL effectors are mounted on a single object, then the defensive capability against multiple targets is improved, but the space requirements and integration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple HEL effector functions into a single integrated system where the laser source, optical switching unit, and control unit are shared across multiple beam guidance systems. This integration reduces the number of separate components that need to be installed and maintained, thereby reducing space requirements and simplifying the integration process while preserving the capability to defend against multiple targets.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical switching unit acts as an intermediary component that distributes laser beams from the shared laser source to multiple beam guidance systems. This intermediary approach simplifies the system architecture by providing a centralized control mechanism for beam distribution, reducing the complexity of integrating multiple independent HEL effectors while maintaining the ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously.
3Area of stationary object
If the laser source is placed close to the beam delivery system, then the beam quality is improved, but the power distribution capability to multiple effectors is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The optical switching unit serves as an intermediary that enables the laser source to be positioned close to the beam delivery system while still distributing power to multiple HEL effectors. By placing the optical switching unit between the laser source and multiple beam guidance systems, the patent maintains short optical paths for high beam quality while providing centralized power distribution capability to multiple effectors simultaneously.
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 reduces the total weight and space requirements of the HEL effectors on the object, enables more efficient power distribution, and allows for better protection from environmental influences, making the system more viable and cost-effective for use on platforms like ships.
Implementation Method 1
In a fiber laser, the pump light is coupled into an active fiber and converted into laser light of very high beam quality
Implementation Method 2
An optical connection between the common laser source or the common pump source and the beam guidance systems, directly or indirectly, is achieved by means of at least one optical switching unit
Data Source
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AI summary
In the case of a weapons system (100) with at least two HEL effectors (5.1, 5.2, 5.3), which have at least one beam guidance system (2.1, 2.2, 2.3), the present invention proposes the use of only one laser source (1) or one pump source (10) for the at least two HEL effectors (5.1, 5.2, 5.3). The beam guidance systems (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) of the HEL effectors (5.1, 5.2, 5.3) resort to the common laser source (1) or common pump source (10). An optical link of the common laser source (1) or of the common pump source (10) with the beam guidance system (2.1, 2.2, 2.3), be it direct or indirect, is implemented by means of at least one optical switching unit (4, 14), and so at least one functional, complete HEL effector (5.1, 5.2, 5.3) of the weapons system (100) is provided to defend against threats.