Soft Kill Laser Mast for Ground Vehicle Threats
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current countermeasure systems for diverting missiles fired at ground vehicles are limited by their single optical path and specific laser irradiances, reducing flexibility and effectiveness in countering various threats.
Innovation Solution
A laser mast system with multiple optical paths and laser sources of varying irradiances is attached to a ground vehicle, allowing for the emission of lasers at different angles and irradiances to divert incoming threats by disrupting the guidance systems of missiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single integrated optical path with specific laser irradiances is used, then the system structure is simplified, but the flexibility and effectiveness in countering various threats is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the optical path into separate channels, each with its own laser source (e.g., 1064nm and 1550nm wavelengths) and independent control. This segmentation allows each laser to be optimized for specific threat types while maintaining overall system manageability through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The countermeasure system is designed to handle multiple threat types simultaneously by incorporating multiple laser sources with different irradiances and wavelengths. The system can switch between or combine different laser configurations to counter various missile guidance systems, achieving multi-functionality without requiring separate dedicated systems for each threat.
2Ease of manufacture
If lasers with specific irradiances are used, then the system cost is reduced, but the type of threats that can be countered is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs multiple laser sources with different irradiance levels and wavelengths (e.g., 1064nm and 1550nm) to match different threat characteristics. By changing laser parameters such as wavelength and irradiance, the system can effectively counter various missile types without requiring completely different hardware for each threat category.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical paths with varying laser irradiances are implemented, then the flexibility and effectiveness in countering threats is improved, but the system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into independent channels, each with its own laser source and optical path. This modular segmentation allows for easier maintenance, calibration, and upgrades of individual components without affecting the entire system, thereby managing complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple laser sources and optical paths are merged into a single integrated countermeasure system with unified control and coordination. The system combines the capabilities of different laser types (e.g., CO2 and Nd:YAG lasers) to provide comprehensive threat countermeasures while sharing common support infrastructure such as power supply, control electronics, and mounting mechanisms.
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 system effectively diverts incoming missiles by creating decoy beams that confuse the guidance systems, preventing the missiles from hitting the vehicle, and stabilizes the laser mast through balanced optical paths.
Implementation Method 1
a first laser source that is within the mast; and a second laser source that is within the rotary stage or the platform
Implementation Method 2
a first mirror within the mast, wherein the first mirror is fixedly attached to the mast and wherein the first mirror reflects the first laser; and a second mirror within the mast, wherein the second mirror is rotatably attached to a pivot and wherein the second mirror reflects the second laser
Data Source
AI summary
A laser mast for attachment to a ground vehicle includes a mast, a rotary stage, a platform, a first laser, and a second laser. The rotary stage is connected to and rotates the mast. The platform is connected to the rotary stage. The first laser is within the mast. The second laser is within the rotary stage or the platform.