Solid Solution Nanocomposite Optical Ceramics for SWIR Transparency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional nanocomposite materials do not transmit light in the SWIR and visible portions of the spectrum due to a large refractive index difference between phases, leading to opacity and inadequate strength to withstand aerodynamic forces during projectile flight.
Innovation Solution
Development of solid solution-based nanocomposite optical ceramic materials with intermixed nano-sized phases, where one phase is doped to reduce refractive index mismatch, allowing seamless transmission of infrared and visible light and enhancing mechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional nanocomposite materials are used, then mechanical strength is improved, but optical transparency in SWIR and visible spectra deteriorates due to large refractive index difference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the refractive index of the matrix material to match that of the dispersed nanoparticles (within ±0.05). This is achieved by selecting specific matrix materials or adjusting their composition, thereby eliminating Rayleigh scattering and enabling optical transparency in SWIR and visible spectra while maintaining the mechanical strength benefits of the nanocomposite structure.
2Shape
If dome size is reduced to half sphere, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but field of regard deteriorates to maximum 180 degrees
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials with matched refractive indices to enable the fabrication of large-spanning-angle domes that maintain both aerodynamic efficiency and extended field of regard. The nanocomposite structure provides the necessary mechanical strength for larger dome configurations while the refractive index matching ensures optical clarity across the expanded viewing angle.
3Area of moving object
If two-piece dome is fabricated to extend field of regard, then spanning angle is improved, but optical continuity deteriorates due to attachment interface discontinuity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling the refractive index of the matrix material to match that of the dispersed phases, thereby eliminating scattering at interfaces. This enables the fabrication of multi-piece domes where attachment interfaces do not create optical discontinuities, maintaining both extended spanning angle and optical continuity.
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 enables a spanning angle greater than 180 degrees for EO sensors with reduced Rayleigh scattering, improved strength, and thermal resistance, facilitating multi-mode applications beyond MWIR to SWIR and visible spectral regions.
Implementation Method 1
the dissolved dopant present in an amount sufficient to reduce a refractive index difference between the at least two nano-sized phases to about 0.2 or less when infrared light is being transmitted
Implementation Method 2
reduced Rayleigh scattering
Data Source
AI summary
A solid solution-based optical material capable of transmitting infrared light, the solid solution-based optical material comprising at least two nano-sized phases intermixed in one another, wherein at least one of the at least two nano-sized phases is a solid solution containing a dissolved dopant, the dissolved dopant present in an amount sufficient to reduce a refractive index difference between the at least two nano-sized phases to about 0.2 or less when infrared light is being transmitted. Various embodiments are directed to related systems and methods. In one embodiment, the infrared light is visible infrared light, short-wave infrared light, eye safe infrared light, medium wave infrared light, long wave infrared red light, or combinations thereof.