Spherically Constrained Optical Seeker with Gimbal Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser-guided projectile systems face limitations in their field of view and precision due to the fixed nature of their optical seekers, which can lead to reduced accuracy and increased collateral damage.
Innovation Solution
A spherically constrained optical seeker assembly is introduced, comprising a spherical lens, an optical sensor assembly, and a gimbal mechanism with arcuate arms that allow for azimuthal and elevational positioning of the optical sensor, enabling a wider field of view and improved targeting accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a fixed optical seeker is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and field of view are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed optical seeker into a movable one through the gimbal assembly. The optical sensor assembly can now dynamically adjust its position and orientation relative to the spherical lens, enabling the system to scan a wider field of view and track moving targets with higher precision while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dimensionality change by adding angular degrees of freedom through the gimbal mechanism. The optical sensor assembly moves from a fixed one-dimensional position to a two-dimensional angular positioning system, allowing it to access different viewing angles and expand the effective field of view beyond what a fixed seeker could achieve
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed optical seeker is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the field of view is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The gimbal assembly enables the optical sensor to dynamically reposition itself, transforming a static field of view into a dynamic scanning capability. This allows the system to adapt to different targeting scenarios and engage targets at various angles, significantly expanding operational versatility without requiring multiple fixed sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The movable optical seeker assembly serves multiple functions: it can perform wide-area surveillance, track moving targets, and engage point targets with precision. This single multi-functional assembly replaces what would otherwise require multiple specialized fixed sensors, achieving versatility without proportional increases in complexity
3Measurement precision
If the optical sensor is dynamically positioned, then the targeting accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gimbal assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: the azimuth adjustment mechanism, the elevation adjustment mechanism, and the optical sensor mounting structure. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be optimized independently and simplifies maintenance and calibration while achieving the overall goal of enhanced targeting accuracy through dynamic positioning
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 configuration enhances the precision and accuracy of guided projectiles by allowing the optical sensor to be dynamically positioned, thereby improving the targeting capabilities and reducing collateral damage.
Implementation Method 1
an optical system that captures and focuses the scattered laser EMR into a spot onto a segmented non-imaging detector
Implementation Method 2
a spherical lens having an outer surface... the spherical lens... by virtue of the focusing property of the spherical lens
Implementation Method 3
The gimbal assembly is configured to move the optical sensor assembly to at least one desired position on the outer surface of the spherical lens
Data Source
AI summary
A spherically constrained optical seeker assembly includes a spherical lens having an outer surface, an optical sensor assembly associated with the spherical lens, and a gimbal assembly. The optical sensor assembly is coupled to the gimbal assembly. The gimbal assembly is configured to move the optical sensor assembly to at least one desired position on the outer surface of the spherical lens. A method of manipulating the optical sensor assembly includes positioning the optical sensor assembly with respect to the spherical lens and moving the optical sensor assembly to at least one desired position with respect to the outer surface of the spherical lens by the gimbal assembly.