Dual-Mode SWIR Laser for Covert Weapon Sighting and Ranging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser sighting and range finding systems require separate dedicated lasers for sighting and range finding, making them detectable by night vision and thermal imaging technologies, which compromises covert operations and increases cost and size.
Innovation Solution
A combined laser sighting and range finding apparatus utilizing a single dual-purpose short-wave infrared (SWIR) laser that operates in both sighting and range finding modes, emitting electromagnetic radiation in the 1400 nm to 3000 nm range, invisible to human eyes and night vision devices, and visible to SWIR imaging systems, allowing for covert operation and reduced system size and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate dedicated lasers are used for sighting and range finding, then the system can perform both functions, but the system size, cost, and detectability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sighting laser and range finding laser into a single integrated laser unit. The laser assembly includes a single laser source that can operate in multiple modes (sighting mode and range finding mode), eliminating the need for separate dedicated lasers. This consolidation reduces the overall number of components, simplifies the system structure, and decreases both size and cost while maintaining full functionality for both sighting and range finding operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal laser assembly that performs multiple functions. The single laser unit can switch between sighting mode (emitting continuous or pulsed beams for target acquisition) and range finding mode (emitting coded pulses for distance measurement). This multi-functional design allows one component to replace what would traditionally require separate specialized components, achieving versatility without increasing system complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional night vision or thermal imaging lasers are used, then the laser is detectable by enemy systems, but covert operation capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the laser by using short-wave infrared (SWIR) wavelength range (1400 nm to 3000 nm) instead of conventional near-infrared or thermal infrared wavelengths. This parameter change in the electromagnetic spectrum allows the laser to operate in a region that is invisible to conventional night vision devices (which typically detect 750-1400 nm) and thermal imaging systems (which detect 3000-15000 nm). The SWIR region provides a detection gap that enhances covert operation capability while maintaining reliable target illumination and range finding functionality.
3Device complexity
If a single dual-function laser is used, then system size and cost are reduced, but the laser must operate in both continuous beam and pulsed modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic operational capability in the single laser assembly, allowing it to switch between different operational modes as needed. The laser can operate in continuous beam mode for sighting applications, pulsed mode for range finding, and can adjust pulse duration and repetition rates. This dynamic adaptability is achieved through electronic control circuitry that modulates the laser diode current, enabling one physical component to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate dedicated components.
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 provides a covert and cost-effective laser system that eliminates the need for separate lasers, remaining undetectable to conventional night vision and thermal imaging while enabling accurate range finding and sighting, thus enhancing operational security and reducing system complexity.
Implementation Method 1
A combined laser sighting and range finding apparatus utilizes a single dual-purpose short-wave infrared (SWIR) laser that operates in both sighting and range finding modes, emitting electromagnetic radiation in the 1400 nm to 3000 nm range
Implementation Method 2
The processor is coupled to a computer readable memory encoded with executable instructions and is configured, upon execution of the executable instructions, to calculate a distance to the target based on a time of flight of the optical signal
Data Source
AI summary
A combined range finding and sighting apparatus for a weapon includes a housing therein supporting one or more laser emitters, an optical detector for detecting an optical signal reflected from the target, and a processor. The one or more laser emitters includes a first laser emitter operable in a first mode for emitting an optical signal toward the target a second mode for projecting a first beam onto the target. The processor is coupled to a computer readable memory encoded with executable instructions and is configured, upon execution of the executable instructions, to calculate a distance to the target based on a time of flight of the optical signal. In a further aspect, a method of using a combined range finding and sighting apparatus is provided.