Time Domain Hit Detection for Hypervelocity Impacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies face challenges in accurately determining the location of initial contact between defensive missiles and target missiles, especially when targets have complex aerodynamic shapes and maneuver, making it difficult to track hypervelocity impacts effectively.
Innovation Solution
A time domain detection system is implemented on target vehicles, comprising panels with detector and insulator layers, and a hit detection system that sends pulses through circuit paths to measure reflection times and determine impact locations, providing accurate and progressive damage assessment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional hit detection technologies (fiber optic grids, wire grids, make screens) are used, then hit location can be detected, but the detection accuracy deteriorates when targets have complex aerodynamic shapes and maneuver
Solution Approach 1:
The target vehicle surface is divided into multiple discrete sensor elements arranged in a grid pattern. Each sensor element independently detects impacts at its specific location, allowing the system to maintain detection accuracy across complex aerodynamic shapes by segmenting the detection surface into manageable, adaptable units that can conform to various geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional wire or fiber optic grids to three-dimensional volumetric detection using stacked layers of sensor elements separated by dielectric spacers. This adds a depth dimension to the detection system, enabling accurate hit location detection on complex aerodynamic surfaces by creating a volumetric detection field that adapts to the target's three-dimensional geometry
2Device complexity
If make screens are used for hit detection, then the system is simple, but the entire screen becomes inoperative after a single hit
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple independent sensor elements distributed across the target surface. When an impact occurs, only the specific sensor elements at the impact location are affected, while the remaining elements continue to function. This segmentation allows the system to maintain operational reliability even after multiple hits, contrasting with make screens where a single hit renders the entire screen inoperative
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates real-time feedback through continuous monitoring of sensor element signals. After an impact, the system receives feedback about the hit location and can continue operating by adjusting detection parameters or focusing resources on undamaged sensor elements, thereby maintaining reliability and enabling progressive damage assessment
3Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive hit detection coverage is implemented on maneuvering targets, then all impact points can be detected, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor elements are designed with universal functionality to detect impacts from multiple directions and angles. Each sensor element can detect hypervelocity impacts regardless of the target's orientation or maneuvering state, eliminating the need for separate detection systems for different flight conditions and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is designed to be dynamically adaptable to the target's maneuvering. The sensor grid maintains its detection capability during acceleration, rotation, and other maneuvers through robust mounting and signal processing that compensates for dynamic effects, allowing comprehensive impact point coverage without proportionally increasing system complexity
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 enables precise location of hypervelocity impacts and quick data collection, improving guidance and control systems and ensuring complete neutralization of targets, even on complex shapes and during maneuvers.
Implementation Method 1
Said hit detection system is configured to send a pulse through said injection point end, said pulse is reflected from said open circuit end and back to said injection point end as a return signal
Data Source
AI summary
A time domain detection system to measure and report on hypervelocity impacts HVI between an interceptor vehicle and a target vehicle. Wherein, said time domain detection system comprises a target vehicle components installed on said target vehicle, a one or more panels arranged on a portion of said target vehicle at a potential HVI locations, and a hit detection system wired into said one or more panels. Said target vehicle components comprise at least said hit detection system, and a lines. Said one or more panels are wired into said hit detection system with said lines. Said hit detection system is configured to communicate with said one or more panels over said lines. Said one or more panels can each comprise a one or more detector panel layers, and a two or more insulator layers.