Virtual Seeker Acquisition Window for Missile Warning System Range Estimation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current missile warning systems face challenges in accurately determining target range, particularly in training scenarios where engagement ranges vary from 0.5 to 5 kilometers, making it difficult to develop a single stimulus profile that consistently triggers launch declarations across this wide range, and existing methods like laser range finders are ineffective or impractical.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that passively estimates the target range using a virtual seeker acquisition window, which automatically selects the appropriate stimulus profile based on the estimated range, allowing for reliable and seamless operation over the 0.5 to 5 kilometer engagement range without the need for a laser range finder.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single stimulus profile is used for all engagement ranges, then the system is simple to operate, but it cannot consistently trigger launch declarations across the wide range of 0.5 to 5 kilometers
Solution Approach 1:
The stimulus profile is made dynamic by automatically selecting different profiles based on the detected engagement range. The system transitions from a static single-profile approach to a dynamic multi-profile approach where the appropriate profile is chosen in real-time based on range detection, enabling consistent launch declarations across 0.5 to 5 kilometers without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of stimulus profile selection based on the detected engagement range. By detecting the range and automatically selecting the appropriate stimulus profile from multiple predefined profiles, the system adapts its operational parameters to match the specific engagement distance, ensuring reliable launch declarations across the full 0.5 to 5 kilometer range.
2Measurement precision
If laser range finders are used to determine target range, then accurate range measurement is achieved, but the system becomes impractical for training scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using complex laser range finding equipment, the system uses a simplified range detection approach that copies the essential function of range measurement through stimulus response analysis. The system determines engagement range by analyzing the response characteristics when stimuli are applied, providing accurate enough range information for training purposes without requiring impractical laser equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical/optical laser range finding system with an electronic stimulus-response based range detection method. By substituting the complex laser measurement mechanism with a simpler electronic approach that uses stimulus application and response analysis, the system achieves practical operability in training scenarios while maintaining sufficient range measurement accuracy.
3Manufacturing precision
If the acquisition window expands at a constant rate, then the expansion is simple to control, but it does not accurately fit targets at unknown ranges
Solution Approach 1:
The acquisition window expansion is made dynamic by adjusting the expansion rate based on detected target characteristics and range information. Instead of a fixed constant expansion rate, the system dynamically modifies the expansion speed to accurately fit targets at unknown ranges, improving target acquisition precision without excessive complexity through adaptive control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from target detection and range estimation to control the acquisition window expansion. By continuously monitoring target characteristics and adjusting the expansion rate accordingly, the system achieves accurate target fitting at unknown ranges. The feedback loop allows the expansion control to adapt to actual target conditions, improving precision while maintaining manageable complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method and computer program product provides for estimating the range of a target. An acquisition window of an imaging device is adjusted to fit a target at an unknown range in response to a user input. An angle subtended by the largest dimension of the target viewed from the acquisition window is determined. The range of the target is estimated from a largest dimension of the target and the angle subtended by the largest dimension of the target. The device may be a man-portable aircraft survivability equipment (ASE) system trainer (MAST), or any simulator simulating a man-portable air defense system (MANPADS).