Visual Impairment Device Using Spatial Light Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing visual impairment devices are ineffective in immobilizing or deterring intruders or active shooters due to the need for precise targeting of a single beam, which is challenging in environments where the exact eye location of the intruder is unknown, and they fail to create a 'No-Go' zone to prevent entry or disorient individuals without direct engagement.
Innovation Solution
A visual impairment device that produces a spatial and/or temporal distribution of intense light beams at multiple wavelengths, capable of causing temporary visual impairment, without the need for precise targeting, using a power supply, intense light sources, and a modulator to create a spatial array of light that can be manually, automatically, or remotely controlled, covering an area to deter or disorient individuals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single beam laser device is used to cause visual impairment, then the device can be simple in design, but it requires precise targeting of the intruder's eyes which is difficult when eye location is unknown
Solution Approach 1:
The single beam is segmented into multiple beams that are spatially distributed to cover an area. The modulator divides the original beam into several beams arranged in patterns such as grids, circles, or random distributions, eliminating the need for precise targeting while maintaining visual impairment effectiveness across a broader zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from one-dimensional precise pointing to two-dimensional or three-dimensional spatial distribution of multiple beams. By arranging beams in spatial patterns (grids, circles, layers), the system creates a volumetric 'No-Go' zone that impairs vision regardless of the intruder's exact position within the covered area.
2Device complexity
If a single beam laser is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot create a 'No-Go' zone to deter entry or disorient individuals without direct engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The single beam is segmented into multiple beams that are spatially distributed to cover an area. The modulator divides the original beam into several beams arranged in patterns such as grids, circles, or random distributions, eliminating the need for precise targeting while maintaining visual impairment effectiveness across a broader zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-beam spatial array device performs multiple functions: it creates a deterrent 'No-Go' zone, impairs vision of intruders within the covered area, and eliminates the need for precise targeting. The same device structure adapts to various scenarios including active shooter situations, intruder deterrence, and area protection.
3Reliability
If multiple wavelengths are used to enhance visual impairment effect, then the effectiveness increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple wavelengths are merged into a single spatial array configuration. The modulator simultaneously manages multiple wavelengths and arranges them in coordinated spatial patterns, achieving enhanced visual impairment effectiveness while maintaining relatively simple device structure through unified control.
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 device effectively creates a 'No-Go' zone that can cause temporary visual impairment within 0.25 seconds of exposure, making it difficult for intruders to enter or remain in the area, without causing permanent eye damage, and can be operated with minimal training or proximity, providing a non-lethal means to immobilize individuals until appropriate response is mounted.
Implementation Method 1
an intense light source including two or more beams of intense light having different peak wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
a modulator for modulating the two or more beams of intense light to produce a spatial array
Data Source
AI summary
A method of creating a visual impairment zone includes producing at least one beam of intense light having a bandwidth of less than 50 nm. The beam of intense light is modulated to produce a spatial array having a pattern of light beams illuminating the visual impairment zone. The pattern of light beams is altered as a function of time to form a varying spatial array, wherein the varying spatial array has the requisite irradiance to cause visual impairment.