Simulation of scenarios for modern seekers involves the generation of multiple targets, electro-optical counter measures and textured backgrounds, all with realistic physical characteristics. True intensity, spectral distribution, real angular size and velocity are essential. The optical and radiometric design approach is based on imaging the seeker entrance pupil on different positions on a scene generation table. This paper presents some of the novel system characteristics. The optics, comprising mostly reflective surfaces and uncoated beam combiners, provides wide infrared and visible spectral range. The system is designed for high resolution over a large 10 degree field of view and is optimized for maximum intensity. Gimbaled mirror axes states are transformed into real world line of sight (LOS) motion. The whole scene may be tilted with respect to the seeker axis at large angles with derotation compensation. Targets, flares and thermal backgrounds are implemented using diversified types of thermal radiators, and their intensity and size closing effects are controlled by opto/electro-mechanical assemblies.
The TSG is used for evaluating infrared missile seekers by dynamic targets and EOCM realistic environment. The system generates multi mode primary and secondary targets, up to three flares and jammers combined with thermal background image of 10 degree(s) field of view. Each component is independently controlled to provide 2D trajectory, velocity and acceleration. Four orders of magnitude in LOS angular velocity can be accomplished. The system allows for variation of sources angular size, radiated intensity and other spatial and temporal modulation. All sources are combined in a collimated output beam. The beam is further projected through an optical relay and a Field Of Regard assembly. This mechanism displays the whole scenario in a wide angle span onto the seeker aperture. Further system improvements involves combining dynamic infrared scene projector with high temperature sources under real time high dynamics, for better performances with imaging seekers of maneuvered platforms.
The optical design space of some simple lenses is investigated systematically. Typical space topographies are visualized with 3-D graphics,
where the complete set of available solutions is clearly identified. The space characteristics are then studied and compared through the use of
several merit functions with differing degrees of complexity. A two-phase search algorithm, based on global optimization techniques, is proposed
here. In the first phase, using a coarse sampling approach, the program finds the favorable regions that correspond to potentially promising configurations. In the second phase, conventional optimization routines are used to find the best solutions in each region. Then an optimum solution
is determined according to the application at hand. The proposed algorithm is analyzed and compared to more conventional design approaches. A further refinement of the algorithm excludes from the systematic search some unfavorable configuration regions through the use of a simple expert
system. Search times are further reduced through parallel-processing methods. The algorithm provides overall information about a given design space and offers a selection of "best" solutions to choose from. As an example, it is applied to a triplet objective.
Global Optimization (GO) is an area of applied mathemetics that has been active for many years. A large variety of GO algorithms have been constructed in an effort to find a solution to the general GO problem. Some of these have proved to be successful on certain classes of problems. However no general deterministic algorithm exists that can locate the global optimum for every multidimensional problem. Traditionally in the lens design discipline the search for an optimum solution in the design space has been done by optimization methods. The conventional design methods are in principle local search methods and do not pmvide any global information on the design space. As the available computer power increases GO tools can be used also in optical design. A two phase search algorithm based on global optimization techniques is described. In a first phase using a coarse sampling approach the program finds the favorable regions that correspond to potentially promising configurations. In a second phase conventional optimization routines are used to find the best solutions in eh region. Then an optimum solution is determined according to the application at hand. The pro algorithm is analyzed and compared to more conventional design approaches. A further refmement of the algorithm excludes from the systematic search some unfavorable configuration regions through the use of a simple expert system. Search times are further reduced through parallel-processing methods. We believe this approach to lens design represents new initiative towards the determination of the optimum solution in any lens design problem. 1.
Conference Committee Involvement (8)
Advanced Optics for Imaging Applications: UV through LWIR VIII
1 May 2023 | Orlando, Florida, United States
Advanced Optics for Imaging Applications: UV through LWIR VII
3 April 2022 | Orlando, Florida, United States
Advanced Optics for Imaging Applications: UV through LWIR VI
12 April 2021 | Online Only, Florida, United States
Advanced Optics for Imaging Applications: UV through LWIR V
27 April 2020 | Online Only, California, United States
Advanced Optics for Imaging Applications: UV through LWIR IV
14 April 2019 | Baltimore, MD, United States
Advanced Optics for Defense Applications: UV through LWIR III
15 April 2018 | Orlando, FL, United States
Advanced Optics for Defense Applications: UV through LWIR II
9 April 2017 | Anaheim, CA, United States
Advanced Optics for Defense Applications: UV through LWIR
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