Omni-directional radiation source and object locator

Abstract

The current invention describes a method for determining azimuth and elevation angles of a radiation source or other physical objects located anywhere within an cylindrical field of view. The invention makes use of an omni-directional imaging system comprising of reflective surfaces, an image sensor and an optional optical filter for filtration of the desired wavelengths. The said imaging system is designed to view an omni-directional field of view using a single image sensor and with no need for mechanical scan for coverage of the full field of view. Use of two such systems separated by a known distance, each providing a different reading of azimuth and elevation angle of the same object, enables classic triangulation for determination of the actual location of the object. The invention is designed to enable use of low cost omni-directional imaging systems for location of radiation sources or objects. Many additional needs and applications are envisaged for such a method. Those needs include: location of flares and torches in search and rescue operations at sea or over land, detection of aircraft in close proximity for flight safety in VFR flight conditions, detection and location of weapon systems that employ Laser Range Finders, detection and warning of Laser Target Designators used in conjunction with surface launched or air dropped precision guided munitions, operation of Infra-red countermeasures, location of sparks resulted by enemy fire etc.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.