Non-contactive proximity sensor system utilizing nucleonic radiation fluorescence

Abstract

A proximity sensor utilizing nucleonic radiation fluorescence to detect the presence, position and/or distance of a target object from a monitoring object. The inventive system has particular application in collision avoidance systems for subsatellites, final docking alignment systems in spacecraft applications, collision avoidance systems for teleoperated manipulative arms, homing devices for manipulative devices as well as hazard detection systems for planatary rovers. Where necessary, the target object is fitted with cooperative radiation fluorescent material. The monitoring object looks for and detects the preselected fluorescence, thus discriminating between radiation emitted by the target object and extraneous radiation.

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