Laser-based system with LADAR and SAL capabilities
AssigneeLockheed Martin Corporation
InventorNicholas Krasutsky
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A laser-based system with laser detection and ranging (“LADAR”) and semi-active laser (“SAL”) system capabilities is disclosed. In a first aspect, an apparatus includes a gimbal capable of scanning in azimuth and in elevation and a sensor mounted on the gimbal capable of LADAR acquisition and laser designation. In a second aspect, a method includes flying an airborne vehicle through an environment, scanning a LADAR signal from a sensor into the field of regard to identify a target; and laser designating the identified target with the sensor.
Claims44
An apparatus comprising:
- a gimbal capable of scanning in azimuth and in elevation;
- and
- a sensor mounted on the gimbal capable of LADAR acquisition and laser designation.
A wide-angle LADAR system, comprising:
- a platform defining a chamber;
- a faceted window closing the chamber;
- and
- a gimbaled sensor housed in the closed chamber capable of LADAR acquisition and laser designation.
A method, comprising:
- flying an airborne vehicle through an environment;
- loitering over an area within a field of regard for the sensor;
- scanning, while loitering, a LADAR signal from a sensor into the field of regard to identify a target;
- and
- laser designating the identified target with the sensor.
An airborne vehicle, comprising:
- means for scanning a LADAR signal into the field of regard to identify a target;
- and
- means for laser designating the identified target with the sensor.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.