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EP3870927B1 - Directed-energy weapon and method for displaying the position of an impact point of the directed-energy weapon - Google Patents

Directed-energy weapon and method for displaying the position of an impact point of the directed-energy weapon Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3870927B1
EP3870927B1 EP19794537.1A EP19794537A EP3870927B1 EP 3870927 B1 EP3870927 B1 EP 3870927B1 EP 19794537 A EP19794537 A EP 19794537A EP 3870927 B1 EP3870927 B1 EP 3870927B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
directed
effective beam
radiation
optical system
effective
Prior art date
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Active
Application number
EP19794537.1A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3870927A1 (en
Inventor
Klaus Ludewigt
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
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Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
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Publication of EP3870927A1 publication Critical patent/EP3870927A1/en
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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41G—WEAPON SIGHTS; AIMING
    • F41G3/00—Aiming or laying means
    • F41G3/14—Indirect aiming means
    • F41G3/16—Sighting devices adapted for indirect laying of fire
    • F41G3/165—Sighting devices adapted for indirect laying of fire using a TV-monitor
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41G—WEAPON SIGHTS; AIMING
    • F41G3/00—Aiming or laying means
    • F41G3/32—Devices for testing or checking
    • F41G3/323—Devices for testing or checking for checking the angle between the muzzle axis of the gun and a reference axis, e.g. the axis of the associated sighting device
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41H—ARMOUR; ARMOURED TURRETS; ARMOURED OR ARMED VEHICLES; MEANS OF ATTACK OR DEFENCE, e.g. CAMOUFLAGE, IN GENERAL
    • F41H13/00—Means of attack or defence not otherwise provided for
    • F41H13/0043—Directed energy weapons, i.e. devices that direct a beam of high energy content toward a target for incapacitating or destroying the target
    • F41H13/005—Directed energy weapons, i.e. devices that direct a beam of high energy content toward a target for incapacitating or destroying the target the high-energy beam being a laser beam
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41H—ARMOUR; ARMOURED TURRETS; ARMOURED OR ARMED VEHICLES; MEANS OF ATTACK OR DEFENCE, e.g. CAMOUFLAGE, IN GENERAL
    • F41H13/00—Means of attack or defence not otherwise provided for
    • F41H13/0043—Directed energy weapons, i.e. devices that direct a beam of high energy content toward a target for incapacitating or destroying the target
    • F41H13/005—Directed energy weapons, i.e. devices that direct a beam of high energy content toward a target for incapacitating or destroying the target the high-energy beam being a laser beam
    • F41H13/0062—Directed energy weapons, i.e. devices that direct a beam of high energy content toward a target for incapacitating or destroying the target the high-energy beam being a laser beam causing structural damage to the target

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a method for displaying an actual point of impact of a beam weapon according to the preamble of claim 1 and a beam weapon having the features of the preamble of claim 2.
  • Also known per se is a method that relates to a beam weapon that has an effective beam optics and an imaging optics.
  • the effective beam optics are used for Focusing and alignment of primary radiation emitted by the radiation weapon in the form of an effective beam or an auxiliary beam. Radiation emanating from an object irradiated with the effective beam or auxiliary beam is captured by the imaging optics and directed onto a camera on a screen that has a target point marking.
  • the imaging optics are an example of a target optic that is used to visually display a target area.
  • a target optic is a riflescope, which allows the target area to be viewed directly with the eye.
  • the aiming point of the weapon is usually marked by a crosshair in the optics of the riflescope or on a camera screen.
  • the aiming point marked as a crosshair indicates a target point of impact in the target area when the target area is viewed through the riflescope or the target area shown on a screen.
  • the process for displaying an actual point of impact is also known as target point determination.
  • the weapon When firing, the weapon is first aligned so that the crosshairs of the aiming optics, or the target point, align with the target point. The shot is then fired. The accuracy of the weapon depends on how well the crosshairs, or the target point/target point, align with the actual point of impact of the weapon when a shot is fired.
  • a good match between the target point and the actual point of impact is particularly important for beam weapons, as beam weapons are in principle very precise.
  • this precision can only be exploited if the crosshairs of the aiming optics, or the target point, match the actual point of impact of the weapon with an accuracy corresponding to the precision of the beam weapon.
  • An adjustment of the imaging optics that leads to the desired match requires a determination of the actual point of impact.
  • Such an actual point of impact determination is necessary, for example, when setting up a weapon for the first time, after replacing parts of the weapon or after the structure has been misaligned due to environmental influences such as temperature and pressure fluctuations, vibrations, shock waves, etc.
  • the position of the actual point of impact relative to the target point of impact is determined by firing live shots from the weapon at a test target on which the actual point of impact is represented, for example, as a bullet hole.
  • the resulting bullet hole is then targeted using the weapon's optics and the optics' crosshairs are set to the actual point of impact, represented as a bullet hole, while the weapon remains in the same position.
  • This procedure may be repeated several times to increase accuracy. This procedure may need to be repeated for other target distances.
  • a primary radiation of the beam weapon focused and directed by the effective beam optics, is triggered as an effective beam or auxiliary beam.
  • the object irradiated with this effective beam or auxiliary beam emits radiation, which is referred to below as radiation to distinguish it from the output radiation of the beam weapon, which is referred to as primary radiation.
  • This radiation is, for example, a broad spectrum of visible light and/or infrared radiation, which may be emitted as a result of irradiation with the primary radiation, but may also be reflected daylight, for example.
  • This radiation is captured by the imaging optics and projected onto a Camera on a screen.
  • the point of penetration is shown on the screen as the actual point of impact.
  • the screen has a target point marking in the form of a crosshair, for example, so that the position of the point of impact can be read relative to the target point marking.
  • the known method requires live shots/irradiation of test targets in the actual range of the weapon to determine the target point. This requires suitable terrain with appropriate safety precautions for the use of the weapon. Another disadvantage is that this target point determination is very difficult when the weapon is moving. Movement of the weapon is almost impossible to avoid, for example with ship weapons.
  • Another disadvantage is that the procedure may not be feasible in the area where the weapon is deployed if it is not a restricted area. In this case, for example, it is not possible to determine the exact target point of the ray weapon after a weapon repair.
  • the object of the present invention is to provide a method and a radiation weapon of the type mentioned at the beginning, which are not afflicted with these disadvantages.
  • this object is achieved with the features of claim 1 and with regard to device aspects with the features of claim 2.
  • the method according to the invention differs from the prior art by the characterizing features of claim 1.
  • a beam cross-section of an effective beam or auxiliary beam emerging from the beam weapon is covered with an optical auxiliary element that reflects the incident effective beam or auxiliary beam.
  • the effective beam or auxiliary beam is then triggered when the beam cross-section is covered, so that the primary radiation propagating in this beam cross-section hits the optical auxiliary element and is reflected by it.
  • Primary radiation of the effective beam or auxiliary beam reflected by the reflective optical auxiliary element is captured by the imaging optics and directed at a spot on the camera. This spot is displayed on the screen as the determined actual impact point.
  • the characterizing features of claim 2 represent device features of the beam weapon that correspond to these method features.
  • the housing When the procedure is being carried out, the housing is closed to prevent light from entering. This ensures that no laser radiation can escape when the procedure is being carried out, so that no safety measures are necessary.
  • the invention allows the target point of the beam weapon to be determined and displayed without primary radiation having to be emitted into the environment in the form of an effective beam or auxiliary beam.
  • the target point can be determined and displayed at any time with high accuracy, in a short amount of time and without safety precautions relating to the area surrounding the beam weapon, such as barriers.
  • a further advantage is that the target point of the beam weapon can be determined and displayed even when the beam weapon is moving, without the movement of the beam weapon affecting the accuracy of the determination and display of the target point.
  • a preferred embodiment of the radiation weapon is characterized in that it has a primary radiation source and at least one radiation-conducting solid body having a first end and a second end, as well as a wavelength or beam splitter which is a common component of the imaging optics and the effective beam optics, wherein the first end is arranged relative to the primary radiation source such that primary radiation emitted by the primary radiation source can be coupled into the solid body via the first end and can be coupled out of the solid body via the second end, and that the wavelength or beam splitter is arranged in a beam path of the decoupleable primary radiation such that it can be illuminated with the decoupleable primary radiation.
  • the process also works without restrictions without such a solid body if the laser beam is introduced into the optics as a free beam (adjusted to the optical axis of the optics).
  • the laser beam is then usually coupled into the optics as a collimated beam, i.e. a beam of parallel aligned light.
  • Coupling in a divergent beam is also conceivable.
  • Coupling in as a free beam has advantages at very high powers, since the powers that can be transmitted with currently known fibers are limited.
  • the effective beam optics and the imaging optics have, as further common components, optical elements which are located between the wavelength or beam splitter and the effective beam exit opening of the beam weapon.
  • optical elements have a common optical axis.
  • the shared optical elements ensure that the target plane is sharply imaged on the camera and screen.
  • a further preferred embodiment of the beam weapon is characterized in that the other common optical elements include at least a first telescopic optic and a second telescopic optic.
  • auxiliary optical element is a flat mirror arranged perpendicular to the optical axis.
  • the auxiliary optical element comprises a retroreflector which is designed to reflect incident primary radiation as reflected radiation and in directions opposite to the directions of the incident primary radiation.
  • a further preferred embodiment of the beam weapon is characterized in that the effective beam optics and the imaging optics have, as a further common component, a deflection mirror which is arranged and aligned such that it reflects primary radiation incident from the wavelength or beam splitter in the direction of the effective beam exit opening and reflects reflected radiation incident from the direction of the optical auxiliary element to the wavelength or beam splitter.
  • the wavelength or beam splitter directs at least a portion of the reflected radiation incident from the deflection mirror onto at least one camera of the imaging optics.
  • the imaging optics have a first camera and a second camera and a second wavelength or beam splitter, which reflected radiation into a reflected portion and a transmitted portion and that the first camera is arranged so that it can be illuminated with the reflected portion and that the second camera is arranged so that it can be illuminated with the transmitted portion.
  • a single camera is sufficient to carry out the process. This will usually be a so-called fine tracking camera.
  • a second (or further) camera(s) can be used independently of the first camera.
  • the process then provides the target point (crosshairs) for this camera at the same time as the first camera.
  • the second camera usually uses a different wavelength, so that in the optics the beam paths are separated by a wavelength splitter mirror. Sometimes the software analysis does not allow the images to be available to the observer. In this case the second camera can be used for observation.
  • the second wavelength can sometimes provide better images because different atmospheric conditions exist (less scattering, fog).
  • a second camera can have a higher resolution, optics with higher magnification for better resolution or with lower magnification for a larger field of view.
  • a further preferred embodiment of the beam weapon is characterized in that the alignment of the deflection mirror can be adjusted manually or automatically.
  • an optical element (lens or spherical mirror) is arranged between the wavelength or beam splitter and a deflection mirror and that a further optical element (lens or spherical mirror) is arranged between the deflection mirror and the second wavelength or beam splitter and that a second deflection mirror is arranged between the second wavelength or beam splitter and the first camera.
  • the imaging optics and the effective beam optics are arranged in a housing which has an effective beam exit opening allowing radiation to exit from the housing and radiation to enter the housing, wherein the optical auxiliary element in the form of a cover closing the effective beam exit opening can be fastened to an edge of the effective beam exit opening.
  • a further preferred embodiment of the beam weapon is characterized in that the optical auxiliary element is attached in a captive manner and can be folded by means of a joint, wherein the optical auxiliary element leaves the effective beam exit opening free in a first folding position and closes the effective beam exit opening in a second folding position.
  • the Figure 1 a simplified representation of a radiation weapon 10.
  • the radiation weapon 10 has a primary radiation source 12 and at least one radiation-conducting solid body 18 having a first end 14 and a second end 16, as well as a first wavelength or beam splitter 20.
  • the primary radiation source 12 preferably has one or more lasers.
  • the radiation-conducting solid body 18 is, for example, a glass fiber or a glass fiber bundle.
  • the beam weapon 10 has an effective beam optics 22 and an imaging optics 24 and is designed to display the position of a point of impact 26 of the beam weapon 10.
  • the effective beam optics 22 are designed to focus and align primary radiation of the beam weapon 10, which is to be emitted as an effective beam 28 or auxiliary beam, into a target plane 30.
  • the alignment is carried out, for example, by a movable deflection mirror 32.
  • the imaging optics 24 are designed to detect radiation emanating from an object irradiated with the effective beam 28 or the auxiliary beam and to direct it onto a camera 34 of a screen 38 having a target point marking 36.
  • the radiation weapon 10 has a screen 38.
  • an enlarged, high-resolution image 40 of the point of impact 26 is generated on the camera 34 and the screen 38.
  • the imaging optics 24 have an imaging optics 35 as an optical element that is not also part of the effective beam optics.
  • the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 is a common component of the imaging optics 24 and the effective beam optics 22.
  • the wavelength or beam splitter 20 is based, for example, on a reversal of a wavelength coupling.
  • Known wavelength splitters have a special mirror layer that has been vapor-deposited onto a glass substrate. This layer reflects light with wavelengths from a certain wavelength range and transmits light with wavelengths from another wavelength range.
  • Such mirrors are known to the person skilled in the art and are commercially available (e.g. from Laseroptik, Garbsen).
  • the wavelength or beam splitter 20 reflects the wavelength of the active laser and transmits the wavelength of the illumination laser (auxiliary laser).
  • the illumination laser is an independent laser that is moved so that it illuminates the target area with the target over a large area (like a spotlight). Alternatively, you can work without an illumination laser and at any wavelength for the camera image if there is enough daylight.
  • the camera could also be a thermal camera and you work with thermal radiation in the near or far infrared.
  • Element 20 is then not a wavelength splitter but a beam splitter. This means that element 20 reflects a lot of light (99%) (namely the laser) and only lets a small part (1%) through to the camera.
  • wavelength splitters operating according to other principles can also be used.
  • the first end 14 of the radiation-conducting solid body 18 is arranged relative to the primary radiation source 12 such that primary radiation emitted by the primary radiation source 12 can be coupled into the solid body 18 via the first end 14, and the second end 16 is arranged relative to the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 such that primary radiation propagating in the solid body 18 can be coupled out of the solid body 18 via the second end 16 and that the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 can be illuminated with the coupled-out primary radiation.
  • a collimating optic 42 arranged between the second end 16 and the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 bundles the primary radiation emerging from the second end 16.
  • the collimating optic 42 is an optical element of the effective beam optic 22, which is not also part of the imaging optic 24.
  • the imaging optics 24 and the effective beam optics 22 are arranged in a housing 50.
  • the housing 50 has a Effective beam exit opening 44 which allows radiation to exit from the housing 50 and radiation to enter the housing 50.
  • the effective beam optics 22 and the imaging optics 24 have further common optical elements that lie between the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 and the effective beam exit opening 44.
  • the further common optical elements are at least a first telescope optics 46 and a second telescope optics 48.
  • the common optical elements have a common optical axis 51. Due to their common optical axis 51, the common optical elements ensure that the target plane 30 (laser focus plane) is sharply imaged onto the camera 34.
  • the conventional determination of the target point 26 involves irradiating a test target 52 which is located at a large distance, e.g. at a distance of several hundred meters or several kilometers from the radiation weapon 10.
  • Figure 1 shows a beam weapon 10 with an effective beam 28 or auxiliary beam that is directed at a distant test target 52 and creates a penetration point there.
  • This penetration which marks the actual impact point 26, is recorded by the camera 34 of the imaging optics 24 and displayed as an image 40 of the impact point 26 on the screen 38.
  • Figure 2 shows the ray weapon from the Figure 1 with a beam path of radiation 54, which emanates from the test target 52 in the opposite direction to the direction of the effective beam 28 and enters the imaging optics 24 of the beam weapon 10 through the effective beam exit opening 44 of the beam weapon 10.
  • This radiation 54 is, for example, visible light or infrared radiation. This radiation can occur as a result of irradiation with the primary radiation, but it can also be emitted independently of the primary radiation, for example as thermal radiation or reflected daylight.
  • the Figure 1 shows that the second end 16 of the radiation-conducting solid body, which in a sense represents the source of the primary radiation for the radiation weapon 10, is imaged by a first image in the target plane 30.
  • the first image is conveyed by the effective beam 28.
  • the image lying in the target plane 30 corresponds to the point of impact 26 on the test target 52.
  • Figure 2 shows the same structure as the Figure 1 with a beam path in the opposite direction.
  • Figure 2 This makes it clear that this meeting point 26 is imaged sharply on the camera 34 in a second optical image by the imaging optics 24 and is displayed as an image 40 of the meeting point 26 on the screen 38.
  • This double optical image can be viewed as an indirect image of the second end 16 of the radiation-conducting solid body 18.
  • FIG 3 shows an embodiment of a beam weapon 10.
  • This beam weapon 10 has all the elements of the Figures 1 and 2 explained beam weapon 10 and differs from it by an additional optical auxiliary element 56.
  • This optical auxiliary element 56 is characterized in that, due to its shape, dimensions and arrangement, it is designed to cover a beam cross-section of an effective beam 28 or auxiliary beam emerging from the beam weapon 10 and to reflect primary radiation directed out of the beam weapon 10 into the imaging optics 24 of the beam weapon 10.
  • the imaging optics 24 are designed to capture primary radiation of the effective beam 28 or the auxiliary beam reflected by the reflective optical auxiliary element 56 and to direct it as an image of the second end 16 onto the camera 34 and to display this image as a meeting point 40 on the screen 38.
  • the optical auxiliary element 56 is a flat mirror 58 that is arranged perpendicular to the optical axis 51. To do this, the mirror must reflect the beam exactly into itself. To do this, the mirror would have to be precisely adjusted in angle, which is not easy. Therefore, a retroreflector 60 is preferably used as an auxiliary element: The retroreflector reflects the beam into itself without angle adjustment.
  • a retroreflector is a device that incident electromagnetic radiation is reflected in the direction from which the radiation is incident, largely independent of its direction of incidence and the orientation of the retroreflector. An incident beam is reflected laterally offset by 180°. Such a retroreflector 60 is therefore designed to reflect incident primary radiation as reflected radiation and in directions opposite to the directions of the incident primary radiation.
  • the retroreflector can have a much smaller diameter than the beam diameter.
  • the retroreflector does not necessarily have to be positioned in the center of the beam; a small retroreflector in the outer beam area is also possible.
  • the Figure 3 shows a large retroreflector (area corresponds to the clear width of the housing opening) that is centered on the beam. This solution perhaps provides the greatest accuracy. But it also works with a small retroreflector that is not centered. For example, it is sufficient to glue a small retroreflector to the inside of the lid. The lid is then closed light-tight for the procedure. Since there are no angle adjustments for the retroreflector, or position requirements, the procedure can be carried out immediately without adjustments.
  • the optical auxiliary element 56 can preferably be fastened to an edge of the effective beam exit opening 44 in the form of a cover that closes the effective beam exit opening 44.
  • Such fastening can be carried out in various ways, for example by means of screws or clamps. In any case, the fastenings must be detachable.
  • the optical auxiliary element 56 is attached to the housing 50 in a captive manner and can be folded by means of a joint 62. In a first folding position, the optical auxiliary element 56 leaves the effective beam outlet opening 44 free, and in a second folding position it closes the effective beam outlet opening 44.
  • the first folding position is in the Figure 3 represented by the dashed representation of the optical auxiliary element 56.
  • the second folding position is in the Figure 3 represented by the solid representation of the optical auxiliary element 56.
  • the reflective side of the optical auxiliary element 56 is arranged on the side of the optical auxiliary element 56 which, in the closed state, faces the interior of the housing 50.
  • other designs are also possible, such as a sliding closure or a closure that swings away to the side.
  • the closure is preferably designed so that the housing is closed light-tight when the method is carried out.
  • the closure of a cover that closes the housing is preferably monitored for safety reasons. This ensures that no laser radiation can escape when the process is carried out, so that no safety measures are necessary.
  • FIG. 3 shows the Figure 3 a direct optical imaging of the beam exit of the second end 16 (or the beam exit of an auxiliary beam collinear with the active beam) onto the camera 34.
  • the direct optical imaging takes place with the aid of the auxiliary optical element 56.
  • the auxiliary optical element 56 is arranged directly in front of the active beam exit opening 44 of the beam weapon 10 and reflects the active beam 28 exiting from the active beam exit opening 44 along the optical axis 51 back into the common part of the imaging optics 24 and the active beam optics 22.
  • the direction of the rays incident on the auxiliary optical element 56 is reversed during reflection at the auxiliary optical element 56, so that the reflected radiation in the imaging optics 24 propagates to the camera 34 as if this radiation originated from a distant test target that is located in a distant test target-side focal point of the active beam 28.
  • the direct imaging is thus carried out in such a way that the direct optical image of the beam exit of the effective beam or auxiliary beam (i.e. the second end 16) corresponds to the image of the point of impact 26 of the effective beam 28 on a distant test target 52. Therefore, the image of the second end 16 thus generated can be used to determine and display the actual point of impact.
  • This optical method can be carried out in such a way that the active beam 28 does not leave the housing 50, so that no test station is required for its implementation and no safety precautions have to be taken.
  • the effective beam of one or more lasers is guided to the effective beam optics using a glass fiber or a bundle of glass fibers.
  • the optical imaging is equivalent to the imaging of the second end 16, at which primary radiation emerges from a fiber end face.
  • a laser beam of a different wavelength auxiliary beam, pilot laser
  • the laser beam is guided from the laser beam source to the optics without fiber.
  • the laser beam is then introduced into the optics as a free beam.
  • the adjustment is then made to the optical axis of the optics.
  • the laser beam is then usually coupled into the optics as a collimated beam of parallel light.
  • the collimation optics (42) are then omitted.
  • the coupling of a divergent beam is also conceivable.
  • Figure 4 shows a flow chart as an embodiment of a method according to the invention for representing the position of a point of impact of a beam weapon 10 having an effective beam optics 22 and an imaging optics 24.
  • a beam cross-section of an effective beam 28 or auxiliary beam emerging from the beam weapon 10 is covered with an auxiliary optical element 56 reflecting the incident effective beam 28 or auxiliary beam.
  • a second step 102 the active beam 28 or the auxiliary beam is triggered when the beam cross-section is covered.
  • a third step 104 radiation emanating from an object irradiated with the active beam 28 or auxiliary beam is detected by the imaging optics 24 and directed onto a camera 34 of a screen 38 which has a target point marking 36.
  • the irradiated object is a remote test target 26.
  • the object is the auxiliary optical element 56.
  • a fourth step 106 the radiation spot generated by the camera 34 is displayed as the actual impact point 40 on the screen 38.
  • the effective beam optics 22 and the imaging optics 24 have as a common component the deflection mirror 32, which is arranged and aligned such that it reflects incident primary radiation from the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 in the direction of the first telescope optics 46 and reflects incident reflected radiation from the direction of the auxiliary optical element 56 to the first wavelength or beam splitter 20.
  • the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 directs at least a portion of the reflected radiation incident from the deflection mirror 32 onto at least one camera 34, 34' of the imaging optics.
  • the imaging optics have a first camera 34 and a second camera 34' and a second wavelength or beam splitter 64, which separates reflected radiation incident from the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 into a reflected portion and a transmitted portion.
  • the first camera 34 is arranged such that it can be illuminated with the reflected portion, and the second camera 34' is arranged such that it can be illuminated with the transmitted portion.
  • the alignment of the deflection mirror 32 can be adjusted manually or automatically in one embodiment.
  • An optical element 66 is arranged between the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 and a deflection mirror 68.
  • Another optical element 70 is arranged between the deflection mirror 68 and the second wavelength or beam splitter 64.
  • a second deflection mirror 72 is arranged between the second wavelength or beam splitter 64 and the first camera.
  • the optical elements can each be implemented as a lens or as a spherical mirror.
  • the telescope optics, collimation optics and imaging optics can also each be implemented as lenses or spherical mirrors.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Radar, Positioning & Navigation (AREA)
  • Remote Sensing (AREA)
  • Optical Radar Systems And Details Thereof (AREA)
  • Aiming, Guidance, Guns With A Light Source, Armor, Camouflage, And Targets (AREA)

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur Darstellung eines Ist-Treffpunktes einer Strahlenwaffe nach dem Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1 und eine Strahlenwaffe mit den Merkmalen des Oberbegriffs des Anspruchs 2.The present invention relates to a method for displaying an actual point of impact of a beam weapon according to the preamble of claim 1 and a beam weapon having the features of the preamble of claim 2.

Ein solches Verfahren und eine solche Strahlenwaffe sind aus der US 3 752 587 A und aus der US 2017/234658 A1 bekannt.Such a procedure and such a radiation weapon are known from US 3 752 587 A and from the US 2017/234658 A1 known.

Per se bekannt ist auch ein Verfahren, das sich auf eine Strahlenwaffe bezieht, die eine Wirkstrahloptik und eine Abbildungsoptik aufweist. Die Wirkstrahloptik dient zur Fokussierung und Ausrichtung von Primärstrahlung, die von der Strahlenwaffe in Form eines Wirkstrahls oder eines Hilfsstrahls abgestrahlt wird. Von einem mit dem Wirkstrahl oder Hilfsstrahl bestrahlten Objekt ausgehende Strahlung wird von der Abbildungsoptik erfasst und auf eine Kamera eines Bildschirms gerichtet, der eine Zielpunktmarkierung aufweist.Also known per se is a method that relates to a beam weapon that has an effective beam optics and an imaging optics. The effective beam optics are used for Focusing and alignment of primary radiation emitted by the radiation weapon in the form of an effective beam or an auxiliary beam. Radiation emanating from an object irradiated with the effective beam or auxiliary beam is captured by the imaging optics and directed onto a camera on a screen that has a target point marking.

Die Abbildungsoptik ist ein Beispiel einer Zieloptik, die zur optischen Darstellung eines Zielbereichs dient. Ein anderes Beispiel einer solchen Zieloptik ist ein Zielfernrohr, das eine direkte Betrachtung des Zielbereichs mit dem Auge erlaubt. Der Zielpunkt der Waffe wird in der Regel durch ein Fadenkreuz in der Optik des Zielfernrohrs oder auf einem Bildschirm der Kamera markiert. Der zum Beispiel als Fadenkreuz markierte Zielpunkt gibt bei einer Betrachtung des Zielbereiches durch das Zielfernrohr oder des auf einem Bildschirm abgebildeten Zielbereichs einen im Zielbereich liegenden Soll-Treffpunkt an. Das Verfahren zur Darstellung eines Ist-Treffpunktes wird auch als Zielpunktermittlung bezeichnet.The imaging optics are an example of a target optic that is used to visually display a target area. Another example of such a target optic is a riflescope, which allows the target area to be viewed directly with the eye. The aiming point of the weapon is usually marked by a crosshair in the optics of the riflescope or on a camera screen. The aiming point marked as a crosshair, for example, indicates a target point of impact in the target area when the target area is viewed through the riflescope or the target area shown on a screen. The process for displaying an actual point of impact is also known as target point determination.

Bei der Durchführung eines Beschusses wird die Waffe zunächst so ausgerichtet, dass das Fadenkreuz der Zieloptik, bzw. der Zielpunkt, mit dem Soll-Treffpunkt übereinstimmt. Danach wird der Schuss ausgelöst. Die Treffgenauigkeit der Waffe hängt davon ab, wie gut das Fadenkreuz, bzw. der Soll-Treffpunkt/Zielpunkt mit dem bei einem Schuss tatsächlich getroffenen Ist-Treffpunkt der Waffe übereinstimmt.When firing, the weapon is first aligned so that the crosshairs of the aiming optics, or the target point, align with the target point. The shot is then fired. The accuracy of the weapon depends on how well the crosshairs, or the target point/target point, align with the actual point of impact of the weapon when a shot is fired.

Eine gute Übereinstimmung von Zielpunkt und Ist-Treffpunkt ist insbesondere für Strahlenwaffen von großer Bedeutung, da Strahlenwaffen prinzipiell eine sehr hohe Präzision besitzen. Diese Präzision kann aber nur ausgenutzt werden, wenn das Fadenkreuz der Zieloptik, bzw. der Zielpunkt, mit einer der Präzision der Strahlenwaffe entsprechenden Genauigkeit mit dem Ist-Treffpunkt der Waffe übereinstimmt.A good match between the target point and the actual point of impact is particularly important for beam weapons, as beam weapons are in principle very precise. However, this precision can only be exploited if the crosshairs of the aiming optics, or the target point, match the actual point of impact of the weapon with an accuracy corresponding to the precision of the beam weapon.

Eine Justierung der Abbildungsoptik, die zu der gewünschten Übereinstimmung führt, setzt eine Ermittlung des Ist-Treffpunktes voraus. Eine solche Ist-Treffpunktermittlung ist zum Beispiel bei dem erstmaligen Aufbau einer Waffe, nach einem Austausch von Teilen der Waffe oder nach einer Dejustage des Aufbaus durch Umwelteinflüsse wie Temperatur- und Druck-Schwankungen, Vibrationen, Stoßwellen etc. erforderlich.An adjustment of the imaging optics that leads to the desired match requires a determination of the actual point of impact. Such an actual point of impact determination is necessary, for example, when setting up a weapon for the first time, after replacing parts of the weapon or after the structure has been misaligned due to environmental influences such as temperature and pressure fluctuations, vibrations, shock waves, etc.

Bei konventionellen Schusswaffen wird die Lage des Ist-Treffpunktes relativ zum Soll-Treffpunkt mit Hilfe von scharfen Schüssen der Waffe auf ein Testziel ermittelt, auf dem sich der Ist-Treffpunkt zum Beispiel als Einschussloch darstellt. Der entstandene Einschuss wird dann mit der Zieloptik der Waffe anvisiert und das Fadenkreuz der Zieloptik wird bei unveränderter Ausrichtung der Waffe auf den sich als Einschussloch darstellenden Ist-Treffpunkt eingestellt. Diese Prozedur wird zur Steigerung der Genauigkeit ggf. mehrmals wiederholt. Für andere Zielabstände kann eine Wiederholung dieser Prozedur erforderlich sein.With conventional firearms, the position of the actual point of impact relative to the target point of impact is determined by firing live shots from the weapon at a test target on which the actual point of impact is represented, for example, as a bullet hole. The resulting bullet hole is then targeted using the weapon's optics and the optics' crosshairs are set to the actual point of impact, represented as a bullet hole, while the weapon remains in the same position. This procedure may be repeated several times to increase accuracy. This procedure may need to be repeated for other target distances.

Dies ist auch die konventionelle Prozedur für eine Strahlenwaffe. Das Analogon zu dem scharfen Schuss der konventionellen Schusswaffe ist hier ein Hochleistungslaserstrahl, der auf ein Testziel gerichtet wird und dort z.B. einen Einbrand in dem Material des Testziels erzeugt. Die Einbrandstelle wird mit der Abbildungsoptik erfasst, und der Zielpunkt der Strahlenwaffe (z.B. der Kreuzungspunkt eines Fadenkreuzes einer Abbildungsoptik) wird bei unveränderter Ausrichtung der Waffe so verstellt, dass der Zielpunkt bei der Betrachtung der Einbrandstelle mit der Zieloptik auf der sich als Ist-Treffpunkt darstellenden Einbrandstelle liegt.This is also the conventional procedure for a beam weapon. The analogue to the live shot of a conventional firearm is a high-power laser beam that is aimed at a test target and creates, for example, a burn in the material of the test target. The burn point is recorded with the imaging optics, and the aiming point of the beam weapon (e.g. the intersection point of a crosshair of an imaging optics) is adjusted without changing the weapon's alignment so that the aiming point is on the burn point that is the actual point of impact when the burn point is viewed with the aiming optics.

Bei dem eingangs als per se bekannt bezeichneten Verfahren zur Darstellung der Lage eines Treffpunkts einer eine Wirkstrahloptik und eine Abbildungsoptik aufweisenden Strahlenwaffe wird eine durch die Wirkstrahloptik fokussierte und gerichtete Primärstrahlung der Strahlenwaffe als Wirkstrahl oder Hilfsstrahl ausgelöst. Das mit diesem Wirkstrahl oder Hilfsstrahl bestrahlte Objekt emittiert eine Strahlung, die im Folgenden zur Unterscheidung von der als Primärstrahlung bezeichneten Ausgangsstrahlung der Strahlenwaffe nur als Strahlung bezeichnet wird. Diese Strahlung ist zum Beispiel ein breites Spektrum sichtbaren Lichts und/oder Infrarotstrahlung, die unter Umständen als Folge der Bestrahlung mit der Primärstrahlung emittiert wird, aber zum Beispiel auch reflektiertes Tageslicht sein kann. Diese Strahlung wird von der Abbildungsoptik erfasst und auf eine Kamera eines Bildschirms gerichtet. Dabei wird die Einbrandstelle als Ist-Treffpunkt auf dem Bildschirm abgebildet. Der Bildschirm weist zum Beispiel eine Zielpunktmarkierung in Form eines Fadenkreuzes auf, so dass die Lage des Treffpunktes relativ zu der Zielpunktmarkierung ablesbar ist.In the method described at the beginning as known per se for displaying the position of a point of impact of a beam weapon having an effective beam optics and an imaging optics, a primary radiation of the beam weapon, focused and directed by the effective beam optics, is triggered as an effective beam or auxiliary beam. The object irradiated with this effective beam or auxiliary beam emits radiation, which is referred to below as radiation to distinguish it from the output radiation of the beam weapon, which is referred to as primary radiation. This radiation is, for example, a broad spectrum of visible light and/or infrared radiation, which may be emitted as a result of irradiation with the primary radiation, but may also be reflected daylight, for example. This radiation is captured by the imaging optics and projected onto a Camera on a screen. The point of penetration is shown on the screen as the actual point of impact. The screen has a target point marking in the form of a crosshair, for example, so that the position of the point of impact can be read relative to the target point marking.

Bei dem bekannten Verfahren sind zur Zielpunktermittlung scharfe Schüsse / Bestrahlungen von Testzielen im realen Entfernungsbereich der Waffe erforderlich. Hierfür ist ein geeignetes Gelände mit entsprechenden Sicherheitsvorkehrungen für den Waffeneinsatz erforderlich. Ein weiterer Nachteil besteht darin, dass diese Zielpunktermittlung bei bewegter Waffe sehr schwierig ist. Eine Bewegung der Waffe ist zum Beispiel bei Schiffswaffen kaum zu vermeiden.The known method requires live shots/irradiation of test targets in the actual range of the weapon to determine the target point. This requires suitable terrain with appropriate safety precautions for the use of the weapon. Another disadvantage is that this target point determination is very difficult when the weapon is moving. Movement of the weapon is almost impossible to avoid, for example with ship weapons.

Nachteilig ist auch, dass das Verfahren im Einsatzgebiet der Waffe u.U. nicht durchführbar ist, wenn es sich nicht um ein Sperrgebiet handelt. Dann ist z.B. nach einer Waffenreparatur eine genaue Zielpunktermittlung der Strahlenwaffe nicht möglich.Another disadvantage is that the procedure may not be feasible in the area where the weapon is deployed if it is not a restricted area. In this case, for example, it is not possible to determine the exact target point of the ray weapon after a weapon repair.

Vor diesem Hintergrund besteht die Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung in der Angabe eines Verfahrens und einer Strahlenwaffe der jeweils eingangs genannten Art, die nicht mit diesen Nachteilen behaftet sind.Against this background, the object of the present invention is to provide a method and a radiation weapon of the type mentioned at the beginning, which are not afflicted with these disadvantages.

Mit Bezug auf Verfahrensaspekte wird diese Aufgabe mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1 und mit Bezug auf Vorrichtungsaspekte mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 2 gelöst. Dabei unterscheidet sich das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren vom Stand der Technik durch die kennzeichnenden Merkmale des Anspruchs 1. Erfindungsgemäß wird ein Strahlbündelquerschnitt eines aus der Strahlenwaffe austretenden Wirkstrahls oder Hilfsstrahls mit einem den einfallenden Wirkstrahl oder Hilfsstrahl reflektierenden optischen Hilfselement abgedeckt. Die Auslösung des Wirkstrahls oder des Hilfsstrahls erfolgt dann bei abgedecktem Strahlbündelquerschnitt, so dass die in diesem Strahlbündelquerschnitt propagierende Primärstrahlung auf das optische Hilfselement trifft und von diesem reflektiert wird. Von dem reflektierenden optischen Hilfselement reflektierte Primärstrahlung des Wirkstrahls oder des Hilfsstrahls wird von der Abbildungsoptik erfasst und auf einen Fleck der Kamera gerichtet. Dieser Fleck wird als ermittelter Ist-Treffpunkt auf dem Bildschirm dargestellt. Die kennzeichnenden Merkmale des Anspruchs 2 stellen zu diesen Verfahrensmerkmalen korrespondierende Vorrichtungsmerkmale der Strahlenwaffe dar.With regard to method aspects, this object is achieved with the features of claim 1 and with regard to device aspects with the features of claim 2. The method according to the invention differs from the prior art by the characterizing features of claim 1. According to the invention, a beam cross-section of an effective beam or auxiliary beam emerging from the beam weapon is covered with an optical auxiliary element that reflects the incident effective beam or auxiliary beam. The effective beam or auxiliary beam is then triggered when the beam cross-section is covered, so that the primary radiation propagating in this beam cross-section hits the optical auxiliary element and is reflected by it. Primary radiation of the effective beam or auxiliary beam reflected by the reflective optical auxiliary element is captured by the imaging optics and directed at a spot on the camera. This spot is displayed on the screen as the determined actual impact point. The characterizing features of claim 2 represent device features of the beam weapon that correspond to these method features.

Bei der Durchführung des Verfahrens ist das Gehäuse lichtdicht geschlossen. Dadurch wird erreicht, dass bei der Durchführung des Verfahrens keine Laserstrahlung austreten kann, so dass keine Sicherheitsmaßnahmen notwendig werden.When the procedure is being carried out, the housing is closed to prevent light from entering. This ensures that no laser radiation can escape when the procedure is being carried out, so that no safety measures are necessary.

Die Erfindung erlaubt eine Ermittlung und Darstellung des Zielpunktes der Strahlenwaffe, ohne dass dazu Primärstrahlung in Form eines Wirkstrahls oder Hilfsstrahls in die Umgebung abgestrahlt werden muss. Die Ermittlung und Darstellung des Zielpunktes ist zu jeder Zeit mit hoher Genauigkeit, geringem Zeitaufwand und ohne die Umgebung der Strahlenwaffe betreffende Sicherheitsvorkehrungen, wie z.B. Absperrungen, durchführbar. Ein weiterer Vorteil besteht darin, dass eine Ermittlung und Darstellung des Zielpunktes der Strahlenwaffe auch bei bewegter Strahlenwaffe durchführbar ist, ohne dass die Bewegung der Strahlenwaffe die Genauigkeit der Ermittlung und Darstellung des Zielpunktes beeinträchtigt.The invention allows the target point of the beam weapon to be determined and displayed without primary radiation having to be emitted into the environment in the form of an effective beam or auxiliary beam. The target point can be determined and displayed at any time with high accuracy, in a short amount of time and without safety precautions relating to the area surrounding the beam weapon, such as barriers. A further advantage is that the target point of the beam weapon can be determined and displayed even when the beam weapon is moving, without the movement of the beam weapon affecting the accuracy of the determination and display of the target point.

Eine bevorzugte Ausgestaltung der Strahlenwaffe zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass sie eine Primärstrahlungsquelle und wenigstens einen ein erstes Ende und ein zweites Ende aufweisenden strahlungsleitenden Festkörper sowie einen Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler aufweist, der ein gemeinsamer Bestandteil der Abbildungsoptik und der Wirkstrahloptik ist, wobei das erste Ende relativ zu der Primärstrahlungsquelle so angeordnet ist, dass von der Primärstrahlungsquelle emittierte Primärstrahlung über das erste Ende in den Festkörper einkoppelbar ist und über das zweite Ende aus dem Festkörper auskoppelbar ist und dass der Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler in einem Strahlengang der auskoppelbaren Primärstrahlung so angeordnet ist, dass er mit der auskoppelbaren Primärstrahlung beleuchtbar ist.A preferred embodiment of the radiation weapon is characterized in that it has a primary radiation source and at least one radiation-conducting solid body having a first end and a second end, as well as a wavelength or beam splitter which is a common component of the imaging optics and the effective beam optics, wherein the first end is arranged relative to the primary radiation source such that primary radiation emitted by the primary radiation source can be coupled into the solid body via the first end and can be coupled out of the solid body via the second end, and that the wavelength or beam splitter is arranged in a beam path of the decoupleable primary radiation such that it can be illuminated with the decoupleable primary radiation.

Das Verfahren funktioniert aber auch uneingeschränkt ohne einen solchen Festkörper, wenn der Laserstrahl als Freistrahl in die Optik eingeführt wird (Justage auf die optische Achse der Optik). In der Regel wird dann der Laserstrahl als kollimierter Strahl, d.h. Strahl aus parallel ausgerichtetem Licht in die Optik eingekoppelt. Eine Einkopplung eines divergenten Strahls ist auch denkbar. Die Einkopplung als Freistrahl hat Vorteile bei sehr hohen Leistungen, da die mit heute bekannten Fasern übertragbaren Leistungen nach oben beschränkt sind.However, the process also works without restrictions without such a solid body if the laser beam is introduced into the optics as a free beam (adjusted to the optical axis of the optics). The laser beam is then usually coupled into the optics as a collimated beam, i.e. a beam of parallel aligned light. Coupling in a divergent beam is also conceivable. Coupling in as a free beam has advantages at very high powers, since the powers that can be transmitted with currently known fibers are limited.

Bevorzugt ist auch, dass die Wirkstrahloptik und die Abbildungsoptik als weitere gemeinsame Bestandteile optische Elemente aufweisen, die zwischen dem Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler und der Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung der Strahlenwaffe liegen.It is also preferred that the effective beam optics and the imaging optics have, as further common components, optical elements which are located between the wavelength or beam splitter and the effective beam exit opening of the beam weapon.

Weiter ist bevorzugt, dass die optischen Elemente eine gemeinsame optische Achse aufweisen.It is further preferred that the optical elements have a common optical axis.

Die gemeinsamen optischen Elemente sorgen dafür, dass die Zielebene scharf auf die Kamera und den Bildschirm abgebildet wird.The shared optical elements ensure that the target plane is sharply imaged on the camera and screen.

Eine weitere bevorzugte Ausgestaltung der Strahlenwaffe zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass zu den weiteren gemeinsamen optischen Elementen wenigstens eine erste Teleskopoptik und eine zweite Teleskopoptik gehört.A further preferred embodiment of the beam weapon is characterized in that the other common optical elements include at least a first telescopic optic and a second telescopic optic.

Bevorzugt ist auch, dass das optische Hilfselement ein ebener Spiegel ist, der senkrecht zu der optischen Achse angeordnet ist.It is also preferred that the auxiliary optical element is a flat mirror arranged perpendicular to the optical axis.

Alternativ dazu ist bevorzugt, dass das optische Hilfselement einen Retroreflektor aufweist, der dazu eingerichtet ist, einfallende Primärstrahlung als reflektierte und in zu Richtungen der einfallenden Primärstrahlung entgegengesetzte Richtungen zu reflektieren.Alternatively, it is preferred that the auxiliary optical element comprises a retroreflector which is designed to reflect incident primary radiation as reflected radiation and in directions opposite to the directions of the incident primary radiation.

Eine weitere bevorzugte Ausgestaltung der Strahlenwaffe zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass die Wirkstrahloptik und die Abbildungsoptik als weiteren gemeinsamen Bestandteil einen Ablenkspiegel aufweisen, der so angeordnet und ausgerichtet ist, dass er vom Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler her einfallende Primärstrahlung in Richtung zur Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung reflektiert und aus der Richtung vom optischen Hilfselement her einfallende reflektierte Strahlung zum Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler reflektiert.A further preferred embodiment of the beam weapon is characterized in that the effective beam optics and the imaging optics have, as a further common component, a deflection mirror which is arranged and aligned such that it reflects primary radiation incident from the wavelength or beam splitter in the direction of the effective beam exit opening and reflects reflected radiation incident from the direction of the optical auxiliary element to the wavelength or beam splitter.

Bevorzugt ist auch, dass der Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler wenigstens einen Teil der vom Ablenkspiegel her einfallenden reflektierten Strahlung auf wenigstens eine Kamera der Abbildungsoptik richtet.It is also preferred that the wavelength or beam splitter directs at least a portion of the reflected radiation incident from the deflection mirror onto at least one camera of the imaging optics.

Weiter ist bevorzugt, dass die Abbildungsoptik eine erste Kamera und eine zweite Kamera und einen zweiten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler aufweist, der vom ersten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler her einfallende reflektierte Strahlung in einen reflektierten Anteil und einen transmittierten Anteil trennt und dass die erste Kamera so angeordnet ist, dass sie mit dem reflektierten Anteil beleuchtbar ist und dass die zweite Kamera so angeordnet ist, dass sie mit dem transmittierten Anteil beleuchtbar ist.It is further preferred that the imaging optics have a first camera and a second camera and a second wavelength or beam splitter, which reflected radiation into a reflected portion and a transmitted portion and that the first camera is arranged so that it can be illuminated with the reflected portion and that the second camera is arranged so that it can be illuminated with the transmitted portion.

Für die Durchführung des Verfahrens reicht eine einzige Kamera aus. In der Regel wird dies eine sogenannte Fine Tracking Kamera sein. Die Bilder dieser Kamera werden per Software hinsichtlich der Targetposition zur Strahllage (=Fadenkreuz) ausgewertet, die Ablage wird berechnet, und es wird ein Steuersignal für den Ablenkspiegel ausgegeben.A single camera is sufficient to carry out the process. This will usually be a so-called fine tracking camera. The images from this camera are evaluated by software with regard to the target position in relation to the beam position (= crosshairs), the offset is calculated, and a control signal is output for the deflection mirror.

Eine zweite (oder weitere) Kamera(s) können unabhängig von der ersten Kamera eingesetzt werden. Das Verfahren liefert dann gleichzeitig mit der ersten Kamera auch für diese Kamera den Zielpunkt (Fadenkreuz). In der Regel nutzt die zweite Kamera eine andere Wellenlänge, so dass in der Optik die Strahlengänge durch einen Wellenlängenteilerspiegel getrennt werden. Manchmal erlaubt die Softwareauswertung nicht, dass die Bilder auch für den Beobachter zur Verfügung stehen. Dann kann die zweite Kamera zur Beobachtung genutzt werden. Die zweite Wellenlänge kann unter Umständen bessere Bilder liefern da andere atmosphärische Verhältnisse vorliegen (weniger Streuung, Nebel). Eine zweite Kamera kann eine höhere Auflösung, eine Optik mit stärkerer Vergrößerung für bessere Auflösung oder mit kleinerer Vergrößerung für größeres Bildfeld aufweisen.A second (or further) camera(s) can be used independently of the first camera. The process then provides the target point (crosshairs) for this camera at the same time as the first camera. The second camera usually uses a different wavelength, so that in the optics the beam paths are separated by a wavelength splitter mirror. Sometimes the software analysis does not allow the images to be available to the observer. In this case the second camera can be used for observation. The second wavelength can sometimes provide better images because different atmospheric conditions exist (less scattering, fog). A second camera can have a higher resolution, optics with higher magnification for better resolution or with lower magnification for a larger field of view.

Eine weitere bevorzugte Ausgestaltung der Strahlenwaffe zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass die Ausrichtung des Ablenkspiegels manuell oder automatisch verstellbar ist.A further preferred embodiment of the beam weapon is characterized in that the alignment of the deflection mirror can be adjusted manually or automatically.

Bevorzugt ist auch, dass ein optisches Element (Linse oder sphärischer Spiegel) zwischen dem Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler und einem Umlenkspiegel angeordnet ist und dass ein weiteres optisches Element (Linse oder sphärischer Spiegel) zwischen dem Umlenkspiegel und dem zweitem Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler angeordnet ist und dass ein zweiter Umlenkspiegel zwischen dem zweiten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler und der ersten Kamera angeordnet ist.It is also preferred that an optical element (lens or spherical mirror) is arranged between the wavelength or beam splitter and a deflection mirror and that a further optical element (lens or spherical mirror) is arranged between the deflection mirror and the second wavelength or beam splitter and that a second deflection mirror is arranged between the second wavelength or beam splitter and the first camera.

Erfindungsgemäß sind die Abbildungsoptik und die Wirkstrahloptik in einem Gehäuse angeordnet, das eine einen Austritt von Strahlung aus dem Gehäuse und einen Eintritt von Strahlung in das Gehäuse erlaubende Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung aufweist, wobei das optische Hilfselement in Form eines die Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung verschließenden Deckels an einem Rand der Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung befestigbar ist.According to the invention, the imaging optics and the effective beam optics are arranged in a housing which has an effective beam exit opening allowing radiation to exit from the housing and radiation to enter the housing, wherein the optical auxiliary element in the form of a cover closing the effective beam exit opening can be fastened to an edge of the effective beam exit opening.

Eine weitere bevorzugte Ausgestaltung der Strahlenwaffe zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass das optische Hilfselement unverlierbar und mittels eines Gelenks klappbar befestigt ist, wobei das optische Hilfselement in einer ersten Klappstellung die Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung freilässt und in einer zweiten Klappstellung die Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung verschließt.A further preferred embodiment of the beam weapon is characterized in that the optical auxiliary element is attached in a captive manner and can be folded by means of a joint, wherein the optical auxiliary element leaves the effective beam exit opening free in a first folding position and closes the effective beam exit opening in a second folding position.

Weitere Vorteile ergeben sich aus der Beschreibung und den beigefügten Figuren.Further advantages arise from the description and the attached figures.

Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung sind in den Zeichnungen dargestellt und werden in der nachfolgenden Beschreibung näher erläutert. Dabei bezeichnen gleiche Bezugszeichen in verschiedenen Figuren jeweils gleiche oder zumindest ihrer Funktion nach vergleichbare Elemente. Es zeigen, jeweils in schematischer Form:

Figur 1
eine vereinfachte Darstellung einer Strahlenwaffe als technisches Umfeld der Erfindung mit ausgehender Strahlung;
Figur 2
die Strahlenwaffe aus der Figur 1 mit eingehender Strahlung;
Figur 3
ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Strahlenwaffe;
Figur 4
ein Flussdiagramm als Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens; und
Figur 5
eine weitere Ausgestaltung einer erfindungsgemäßen Strahlenwaffe.
Embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and are explained in more detail in the following description. In this case, identical reference numerals in different figures designate identical or at least functionally comparable elements. They show, each in schematic form:
Figure 1
a simplified representation of a ray weapon as the technical environment of the invention with outgoing radiation;
Figure 2
the ray weapon from the Figure 1 with incoming radiation;
Figure 3
an embodiment of a beam weapon according to the invention;
Figure 4
a flow chart as an embodiment of a method according to the invention; and
Figure 5
a further embodiment of a radiation weapon according to the invention.

Im Einzelnen zeigt die Figur 1 eine vereinfachte Darstellung einer Strahlenwaffe 10. Die Strahlenwaffe 10 weist eine Primärstrahlungsquelle 12 und wenigstens einen ein erstes Ende 14 und ein zweites Ende 16 aufweisenden strahlungsleitenden Festkörper 18 sowie einen ersten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 auf. Die Primärstrahlungsquelle 12 weist bevorzugt einen oder mehrere Laser auf. Der strahlungsleitende Festkörper 18 ist zum Beispiel eine Glasfaser oder ein Glasfaserbündel.In detail, the Figure 1 a simplified representation of a radiation weapon 10. The radiation weapon 10 has a primary radiation source 12 and at least one radiation-conducting solid body 18 having a first end 14 and a second end 16, as well as a first wavelength or beam splitter 20. The primary radiation source 12 preferably has one or more lasers. The radiation-conducting solid body 18 is, for example, a glass fiber or a glass fiber bundle.

Die Strahlenwaffe 10 weist eine Wirkstrahloptik 22 und eine Abbildungsoptik 24 auf und ist zur Darstellung der Lage eines Treffpunkts 26 der Strahlenwaffe 10 eingerichtet. Die Wirkstrahloptik 22 ist dazu eingerichtet, als Wirkstrahl 28 oder Hilfsstrahl abzustrahlende Primärstrahlung der Strahlenwaffe 10 in eine Zielebene 30 zu fokussieren und auszurichten. Die Ausrichtung erfolgt zum Beispiel durch einen beweglichen Ablenkspiegel 32.The beam weapon 10 has an effective beam optics 22 and an imaging optics 24 and is designed to display the position of a point of impact 26 of the beam weapon 10. The effective beam optics 22 are designed to focus and align primary radiation of the beam weapon 10, which is to be emitted as an effective beam 28 or auxiliary beam, into a target plane 30. The alignment is carried out, for example, by a movable deflection mirror 32.

Die Abbildungsoptik 24 ist dazu eingerichtet, von einem mit dem Wirkstrahl 28 oder dem Hilfsstrahl bestrahlten Objekt ausgehende Strahlung zu erfassen und auf eine Kamera 34 eines eine Zielpunktmarkierung 36 aufweisenden Bildschirms 38 zu richten. Zu diesem Zweck weist die Strahlenwaffe 10 einen Bildschirm 38 auf. Dabei wird bevorzugt ein vergrößertes, hochaufgelöstes Bild 40 des Treffpunktes 26 auf der Kamera 34 und dem Bildschirm 38 erzeugt. Die Abbildungsoptik 24 weist neben der Kamera 34 und dem Bildschirm 38 als nicht auch zur Wirkstrahloptik zugehöriges optisches Element eine Abbildungsoptik 35 auf.The imaging optics 24 are designed to detect radiation emanating from an object irradiated with the effective beam 28 or the auxiliary beam and to direct it onto a camera 34 of a screen 38 having a target point marking 36. For this purpose, the radiation weapon 10 has a screen 38. Preferably, an enlarged, high-resolution image 40 of the point of impact 26 is generated on the camera 34 and the screen 38. The In addition to the camera 34 and the screen 38, the imaging optics 24 have an imaging optics 35 as an optical element that is not also part of the effective beam optics.

Der erste Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 ist ein gemeinsamer Bestandteil der Abbildungsoptik 24 und der Wirkstrahloptik 22. Der Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 basiert zum Beispiel auf einer Umkehrung einer Wellenlängenkopplung. Solche Wellenlängenteiler ( = Wellenlängenkoppler in Umkehrung) sind bekannt. Bekannte Wellenlängenteiler weisen eine spezielle Spiegelschicht auf, die auf ein Glassubstrat aufgedampft wurde. Diese Schicht reflektiert Licht mit Wellenlängen aus einem bestimmten Wellenlängenbereich und transmittiert Licht mit Wellenlängen aus einem anderen Wellenlängenbereich. Solche Spiegel sind dem Fachmann bekannt und kommerziell erhältlich (z.B. Fa. Laseroptik, Garbsen)The first wavelength or beam splitter 20 is a common component of the imaging optics 24 and the effective beam optics 22. The wavelength or beam splitter 20 is based, for example, on a reversal of a wavelength coupling. Such wavelength splitters (= wavelength couplers in reversal) are known. Known wavelength splitters have a special mirror layer that has been vapor-deposited onto a glass substrate. This layer reflects light with wavelengths from a certain wavelength range and transmits light with wavelengths from another wavelength range. Such mirrors are known to the person skilled in the art and are commercially available (e.g. from Laseroptik, Garbsen).

Beim Gegenstand der Figur 1 reflektiert der Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 die Wellenlänge des Wirklasers und transmittiert die Wellenlänge des Beleuchtungslasers (Hilfslaser). Der Beleuchtungslaser ist ein unabhängiger Laser, der mitbewegt wird, so dass er das Zielgebiet mit dem Target großflächig beleuchtet (wie ein Scheinwerfer). Man kann alternativ dazu auch ohne Beleuchtungslaser und bei irgendeiner Wellenlänge für das Kamerabild arbeiten, wenn genug Tageslicht vorhanden ist. Theoretisch könnte die Kamera auch eine Thermokamera sein und man arbeitet mit Wärmestrahlung im nahen oder weiten Infrarot.The subject of the Figure 1 the wavelength or beam splitter 20 reflects the wavelength of the active laser and transmits the wavelength of the illumination laser (auxiliary laser). The illumination laser is an independent laser that is moved so that it illuminates the target area with the target over a large area (like a spotlight). Alternatively, you can work without an illumination laser and at any wavelength for the camera image if there is enough daylight. Theoretically, the camera could also be a thermal camera and you work with thermal radiation in the near or far infrared.

Prinzipiell ist es auch möglich das Kamerabild in einem Wellenlängenbereich zu erzeugen in dem auch die Wirklaserwellenlänge liegt. Das Element 20 ist dann kein Wellenlängenteiler sondern ein Strahlteiler. D.h., dass das Element 20 sehr Licht (99%) reflektiert (nämlich den Laser) und nur einen kleinen Teil (1%) zur Kamera durchlässt.In principle, it is also possible to generate the camera image in a wavelength range that also includes the effective laser wavelength. Element 20 is then not a wavelength splitter but a beam splitter. This means that element 20 reflects a lot of light (99%) (namely the laser) and only lets a small part (1%) through to the camera.

Generell können aber auch nach anderen Prinzipien arbeitende Wellenlängenteiler zum Einsatz kommen.In general, however, wavelength splitters operating according to other principles can also be used.

Das erste Ende 14 des strahlungsleitenden Festkörpers 18 ist relativ zu der Primärstrahlungsquelle 12 so angeordnet, dass von der Primärstrahlungsquelle 12 emittierte Primärstrahlung über das erste Ende 14 in den Festkörper 18 einkoppelbar ist, und das zweite Ende 16 ist relativ zum ersten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 so angeordnet, dass im Festkörper 18 propagierende Primärstrahlung über das zweite Ende 16 aus dem Festkörper 18 auskoppelbar ist und dass der erste Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 mit der auskoppelbaren Primärstrahlung beleuchtbar ist. Eine zwischen dem zweiten Ende 16 und dem ersten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 angeordnete Kollimationsoptik 42 bündelt die aus dem zweiten Ende 16 austretende Primärstrahlung. Die Kollimationsoptik 42 ist ein optisches Element der Wirkstrahloptik 22, das nicht auch zur Abbildungsoptik 24 gehört.The first end 14 of the radiation-conducting solid body 18 is arranged relative to the primary radiation source 12 such that primary radiation emitted by the primary radiation source 12 can be coupled into the solid body 18 via the first end 14, and the second end 16 is arranged relative to the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 such that primary radiation propagating in the solid body 18 can be coupled out of the solid body 18 via the second end 16 and that the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 can be illuminated with the coupled-out primary radiation. A collimating optic 42 arranged between the second end 16 and the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 bundles the primary radiation emerging from the second end 16. The collimating optic 42 is an optical element of the effective beam optic 22, which is not also part of the imaging optic 24.

Die Abbildungsoptik 24 und die Wirkstrahloptik 22 sind in einem Gehäuse 50 angeordnet. Das Gehäuse 50 weist eine Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung 44 auf, die einen Austritt von Strahlung aus dem Gehäuse 50 und einen Eintritt von Strahlung in das Gehäuse 50 erlaubt.The imaging optics 24 and the effective beam optics 22 are arranged in a housing 50. The housing 50 has a Effective beam exit opening 44 which allows radiation to exit from the housing 50 and radiation to enter the housing 50.

Die Wirkstrahloptik 22 und die Abbildungsoptik 24 weisen neben dem ersten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 und dem Ablenkspiegel 32 weitere gemeinsame optische Elemente auf, die zwischen dem ersten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 und der Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung 44 liegen. Die weiteren gemeinsamen optischen Elemente sind wenigstens eine erste Teleskopoptik 46 und eine zweite Teleskopoptik 48. Die gemeinsamen optischen Elemente weisen eine gemeinsame optische Achse 51 auf. Die gemeinsamen optischen Elemente sorgen aufgrund ihrer gemeinsamen optischen Achse 51 dafür, dass die Zielebene 30 (Laserfokusebene) scharf auf die Kamera 34 abgebildet wird.In addition to the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 and the deflection mirror 32, the effective beam optics 22 and the imaging optics 24 have further common optical elements that lie between the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 and the effective beam exit opening 44. The further common optical elements are at least a first telescope optics 46 and a second telescope optics 48. The common optical elements have a common optical axis 51. Due to their common optical axis 51, the common optical elements ensure that the target plane 30 (laser focus plane) is sharply imaged onto the camera 34.

Wie eingangs erwähnt, erfolgt bei der konventionellen Ermittlung des Zielpunktes 26 eine Bestrahlung eines Testziels 52, das sich in einem großen Abstand, z.B. in einem Abstand von mehreren hundert Metern oder einigen Kilometern von der Strahlenwaffe 10 entfernt befindet.As mentioned at the beginning, the conventional determination of the target point 26 involves irradiating a test target 52 which is located at a large distance, e.g. at a distance of several hundred meters or several kilometers from the radiation weapon 10.

Figur 1 zeigt eine Strahlenwaffe 10 mit einem Wirkstrahl 28 oder Hilfsstrahl, der auf ein entferntes Testziel 52 gerichtet ist und dort eine Einbrandstelle erzeugt. Dieser Einbrand, der den Ist-Treffpunkt 26 markiert, wird von der Kamera 34 der Abbildungsoptik 24 erfasst und als Bild 40 des Treffpunktes 26 auf dem Bildschirm 38 dargestellt. Figure 1 shows a beam weapon 10 with an effective beam 28 or auxiliary beam that is directed at a distant test target 52 and creates a penetration point there. This penetration, which marks the actual impact point 26, is recorded by the camera 34 of the imaging optics 24 and displayed as an image 40 of the impact point 26 on the screen 38.

Figur 2 zeigt die Strahlenwaffe aus der Figur 1 mit einem Strahlengang von Strahlung 54, die in zur Richtung des Wirkstrahls 28 umgekehrter Richtung von dem Testziel 52 ausgeht und durch die Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung 44 der Strahlenwaffe 10 in die Abbildungsoptik 24 der Strahlenwaffe 10 eintritt. Bei dieser Strahlung 54 handelt es sich zum Beispiel um sichtbares Licht oder Infrarotstrahlung. Diese Strahlung kann sich als Folge einer Bestrahlung mit der Primärstrahlung einstellen, sie kann aber auch von der Primärstrahlung unabhängig emittiert werden, zum Beispiel als Temperaturstrahlung oder reflektiertes Tageslicht. Figure 2 shows the ray weapon from the Figure 1 with a beam path of radiation 54, which emanates from the test target 52 in the opposite direction to the direction of the effective beam 28 and enters the imaging optics 24 of the beam weapon 10 through the effective beam exit opening 44 of the beam weapon 10. This radiation 54 is, for example, visible light or infrared radiation. This radiation can occur as a result of irradiation with the primary radiation, but it can also be emitted independently of the primary radiation, for example as thermal radiation or reflected daylight.

Die Figur 1 zeigt, dass das zweite Ende 16 des strahlungsleitenden Festkörpers, das gewissermaßen die Quelle der Primärstrahlung für die Strahlenwaffe 10 darstellt, durch eine erste Abbildung in die Zielebene 30 abgebildet wird. Die erste Abbildung wird durch den Wirkstrahl 28 vermittelt. Das in der Zielebene 30 liegende Bild entspricht dem Treffpunkt 26 auf dem Testziel 52.The Figure 1 shows that the second end 16 of the radiation-conducting solid body, which in a sense represents the source of the primary radiation for the radiation weapon 10, is imaged by a first image in the target plane 30. The first image is conveyed by the effective beam 28. The image lying in the target plane 30 corresponds to the point of impact 26 on the test target 52.

Figur 2 zeigt dieselbe Struktur wie die Figur 1 mit einem Strahlengang umgekehrter Richtung. Figur 2 verdeutlicht damit, dass dieser Treffpunkt 26 in einer zweiten optischen Abbildung durch die Abbildungsoptik 24 scharf auf die Kamera 34 abgebildet wird und als Bild 40 des Treffpunktes 26 auf dem Bildschirm 38 dargestellt wird. Diese zweifache optische Abbildung kann gewissermaßen als indirekte Abbildung des zweiten Endes 16 des strahlungsleitenden Festkörpers 18 betrachtet werden. Figure 2 shows the same structure as the Figure 1 with a beam path in the opposite direction. Figure 2 This makes it clear that this meeting point 26 is imaged sharply on the camera 34 in a second optical image by the imaging optics 24 and is displayed as an image 40 of the meeting point 26 on the screen 38. This double optical image can be viewed as an indirect image of the second end 16 of the radiation-conducting solid body 18.

Figur 3 zeigt ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer Strahlenwaffe 10. Diese Strahlenwaffe 10 weist sämtliche Elemente der mit Bezug auf die Figuren 1 und 2 erläuterten Strahlenwaffe 10 auf und unterscheidet sich von dieser durch ein zusätzliches optisches Hilfselement 56. Figure 3 shows an embodiment of a beam weapon 10. This beam weapon 10 has all the elements of the Figures 1 and 2 explained beam weapon 10 and differs from it by an additional optical auxiliary element 56.

Dieses optische Hilfselement 56 zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass es durch seine Form und Abmessungen sowie Anordnung dazu eingerichtet ist, einen Strahlbündelquerschnitt eines aus der Strahlenwaffe 10 austretenden Wirkstrahls 28 oder Hilfsstrahls abzudecken und aus der Strahlenwaffe 10 heraus gerichtete Primärstrahlung in die Abbildungsoptik 24 der Strahlenwaffe 10 zu reflektieren. Die Abbildungsoptik 24 ist dazu eingerichtet, von dem reflektierenden optischen Hilfselement 56 reflektierte primäre Strahlung des Wirkstrahls 28 oder des Hilfsstrahls zu erfassen und als Bild des zweiten Endes 16 auf die Kamera 34 zu richten und dieses Bild als Treffpunkt 40 auf dem Bildschirm 38 darzustellen.This optical auxiliary element 56 is characterized in that, due to its shape, dimensions and arrangement, it is designed to cover a beam cross-section of an effective beam 28 or auxiliary beam emerging from the beam weapon 10 and to reflect primary radiation directed out of the beam weapon 10 into the imaging optics 24 of the beam weapon 10. The imaging optics 24 are designed to capture primary radiation of the effective beam 28 or the auxiliary beam reflected by the reflective optical auxiliary element 56 and to direct it as an image of the second end 16 onto the camera 34 and to display this image as a meeting point 40 on the screen 38.

Das optische Hilfselement 56 ist in einer Ausgestaltung ein ebener Spiegel 58, der senkrecht zu der optischen Achse 51 angeordnet ist. Dazu muss der Spiegel den Strahl exakt in sich selbst reflektieren. Dafür müsste der Spiegel im Winkel genau justiert werden, was nicht einfach ist. Daher wird man als Hilfselement bevorzugt einen Retroreflektor 60 verwenden: Der Retroreflektor reflektiert den Strahl ohne Winkeljustage in sich selbst. Ein Retroreflektor ist eine Vorrichtung, die einfallende elektromagnetische Strahlung weitgehend unabhängig von deren Einfallsrichtung sowie der Ausrichtung des Retroreflektors in die Richtung reflektiert, aus der die Strahlung einfällt. Ein einfallender Strahl wird lateral versetzt um 180° reflektiert. Ein solcher Retroreflektor 60 ist daher dazu eingerichtet, einfallende Primärstrahlung als reflektierte und in zu Richtungen der einfallenden Primärstrahlung entgegengesetzte Richtungen zu reflektieren.In one embodiment, the optical auxiliary element 56 is a flat mirror 58 that is arranged perpendicular to the optical axis 51. To do this, the mirror must reflect the beam exactly into itself. To do this, the mirror would have to be precisely adjusted in angle, which is not easy. Therefore, a retroreflector 60 is preferably used as an auxiliary element: The retroreflector reflects the beam into itself without angle adjustment. A retroreflector is a device that incident electromagnetic radiation is reflected in the direction from which the radiation is incident, largely independent of its direction of incidence and the orientation of the retroreflector. An incident beam is reflected laterally offset by 180°. Such a retroreflector 60 is therefore designed to reflect incident primary radiation as reflected radiation and in directions opposite to the directions of the incident primary radiation.

Für die Durchführung des Verfahrens reicht es aus, nur einen Teilbereich des Strahls zurück zu reflektieren (der Rest trifft dann auf den Deckel). Das heißt, dass Retroreflektor einen viel kleineren Durchmesser als der Strahldurchmesser haben kann.To carry out the procedure, it is sufficient to reflect only a portion of the beam back (the rest then hits the cover). This means that the retroreflector can have a much smaller diameter than the beam diameter.

Der Retroreflektor muss nicht zwingend in der Strahlmitte positioniert werden, es ist auch ein kleiner Retrorefelktor im äußeren Strahlbereich möglich.The retroreflector does not necessarily have to be positioned in the center of the beam; a small retroreflector in the outer beam area is also possible.

Die Figur 3 zeigt einen großen Retroreflektor (Fläche entspricht der lichten Weite der Gehäuseöffnung), der auf den Strahl zentriert ist. Diese Lösung liefert vielleicht die die größte Genauigkeit. Es funktioniert aber auch mit einem kleinen Retroreflektor, der nicht zentriert ist. Es reicht zum Beispiel aus, einen kleinen Retroreflektor auf die Innenseite des Deckels zu kleben. Für das Verfahren wird der Deckel dann lichtdicht geschlossen. Da es für den Retroreflektor keine Winkel- oder Positionsanforderungen gibt, kann das Verfahren ohne Justagen sofort durchgeführt werden.The Figure 3 shows a large retroreflector (area corresponds to the clear width of the housing opening) that is centered on the beam. This solution perhaps provides the greatest accuracy. But it also works with a small retroreflector that is not centered. For example, it is sufficient to glue a small retroreflector to the inside of the lid. The lid is then closed light-tight for the procedure. Since there are no angle adjustments for the retroreflector, or position requirements, the procedure can be carried out immediately without adjustments.

Das optische Hilfselement 56 ist bevorzugt in Form eines die Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung 44 verschließenden Deckels an einem Rand der Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung 44 befestigbar. Eine solche Befestigung kann auf verschiedene Arten und Weisen erfolgen, zum Beispiel durch Schrauben oder Klammern. In jedem Fall muss es sich um lösbare Befestigungen handeln.The optical auxiliary element 56 can preferably be fastened to an edge of the effective beam exit opening 44 in the form of a cover that closes the effective beam exit opening 44. Such fastening can be carried out in various ways, for example by means of screws or clamps. In any case, the fastenings must be detachable.

In einer bevorzugten Ausgestaltung ist das optische Hilfselement 56 unverlierbar und mittels eines Gelenks 62 klappbar an dem Gehäuse 50 befestigt. Dabei lässt das optische Hilfselement 56 in einer ersten Klappstellung die Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung 44 frei, und in einer zweiten Klappstellung verschließt es die Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung 44. Die erste Klappstellung wird in der Figur 3 durch die gestrichelte Darstellung des optischen Hilfselements 56 repräsentiert. Die zweite Klappstellung wird in der Figur 3 durch die durchgezogene Darstellung des optischen Hilfselements 56 repräsentiert. Die reflektierende Seite des optischen Hilfselements 56 ist auf der Seite des optischen Hilfselements 56 angeordnet, die im geschlossenen Zustand dem Inneren des Gehäuses 50 zugewandt ist. Alternativ zu dem beschriebenen drehbaren Deckel sind auch andere Ausführungen möglich wie z.B. ein Schiebeverschluss, oder ein zur Seite wegschwenkender Verschluss. Der Verschluss ist bevorzugt so konstruiert, dass das Gehäuse bei der Durchführung des Verfahrens lichtdicht geschlossen ist. Der Verschluss eines das Gehäuse schließenden Deckels wird bevorzugt sicherheitsrelevant überwacht. Dadurch wird erreicht, dass bei der Durchführung des Verfahrens keine Laserstrahlung austreten kann, so dass keine Sicherheitsmaßnahmen notwendig werden.In a preferred embodiment, the optical auxiliary element 56 is attached to the housing 50 in a captive manner and can be folded by means of a joint 62. In a first folding position, the optical auxiliary element 56 leaves the effective beam outlet opening 44 free, and in a second folding position it closes the effective beam outlet opening 44. The first folding position is in the Figure 3 represented by the dashed representation of the optical auxiliary element 56. The second folding position is in the Figure 3 represented by the solid representation of the optical auxiliary element 56. The reflective side of the optical auxiliary element 56 is arranged on the side of the optical auxiliary element 56 which, in the closed state, faces the interior of the housing 50. As an alternative to the rotating cover described, other designs are also possible, such as a sliding closure or a closure that swings away to the side. The closure is preferably designed so that the housing is closed light-tight when the method is carried out. The closure of a cover that closes the housing is preferably monitored for safety reasons. This ensures that no laser radiation can escape when the process is carried out, so that no safety measures are necessary.

Im Gegensatz zu den Figuren 1 und 2, die gemeinsam eine indirekte Abbildung des Strahlaustritts der Primärstrahlung auf eine Kamera 34 zeigen, zeigt die Figur 3 eine direkte optische Abbildung des Strahlaustritts des zweiten Endes 16 (oder des Strahlaustritts eines zum Wirkstrahl kollinearen Hilfsstrahls) auf die Kamera 34. Die direkte optische Abbildung erfolgt mit Hilfe des optischen Hilfselements 56. Das optische Hilfselement 56 wird dazu direkt vor der Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung 44 der Strahlenwaffe 10 angeordnet und reflektiert den aus der Wirkstrahlaustrittsöffnung 44 austretenden Wirkstrahl 28 an der optischen Achse 51 entlang in den gemeinsamen Teil der Abbildungsoptik 24 und der Wirkstrahloptik 22 zurück. Die Richtung der auf das optische Hilfselement 56 einfallenden Strahlen wird bei der Reflexion am optischen Hilfselement 56 umgekehrt, so dass die reflektierte Strahlung in der Abbildungsoptik 24 so zu der Kamera 34 propagiert, als wenn diese Strahlung von einem entfernten Testziel stammen würde, das sich in einem entfernten Testziel-seitigen Brennpunkt des Wirkstrahls 28 befindet.In contrast to the Figures 1 and 2 , which together show an indirect image of the beam exit of the primary radiation onto a camera 34, shows the Figure 3 a direct optical imaging of the beam exit of the second end 16 (or the beam exit of an auxiliary beam collinear with the active beam) onto the camera 34. The direct optical imaging takes place with the aid of the auxiliary optical element 56. For this purpose, the auxiliary optical element 56 is arranged directly in front of the active beam exit opening 44 of the beam weapon 10 and reflects the active beam 28 exiting from the active beam exit opening 44 along the optical axis 51 back into the common part of the imaging optics 24 and the active beam optics 22. The direction of the rays incident on the auxiliary optical element 56 is reversed during reflection at the auxiliary optical element 56, so that the reflected radiation in the imaging optics 24 propagates to the camera 34 as if this radiation originated from a distant test target that is located in a distant test target-side focal point of the active beam 28.

Die direkte Abbildung erfolgt damit so, dass das direkte optische Bild des Strahlaustritts des Wirkstrahls oder Hilfsstrahls (also des zweiten Endes 16) dem Bild des Auftreffpunkts 26 des Wirkstrahls 28 auf ein entferntes Testziel 52 entspricht. Daher kann das so erzeugte Bild des zweiten Endes 16 zur Ermittlung und Darstellung des Ist-Treffpunktes dienen.The direct imaging is thus carried out in such a way that the direct optical image of the beam exit of the effective beam or auxiliary beam (i.e. the second end 16) corresponds to the image of the point of impact 26 of the effective beam 28 on a distant test target 52. Therefore, the image of the second end 16 thus generated can be used to determine and display the actual point of impact.

Dieses optische Verfahren kann so ausgeführt werden, dass der Wirkstrahl 28 das Gehäuse 50 nicht verlasst, so dass zur Ausführung kein Versuchsplatz benötigt wird und keine Sicherheitsvorkehrungen zu treffen sind.This optical method can be carried out in such a way that the active beam 28 does not leave the housing 50, so that no test station is required for its implementation and no safety precautions have to be taken.

In dem hier beschriebenen Fall wird der Wirkstrahl eines oder mehrerer Laser mit einer Glasfaser oder einem Bündel von Glasfasern zur Wirkstrahloptik geführt. Die optische Abbildung ist in diesem Fall gleichbedeutend mit der Abbildung des zweiten Endes 16, an dem Primärstrahlung aus einer Faserendfläche austritt. In diesem Fall kann auch ein Laserstrahl anderer Wellenlänge (Hilfsstrahl, Pilotlaser) zur direkten Abbildung auf die Kamera genutzt werden.In the case described here, the effective beam of one or more lasers is guided to the effective beam optics using a glass fiber or a bundle of glass fibers. In this case, the optical imaging is equivalent to the imaging of the second end 16, at which primary radiation emerges from a fiber end face. In this case, a laser beam of a different wavelength (auxiliary beam, pilot laser) can also be used for direct imaging onto the camera.

Die Strahlführung des Laserstrahls von der Laserstrahlquelle zur Optik erfolgt in einer alternativen Ausgestaltung ohne Faser. Der Laserstrahl wird dann als Freistrahl in die Optik eingeführt. Die Justage erfolgt dann auf die optische Achse der Optik. In der Regel wird dann der Laserstrahl als kollimierter Strahl aus parallelem Licht in die Optik eingekoppelt. Dann entfällt die Kollimationsoptik (42). Die Einkopplung eines divergenten Strahls ist auch denkbar.In an alternative design, the laser beam is guided from the laser beam source to the optics without fiber. The laser beam is then introduced into the optics as a free beam. The adjustment is then made to the optical axis of the optics. The laser beam is then usually coupled into the optics as a collimated beam of parallel light. The collimation optics (42) are then omitted. The coupling of a divergent beam is also conceivable.

Figur 4 zeigt ein Flussdiagramm als Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens zur Darstellung der Lage eines Treffpunkts einer eine Wirkstrahloptik 22 und eine Abbildungsoptik 24 aufweisenden Strahlenwaffe 10. Figure 4 shows a flow chart as an embodiment of a method according to the invention for representing the position of a point of impact of a beam weapon 10 having an effective beam optics 22 and an imaging optics 24.

In einem ersten Schritt 100 wird ein Strahlbündelquerschnitt eines aus der Strahlenwaffe 10 austretenden Wirkstrahls 28 oder Hilfsstrahls mit einem den einfallenden Wirkstrahl 28 oder Hilfsstrahl reflektierenden optischen Hilfselement 56 abgedeckt.In a first step 100, a beam cross-section of an effective beam 28 or auxiliary beam emerging from the beam weapon 10 is covered with an auxiliary optical element 56 reflecting the incident effective beam 28 or auxiliary beam.

In einem zweiten Schritt 102 erfolgt die Auslösung des Wirkstrahls 28 oder des Hilfsstrahls bei abgedecktem Strahlbündelquerschnitt.In a second step 102, the active beam 28 or the auxiliary beam is triggered when the beam cross-section is covered.

In einem dritten Schritt 104 wird von einem mit dem Wirkstrahl 28 oder Hilfsstrahl bestrahlten Objekt ausgehende Strahlung von der Abbildungsoptik 24 erfasst und auf eine Kamera 34 eines Bildschirms 38 gerichtet, der eine Zielpunktmarkierung 36 aufweist. Beim Stand der Technik ist das bestrahlte Objekt ein entferntes Testziel 26. Bei der vorliegenden Erfindung ist das Objekt das optische Hilfselement 56.In a third step 104, radiation emanating from an object irradiated with the active beam 28 or auxiliary beam is detected by the imaging optics 24 and directed onto a camera 34 of a screen 38 which has a target point marking 36. In the prior art, the irradiated object is a remote test target 26. In the present invention, the object is the auxiliary optical element 56.

In einem vierten Schritt 106 wird der von der Kamera 34 erzeugte Strahlungsfleck als Ist-Treffpunkt 40 auf dem Bildschirm 38 dargestellt.In a fourth step 106, the radiation spot generated by the camera 34 is displayed as the actual impact point 40 on the screen 38.

Im Folgenden wird unter Bezug auf die Figur 5 eine weitere Ausgestaltung einer erfindungsgemäßen Strahlenwaffe erläutert.In the following, with reference to the Figure 5 a further embodiment of a radiation weapon according to the invention is explained.

Die Wirkstrahloptik 22 und die Abbildungsoptik 24 weisen als gemeinsamen Bestandteil den Ablenkspiegel 32 auf, der so angeordnet und ausgerichtet ist, dass er vom ersten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 her einfallende Primärstrahlung in Richtung zur ersten Teleskopoptik 46 reflektiert und aus der Richtung vom optischen Hilfselement 56 her einfallende reflektierte Strahlung zum ersten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 reflektiert.The effective beam optics 22 and the imaging optics 24 have as a common component the deflection mirror 32, which is arranged and aligned such that it reflects incident primary radiation from the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 in the direction of the first telescope optics 46 and reflects incident reflected radiation from the direction of the auxiliary optical element 56 to the first wavelength or beam splitter 20.

Der erste Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 richtet wenigstens einen Teil der vom Ablenkspiegel 32 her einfallenden reflektierten Strahlung auf wenigstens eine Kamera 34, 34' der Abbildungsoptik.The first wavelength or beam splitter 20 directs at least a portion of the reflected radiation incident from the deflection mirror 32 onto at least one camera 34, 34' of the imaging optics.

Die Abbildungsoptik weist eine erste Kamera 34 und eine zweite Kamera 34' und einen zweiten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 64 auf, der vom ersten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 her einfallende reflektierte Strahlung in einen reflektierten Anteil und einen transmittierten Anteil trennt.The imaging optics have a first camera 34 and a second camera 34' and a second wavelength or beam splitter 64, which separates reflected radiation incident from the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 into a reflected portion and a transmitted portion.

Die erste Kamera 34 ist so angeordnet, dass sie mit dem reflektierten Anteil beleuchtbar ist, und die zweite Kamera 34' ist so angeordnet, dass sie mit dem transmittierten Anteil beleuchtbar ist.The first camera 34 is arranged such that it can be illuminated with the reflected portion, and the second camera 34' is arranged such that it can be illuminated with the transmitted portion.

Die Ausrichtung des Ablenkspiegels 32 ist in einer Ausgestaltung manuell oder automatisch verstellbar. Ein optisches Element 66 ist zwischen dem ersten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 20 und einem Umlenkspiegel 68 angeordnet. Ein weiteres optisches Element 70 ist zwischen dem Umlenkspiegel 68 und dem zweitem Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 64 angeordnet. Ein zweiter Umlenkspiegel 72 ist zwischen dem zweiten Wellenlängen- oder Strahl-Teiler 64 und der ersten Kamera angeordnet. Die optischen Elemente können jeweils als Linse oder als sphärische Spiegel verwirklicht sein. Die Teleskopoptiken, Kollimationsoptiken und Abbildungsoptiken können ebenfalls jeweils als Linsen oder sphärische Spiegel verwirklicht sein.The alignment of the deflection mirror 32 can be adjusted manually or automatically in one embodiment. An optical element 66 is arranged between the first wavelength or beam splitter 20 and a deflection mirror 68. Another optical element 70 is arranged between the deflection mirror 68 and the second wavelength or beam splitter 64. A second deflection mirror 72 is arranged between the second wavelength or beam splitter 64 and the first camera. The optical elements can each be implemented as a lens or as a spherical mirror. The telescope optics, collimation optics and imaging optics can also each be implemented as lenses or spherical mirrors.

Claims (14)

  1. Method for displaying the position of an impact point (26) of a directed-energy weapon (10) comprising an effective beam optical system (22) and an imaging optical system (24), the imaging optical system (24) and the effective beam optical system (22) being arranged in a housing (50) which has an effective beam exit opening (44), allowing radiation to exit the housing (50) and radiation to enter the housing (50), and has a reflective optical auxiliary element (56), and an emission of primary radiation of the directed-energy weapon (10) to be focused and directed by the effective beam optical system (22) being triggered as an effective beam (28) or as an auxiliary beam that is collinear with the effective beam, and radiation emanating from an object irradiated with the effective beam (28) or auxiliary beam being detected by the imaging optical system (24) and directed onto a first camera (34) of a screen (38), a beam bundle cross section of an effective beam (28) or auxiliary beam emerging from the directed-energy weapon (10) being covered by the optical auxiliary element (56) reflecting the effective beam (28) or auxiliary beam, a reflective side of the reflective optical auxiliary element (56) being arranged on a side of the reflective optical auxiliary element (56) which faces the interior of the housing (50), the effective beam (28) or the auxiliary beam being triggered when the beam bundle cross section is covered, and primary radiation of the effective beam (28) or the auxiliary beam, which primary radiation is reflected by the reflective optical auxiliary element (56), is detected by the imaging optical system (24) and directed onto a spot on the camera (34), which spot is displayed as an impact point (40) on the screen (38), characterized in that when carrying out the method, the reflective optical auxiliary element (56) is fastened to an edge of the effective beam exit opening (44) in the form of a cover which light-tightly closes the effective beam exit opening (44), or in that the reflective optical auxiliary element (56) is a sliding closure or a closure that swings away to the side, each of which is constructed in such a way that the effective beam exit opening (44) is light-tightly closed when the method is carried out; and in that when the method is carried out, the housing is light-tightly closed so that no primary radiation in the form of an effective beam or auxiliary beam is emitted into the environment.
  2. Directed-energy weapon (10) which comprises an effective beam optical system (22) and an imaging optical system (24) and is designed to display the position of an impact point (26) of the directed-energy weapon (10), the imaging optical system (24) and the effective beam optical system (22) being arranged in a housing (50) which has an effective beam exit opening (44), allowing radiation to exit the housing (50) and radiation to enter the housing (50), and has a reflective optical auxiliary element (56) which has a reflective side on the side of the optical auxiliary element (56), which side can face the interior of the housing (50), and the effective beam optical system (22) being designed to focus and align primary radiation of the directed-energy weapon (10) to be emitted as an effective beam (28) or as an auxiliary beam that is collinear with the effective beam, and the imaging optical system (24) being designed to detect radiation emanating from an object irradiated with the effective beam (28) or auxiliary beam and to direct it onto a first camera (34), the optical auxiliary element (56) being able to be used to cover a beam bundle cross section of an effective beam (28) or auxiliary beam emerging from the directed-energy weapon (10) and to reflect primary radiation directed out of the directed-energy weapon (10), and the imaging optical system (24) being designed to detect primary radiation of the effective beam (28) or the auxiliary beam, which primary radiation is reflected by the reflective optical auxiliary element (56), and to direct it onto a spot on the camera (34) and to display the spot as an impact point (40) on the screen (38),
    characterized in that the reflective optical auxiliary element (56) can be fastened to an edge of the effective beam exit opening (44) in the form of a cover which light-tightly closes the effective beam exit opening (44), or in that the reflective optical auxiliary element is a sliding closure or a closure that swings away to the side, each of which is constructed in such a way that the effective beam exit opening (44) can be light-tightly closed; and in that in the closed state the housing is light-tightly closed so that no primary radiation in the form of an effective beam or auxiliary beam is emitted into the environment, in the closed state the reflective side of the reflective optical auxiliary element being arranged on the side of the optical auxiliary element which faces the interior of the housing.
  3. Directed-energy weapon (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that the directed-energy weapon (10) comprises a primary radiation source (12) and at least one radiation-guiding solid body (18), having a first end (14) and a second end (16), as well as a first wavelength splitter or beam splitter (20), which is a component common to the imaging optical system (24) and the effective beam optical system (22), the first end (14) being arranged relative to the primary radiation source (12) in such a way that the primary radiation emitted by the primary radiation source (12) can be coupled into the solid body (18) via the first end (14) and can be coupled out of the solid body (18) via the second end (16) and in that the first wavelength splitter or beam splitter (20) is arranged in a beam path of the primary radiation that can be coupled out such that it can be illuminated with the primary radiation that can be coupled out.
  4. Directed-energy weapon (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that the effective beam optical system (22) and the imaging optical system (24) comprise optical elements as further common components which are located between the first wavelength splitter or beam splitter (20) and an effective beam exit opening (44) of the directed-energy weapon (10).
  5. Directed-energy weapon (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that the optical elements have a common optical axis (51).
  6. Directed-energy weapon (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that the further common optical elements include at least a first telescopic optical system (46) and a second telescopic optical system (48) .
  7. Directed-energy weapon (10) according to any of claims 5 to 6, characterized in that the optical auxiliary element (56) is a flat mirror (58) which is arranged perpendicularly to the optical axis (51).
  8. Directed-energy weapon (10) according to any of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the optical auxiliary element (56) comprises at least one retroreflector (60) which is designed to reflect incident primary radiation in directions opposite to directions of the incident primary radiation.
  9. Directed-energy weapon (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that the effective beam optical system (22) and the imaging optical system (24) comprise a deflecting mirror (32) as a further common component which is arranged and aligned in such a way that it reflects primary radiation incident from the first wavelength splitter or beam splitter (20) in the direction of the effective beam exit opening (44) and reflects reflected radiation, incident from the direction from the optical auxiliary element (56), to the first wavelength splitter or beam splitter (20).
  10. Directed-energy weapon (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that the first wavelength splitter or beam splitter (20) directs at least part of the reflected radiation incident from the deflecting mirror (32) onto the first camera (34).
  11. Directed-energy weapon (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that the imaging optical system (24) comprises, in addition to the first camera (34), a second camera (34') and a second wavelength splitter or beam splitter (64) that separates reflected radiation incident from the first wavelength splitter or beam splitter (20) into a reflected portion and a transmitted portion and in that the first camera (34) is arranged so that it can be illuminated with the reflected portion, and in that the second camera (34') is arranged such that it can be illuminated with the transmitted portion.
  12. Directed-energy weapon (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that the alignment of the deflecting mirror (32) can be adjusted manually or automatically.
  13. Directed-energy weapon (10) according to claim 12, characterized in that an optical element (66) is arranged between the first wavelength splitter or beam splitter (20) and a deflecting mirror (68) and in that a further optical element (70) is arranged between the deflecting mirror (68) and the second wavelength splitter or beam splitter (64) and in that a second deflecting mirror (72) is arranged between the second wavelength splitter or beam splitter (64) and the first camera (34).
  14. Directed-energy weapon (10) according to any of claims 2-13, characterized in that the optical auxiliary element (56) is fastened so as to be captive and so as to be foldable by means of a hinge (62), the optical auxiliary element (56) releasing the effective beam exit opening (44) in a first folding position and closing the effective beam exit opening (44) in a second folding position.
EP19794537.1A 2018-10-26 2019-10-25 Directed-energy weapon and method for displaying the position of an impact point of the directed-energy weapon Active EP3870927B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102018126833.5A DE102018126833A1 (en) 2018-10-26 2018-10-26 Radiation weapon and method for representing the location of a radiation weapon meeting point
PCT/EP2019/079143 WO2020084107A1 (en) 2018-10-26 2019-10-25 Directed-energy weapon and method for displaying the position of an impact point of the directed-energy weapon

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3870927A1 EP3870927A1 (en) 2021-09-01
EP3870927B1 true EP3870927B1 (en) 2024-09-11

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19794537.1A Active EP3870927B1 (en) 2018-10-26 2019-10-25 Directed-energy weapon and method for displaying the position of an impact point of the directed-energy weapon

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US (1) US11867482B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3870927B1 (en)
JP (1) JP7416777B2 (en)
AU (1) AU2019366763B2 (en)
DE (1) DE102018126833A1 (en)
DK (1) DK3870927T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2993040T3 (en)
IL (1) IL282543B1 (en)
PL (1) PL3870927T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2020084107A1 (en)

Family Cites Families (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3752587A (en) * 1971-09-09 1973-08-14 Philco Ford Corp Apparatus for boresighting a laser beam emitter device
US4155096A (en) * 1977-03-22 1979-05-15 Martin Marietta Corporation Automatic laser boresighting
GB2165957B (en) * 1984-10-18 1988-05-25 Ferranti Plc Checking aiming apparatus alignment
US5410815A (en) * 1994-04-29 1995-05-02 Cubic Defense Systems, Inc. Automatic player identification small arms laser alignment system
JP4718832B2 (en) * 2004-12-28 2011-07-06 株式会社東芝 Optical transmission system and optical transmission method
US8203109B2 (en) * 2009-05-08 2012-06-19 Raytheon Company High energy laser beam director system and method
DE102011015779B4 (en) * 2011-04-01 2022-03-24 Mbda Deutschland Gmbh Directed energy radiators
DE102012022039B4 (en) 2012-11-09 2020-03-26 Mbda Deutschland Gmbh Modular laser radiation unit
IL234036B (en) * 2014-08-10 2018-11-29 Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd Directed energy weapon
DE102015016274B4 (en) 2015-12-16 2023-10-19 Mbda Deutschland Gmbh Optical system and method for adjusting a signal beam

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AU2019366763B2 (en) 2025-04-10
ES2993040T3 (en) 2024-12-20
EP3870927A1 (en) 2021-09-01
IL282543B1 (en) 2025-10-01
DE102018126833A1 (en) 2020-04-30
DK3870927T3 (en) 2024-09-23
IL282543A (en) 2021-06-30
JP2022514174A (en) 2022-02-10
WO2020084107A1 (en) 2020-04-30
PL3870927T3 (en) 2025-03-03
US11867482B2 (en) 2024-01-09
US20220307803A1 (en) 2022-09-29
JP7416777B2 (en) 2024-01-17
AU2019366763A1 (en) 2021-05-13

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