ES2983951T3 - Dircm with double tracking of a target - Google Patents

Abstract

In a method for engaging an approaching target (4) by a DIRCM system (2): when the target (4) is located in an intersection area (BS) between the first active module and a second of the modules (12a,b): - C1) or, if the second module (12a,b) is not tracking: the first module (12a,b) remains active and the second module (12a,b) is deactivated, - C2) or, if the second module (12a,b) is not tracking: the tracking mode (MV) is activated on the second module (12a,b) and the first module (12a,b) remains activated, - C3) or, if both the first and the second modules (12a,b) are tracking: the beam mode (MS) is activated on the second module (12a,b) and deactivated on the first module (12a,b), and the tracking modes (MV) on the first and the second modules (12a,b) are activated. (12a,b) remain activated. The DIRCM system (2) contains an interface (8) with the warning system (10) for reporting on the targets (4), DIRCM modules (12a,b) for tracking the target (4) in a tracking mode (MV) and for engaging the target (4) in a beam mode (MS), each of the modules (12a,b) having a total area (BGa,b) for tracking and/or engaging targets (4), including an individual area (BOa,b) for the module and an intersection area (BS) with other modules (12a,b), a defense area (BA) comprising all the total areas (BGa,b), and a control and evaluation unit (14) for executing the method. An object (6) contains the DIRCM system (2). (Automatic translation with Google Translate, no legal value)

Description

DESCRIPTION

Dircm with double tracking of a target

The invention relates to DIRCM (Directed Infrared Counter Measures) or corresponding DIRCM systems.

From the document "https://www.diehl.com/defence/de/presse-und-medien/themen-im-fokus/, 'Laser soll Transportflugzeuge der Bundeswehr schützen', accessed on 02/04/2019", a laser-based DIRCM (Directed Infrared Countermeasures) system is known to protect tactical transport aircraft, other types of aircraft or helicopters against attacks with modern rockets or guided missiles. The protection system uses high-tech sensors from the manufacturer Elbit Systems to protect itself from missiles guided by homing heads. Missiles of this type, used by man-portable air defence systems, pose a great danger, especially during take-off and landing. Diehl Defense integrates three of Elbit's proven J-MUSIC (Multi-Spectral Infrared Countermeasure) laser devices into an extended overall system to provide complete 360° protection for the aircraft. The new DIRCM system works in conjunction with the onboard missile warning system and focuses the highly dynamic, precisely guided laser beam directly on the infrared seeker head of the attacking object.

From EP 3081 895 B1 a method for operating a DIRCM system for protecting a platform against IR-guided missiles is known, the DIRCM system being operable comprising a plurality of DIRCM subsystems that are used to track and lock IR-guided missiles; and wherein the DIRCM subsystems include a first DIRCM subsystem and a second DIRCM subsystem installed on the platform such that: the first DIRCM subsystem is operable to track and lock IR-guided missiles in a first coverage area; the second DIRCM subsystem is operable to track and lock IR-guided missiles in a second coverage area; and both the first and second DIRCM subsystems are operable to track and lock IR-guided missiles in an overlapping area including a first handover subsection adjacent to the first coverage area and a second handover subsection adjacent to the second coverage area. The method includes an overlapping operation and a handover operation.

A modulation device is known from US 2011/0113949 A1 which supplies optical energy to prevent the operation of a mobile tracking device. The optical energy may include multiple mobile device-specific optical codes which are oriented parallel to the mobile tracking device.

From WO 2008/062401 A1 a laser-based system for protecting a platform against weaponry is known, which is equipped with an optical seeker head. The system includes a command and control arrangement with an interface to a recognition and detection system. This detects and locates threatening weaponry and provides a warning about the recognition of the threatening weaponry in combination with relevant data. The system receives a laser source which can be operated by the command and control arrangement to generate the energy necessary to lock the optical seeker head of the threatening weaponry. The system further includes a sectional arrangement of multiple end units which are connected to the laser source to selectively direct laser energy from the source to an end unit selected by the command and control arrangement as the most appropriate end unit under the prevailing conditions to target the threatening weaponry and attack it by sending a laser beam in its direction.

The object of the invention is to specify improvements in DIRCMs.

The object is achieved by a method according to claim 1 for engaging an approaching target using a DIRCM system. Preferred or advantageous embodiments of the invention, as well as other categories of the invention, result from the additional claims, from the following description, as well as from the attached figures.

The DIRCM system contains an interface for a warning system. The warning system serves to inform the DIRCM system of approaching targets via the interface. The DIRCM system contains at least two DIRCM modules or subsystems. Each of the modules is used to track the target in a pursuit mode (so-called "tracking") and to engage the target in a radiation mode (so-called "jamming"). Tracking means locating the target, in particular the aforementioned infrared seeker head, so that targeted irradiation is possible. Engagement is carried out by irradiation, i.e. the emission of radiation, in particular the aforementioned laser beam, which is directed towards the seeker head, i.e. the seeker head is irradiated. Specifically, the module contains a tracking unit that performs the tracking and an irradiation unit that performs the radiation. In particular, the irradiation unit contains a jamming laser for irradiating the target. A respective module or its tracking/radiation units are housed in particular in so-called "turrets" or are structurally concentrated or integrated.

Each of the modules presents a general area for tracking and/or engaging targets. In particular, tracking and engaging are possible in the total area. However, it is also conceivable that - particularly at the edge of the total area - only tracking or engaging is possible. However, these edge areas are in particular so small that they can be neglected. The total area is therefore the entire spatial area in which the module can track and/or engage or irradiate potential targets, especially in the case of a module installed on a platform to be protected. The general area normally contains an individual area in which only the module in question is available for tracking and/or engaging the target. Alternatively or additionally and also in general, the total area contains an intersection area with at least one, in particular exactly one other of the modules. In this intersection area all relevant modules, especially two, are available for tracking and/or engaging the target. The totality or combination of all total areas forms a defence area, in which the DIRCM system is able to track and/or engage targets with the help of at least one module. Activating a module means starting and continuing irradiation or scanning, deactivating means stopping and ending irradiation or scanning.

The procedure presents the following steps:

Step A) is carried out when the warning system reports the target. In this case, exactly one of the modules is chosen as the active module for this target. The active module activates the tracking mode and the radiation mode for the target. All other modules remain deactivated for this target. The module in question therefore starts tracking and irradiating or engaging the target and continues to do so until further notice. In general, the following statements always apply to a given target. The system can engage other targets in parallel. However, this should be ignored here.

In step A), in particular, a specific module is activated due to the detection of a target by the warning system. This applies in particular to the case where a target in the defence area is reported again. This is to be understood as meaning that a target in the defence area is recognised for the first time or is recognised again after it has been lost (e.g. tracking is interrupted unintentionally).

From now on, i.e. once step A) is performed, i.e. an active module is in tracking mode and radiation mode, the following steps are optionally performed:

A step B) is performed when the target is in one of the individual areas. In this step, the tracking mode and the radiation mode are activated or remain activated for the active module that is associated with the corresponding individual area. In particular, the modes are already activated and therefore remain activated and do not need to be activated again. In particular, the active module continues to track and engage the target. The tracking mode and the radiation mode on all other modules will be or remain deactivated (depending on their previous state).

A step C) is performed when the target is located in the intersection area between the active module and a second of the modules. In this case, the (single) active module forms a first module. A single active module is present on a particular or regular basis because the target was detected in the intersection area and exactly one module was activated according to step A) or the target enters the intersection area from a single area, where the only responsible module is the module currently active in the single area according to step B).

Within step C), a step C2) or C3) (see below) or a step C1) is carried out as follows: This step is only carried out if the tracking mode is not activated in the second module. For the first (active) module, the tracking mode and the radiation mode remain activated and for the second module they remain deactivated. In particular, the target continues to be tracked and irradiated or engaged by the first module. This applies in particular in the case where a target moves from an individual area in which it has already been or is being tracked and irradiated by the first module to the adjacent intersection area. The first module or active module continues tracking and irradiation without interruption.

Alternatively, a step C2) is carried out. This step is also only carried out if the tracking mode is not activated on the second module. The tracking mode on the second module is activated and on the first module the tracking mode and the radiation mode will remain activated. This means that the target is tracked twice by the first and second modules.

Alternatively, a step C3) is performed. This step is only performed if the tracking modes are activated on the first and second modules. This step enables the radiation mode on the second module, disables the radiation mode on the first module and leaves the tracking modes enabled on the first and second modules. If double tracking continues, irradiation is handed over from the first module to the second. Deactivating the first radiation mode and activating the second can be performed in any order.

In particular, in step C3), the target or its combat is transferred from the first to the second module by deactivating the radiation mode in the first module and then activating it in the second module. The second module is now the active module.

After the active module has been changed from the first to the second module according to step C3), the following applies: The second module now becomes the "active" module and thus the "first" in a subsequent new step C3). Thus, i.e. when executing a step C3) again, a handover to the previous (but now "second") module or a handover to a third (previously not involved, now "second") module can also take place, in case there are still other responsible modules in the intersection area. Step C3) can therefore be performed again if necessary or desired.

Although it is unusual in practice, it is also conceivable that three or more modules overlap in an intersection area in terms of their tracking and/or irradiation capabilities. In this case, one of the modules must be selected in step C2) or C3) which will then be responsible for tracking and/or irradiating the target as a second module.

Since after executing step C2 once, the tracking mode is activated for the first and second module and neither tracking mode is deactivated again by executing (even repeatedly) step C3, there is no return to step C1 or C2 as long as the target does not leave the intersection area. This means that once the tracking modes have been activated on two modules in the intersection area, there will be no return to a single tracking mode until the target has left the intersection area or has been successfully engaged. This offers the advantage that irradiation within the intersection area can be taken over at any time by another module, in particular by the first, originally active module. There is also redundancy in tracking by means of at least two tracking units.

Steps C1, C2, C3, in this order, describe an escalation procedure to make no changes to the combat, then prepare for a handoff to another module, and then carry out the handoff.

The target is in particular a missile or a rocket. The warning system is in particular a rocket warning system (missile warning system or MWS: Missile Warning System).

The invention is based in particular on a DIRCM system which is mounted on a platform/object to be protected. That is to say, the alignments, locations, relative positions, location, shape and orientation of the intersection areas as a whole, alone, resulting and of the defence area on an object to be protected are defined and known, since the modules are fixed or arranged in a known manner on the object.

In particular, when a module is activated, its tracking unit, which performs the tracking, and its radiation unit, which performs the radiation, must be "free" or available in order to be able to track and irradiate the target in question. Furthermore, it applies, in particular, that each of the modules which is not occupied by tracking and/or irradiation at a given time is always free to track and/or irradiate another target.

According to the invention, this creates the possibility of controlling or managing a multiple DIRCM system (with two, three or more modules).

According to the invention, it is possible to perform parallel tracking by the first and second modules during the handover from one module (in particular a turret) to another (in particular another turret) according to step C3).

In particular, the following embodiments are possible according to the invention:

DIRCM systems according to the invention are installed in particular, for example, in aircraft and are used for defence against infrared-guided (target) missiles, which are launched from the ground (so-called MAN-PAD, Man Portable Air Defense Systems) or from other aircraft (air-to-air missiles). In larger aircraft, including helicopters (platform, object to be protected), more than one DIRCM device (module) is installed in order to be able to cover a larger solid angle and thus to be able to offer more protection. Several DIRCM devices form a DIRCM system. The part of the DIRCM device (module) that controls (tracking unit) and emits (radiation unit) the laser beam is specifically called a turret.

In particular, aircraft have missile detectors (warning system) which detect the incoming threat (target) and send the coordinates (approach area) to the DIRCM system (via the interface). Based on the coordinates, the DIRCM system (or its control and evaluation unit, see below) calculates in particular the best positioned turret (so-called targeting criterion, see below), which then pivots towards the target, takes over control (tracking) and the homing head of the approaching missile is disturbed (irradiated) by means of a laser and thus diverts (engages) the missile.

If during combat the missile leaves the effective area (total area) of the currently operational (active) turret (the so-called handover criterion, see below), the DIRCM system selects a second turret, which in particular is better positioned. The invention deals in particular with the handover of the target from one turret to the second turret, possibly to a third turret, etc., if present.

The invention is based on the following findings: especially in agile encounter situations between aircraft (object to be protected) and approaching missiles (target), it may happen that it becomes necessary to engage the threat (target) from one turret to the next, because the target has moved out of the action area (total area) of the first turret. The DIRCM system decides (handover criterion) on switching from one turret to the next (selection criterion). If a handover is necessary, the newly selected (second) turret turns towards the incoming threat, for example based on information from the warning system about the approach area, and activates its tracking mode. As soon as the field of view of the second turret (detection area of the pivoting tracking unit) detects the target or detection becomes possible, the first turret switches off the laser (radiation mode) and after or before that, the second turret switches on its laser and starts to lock (irradiate) the homing head of the approaching missile. The first turret continues to track the target to provide redundancy or, if necessary, to be able to immediately resume irradiation of the target. If a third turret is installed on the aircraft to be protected and the threat threatens to leave the field of view (total area) of the second turret, the DIRCM system commands the third turret according to the top of the missile. In this case too, the laser of the second turret is switched off as soon as the field of view of the third turret (detection area of the pivoting tracking unit) has reached the threat or vice versa.

In a preferred embodiment, the active module is selected in step A) according to a selection criterion. For such selection criteria, the skilled person has a variety of options available to him, which can be selected or adjusted depending on the combat tactics, the threat situation, the object to be protected, etc., for example. A corresponding selection criterion can also be used if more than two modules are present in the intersection area, which could take over the task of a first module as the respective second module. Here too, a selection criterion can determine which of the existing modules should be the second module responsible for further tracking and, if necessary, take over combat. However, the basic condition that the module is free and ready for tracking and/or irradiation must be fulfilled for all variants of the particular selection criterion.

In particular, the following procedure is followed: if the target is detected by the warning system in the individual area, combat is initiated with the module responsible there. If the target is detected by the warning system in the intersection area, a tracking and combat module is selected according to the selection criteria.

In a preferred variant of this embodiment, the selection criterion is used alternatively or in any combination, for example:

- for a target located in an individual area: the module associated with the individual area. - for a target in the intersection area: the module of those available in the intersection area according to the following criteria:

- the one who is within a predetermined distance area from the target, especially the one who is closest to the target. Here you can start a fight as well as possible.

- The one that has the least deviation of the current tracking and/or engagement orientation of the tracking unit and the radiation unit from a central position with respect to a tracking and/or engagement area of the module, which is in particular the total area. This is based on the consideration that a module or its mobile tracking/irradiation unit must deviate from a central position in order to be able to detect targets up to the edge of the total area. It therefore seems optimal to select a module for which the current alignment of the components to engage the target is currently as close as possible to the middle position. This leaves a maximum "reserve area" up to the edge of the total area in order to be able to track the target for as long as possible by deviating the components with the corresponding movements.

- One with a predeterminable total or intersection area (i.e. certain predeterminable properties), in particular a corresponding area that is as large as possible. The corresponding module is therefore expected to continue fighting the virus for as long as possible. - One with a predeterminable prognosis for success, especially with the best prognosis for success.

Such a success forecast can be determined, for example, from an expected flight path of the target and an expected duration of irradiation for an effective attack on the target. Particularly good and/or rapid combat success can thus be expected.

In a preferred embodiment, an interface to a warning system is used as an interface to report on a respective approach area of an approaching target. In other words, the warning system is able to output an approach area for the target and transmit it to the system. The approach area is in particular an area larger than the target area or larger than or equal to the detection area of a module at a given deviation. The target area indicates in this case the precision within which the module successfully tracks the target. This is small enough that irradiating the target in the target area results in the blocking radiation being irradiated precisely at the IR seeker head of the target. The detection area is the area in which the target must be located so that the module can successfully track it, i.e. the target can be successfully and accurately detected within the framework of the target area. In other words, with the aid of the module it is possible to aim with sufficient precision to safely irradiate the target. The warning system, on the other hand, only provides an approximate direction or an approximate position of the target, so that a systematic irradiation is not always guaranteed.

Step C2 is only carried out if a trigger criterion is met. The same statements apply to the trigger criterion as to the selection criterion above. Here, too, a variety of options are available to the person skilled in the art.

In a preferred embodiment, the following activation criteria are used:

- the second module is successfully preparing for target tracking. This means that the moment is awaited from which the second module can actually track the target, for example because it was previously busy for tracking and/or irradiating another target.

- a predefined limit parameter for the first and/or second module is reached (exceeded or not reached). Possible limit parameters are, for example, limit temperature, limit load, limit service life, limit distance to the target, etc. In particular, for example, the module in question must be protected or the loads must be distributed to the modules.

- the first module is no longer able to reach the target. A safe attack on the target by the first module is then no longer possible.

- that the target reaches a predetermined boundary surface in the intersection area. This is a geometrically particularly simple criterion.

- the target falls below a predetermined distance to the second single area. In the second single area, the first module would no longer be able to engage the target, a prior preparation for the handover by tracking using the second module allows for a fast handover or a smooth engagement if the target actually moves to the second single area.

- the target leaves the intersection area towards the second individual area, in particular enters the second individual area. At the latest, at that time the first module is no longer able to fight the target and the fight must then be handed over to the responsible module (here the second).

Using appropriate activation criteria, certain target tracking and irradiation tactics can be implemented. In particular, therefore, a handover takes place as soon as, i.e. immediately after the second module is ready. However, the basic condition that the second module is free and ready for tracking and/or irradiation must be met, in particular for all variants of the activation criterion.

Step C3 is only carried out if a handover criterion is fulfilled. In step C3, the handover criterion is also checked further. In particular, in step C3) the fulfilment of the handover criterion is checked permanently, for a long time or repeatedly. As long as it is not fulfilled, the first module remains active and the handover criterion is continued to be checked. When this is fulfilled, step C3) is carried out and the target in terms of irradiation is handed over to the second module, which then becomes the first active module in terms of tracking and irradiation and the previously first module becomes the second. The same statements apply to the handover criterion as to the selection criterion above. Here too, a plurality of possibilities are available to the person skilled in the art.

In a preferred embodiment, the following are used as handover criteria alternatively or in any combination:

- the second module is ready for successful irradiation of the target. This means that the moment is awaited from which the second module is actually capable of irradiating the target, for example because it was previously occupied for tracking and/or irradiating another target.

- that a predetermined limit parameter for the first and/or second module has been reached (exceeded or not reached).

- the first module no longer successfully tracks and/or irradiates the target.

- the target reaches a predetermined limit surface in the intersection area.

- the target falls below a predetermined distance to the second individual area.

- the target leaves the intersection area towards the second individual area, in particular enters the second individual area.

By means of appropriate handover criteria, certain target tracking and irradiation tactics can be implemented. In particular, therefore, a handover takes place as soon as, i.e. immediately after, the second module is ready. However, the basic condition that the second module is free and ready for tracking and/or irradiation must be fulfilled, in particular, for all variants of the handover criterion.

In a preferred embodiment - in particular in step C3) - the first and second modules radiate a predetermined signal pattern for engaging the target. The signal pattern has a time course. In step C3), the signal patterns of the first and second modules are synchronized in phase with respect to the time course.

"Phase-locked" means the following: In general, the target is irradiated or engaged using a jamming or irradiation code. The code is a specific pattern of radiation pulses/signal shapes, with the pattern being radiated according to a specific time. Phase-locked modules each generate the same pattern at the same time and over the same time frame or compensated by a constant time offset. This means that they emit radiation of equal or different amplitudes simultaneously or with a time delay, but the signals are the same over time, or are portions of a signal that runs over the desired time frame.

If the missile is irradiated simultaneously by the first and second modules, destructive interference does not occur, but the two signals arriving at the target are added together. In this case, in particular, the amplitude of the individual signals emitted by the modules can therefore be reduced.

If the target irradiation in step C3) is switched from the first module to the second module without pause or interruption, the missile is permanently hit by the uninterrupted jamming code. If, on the other hand, a pause of a time interval dT occurs during the changeover from the first laser beam to the second in step C3) (the missile is not irradiated by either the first or the second module during the pause), the code can be stopped for the respective time dT in a first embodiment. The first module then ends its irradiation in the code phase P0 and after the time interval dT the second module continues its signal in the same phase P0. At the end, the code sequence is stopped for the time dT and then continued in the same phase.

In an alternative embodiment, the jamming code phase continues in real time, i.e. the first module ends the irradiation in step C3) with the code phase P0, after the time interval dT the second module continues the irradiation in the phase P0 dT. At the target, the code part is then skipped during the time interval dT, the code is transmitted with a "gap", but otherwise in continuous real time. The corresponding procedure can again be selected depending on the combat tactics.

In a preferred embodiment, the following is carried out in step C3: the radiation mode is activated in the second module before the radiation mode in the first module is deactivated, whereby the second module deliberately points beyond the target. In connection with the synchronized code embodiment according to the above, you can also choose here: you can deliberately point beyond the target or you can also deliberately point at the target. In step C3), the radiation mode in the second module remains activated after deactivation in the first module and the second module deliberately points at the target.

The orientation of one of the irradiations can be carried out, if desired, based on the approach area of the warning system.

In a preferred embodiment, double or multiple irradiation can generally be carried out, i.e. both within the scope of steps C1) to C3), as soon as the target can be irradiated by at least two radiation units: In this case, in a first variant, one beam can always be aimed exactly at the target and the other beams can deliberately pass close to the target, as explained above. In an alternative variant, however - in the case of phase-synchronized beams - an arbitrary number of phase-synchronized beams can also simultaneously irradiate the target or at least deliberately not transmit close to the target. That is, exactly one beam of the module with activated tracking mode can irradiate by means of precise steering, the others can irradiate in other ways, for example based on the approach area or the activated tracking mode.

In a preferred embodiment - only in relation to the aforementioned approach area - the second module either aims beyond the target by aiming at an edge or outside the approach area provided by the warning system, or aims (in relation to the embodiment of phase-synchronized modules) without overshooting the target, by aiming at the edge or within the approach area, especially at the centre of the approach area. In this way, both aiming and aiming beyond can be carried out without using the active tracking mode in the respective module. However, as a rule, correspondingly more precise information is available from a tracking unit for orientation, so that it is not necessary to use the approach area for this.

In a preferred embodiment, an additional method step D) is provided: Step D) is carried out when the target is in a single area starting from step B) and then directly from the current single area, which then represents a "previous single area", moves to another single area. Then, in the previous single area, the tracking mode and the radiation mode are deactivated for the associated module. The tracking mode and the radiation mode are then activated in the other single area with the associated module as the active module. This means that the previously active module (the one in the previous single area) becomes inactive and the one in the other single area becomes the active module. In particular, the target switches from the previous single area to another single area, without passing through the intersection areas.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one or more or all of the areas (total, individual, intersection and defence areas) are defined in a coordinate system as a mathematical model(s). Decisions affecting these areas are then made using the mathematical model(s). The corresponding areas can thus be stored as data models, in particular in a control and evaluation unit, and processed quickly and efficiently with regard to the decisions to be made.

The object of the invention is also achieved by a DIRCM system according to claim 10 for carrying out the method according to the invention, with an interface to a warning system for reporting approaching targets, with at least two DIRCM modules for tracking the target in a tracking mode and for engaging the target in a radiation mode, wherein each of the modules has a total area for tracking and/or engaging targets, and the total area includes an individual area in which only the module in question is available for tracking and engaging, and the total area includes an intersection area with at least one other of the modules, in which all relevant modules are available for tracking and/or engaging, a defence area being the union of all total areas, and with a control and evaluation unit for carrying out the steps of the method according to the invention.

The DIRCM system and at least some of its embodiments, as well as their respective advantages, have already been explained in connection with the method according to the invention.

Radiation mode and tracking mode can be switched on and off independently. The control and evaluation unit contains in particular the aforementioned mathematical models or a corresponding device for implementing and processing the models.

In a preferred embodiment, the warning system is integrated into the DIRCM system as part of the system, although the alert system may still be a stand-alone system.

In a preferred embodiment, the interface is an interface with a warning system for reporting a respective approach area of an approaching target, or the warning system is one for broadcasting the approach area.

In a preferred embodiment, at least two of the modules are configured to radiate a predeterminable signal pattern having a time course to engage the target, and the modules may be phase-synchronized with respect to the time course or are phase-synchronized during operation if necessary, as described above.

The object of the invention is also achieved by an object according to claim 13, which is to be protected from an approaching target, with a DIRCM system according to the invention.

The object and at least some of its embodiments as well as the respective advantages have already been explained accordingly in connection with the DIRCM system according to the invention and/or the method according to the invention.

In particular, the object is a vehicle. In particular, the vehicle is an air, land or sea vehicle, an aircraft or a helicopter, in particular a transport and/or passenger aircraft or helicopter.

Other features, effects and advantages of the invention become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention and from the accompanying figures, each of which is shown in a schematic outline:

Figure 1

a DIRCM system engaging an approaching target,

Figure 2,

a time course of signal patterns for target irradiation,

Figure 3,

alternative transfers from the first to the second module.

Figure 1 shows a DIRCM 2 system during the engagement of an approaching target 4. System 2 is mounted on or in an object 6 to be protected, here a transport aircraft shown only symbolically in a detail. Here, the approaching target 4 is an enemy infrared-guided missile that aims to destroy target 4.

The system 2 contains an interface 8 with a warning system 10, which is also connected to the object 6. The warning system 10 serves to inform about approaching targets and is here an MWS. In addition, it serves to inform about a respective approach area 11 of the respective target. The approach area 11 is an approximate area and indicates an approximate location or direction to the target, but an exact or reliable location or tracking of the target is not possible. For this reason, in particular, it is not possible to precisely irradiate the infrared seeker head of the rocket with a laser. In the following, the specific target 4 will be discussed as a representative of all potential targets for explaining the invention.

The system 2 also contains two DIRCM modules 12a, b, here called turrets, which are mounted on the carrier aircraft. Both are suitable both for tracking the target 4 in the MV tracking mode, i.e. for locating it precisely, and for irradiating it in the MS radiation mode and thus engaging it. To carry out the MV tracking mode, each module 12a, b contains a tracking unit 16, and to carry out the MS radiation mode a radiation unit 18. The target 4 can be tracked by the module 12b, i.e. it can be located so precisely that with the radiation unit 18 a laser beam 20 can be radiated at the IR seeker head of the target 4 to engage the target 4 by deflecting the target 4 away from the object 6. Thanks to this precise location, a laser beam can be irradiated specifically towards the IR seeker head of the rocket.

Each of the modules 12a, b is assigned a total area BGa, b, in which the respective module 12a, b can track and engage the target 4. For clarity, the edges of the total areas BGa, b are thickened in Figure 1 and shown in dashed lines for BGb. Each of the total areas BGa, b in turn contains an individual area BOa, b. In the individual area BOa, only module 12a is able to track and engage the target 4, in the individual area BOb only module 12b. In an intersection area BS both modules 12a, b are able to track and engage the target 4. A defense area BA is formed by the union of the total areas BGa, b; in this, a defense of the target 4 is possible by means of at least one of the modules 12a, b or by means of the system 2.

System 2 also contains a control and evaluation unit 14, which is configured to carry out the following procedure to engage target 4 approaching via system 2:

First, no target 4 is approaching object 6. Therefore, system 2 is initially on standby. Both modules 12a, b are deactivated. The warning system 10 monitors the object for approaching targets 4. At a certain point in time, the warning system 10 reports via interface 8 about the approaching target 4 and additionally about its approach area 11. Since the warning system 11 is now reporting on target 4, exactly one of the modules 12a, b is selected as the active module according to the procedure and the tracking mode MV and the radiation mode MS are activated for target 4. The selection is thus made using a selection criterion KA. In this case, the selection criterion KA consists of selecting the module 12a, b closest to target 4, in this case module 12b.

From now on, target 4 is tracked by module 12b and engaged by directing laser beam 20 towards the IR seeker head of target 4 to divert target 4 away from object 6. The target moves along arrow 22.

From now on, the procedure continues to check whether target 4 is located in one of the individual areas BOa, b or in the intersection area BS. If target 4 (not shown here) is in the individual area BOb or moves there, the MV tracking mode and the MS radiation mode would remain activated in the currently active module 12b.

According to the procedure it is also checked whether the target is located in the intersection area BS, as is the case in this case. The active module 12b is defined as the first module and the other module 12a as the second module, which would alternatively be able to track and irradiate the target 4. According to the procedure, the MV tracking mode and the MS radiation mode remain activated only in the currently active module 12b or the MV tracking mode is additionally activated in module 12a or handed over to the other module 12a, as will be explained below.

In the present case, a decision is first made on the basis of a KK activation criterion, which continuously monitors or controls whether the MV tracking mode is activated in module 12a: The KK activation criterion in this case is to reach a minimum distance from the individual areas BOa, b, as indicated by lines 28. Initially, target 4 is located beyond lines 28, i.e. further from the individual areas BOa, b than the minimum distance requires. Therefore, the MV tracking mode is also activated in module 12a.

Furthermore, a decision is made based on a continuously monitored or controlled handover criterion KÜ as to whether the irradiation should be handed over to module 12a. In the present case, the handover criterion KÜ is that target 4 reaches a boundary surface 21. As the situation progresses, target 4 moves - as shown by arrow 22 - into the defence area BA. At point P, target 4 actually reaches boundary surface 21.

The above-mentioned handover now takes place as follows: The MS radiation mode is deactivated for the first, currently active module 12b. The second module 12a then becomes the active module and its MS radiation mode is activated. The handover criterion KÜ will continue to be continuously monitored. The VM tracking mode on module 12b remains activated, so that a handover to module 12b could take place quickly at any time and redundancy with regard to tracking is also created.

However, target 4 moves into the individual area BOa, so the KÜ handover criterion is not met again. According to the condition of the above procedure, the currently active module 12a also remains activated with respect to the MV tracking mode and the MS irradiation mode in this individual area BOa. The MV tracking mode on module 12b is deactivated in the individual area BOa. Finally, the engagement is successful and target 4 moves away from object 6.

Figure 1 also shows how the target 4 moves at a later time along the arrow 24 from the single area BOa, avoiding the intersection area BS, directly to the single area BOb. In this case, the tracking mode MV and the radiation mode MS are switched directly from module 12a to module 12b, i.e. they are deactivated in module 12a and activated in module 12b.

Figure 2 shows, by way of example and only schematically, a signal pattern at time t, according to which the laser beam 20 is emitted or its amplitude modulated to deflect the target 4. Figure 2a shows the target course of the signal pattern over a longer period of time.

With regard to the situation according to Figure 1, the module 12b first generates the laser beam 20 according to Figure 2a. The target 4 reaches point P in Figure 1 at time t0, so that from this time t0 the laser beam is no longer emitted by module 12b, but by module 12a, as shown in Figure 2b. The signal patterns of the laser beams 20 of modules 12a, b are phase-locked. In a first variant, the irradiation by module 12b ends in phase P0 of the entire signal curve according to Figure 2a, the irradiation by module 12a continues in phase P0. In this way, the target 4 is permanently irradiated with the continuous signal pattern according to Fig. 2a (dashed and dashed section), since the continuous signal section in Fig. 2b corresponds exactly to the dashed section in Fig. 2a.

In the event that the switching process between irradiation by modules 12a, b lasts a time period dT, there are two variants of phase synchronization in a second alternative:

According to a first variant and in Fig. 2a, c, the irradiation of the target by the module 12b ends in phase P0. The target 4 is then not irradiated during time dT; however, its irradiation is resumed again with phase P0+dT. The target 4 is thus irradiated with the signal pattern with intervals according to Fig. 2a, with an interval remaining between phases P0 and P0+dT, in which no irradiation takes place or this section of the signal course is omitted. The "code" according to Fig. 2a is thus irradiated on the target 4 in a "continuous" sequence in time, but not completely, i.e. with intervals.

According to a second variant according to Fig. 2a, d, the irradiation at time t0+dT of module 12a continues with the phase P0 at which the irradiation of module 12b ended. The target 4 is therefore irradiated with the complete signal pattern according to Fig. 2a, but the signal pattern is paused or lengthened or extended in time over the period dT. The "code" according to Fig. 2a is irradiated completely on the target 4 - albeit with a time gap dT.

Figure 3 shows a cutaway of system 2 and an alternative combat situation and alternative handover variants in the intersection area BS between modules 12a and 12b. Target 4 moves along arrow 22 and is initially tracked and irradiated by the first active module 12a and tracked by the second module 12b. Even <before reaching point P (where the handover criterion>K<ü> is fulfilled), <i.e. from the earliest possible time> when module 12b is ready for it, the MS radiation mode is also activated in the second module 12b. Based on the exact tracking performed by the tracking unit 16 of module 12b, module 12b deliberately aims beyond target 4, for example with a predetermined spatial angle WR. Alternatively, module 12b uses the approach area 11 reported by the warning system 10 to aim further and deliberately aims beyond the target 4, by aiming at its edge (Situation I in Fig. 3).

In the alternative case of phase synchronization of the signal patterns according to Figure 2, this would also be possible (situation I), but in a variant shown here the module 12b also points exactly at the target 4 with its tracking unit 16 (alternative situation II in Fig. 3). Due to the phase synchronization both signal patterns appear at the same time, so that there is no mutual extinction of the laser beams 20 at the target 4, but they add up with respect to the signal pattern.

At point P, module 12a is then deactivated with respect to the MS radiation mode and the MV tracking mode is maintained for module 12b. In the case of pre-aiming, laser beam 20 rotates on target 4, which is made possible with precision by the MV tracking mode activated in module 12b.

In order to be able to make appropriate decisions with regard to the areas mentioned, in an alternative embodiment a mathematical model 26 of the areas BGa, b, BOa, b, BS and BA is present in the control and evaluation unit 14. The objective 4 is then also located as a virtual objective in the corresponding model 26. Decisions as to whether and where the objective 4 is located in the relevant areas, whether the criteria KA, KK, KÜ etc. are met or not, are made - if necessary - using the model 26.

List of reference symbols

[0083]

2 system (DIRCM)

4 objective

6 object

8 interface

10 alert system

1 approach area

12a,b module (DIRCM)

14 control and evaluation unit

16 tracking unit

18 irradiation unit

20 laser beam

21 boundary surface

22 arrow

24 arrow

26 model

28 line

BGa, b total area

BOa, b individual area

BS intersection area

BA defense area

MV tracking mode

MS irradiation mode

KA selection criteria

KK activation criterion

KÜ transfer criteria

P point

T time

t0 moment

P0 phase

Dt period of time

WR spatial angle

Claims (13)

1. Procedure for engaging an approaching target (4) using a DIRCM system (2), the DIRCM system (2) containing: - an interface (8) to a warning system (10) for reporting approaching targets (4), - at least two DIRCM modules (12a, b) to track the target (4) in tracking mode (MV) and to combat by irradiating the target (4) in radiation mode (MS), - where each of the modules (12a, b) presents a total area (BGa, b) for tracking and/or combating targets (4), - and the total area (BGa, b) contains an individual area (BOa, b) in which only the relevant module (12a, b) is available for tracking and/or combat, - and the total area (BGa, b) contains an intersection area (BS) with at least one other of the modules (12a, b), in which all relevant modules (12a, b) are available for tracking and/or combat, - where a defense area (BA) is the union of all total areas (BGa,b), where: - A) when the target (4) is informed by the alert system (10): exactly one of the modules (12a, b) is selected as the active module and in this case the tracking mode (MV) and the radiation mode (MS) are activated for the target (4), and then it is checked whether the target (4) is in one of the individual areas (BOa, b) or in an intersection area between the active module as the first module (12a, b) and a second of the modules (12a, b), and: - B) if the target (4) is in one of the individual areas (BOa,b): In the case of the active module (12a, b) associated with the individual area (BOa, b), the tracking mode (MV) and the radiation mode (MS) are activated or remain activated, and the tracking mode (MV) and radiation mode (MS) in all other modules (12a, b) will be deactivated or remain, and - C) if the target (4) is located in the intersection area (BS) between the active module as the first module (12a, b) and a second of the modules (12a, b): It is checked whether the tracking mode (MV) is activated in the second module (12a, b), and it is checked whether an activation criterion (KK) is met, and: - C1) either if the tracking mode (MV) is not activated in the second module (12a,b) and the activation criterion (KK) is not met: - tracking mode (MV) and radiation mode (MS) are activated in the first module (12a, b) and remain deactivated in the second module (12a, b), - C2) or, if the tracking mode (MV) is not activated in the second module (12a, b) and the activation criterion (KK) is met: - in the second module (12a, b) the tracking mode (MV) is activated and in the first module (12a, b) the tracking mode (MV) and the radiation mode (MS) remain activated, and a check is made to see if a handover criterion (KÜ) is met and - C3) if the tracking modes (MV) are activated for the first and second modules (12a, b) and if the handover criterion (KÜ) is met: - radiation mode (MS) is activated on the second module (12a, b), and - the radiation mode (MS) is deactivated in the first module (12a, b), and the tracking modes (MV) remain activated in the first and second modules (12a, b), - the second module (12a, b) becomes the first active module (12a, b) with respect to tracking and irradiation and the previously first module (12a, b) becomes the second module (12a, b). 2. Method according to claim 1, characterized by that in step A) the active module (12a, b) is selected according to a selection criterion (KA). 3. Method according to claim 2, characterized by which is used as a selection criterion (KA): - for the target (4) in the individual area (BOa, b): the module associated (12a, b) to the individual area (BOa, b), - for the target (4) in the intersection area (BS): the module (12a, b) of those in the intersection area (BS): - in an area of predetermined distance to the target (4), - with the least deviation of the current tracking and/or combat from a central position with respect to a tracking and/or combat area of the module (12a,b), - with a predeterminable total area (BGa, b) or intersection area (BS), - with a predictable success forecast for a successful combat. 4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by which is used as the activation criterion (KK): - the second module (12a, b) is ready for successful target tracking, - a predeterminable limit parameter for the first and/or second module (12a, b) is reached, - the first module (12a, b) no longer successfully tracks the target (4), - the target (4) reaches a predetermined boundary surface (21) in the intersection area (BS), - the target (4) falls below a predetermined distance to the second individual area (BOa, b). - that the target (4) leaves the intersection area (BS) towards the second individual area (BOa, b). 5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by which is used as a transfer criterion (KÜ): - the second module (12a, b) is ready for successful target irradiation, - a predeterminable limit parameter for the first and/or second module (12a, b) is reached, - the first module (12a, b) no longer successfully tracks and/or irradiates the target (4), - the target (4) reaches a predetermined boundary surface (21) in the intersection area (BS), - the target (4) falls below a predetermined distance to the second individual area (BOa,b), - that the target (4) leaves the intersection area (BS) towards the second individual area (BOa, b). 6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least two of the modules (12a, b) for combating the target (4) emit a predeterminable signal pattern having a time course, and in step C3) the signal patterns of the first and second modules (12a, b) are phase-synchronized with respect to the time course. 7. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that in step C3) - the radiation mode (MS) is activated in the second module (12a, b) before the radiation mode (MS) is deactivated in the first module (12a, b), wherein the second module (12a, b) is deliberately aimed beyond the target (4) or - in combination with claim 8 - is deliberately directed beyond the target (4) or is deliberately directed at the target (4), - after deactivating the radiation mode (MS) on the first module (12a, b), the radiation mode (MS) on the second module (12a, b) remains activated and the target (4) is deliberately aimed by the second module (12a, b). 8. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that - D) if the target (4) moves directly from the current single area (BOa, b) to another single area (BOa, b) starting from step B): - in the individual area (BOa, b) above the tracking mode (MV) and the radiation mode (MS) are disabled for the associated module (12a, b), - in the other individual area (BOa, b) with the associated module (12a, b) as active module, the tracking mode (MV) and the radiation mode (MS) are activated. 9. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized that at least one or more or all of the total, individual and intersection and defense areas (BGa, b; BOa, b; BS; BA) are defined in a coordinate system such as a mathematical model (26) and decisions affecting these areas are determined to be made using the mathematical model (26). 10. DIRCM system (2) for carrying out the procedure according to one of the preceding claims, with - an interface (8) with a warning system to report approaching targets (4), - at least two DIRCM modules (12a, b) for tracking the target (4) in a tracking mode (MV) and for engaging the target (4) in a radiation mode (MS), - where each of the modules (12a, b) presents a total area (BGa, b) for tracking and/or combating targets (4), - and the total area (BGa, b) contains an individual area (BOa, b) in which only the relevant module (12a, b) is available for tracking and combat, - and the total area (BGa, b) contains an intersection area (BS) with at least one other of the modules (12a, b), in which all relevant modules (12a, b) are available for tracking and/or combat, - where a defense area (BA) is the union of all total areas (BGa,b), - a control and evaluation unit (14) for carrying out the steps of the procedure. 11. DIRCM system (2) according to claim 10, characterized by that the interface (8) is an interface (8) with a warning system (10) for reporting a respective approach area (11) of an approaching target (4). 12. DIRCM system (2) according to one of claims 10 to 11, characterized that at least two of the modules (12a, b) are configured to emit a predeterminable signal pattern having a time course to combat the target (4), and the modules (12a, b) can be phase synchronized with respect to the time course. 13. Object (6) to be protected from an approaching target (4) with a DIRCM system (2) according to one of claims 10 to 12.