Pointing and Tracking Systems (Systemes D'Acquisition Et de Poursuite Automatiques).

Pointing and Tracking Systems (Systemes D'Acquisition Et de Poursuite Automatiques).
Author: ADVISORY GROUP FOR AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT NEUILLY-SUR-SEINE (FRAN CE)
Publisher:
Total Pages: 190
Release: 1994
Genre:
ISBN:

Pointing and tracking systems form the core elements of the majority of gun fire control and surveillance and tracking sensors. In many cases the requirements of hit-to-kill weapons and extremely long-range EO imaging and tracking systems require pointing accuracies measured in micro-radians. Maintaining such precision in optical systems has introduced the need for adaptive optics and highly stabilized mechanical mounts and actuators. In terms of man-in-the-loop weapon systems, the use of head mounted systems for designation of targets requires tracking systems for the helmet in a cockpit. Of increased importance is the fusion of sensors to provide a tracking solution for low-observable targets. As a result of the above, a symposium in Pointing and Tracking covered a wide area of G & C activities and concentrated on the pointing and tracking issues in the following sessions: (Session I) Overview of Pointing and Tracking Systems and Techniques; (Session II) Optical Pointing and Tracking Systems; (Session III) Weapon Control and Mechanical Systems; (Session IV) Pointing and Tracking Algorithms; and (Session V) Sensor Fusion.

Fundamental Problems of Precision Acquisition, Pointing, and Tracking Systems

Fundamental Problems of Precision Acquisition, Pointing, and Tracking Systems
Author: R. T. Curran
Publisher:
Total Pages: 85
Release: 1973
Genre:
ISBN:

The purpose of the study was to investigate the application of modern estimation and control concepts to precision pointing and tracking problems. The investigation included the development of a unified estimator/controller design, the study of various performance measures, and the identification of critical areas for further investigation. The report describes the results of this precision pointing and tracking study.

Airborne Pointing and Tracking Systems Open Port Design and Modification Analysis

Airborne Pointing and Tracking Systems Open Port Design and Modification Analysis
Author: HUGHES AIRCRAFT CO CULVER CITY CALIF ELECTRO-OPTICAL AND DATA SYSTEMS GROUP.
Publisher:
Total Pages: 212
Release: 1976
Genre:
ISBN:

The Open Port modification to the Airborne Pointer Tracker (APT) system makes possible system operation without a sealed aperture window. This is accomplished by a protective shroud that prevents direct airstream impingement on critical internal turret components and a porous aperture aerofence that reduces acoustical coupling of the turret cavity to the airstream. An extensive instrumentation of the Open Port components has been accomplished. Data obtained will include dynamic pressure, static pressure, temperature and structural stress. The instrumentation signals are conditioned by a compact turret mounted, electronic amplifier before they are delivered to the recording system of the Airborne Laser Laboratory (ALL) aircraft. A general description of the physical and operational characteristics of the Open Port modification is provided in the following text. The design analyses undertaken as part of the modification work task directive and the resultant conclusions are also provided. (Author).

Low-Cost Pointing-and-Tracking System for Optical Communications (PATSOC).

Low-Cost Pointing-and-Tracking System for Optical Communications (PATSOC).
Author: K. A. Joyce
Publisher:
Total Pages: 129
Release: 1988
Genre:
ISBN:

This report briefly describes the development of a low-cost, ship-to ship optical communications system (OCS) under a six-month Phase I Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) contract. Laser communication systems have been developed for use at fixed ground stations, aircraft, and satellites. However, they have not been successfully used in ship-to-ship applications. The difficulty is that ships have large, random linear random linear and angular motion, which interferes with holding a narrow-beam laser on an optical receiver. This study prepared a conceptual design of a relatively short range, low-power ship-to-ship system that would operate under severe sea conditions. The emphasis of the study was on the design of a low-cost gimbal set and its associated tracking system. (fr).