Optics: measuring and testing – Range or remote distance finding – With photodetection
Patent
1985-10-31
1989-05-30
Buczinski, Stephen C.
Optics: measuring and testing
Range or remote distance finding
With photodetection
244161, 358107, G01C 308, B64G 162, H04N 718
Patent
active
048345318
ABSTRACT:
An intelligent, optoelectronic docking system for use in manned or unmanned spacecraft for automatically docking with a target spacecraft. The system is a multifaceted, active sensor using a controlling microprocessor to integrate the operation of independently triggerable laser sources for target illumination and optical receiver arrays for target detection. Returning signal waveforms are processed to sense the direction, range, and attitude of a target docking surface which may be equipped with passive optical aids to enhance the reflective signature. The docking system reconfigures its active sensor elements as the target range closes by sequentially employing three laser transceiver arrangements. As a result, the system effectively tracks a target from a range of several hundred meters down to a range of only a few centimeters. The system microprocessor operates on data received from each sensor arrangement to generate the information necessary to guide a host spacecraft safely through hard docking maneuvers. Wide field coverage is achieved without moving parts by electronic selection of independently directed laser beams.
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Buczinski Stephen C.
Energy Optics, Incorporated
Hogan Patrick M.
Wallace Linda J.
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