Patents Examined by Stephen C. Buczinsky
  • Patent number: 6133993
    Abstract: A length and velocity measurement apparatus based upon an interference pattern created between the amplitude modulation component of a transmitted signal, generated by an RF/microwave modulated continuous wave (CW) laser, and the amplitude modulation component of a signal reflected back from the target. The distance between the system and the target is measured by counting the periods in the interference pattern created between the amplitude modulation component of the transmitted signal and the amplitude modulation component of the reflected signal while the modulation frequency is swept from a frequency F.sub.1 to a frequency F.sub.2. In order to provide a fine adjustment of the apparatus, the apparatus may be mounted on a movable carriage to adjust the periods in the interference pattern to an integral number. Velocity measurements are made at a single frequency based upon the Doppler effect induced by the moving target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventor: Frederik Labaar