Abstract: A sensor system for viewing the light energy of a scene has an imaging detector which converts incident light energy into an electrical signal. Two colors are separately imaged by the detector in two imaging regions. The imaging system for each color includes a color filter positioned between the scene and the respective region of the detector, an optical train that focuses filtered color scene energy, and an optical fiber bundle having an input end that receives the respective color scene energy from the optical train and an output end that directs the color scene energy onto the respective region of the detector using a nonlinear mapping. The optical fiber bundle is formed of a plurality of optical fibers wherein each of the optical fibers has an input shape and size at its input end and an output shape and size at its output end. The output shape and size are different from the input shape and size.

Abstract: A method for protecting an aircraft against a threat that utilizes an infrared sensor includes providing a plurality of dispensable infrared sources transported in an infrared-source dispenser with the aircraft. A set of infrared-emitting properties of the infrared sources is selected responsive to a set of infrared detecting characteristics of the infrared sensor. A modulated pattern of the infrared sources is dispensed from the infrared-source dispenser responsive to at least one of the set of infrared detecting characteristics of the infrared sensor, and a geometric engagement scenario of the aircraft and the threat.

Abstract: A method for protecting an aircraft against a threat that utilizes an infrared sensor includes providing a plurality of dispensable infrared sources transported in an infrared-source dispenser with the aircraft. A set of infrared-emitting properties of the infrared sources is selected responsive to a set of infrared detecting characteristics of the infrared sensor. A modulated pattern of the infrared sources is dispensed from the infrared-source dispenser responsive to at least one of the set of infrared detecting characteristics of the infrared sensor, and a geometric engagement scenario of the aircraft and the threat.

Abstract: A two-color infrared warning device, having both wide-angle and narrow-angle search capabilities, and a directional countermeasure device are mounted on a gimbal pointing in the same direction. The warning device and gimbal are initially operated in a wide-angle, step-stare mode to search for threats. When a potential hostile target is found, the warning device changes to a narrow-angle mode to determine whether the potential target is hostile. When a hostile target is identified, the directional countermeasure device, which is pointed at the target by virtue of its mounting with the warning device on the gimbal, is activated.

Abstract: This invention proposes to make use of an already developed set of hardware which dispenses and controls the performance of towed decoys capable of defeating radar guided weapons. Using this same hardware, a new and unique payload, payload control and dispensing mechanism is inserted into a decoy towbody. The payload consists of foils and/or foil packs of a pyrophoric material. This material creates an infrared (IR) signature behind the decoy that is more attractive than the infrared plume emitted by the aircraft engine. The fact that the IR decoy is towed insures that it will be kinematically correct by flying the same profile as the aircraft so as to remain within the field of view of the missile's seeker. Because the pyrophoric material can be metered (dispensed at varying and controllable rates) its radiant intensity can be matched with that of the engine of the towing aircraft.