Abstract: An image projection system for presenting an image to a viewer comprises an electromagnetic radiation source configured to generate radiation having multiple spectral characteristics, and multiple independently operable optical switches configured to selectively transmit, reflect, and/or block radiation from the radiation source to the viewer. The viewed image is made up of pixels defined by the selective operation of the optical switches with the radiation source.

Abstract: An image projection system for presenting an image to a viewer comprises an electromagnetic radiation source configured to generate radiation having multiple spectral characteristics, and multiple independently operable optical switches configured to selectively transmit, reflect, and/or block radiation from the radiation source to the viewer. The viewed image is made up of pixels defined by the selective operation of the optical switches with the radiation source.

Abstract: An imaging system for presenting an image to a viewer comprises a radiation source configured to generate radiation having different spectral characteristics, and multiple independently operable optical switches configured to selectively transmit, reflect, and/or block radiation from the radiation source to the viewer.

Abstract: A system and method for measuring orientation of an object. In the illustrative embodiment, the object is a ball (42) in a ball and socket type pointing and stabilization system. The novel system (40) includes an encoded pattern (46) applied to a portion of the surface of the ball (42), a pattern reader (44) which reads the pattern (46) off the ball (42) and outputs data representative of the pattern (46), and a processor (48) which decodes the data into orientation information. In the preferred embodiment, the pattern reader (44) is an electro-optical sensor, and the encoded pattern (46) includes a grid of dots (52) arranged in a first predetermined number of dot code cycles (58) wherein each dot code cycle (58) includes a second predetermined number of dots. The processor (48) includes an algorithm (100) which computes pitch, yaw, and roll angles from the pattern reader data.

Abstract: A system and method for measuring orientation of an object: In the illustrative embodiment,, the object is a ball (42) in a ball and socket type pointing and stabilization system. The novel system (40) includes an encoded pattern (46) applied to a portion of the surface of the ball (42), a pattern reader (44) which reads the pattern (46) off the ball (42) and outputs data representative of the pattern (46), and a processor (48) which decodes the data into orientation information. In the preferred embodiment, the pattern reader (44) is an electro-optical sensor, and the encoded pattern (46) includes a grid of dots (52) arranged in a first predetermined number of dot code cycles (58) wherein each dot code cycle (58) includes a second predetermined number of dots. The processor (48) includes an algorithm (100) which computes pitch, yaw, and roll angles from the pattern reader data.

Abstract: A hybrid thermoelectric/Joule-Thomson cryostat with a finite cryogenic gas supply is configured to greatly increase the cold operating time of a infrared detector array. A Joule-Thomson cryostat is located within a dewar vessel along with the infrared detector array to be cooled. Cryogenic gas from a cryogenic gas source is pre-cooled by a thermoelectric cooler at a location remote from the dewar vessel. Final cooling of the cryogenic gas is then performed by a demand flow Joule-Thomson cooler which has the ability to provide the low temperatures necessary for operation of an infrared detector. The operating period of the cryogenic gas supply and Joule-Thomson cryostat are increased by the cryogenic assistance of the thermoelectric cooler.

Abstract: A controlled absorption path filter for charge couple device seekers is made using a variable depth fluid. The use of a liquid as an absorber permits the entire aperture area to darken without loss of aperture. Thus the device provides a uniform extinction feature which preserves the system modulation transfer function. The device can be tied to a closed loop system with automatic gain control for feedback. Depending on the nature of absorber in the liquid, the device can also serve as a spectral filter. The device is applicable for visible light to near infrared light.

Abstract: This is an apparatus and method for increased dynamic range control of a rge coupled device camera. The dynamic range is improved by use of a frustrated total internal reflection device which limits the amount of light that can reach a CCD array within the camera system. The net effect of the frustrated total internal reflection device is to eliminate photon access to the sensor during the time that smear noise may occur. By appropriate circuit controls, the time of photon contact with the CCD array is controlled and thereby limits saturation of the CCD array.

Abstract: A device for determining the velocity, trajectory and attitude of a projele. Light beams from two perpendicular linear arrays of light emitters are incident upon corresponding linear photodetector arrays. Each light beam in the linear arrays includes an individualized characteristic to permit unique identification of each beam. Trajectory and velocity parameters are determined by identifying which detectors have an interrupted light beam and from the time interval between actuation of the arrays.