Abstract: A method to spread laser photon energy over separate pixels to improve the likelihood that the total sensing time of all the pixels together includes the laser pulse. The optical signal is spread over a number of pixels, N, on a converter array by means of various optical components. The N pixels are read out sequentially in time with each sub-interval short enough that the integration of background photons competing with the laser pulse is reduced. Likewise, the pixel read times may be staggered such that laser pulse energy will be detected by at least one pixel during the required pulse interval. The arrangement of the N pixels may be by converter array column, row, two dimensional array sub-window, or any combination of sub-windows depending on the optical path of the laser signal and the capability of the ROIC control.

Abstract: A dual-mode laser-based and image-based seeker for projectiles, missiles, and other ordnance that persecute targets by detecting and tracking energy scattered from targets. The disclosed embodiments use a single digital imager having a single focal plane array (FPA) sensor to sense data in both the image-based and laser-based modes of operation. A control mechanism controls pixel scanning at a sub-window of the FPA to tightly control the imager's shuttering to detect, decode and localize in the imager's field-of-view a known pulse repetition frequency (PRF) from a known designator in the presence of ambient light and other confusing target designators, each having a different PRF.

Abstract: A system for semi-active laser seeker synchronization includes a laser target designator configured to emit a laser pulse signal and a seeker configured to detect the emitted signal from the laser target designator. The laser target designator and the seeker are operatively connected to synchronize the emission of the laser pulse signal and the detection of the seeker.

Abstract: A method to spread laser photon energy over separate pixels to improve the likelihood that the total sensing time of all the pixels together includes the laser pulse. The optical signal is spread over a number of pixels, N, on a converter array by means of various optical components. The N pixels are read out sequentially in time with each sub-interval short enough that the integration of background photons competing with the laser pulse is reduced. Likewise, the pixel read times may be staggered such that laser pulse energy will be detected by at least one pixel during the required pulse interval. The arrangement of the N pixels may be by converter array column, row, two dimensional array sub-window, or any combination of sub-windows depending on the optical path of the laser signal and the capability of the ROIC control.

Abstract: A system for semi-active laser seeker synchronization includes a laser target designator configured to emit a laser pulse signal and a seeker configured to detect the emitted signal from the laser target designator. The laser target designator and the seeker are operatively connected to synchronize the emission of the laser pulse signal and the detection of the seeker.

Abstract: Microwave signals are coupled from a microwave module to a microstrip transmission line, each installed on a chassis plate. The microwave signals are fed through the bottom or side of the microwave module using a feedthrough pin mounted in the module. The feedthrough pin extends from the microwave module interior into a channel defined in the chassis plate and to a microstrip line on the opposite side of the plate. An electrically conductive gasket is placed about the feedthrough pin between the microwave module and chassis plate to reduce signal leakage and enhance ground continuity. An insulating sleeve is installed about the feedthrough pin in the chassis plate channel and provides a nominal clearance (e.g., 0.005 inches) within that channel to allow for manufacturing and assembly tolerances and to enable feedthrough impedance to be substantially insensitive to the position of the feedthrough pin and insulating sleeve within the channel.