Ecm (electronic Countermeasures, I.e., Jamming) Patents (Class 342/14)
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Patent number: 7339515Abstract: The invention relates to a distributed electronic counter measures solution, wherein jamming signals (JA; JB) may be emitted towards threats (X1, X2) from counter measures stations in multiple vehicles (A, B), which are physically separated from one another in order to improve the chances of survival the vehicles (A, B) as well as any other vehicles that are associated with these vehicles (A, B) in a group of vehicles. The vehicles in the group exchange messages (D) over a wireless data link (L), where the messages (D) sent from a particular station specify an availability status (Dres-status) for each electronic warfare resource in the station and a threat status (Dthr-status) registered by the station. A station in the group having a central planning function coordinates any jamming signals (JA; JB) emitted from the electronic warfare resources of the stations in the group, such that the resources are optimally used with respect to all of any registered threats (X1, X2).Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2006Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Assignee: Saab ABInventors: Niklas Ferm, Thomas Lindvall
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Patent number: 7336216Abstract: A radar decoy having radar reflectors disposed in the interior of the inflated canopy of a descending parachute as a first set of four corner reflectors, and a second set of corner reflectors disposed on the exterior of the canopy integral with the first set of corner reflectors, to form an octahedron of eight corner reflectors. The radar decoy is pliable and folded with the parachute for stowage in the interior of a canister. When loaded on a vehicle flying in a trajectory, the canister may open at a point P on the trajectory, to release the parachute, and thereby deploy the radar decoy to become operative.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Rafael Armament Development Authority Ltd.Inventor: Gil Weisbrod
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Patent number: 7310441Abstract: A method for processing data includes identifying a time signature of an infra-red (IR) beacon. Image data associated with the IR beacon is identified using the time signature.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2003Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: David J. Cowperthwaite, Bradford H. Needham
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Patent number: 7232240Abstract: An apparatus provides a safer, high brightness glare or illumination source. The apparatus comprises a laser to emit a light beam, and a magnifying telescope, including a negative lens to expand the light beam and a positive lens to collimate the expanded light beam. The apparatus also includes a holographic diffuser to receive the collimated light beam and to produce a diffused light beam. The diffused light beam has an extended cross section and provides an extended glare source at increased power down range.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2005Date of Patent: June 19, 2007Assignee: Northrop Grumann CorporationInventors: William D. Kosnik, Brenda J. Novar, Victor I. Villavicencio
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Patent number: 7215275Abstract: An apparatus for adaptive camouflage with independent control of both temperature and apparent color. The apparatus has cells or individual pixels behind a transparent outer layer. The temperature of the outer layer is controlled by a heat transfer fluid flowing in a closed circuit in each cell, the fluid being cooled or heated by Pelletier elements located behind the assembly. Color changes can be activated separately at the back of the transparent layer by the rotation of metallic triangles whose sides are covered with various color paints, the triangles being located behind the transparent layer. Radar absorption is obtained by the transparent layer and heat transfer fluid and by the selective orientation of the metallic triangles in various directions. The apparent signature of the assembly can then be varied by adapting the signature of the various cells to current environmental conditions when background conditions alter.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2004Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen as represented by the Minister of National Defence of Her Majesty's Canadian GovernmentInventor: Jean Dumas
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Patent number: 7212148Abstract: A countermeasure system for jamming an attack unit is provided. The attack unit receives an infrared carrier signal for detection of a target under attack and is vulnerable to countermeasures from another infrared carrier signal modulated by a predetermined modulating signal. The countermeasure system includes a radio frequency source for generating a radio frequency carrier signal, a modulator for modulating the radio frequency carrier signal using the predetermined modulating signal, and a antenna for transmitting the modulated radio frequency signal towards the attack unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2005Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Alfonso R. Torres
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Patent number: 7212147Abstract: A method for reducing radar cross section of an object that has conductive portions and that is expected to be scanned by radar, which includes providing the object with a multiple layer radar cross section reducing structure that reduces or entraps or dissipates radar waves therein so that the size or configuration of the object cannot be correctly detected by radar scanning. The invention also relates to the radar cross section reducing structure alone or associated with an object such as a vehicle that transports personnel or equipment. The structure can be provided on an object that previously has no stealth capability or it can be applied to an object that already has stealth capability for increasing its capability to prevent correct detection by radar scanning.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2004Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Inventor: Al Messano
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Patent number: 7202807Abstract: A method and an antenna arrangement are disclosed for reducing the antenna radar cross section for an externally illuminating radar source. A radar pulse is transmitted with the antenna arrangement fully matched to achieve a lowest possible power loss of the pulse. At all other times the antenna will be poorly matched and thereby will act as a low radar cross section. The reduced radar cross section leads to an antenna gain reduction, which most often can be accepted since competing noise is reduced as much as the useful signal. It is further suggested that the range gate of the receiver and the transmitter pulse control the antenna. Thus, the antenna is “fully opened” during the transmitting pulse and may be partly or “trade-off” matched during range gate reception. In the interval of not transmitting or receiving, the antenna will present a low radar cross section.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2002Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ)Inventors: Lars Josefsson, Björn Thors
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Patent number: 7170444Abstract: A non-linear dispersive pulse generator for producing pulsed radio frequency electrical signals includes a non-linear dispersive electrical circuit (1) incorporating at least one non-linear element (2) made of a material sensitive to low power signals and a means (5) of producing a variable power control signal (6) and applying it to the element (2) to modify the extent of the non linearity of the element (2) and thereby vary the output frequency of the radio frequency electrical signal generated by the generator.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 1998Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: Bae Systems plcInventors: Nigel Seddon, Christopher R. Spikings
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Patent number: 7154431Abstract: A digital synthesizer includes a digital radio frequency memory (DRFM) for storing phase values and corresponding digital signals. The digital synthesizer includes a digital processing circuit receiving input from the DRFM, the circuit including tapped delay lines and a summer summing the output of the tapped delay lines. The digital synthesizer includes a signal modulator independently synthesizing within each tapped delay line a frequency modulated and gain scaled signal, wherein input to the tapped delay lines are phase values from the DRFM.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2004Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Phillip E. Pace, Robert E. Surratt, Siew-Yam Yeo
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Patent number: 7154430Abstract: A radar jamming signal generated by equipment carried by a target aircraft, is launched onto the leading end of a towed single wire transmission line so as to travel the length of the line as a nonradiating surface wave. A drogue radiator is attached to the trailing end of the line for radiating the jamming signal transversely of the towed line so as to be received by and cause jamming of tracking and/or fire control radar. The length of the single wire transmission line is selected so that the trailing radiator causes the jamming signal to emanate from a position sufficiently behind the aircraft so as to be outside the destructive radius of weapon fire directed at the apparent source of the jamming signal by fire control radar. A ventriloqual-like deception of the radar is thus achieved.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1981Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Walter E. Buehler, Michael J. Lewis, David Lunden
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Patent number: 7142147Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for detecting, locating, and identifying microwave transmitters and receivers at distant locations are disclosed. First and second electromagnetic beams at first and second frequencies, respectively, are transmitted in first and second directions. The second frequency is offset from the first frequency to define an interference difference frequency. As such, the first and second electromagnetic beams interfere at a far field distance corresponding to an intersection of the first and second electromagnetic beams. In the far field the beams interfere with microwave devices that reradiate a return radiation at the difference frequency. The methods and apparatuses detect the return radiation at the difference frequency, such as by way of a receiver, and locate the interference zone to determine the location of the microwave device, such as by a processor.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2004Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Sandor Holly
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Patent number: 7142148Abstract: A towed decoy arrangement for a craft with a decoy towed by the craft. Threatening signals are received by the craft and a noise signal is generated which is converted up to a frequency which is rapidly attenuated in air and sent to the towed decoy. In the decoy, the received signal is transformed into the noise signal by shifting it to the frequency of the threatening signal. Then the signal is transmitted from the decoy.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2003Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: Totalforsvarets ForskningsinstitutInventor: Anders Eneroth
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Patent number: 7138936Abstract: The test results found that the EMI impact depended on the UWB power that fell within the receiver passband. Specifically, EMI occurred when the average power in the receiver passband was approximately equal to the desired signal level of the receiver. One waveform, TW7, did not cause EMI because the average power was too low. Three waveforms, TW1, TW2, and TW6 only caused EMI when the receiver was tuned to the frequency of the UWB spectral component. Three waveforms, TW3, TW4, and TW5, caused EMI at all receiver frequencies. As noted, these tests were performed to determine the susceptibility of various RF receiver (radars and communications systems) devices to UWB signals. The tests were not intended to evaluate the use of UWB signals for jamming purposes.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2005Date of Patent: November 21, 2006Assignee: Sentel CorporationInventors: William G. Duff, Theodore L. Harwood, II, Art Light, John P. Smith, Darrel Crapps
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Patent number: 7126979Abstract: The system and method autonomously and selectively jams frequency-hopping signals in near real-time by incorporating a fundamental change in the detection and reaction technology, to provide a reaction time that is short enough, within milliseconds or less, to capture and then jam even the fastest frequency hopping radios in use today, without relying on prior art methods of using standard CPU driven technology. The system automatically determines if detected signal(s) should be jammed, and subsequently to automatically end extremely quickly activates the jamming transmitter on the frequency-hopper transmitter's frequency. Finally, the system provides a programmable user interface so that operators can set up the system to act autonomously as intended, such that operator intervention is unnecessary when the system is placed in jamming operation mode.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2004Date of Patent: October 24, 2006Assignee: Networkfab CorporationInventor: Lars Karlsson
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Patent number: 7123182Abstract: A time sharing jammer comprises two sources of jamming signals 1 and a switch 4 for coupling the sources of jamming signals to a microwave power amplifier 6, such as a travelling wave tube. A pseudo random code generator 8 is provided which is arranged to cause operation of the switch 4 whereby the sources of jamming signals 2 are coupled to the power amplifier 6 in accordance with the pseudo random code.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 1987Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Assignee: BAE Systems Electronics LimitedInventor: Michael Anthony Childs
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Patent number: 7099369Abstract: A Method and Apparatus for Surgical High-speed Follower Jamming Based on Selectable Target Direction is disclosed. The system and method of the present invention automatically detects and jams sudden, short duration communications signals in near real time, in a compass direction selected by the user on the battlefield. Such a system is unique in the number and type of input parameters it uses to allow the operator to tailor its jamming results. The system solves the efficiency, fratricide, and latency issues of prior art systems and greatly enhances the operational capabilities of the modern military unit by allowing the unit to kill all enemy transmitters in any specified sector of the battlefield. The system embodies the addition of real time direction-finding methods to the invention of application Ser. No. 10/912,976.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2005Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: Networkfab CorporationInventor: Lars Karlsson
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Patent number: 7095779Abstract: A Method and Apparatus for Automatic Jammer Frequency Control of Surgical Reactive Jammers is disclosed. The system and method to autonomously and selectively jam frequency-hopping signals in near real-time. The system has the ability to automatically detect short duration signals (such as those output from frequency hoppers), to automatically determine if detected signal(s) should be jammed, and subsequently to automatically and extremely quickly activate the jamming transmitter on the frequency-hopper transmitter's frequency. Furthermore, the system improves upon the FFT-based front-end system by incorporating a module that automatically and iteratively comparing the digital FFT results to the analog RF signal to the arrive at a total frequency offset between the FFT results and the analog signal so that the transmitted jamming signal will be more accurately applied on the desired or target frequency.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2005Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: Networkfab CorporationInventor: Lars Karlsson
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Patent number: 7081846Abstract: A system and method for generating a counter-measure signal in response to an incoming radar signal from a remote linear frequency modulated (LFM) pulse compression radar system. One method comprises the steps of receiving an incoming radar signal having a time period T; storing at least a portion of the radar signal in a memory; extracting predetermined segments of the radar signal from the memory; replicating the predetermined segments to create a predetermined plurality of each of the predetermined segments; concatenating the plurality of predetermined segments into a further signal, like ones of the plurality of predetermined segments adjacent one another; and transmitting the further signal to the remote radar system.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2004Date of Patent: July 25, 2006Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Mitchell Joseph Sparrow, Joseph Cikalo
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Patent number: 7068209Abstract: A system and method is provided for detecting emitter signals and for determining a scan strategy for a receiver system that receives such emitter signals. In one embodiment, the scan strategy may be computed to operate in a manner cognizant of on-board active jammers, optimizing the jammer band and intercept band performance. The additional inputs for this task are a jammer band assignment table, and a blanking assignment table. The capability to generate “dry” (no jam) and “wet” (jamming) scan strategies for an emitter set is provided, with separate intercept rules for each.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2003Date of Patent: June 27, 2006Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventor: Anthony J. Gounalis
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Patent number: 7053812Abstract: In a countermeasure system for an aircraft, a countermeasure module includes a chamber. Countermeasure equipment is housed in the chamber of the countermeasure module. An attachment mechanism allows for releasable attachment of the countermeasure module to an aircraft. A flight mechanism is provided on the countermeasure module for returning the countermeasure module to a location, such that when an aircraft to which the countermeasure module is attached reaches a desired airborne position, the attachment mechanism releases the countermeasure module from the aircraft, and the flight mechanism on the released countermeasure module returns the countermeasure module to the location.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2003Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Textron Systems CorporationInventor: Daniel W. Trainor
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Patent number: 6995660Abstract: A decision aid for use in the defense of a combat ground vehicle which includes a track fusion element, a threat typing element, threat prioritization element, and a countermeasures (CM) selection element.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2003Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Assignee: Bae Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc.Inventors: Ronald M. Yannone, Howard B. Partin
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Patent number: 6980152Abstract: Methods, computer-readable media, and systems for externally cued aircraft warning and defense are disclosed. A surveillance system may include a sensor field or array and may include a processor system that processes signals including acoustic signals received by the sensor array. Signals including acoustic signals are processed to determine the presence of indicia, including acoustic signatures, of known surface-to-air missiles including man-portable air defense systems. When the presence of such surface-to-air missiles is indicated, a cue signal is sent to one or more countermeasure systems that include one or more countermeasures such as chaff, expendable decoys and flares. The countermeasure systems may be ground-based or aircraft-based. The countermeasures are deployed in response to the cue signal. The surface-to-air missile may consequently be defeated.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2003Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Assignee: Textron Systems CorporationInventors: Robert L. Steadman, Gary I. Grant, Bruce Edward Parks
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Patent number: 6980151Abstract: A bi-static continuous wave radar system and related methods for detecting incoming threats from ballistic projectiles includes a remote source of RF illumination, and a local receiver installed in one or more target aircraft. A first receiving channel acquires direct path illumination from the source and provides a reference signal, and a second receiving channel acquires a scatter signal reflected by a projectile. A processor coupled to each receiver corrects scatter signal Doppler offset induced by relative source motion, isolates narrowband Doppler signals to derive signatures characteristic of the projectile, and by executing appropriate algorithms, compares the derived signatures to modeled signatures stored in memory. If the comparison yields a substantial similarity, the processor outputs a warning signal sufficient to initiate defensive countermeasures.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2004Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Assignee: General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems, Inc.Inventor: Paul L. Mohan
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Patent number: 6937181Abstract: The invention relates to a device for exhausting hot gases with a reduced signature, for instance exhaust gases from an exhaust (7, 8) of a tank. The device is of the type comprising a means for mixing (9, 33) of the hot gases with fresh air from the exterior of the tank. To prevent the exhaust from, for instance, reflecting radar radiation and emit IR radiation, the device is provided with a protecting means (10, 34) which is positioned outside at least parts of said means. The device may comprise a space (12, 32) which accommodates preferably the entire means for mixing. The space is defined on the one hand by a shell (11, 31) towards the other spaces of the tank and, on the other hand, by the protecting means towards the exterior. The protecting means has openings (23, 25) for passing preferably a gas mixture from the means to the exterior and fresh air from the exterior to said means.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2001Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Assignee: Forsvarets MaterielverkInventor: Urban Mathiasson
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Patent number: 6933877Abstract: The Multiple-Antenna Jamming System (MAJS) is useful for missile-borne jamming of active protection system radars that operate in close proximity to the frequency band of the missile's radio frequency seeker. The MAJS utilizes multiple receiving and transmitting antennas to reduce shadowing effects due to the transmissive radome. It also channelizes the jamming signals into in-seeker-band and out-of-seeker band signals to synchronize the transmission of jamming signals with the emit-listen pattern of the missile seeker and to eliminate the problem of de-sensitizing the RF seeker from the jammer energy. The in-seeker-band jamming signals are transmitted only concurrently with the missile seeker emissions and any signals emanating from an enemy radar are received only during the listen mode of the missile seeker.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2004Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Ralph H. Halladay, Michael R. Christian, Donald E. Lovelace
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Patent number: 6927724Abstract: Adaptive modification of surface properties such as color, temperature and reflective properties by adjustably varying the temperature of a surface perceived by an observer, utilizing Peltier devices at the surface for temperature adjustment.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Inventor: Alvin A. Snaper
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Patent number: 6903674Abstract: The invention concerns a procedure for emission of jamming signals for jamming of laser-based measuring instruments as a result of which systems for distance or speed measurement of targets using laser reflection receive further signals (jamming signals) in addition to the laser signals emitted by the measuring system itself and then reflected at the target. The invention is applicable to affect the distance or speed measurement of targets by means of laser-based measuring instruments, where the measurement procedure of the respective laser-based measuring system is jammed or even prevented.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2000Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Inventors: Holger Hoesel, Sven Diestel
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Patent number: 6885333Abstract: An electronic warfare (EW) cross-eye system comprises two antennas separated a distance, d, a part, where d is much greater than the wavelength, ?, of a tracking signal emitted by a fire control radar (i.e., d>>?). The EW cross-eye system further comprises a receive polarimeter for measuring the tracking signal and a second polarimeter for synthesizing the measured tracking signal to produce, for transmission, a jamming signal comprising a pair of inverted amplitude signals that are 180 degrees out of phase with each other.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2004Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Mitchell J. Sparrow, Joseph Cikalo
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Patent number: 6876321Abstract: A pulse descriptor word (PDW) collector, including an extractor coupled to a computer, for passively collecting radio frequency (RF) data received by an electronic surveillance system (ESS). It is integrated into the ESS after a receiver (which converts RF pulse data to digitized PDWs) and parrallel to a presorter. Using two RAM circuits, the extractor forms a read/write loop to ensure that no PDWs are lost in the collection process. The extractor simultaneously writes onto one RAM while reading from the other RAM to the computer. The read/write functions of the RAMs are switched at predetermined interrupts. Collected data is stored on the computer hard drive. The computer controls the entire collection process by using data management software, graphical user interface software and sequencing software. Stored data is available on demand for analysis and is used to monitor, assess, and update the threat identification capabilities of the particular ES system.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2004Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Barry P. Slutzky, Andrew W. Kluender
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Patent number: 6872960Abstract: A system and method for focusing electromagnetic energy on a moving target. Generally, the inventive system sends a pilot beam to a target and analyzes a return wavefront to ascertain data with respect to any distortions and other phase and/or amplitude information in the wavefront. This information is then used to pre-distort an output beam by so that it is focused on the target by the intervening distortions. In an illustrative embodiment, the pilot beam is provided by a beacon laser mounted off-axis with respect to the output beam. The reflected wavefront is received through a gimbaled telescope. Energy received by the telescope is detected and processed to ascertain wavefront aberrations therein. This data is used to predistort a deformable mirror to create an output beam which is the phase conjugate of the received wavefront. In a first alternative embodiment, a nonlinear optical phase-conjugate mirror is employed to generate the required wavefront-reversed replica of the received wavefront.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2001Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: David M. Pepper, Dennis C. Jones
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Patent number: 6870498Abstract: A system for generating electromagnetic radiation comprising a flux generator for generating a high intensity current and conversion means in the form of a reflex triode or a plasma focus device for converting said current into a high energy radiation beam.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1989Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Assignee: MBDA UK LimitedInventors: David Morgan, Lee Miller, David E T F Ashby, John G. Morgan
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Patent number: 6864825Abstract: A method of creating electromagnetic interference includes creating an electromagnetic (EM) field of a frequency at distant target by transmitting at least two electromagnetic beams. At the target, the beams may converge and interfere creating an interference difference frequency. In another method, the beams may be combined and the combined beams create an interference over a distance. An interference difference frequency is selected so that a desired electromagnetic frequency is established at the target creating interference. The interference difference frequency is established by the difference in the two electromagnetic beams. As each converges or is combined, the resultant frequency corresponds to the difference between each the frequencies of each beam. An apparatus for creating electromagnetic radiation includes at least two transmitters.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2003Date of Patent: March 8, 2005Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Sandor Holly
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Publication number: 20040257262Abstract: The invention concerns a procedure for emission of jamming signals for jamming of laser-based measuring instruments as a result of which systems for distance or speed measurement of targets using laser reflection receive further signals (jamming signals) in addition to the laser signals emitted by the measuring system itself and then reflected at the target. The invention is applicable to affect the distance or speed measurement of targets by means of laser-based measuring instruments, where the measurement procedure of the respective laser-based measuring system is jammed or even prevented.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2000Publication date: December 23, 2004Inventors: Holger Hoesel, Sven Diestel
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Patent number: 6825792Abstract: The present invention is intended to provide a system for determining the precise launch point of ballistic missiles, and may additionally provide the capability of neutralizing said threats. The invention provides a mobile object information means configured to classify electromagnetic frequency activity within satellite and land based commercial and private broadcast and telecommunications spectra in a given geographical area, said means also configured to classify associated area weather normality and anomalies. The system includes a software algorithm configured to extract from said database, a missile launch in a given geographical zone by “tagging” an electromagnetic wave disturbance caused by the high intensity initial fuel burn of said missile launch.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2003Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Inventor: Howard Letovsky
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Patent number: 6825791Abstract: A deceptive signature broadcast system for an aircraft or other emissions generating asset for generating an emissions pattern for masking the normal emissions signature of the aircraft or asset, and protecting it from emissions tracking intercept vehicles such as Infrared tracking missiles; the system includes at least two beacons mounted in a spaced apart arrangement orthogonal to the desired zone of protection, and bracketing the asset, such as on opposite wingtips of the aircraft for fore and aft protection; the beacon set is modulated from one end to the other with a sweeping pattern of emission intensity, deceptively indicating to the intercepting vehicle a lateral component of motion of the aircraft away from its true relative position within the intercept vehicle's field of view, thereby inducing the intercept vehicle to adopt an erroneous and exaggerated lead angle and course correction that results in a missed intercept trajectory.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2003Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Assignee: Sanders Design International, Inc.Inventors: Royden C. Sanders, Albin Hastbacka
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Patent number: 6806592Abstract: A computer software program which functions as the operating system software for a electronic countermeasure set. The software allows a pilot in an aircraft to generate multiple ECM modes from a console in the aircraft. The counter software program also allows a user to reprogram the ECM modes in a laboratory environment.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2003Date of Patent: October 19, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Thomas F. Bulharowski
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Patent number: 6804495Abstract: The present invention relates to a towed/surrogate decoy transmitter connectable via the tow cable to a platform or host aircraft using a wireless communicator link, the link providing useful performance and status information of the decoy transmitter to the host aircraft and providing the decoy with control and optimization information from the platform. The tow cable provides a mechanical connection to the host aircraft as well as a prime power connection and in some cases, a fiber optic (FO) interface. In order to optimize the protection provided by the towed/surrogate decoy transmitter, the host aircraft will use the wireless communication link to transmit operational status and control adjustment data back to the towed/surrogate decoy transmitter. The towed/surrogate decoy transmitter utilizes a wireless communicator link that can transmit data to any cooperative host aircraft and any other cooperative towed/surrogate decoy transmitters.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2001Date of Patent: October 12, 2004Assignee: Northrop Grumman CorporationInventor: Joseph S. Duthie
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Patent number: 6792383Abstract: A system and method for ascertaining the range of a noise-jamming target. The system includes a receiver; a data processor coupled to the receiver; and software adapted for execution by the data processor for computing rage to a target transmitter using first and second assumptions with respect to the output power level thereof and interpolating with respect to an error term calculated with respect thereto. The method includes the steps of: making assumptions with respect to an output power level of a transmitter located at the target; measuring a level of power received form the transmitter by a receiver at first and second distances relative to the transmitter; calculating an error term with respect to the assumptions; interpolating with respect to the error term to make a range calculation; and outputting the range calculation when the error term reaches a predetermined threshold.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2001Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: Joseph R. Brouillard, David E. Bovey
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Patent number: 6779752Abstract: A projectile guidance system without gyros in which the projectile has an orthogonal body cordinate system. The projectile has a triax of accelerometers providing x, y and z acceleration data measured along the x, y and z axes respectively. A GPS antenna and receiver means provides onboard GPS position and velocity data in earth referenced navigational coordinates. A computer and program means stores and accesses time indexed GPS position and GPS velocity data and transforms x, y and z axis acceleration data from body to navigation coordinates. The program means is responsive to corresponding time indexed acceleration data and to GPS velocity and position data for calculating and outputing an estimated-projectile roll, pitch and yaw angle via optimal smoothing techniques with respect to local level for each time index iteration of present position to a flight control system for guiding the projectile to a predetermined location.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2003Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Assignee: Northrop Grumman CorporationInventor: Joseph A. Ratkovic
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Patent number: 6771220Abstract: A method and computer program product are disclosed for locating signal jammers in a digital beamforming receiver having an antenna with a plurality of associated antenna orientations. An associated antenna gain value is calculated for a first of a sequence of the plurality of antenna orientations at each of a series of sample points. The antenna gain values from the first antenna orientation are evaluated for null spaces to obtain a set of candidate null locations. Associated antenna gain values are calculated and evaluated for subsequent antenna orientations only at the set of candidate null locations. Candidate null locations are eliminated from the set after any evaluation in which they are not found to be null spaces.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2003Date of Patent: August 3, 2004Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Jeffrey M. Ashe, Richard C. Gaus, Jr.
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Publication number: 20040130478Abstract: A system and method is provided for detecting emitter signals and for determining a scan strategy for a receiver system that receives such emitter signals. In one embodiment, the scan strategy may be computed to operate in a manner cognizant of on-board active jammers, optimizing the jammer band and intercept band performance. The additional inputs for this task are a jammer band assignment table, and a blanking assignment table. The capability to generate “dry” (no jam) and “wet” (jamming) scan strategies for an emitter set is provided, with separate intercept rules for each.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2003Publication date: July 8, 2004Applicant: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventor: Anthony J. Gounalis
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Patent number: 6756934Abstract: Targets imaged by radar systems typically have shadows associated with them. Target detection and identification is enhanced by analyzing the shadow characteristics of a suspected target. Features of the shadow cast by the suspected target enhance the identification process. Authenticating the suspected target shadow as being indeed cast by the target comprises a) Generating a radar image using radar returns, the radar image containing both the target and its suspected target shadow; b) Forming a pentagonal perimeter adjacent to the target (within the radar image), the pentagonal perimeter chosen to contain the suspected target shadow, the pentagonal perimeter separating the target from its suspected target shadow; c) Testing the suspected target shadow within said pentagonal perimeter to authenticate that the suspected target shadow is cast by the target. One aspect of the testing performed on the suspect target shadow uses a 2 by 2 dilation and majority filter.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2003Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: Joe C. Chen, Albert Ezekiel
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Publication number: 20040119631Abstract: A deceptive signature broadcast system for an aircraft or other emissions generating asset for generating an emissions pattern for masking the normal emissions signature of the aircraft or asset, and protecting it from emissions tracking intercept vehicles such as Infrared tracking missiles; the system includes at least two beacons mounted in a spaced apart arrangement orthogonal to the desired zone of protection, and bracketing the asset, such as on opposite wingtips of the aircraft for fore and aft protection; the beacon set is modulated from one end to the other with a sweeping pattern of emission intensity, deceptively indicating to the intercepting vehicle a lateral component of motion of the aircraft away from its true relative position within the intercept vehicle's field of view, thereby inducing the intercept vehicle to adopt an erroneous and exaggerated lead angle and course correction that results in a missed intercept trajectory.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2003Publication date: June 24, 2004Inventors: Royden C. Sanders, Albin Hastbacka
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Patent number: 6707052Abstract: The invention is a defense unit countermeasure system comprising an attack unit detector to activate an attack illuminator, a modulated CW radiation source, a radiation detector, a second signal generator and modulator.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 1963Date of Patent: March 16, 2004Inventors: Norman R. Wild, Paul M. Leavy, Jr.
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Patent number: 6697008Abstract: A distributed electronic warfare system includes a central control site for controlling and receiving data from the system and utilizes a satellite communications system for communications within the system. Electronic warfare pods are attached to variety of aircraft. The electronic warfare pods listen to signals from targets and jam the targets under control of the central control site. The pods supply the data to the central control site. The pods have antennas for radiating jamming signals to the targets and receiving signals from the targets. Transmitters in the pods generate jamming signals and receivers receive the signals from the targets. A signal processor processes the received signals from the targets. The pods may be used for search and collection, geolocation, and electronic attack under control of the central control site.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2003Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.Inventor: Robert H. Sternowski
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Patent number: 6686866Abstract: The two-piece end cap assembly has an end cap that has a groove around its perimeter and at least one cavity. The end cap is fixed in place inside the flare case with the cavities exposed. Sealant/adhesive is applied to the groove and cavity. A RAM cap, having a flange on its edge corresponding to the size of the flare case and a number of projections corresponding to the cavities, is installed on the top surface of the end cap. The sealant/adhesive in the cavities attaches the RAM cap to the end cap. The sealant/adhesive in the groove is forced to the edges of the end cap and provides a seal between the end cap and the flare case. Radar Absorbing Material is applied to the top and exposed edges of the RAM cap, completely masking the face of the flare and its edges.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Dennis D. Deckard, David J. Mulinix
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Patent number: 6683555Abstract: A fast deployment and retrieval system permits the rapid deployment of a decoy in seconds in response to an incoming threat, thus eliminating the necessity of pre-deployment, with retrieval permitting reeling in and deployment of the decoy a number of times during a mission in response to threats, and a commensurate reduction in life cycle cost. Upon detection of an incoming threat by a warning receiver, a controller coupled to a transmission releases a brake that is utilized to control the speed of deployment, whereas upon retrieval, the transmission drives a motor for retrieval of the decoy. The system is thus reusable, fast reacting, and also minimizes range penalty considerations because the decoy is only deployed when needed. In one embodiment, the system accommodates both a towing cable and a fiber-optic signal cable in which apparatus for unwinding of the cables is mechanically ganged together so that the cables pay out at the same rate.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2002Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration, Inc.Inventors: Mark A. Carlson, James J. Jordan, John Russotti
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Patent number: 6679179Abstract: A non-lethal active body which is equipped with a detonation-operated electrical pulse generator, and which is especially deployable as an article of submunition. The pulse generator is a piezo-generator having a detonation-operated inductive current amplifier and a capacitive pulse shaper connected to the output thereof.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2000Date of Patent: January 20, 2004Assignee: Diehl Munitionssysteme GmbH & Co., KGInventors: Jurgen Bohl, Tilo Ehlen
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Patent number: 6650269Abstract: A passive radar decoy for deployment from an aircraft in flight comprises a substantially hemispherical body having its inner surface coated with an RF reflective material and its forward end connected to a weighted nose piece. The decoy is ram-air inflatable and is packaged with a plurality of chaff in the aircraft within a radar countermeasures ejection tube. Upon ejection from the aircraft, the decoy achieves RF coverage at millimeter wave frequencies and improves chaff dispersion and an increased period of doppler frequency return to a ground-based radar. The decoy may also include a second hemispherical body mounted at the approximate focus within the inflatable body and having its outer surface RF reflective so as to retroreflectively return RF energy impinging on the decoy and the combined returns from the decoy provide a scintillating signal return to the ground-based radar.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1982Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventor: Joseph C. Huber, Jr.