With Transmission To A Remote Station Patents (Class 342/58)
  • Patent number: 7443334
    Abstract: A collision alerting and avoidance system for use in an aerial vehicle is presented herein. The system comprises a one low profile antenna array disposed on the aerial vehicle. A transmitter/receiver probe is coupled to the antenna array. The transmitter/receiver probe is configured to transmit electromagnetic waves and to receive an echo signal reflected from a threat obstacle. At least one transmitter/receiver module is coupled to the transmitter/receiver probe. The transmitter/receiver module is configured to produce electromagnetic waves for transmission and to receive the echo signal. A processor coupled to the plurality of transmitter/receiver modules controls the transmission of electromagnetic waves from the antenna array and processes the echo signal to provide an output signal containing information regarding the obstacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventors: Frank L. Rees, William B. Cotton
  • Patent number: 7417581
    Abstract: A system and method for highly selective intrusion detection using a sparse array of time modulated ultra wideband (TM-UWB) radars. Two or more TM-UWB radars are arranged in a sparse array around the perimeter of a building. Each TM-UWB radar transmits ultra wideband pulses that illuminate the building and the surrounding area. Signal return data is processed to determine, among other things, whether an alarm condition has been triggered. High resolution radar images are formed that give an accurate picture of the inside of the building and the surrounding area. This image is used to detect motion in a highly selective manner and to track moving objects within the building and the surrounding area. Motion can be distinguished based on criteria appropriate to the environment in which the intrusion detection system operates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Time Domain Corporation
    Inventors: Larry W. Fullerton, James L. Richards
  • Publication number: 20080169960
    Abstract: The present invention is a radar platform that detects intruders and wirelessly reports to a key-fob. The entire radar platform is water-resistant and two banks of batteries are included for convenience or extended operation time. The device consists of a MicroPower Radar (MPR), a data acquisition (DAQ) element and a processor. Radar sends a short, low-amplitude signal of radio-frequency (RF) energy toward the target. This signal reflects from the target and is received as a Doppler change in signal amplitude. The radar's RF energy is in the radio frequency band and operates at much lower powers than many mobile devices such as cell phones. This Doppler System change in signal amplitude is filtered, amplified and presented to the DAQ. The DAQ converts the analog Doppler signal into a digital bit-stream and passed to the radar processor. Proprietary software analysis is performed to further filter and to make an alarm determination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2006
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Erwin T. Rosenbury
  • Patent number: 7400288
    Abstract: A platform such as a car has a processor receiving information representing the location of the platform and a location of a target. An emitter assembly controlled by the processor produces a visual display outside of and beyond the platform that an occupant of the platform can see. The display is transmitted along the target bearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventor: John L. Rogitz
  • Patent number: 7382316
    Abstract: At least one radiation pattern is rotated at a first radio station for the purpose of sampling a predefined angular range. At a first time of rotation, a second radio station is detected with a first angular position within the angular range corresponding to the first time. The second radio station determines a first quality value which can be assigned to the first angular position and reports the first quality value back to the first radio station. The first quality value is available for evaluation at the first radio station at a second time corresponding to a second angular position of the radiation pattern. The first radio station controls the speed of rotation of the at least one radiation pattern for subsequent rotations so that the first angular position corresponds to the second angular position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Nokia Siemens Networks GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Markus Jordan, Axel Klein, Lars Schmitt, Ingo Viering
  • Patent number: 7365673
    Abstract: Weather radar reflectivity data is compressed by converting radar data to image pixels. Next, contours are traced from select groupings of the pixels. Control points are derived from the contours. The control points represent a compressed version of the radar data and may be used to recreate and fill the contours with predefined colors or effects for purposes of visually depicting weather phenomena.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventors: Vishnu V. Makkapati, Pravas R. Mahapatra
  • Patent number: 7358888
    Abstract: A system and method for highly selective intrusion detection using a sparse array of time modulated ultra wideband (TM-UWB) radars. Two or more TM-UWB radars are arranged in a sparse array around the perimeter of a building. Each TM-UWB radar transmits ultra wideband pulses that illuminate the building and the surrounding area. Signal return data is processed to determine, among other things, whether an alarm condition has been triggered. High resolution radar images are formed that give an accurate picture of the inside of the building and the surrounding area. This image is used to detect motion in a highly selective manner and to track moving objects within the building and the surrounding area. Motion can be distinguished based on criteria appropriate to the environment in which the intrusion detection system operates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Time Domain
    Inventors: Larry W. Fullerton, James L. Richards
  • Patent number: 7339515
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Saab AB
    Inventors: Niklas Ferm, Thomas Lindvall
  • Publication number: 20080012749
    Abstract: A standoff radiation detection and identification system is capable of detecting radiation from remote locations, such as at distances of 100 feet or more. The system can verify radiation associated with vehicles or vessels prior to them entering sensitive areas. The ability to detect radiation at standoff distances enables the interception of the vehicle or vessel for further analysis. The system combines standoff radiation detection with interceptors that can be deployed for further close range analysis of a source of radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Applicant: Innovative American Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: David L. FRANK
  • Publication number: 20080007447
    Abstract: A data relay system for relaying data between an air vehicle or missile and a command centre, the data relay system comprising at least one balloon, the balloon comprising a communications link to both the command centre and the air vehicle or missile. The invention further provides a method of relaying data between an air vehicle or missile and a command centre, the method comprising the steps of providing a balloon with a radio frequency transmitter and receiver unit and a power unit, deploying the balloon at high altitude such that the balloon is within the line-of-sight of the command centre and the air vehicle or missile, and using the balloon to relay radio frequency signals between the air vehicle or missile and the command centre.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Inventor: Christopher G. Vincent
  • Patent number: 7307580
    Abstract: Provided is a non-statistical method for compressing and decompressing complex SAR data derived from reflected energy. The method includes selecting a first FFT to provide a target ratio of pixel spacing to resolution. A second FFT is then selected which is smaller than the first FFT. The data is zero-padded to fill the second FFT and transformed to provide at least one transfer frequency. This transfer frequency is then transferred to the at least one remote site. At the remote site the second FFT is inverted to restore the data from the received transfer frequency. The restored data is then zero-padded again to fill the first FFT. The first FFT is then used to transform the zero-padded restored data to provide a data set of points with the target ratio of pixel spacing to resolution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Jon H. Sherman, John P. Kilkelly, Helen L. Sun, Ralph E. Hudson
  • Patent number: 7307579
    Abstract: A collision alerting and avoidance system for use in an aerial vehicle is presented herein. The system comprises a one low profile antenna array disposed on the aerial vehicle. The array includes a plurality of horns; a polar horn, 45-degree horns, and equatorial horns. A transmitter/receiver probe is coupled to each horn. The transmitter/receiver probes are configured to transmit electromagnetic waves and to receive an echo signal reflected from a threat obstacle. A plurality of transmitter/receiver modules are coupled to each of the transmitter/receiver probes. The transmitter/receiver modules are configured to produce electromagnetic waves for transmission and to receive the echo signal. A processor coupled to the plurality of transmitter/receiver modules controls the transmission of electromagnetic waves from the horns and processes the echo signal to provide an output signal containing information regarding the obstacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Flight Safety Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank L. Rees, William B. Cotton
  • Patent number: 7298313
    Abstract: The invention provides a radar system capable of transmitting data communications concurrently with and on a non-interfering basis with the normal radar functions. A continuous-wave carrier frequency is generated and transmitted to perform the normal radar function such as the processing of doppler data. For data communication purposes, the carrier signal is pulse modulated at selected pulse repetition frequencies with the selected PRF transmitted as first-order sideband components of the fixed carrier frequency. PRF selection is made in accordance with input digital data. A remotely-disposed command link receiver processes the incoming carrier wave and its sideband components to reconstruct the information contained in the transmitted data rates. Sensitivity and optimum detection by the command link receiver is achieved in a special manner that includes a phase locking of the received carrier frequency to the generated carrier frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1975
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: William H. Fiden, Donald Walter Czubiak
  • Patent number: 7298152
    Abstract: A damage detection system includes a processor and a transmitter communicatively connected to the processor. The transmitter sends a signal to the processor and the processor is programmed to assign a spatial coordinate to the transmitter. The processor is further programmed to identify a transmitter location as damaged when the transmitter fails to send the signal. The damage detection system may analyze the damaged area and report potentially affected sub-systems to users of a machine or vehicle equipped with the damage detection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Daniel D. Wilke, Dennis K. McCarthy
  • Patent number: 7268723
    Abstract: A system and method for determining a position of a target within an acceptable tolerance using an iterative approach. A airborne or space-based measuring device is used to measure an estimated position of the target. The information from the measuring device is used in conjunction with either live captured or stored topography, or the like, information relating to the surface of the planet proximate the target to iteratively determine the actual position of the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: The MITRE Corporation
    Inventor: Probal K. Sanyal
  • Patent number: 7224308
    Abstract: A surveillance system is provided for surveillance of objects within a secure area. A surveillance sensor transmits surveillance signals to all objects within the secure area, the reflections of which are received back by the surveillance sensor to determine the locations of objects, and communicates the determined locations to a pressing facility. Objects authorized to be in the secure area are equipped with an Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) unit that includes a GPS receiver and a data communication transmitter. In response to predetermined conditions, the IFF units broadcast their position and identification to the processing facility for correlation with locations defined by the reflection signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Inventors: Walker Butler, Charles Chase
  • Patent number: 7183967
    Abstract: An airborne network configured to simultaneously transmit video imagery for battle damage indication from multiple airborne missiles to multiple tactical airborne non-launch aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard S. Haendel, Gary C. Waller
  • Patent number: 7158072
    Abstract: A weather radar signal path for an aircraft. The signal path has an antenna, a digital down-converter, a first transceiver, fiber optic cabling, a second transceiver and a processing unit. The antenna is adapted to, in a first mode, receive reflected radar signals from atmosphere ahead. The digital down-converter is adapted to convert the reflected radar signals received by the antenna into digital radar signals at a lower frequency. The first transceiver is adapted to, in the first mode, at least transmit the digital radar signals through said fiber optic cabling. The fiber optic cabling is adapted to, in the first mode, transfer the digital radar signals between the first and second transceivers. The second transceiver is adapted to, in the first mode, receive said digital radar signals from the fiber optic cabling. The processing unit is adapted to, in the first mode, process the digital radar signals to generate weather information based on predetermined algorithm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: Ranganath Venkatachalam, Ronald W. Andreatta
  • Patent number: 7136011
    Abstract: A field unit for warning of a danger of collision between an aircraft and an obstacle, in particular a topographical ground obstacle or an obstacle formed by a mast, building or aerial cable structure, comprises a multi-part tubular mast having devices for fixing a solar panel and a radar antenna; an elongate radar antenna in an environment-protective casing, which, with an electronics unit, forms a radar system for synthesized radar detection of an aircraft in a radar coverage area; a central processing unit for identifying on the basis of information from the radar system an aircraft which is in a zone of the radar coverage area and which on the basis of radar information such as direction, distance and/or speed computes a collision danger area; and a high-intensity light system and radio transmitter system that can be activated by the central processing unit upon detection of an aircraft in a collision danger area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: OCAS AS
    Inventors: Morten Mørk, Rolf Bakken
  • Patent number: 7129884
    Abstract: A radar detection technique in a WLAN device can include a short pulse detection technique and a long pulse detection technique that can be performed using multiple receive chains. Short pulse detection is particularly effective when the incoming signal includes one or a limited number of main pulses and some residual pulses. In contrast, long pulse detection is particularly effective when the incoming signal is longer, thereby allowing various characteristics of the incoming signal to be accurately measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Atheros Communications, Inc.
    Inventors: Ardavan Maleki Tehrani, Xiaoru Zhang, Paul J. Husted, Jeffrey M. Gilbert
  • Patent number: 7106244
    Abstract: A system and a method for monitoring a freight container are provided. The method includes the steps of generating a resonant spectrum representative of an initial condition of internal surfaces and contents of the freight container, and saving the resonant spectrum for future comparison purposes. The method further includes generating a second resonant spectrum and comparing the second resonant spectrum with the initial resonant spectrum to determine whether there has been any tampering with the freight container. The method also includes identifying the contents of the freight container and generating loading diagrams of the contents and using polarity configuration characteristics of the internal surfaces of said freight container to determine whether the contents have moved or been shifted during transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Phalanx Group, LLC
    Inventor: Hsiongwei Hsu
  • Patent number: 7075476
    Abstract: A network, sensor and method are provided that utilize the capabilities of impulse radio technology to help monitor and/or control the environment within a building. In particular, the network includes a sensor attached to a first impulse radio unit that is capable of transmitting an impulse radio signal containing sensor related information to a second impulse radio unit. The second impulse radio unit is attached to a control station that uses the sensor related information (e.g., environmental related information, safety related information or surveillance related information) to monitor and/or control the environment within a building. In one aspect of the present invention, the control system can better control and monitor the environment within the building because the sensor may be moved around within the building and reference impulse radio units may interact with the first impulse radio unit to enable the determination of the current position of the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Time Domain Corp.
    Inventor: Jonnathan H. Kim
  • Patent number: 7032858
    Abstract: A plurality of sensor vehicles collect imaging data from an assigned location of a target region having targets and non-targets. The imaging data may be combined based on its location and the combined data is matched to a threat object map to identify the actual targets from the non-targets. In some embodiments, the sensor vehicles may be redirected to collect velocity and/or range information on the identified targets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Darin S. Williams
  • Patent number: 7019683
    Abstract: A security system senses intrusions into a shipping container through the opening of doors, cutting an opening, or removing the doors from their hinges. Intrusion information is transmitted to a remote receiver without interrogation, thereby reducing power consumption. Sensing is accomplished by employing a range-gated micro-impulse radar (“RGR”) that generates microwave pulses that bounce around the interior of the container. The RGR includes a range gate that enables measuring reflected signals during the time gate period that is set for the time it takes a pulse to propagate a maximum distance within the container and reflect back. A direct current signal level is produced that represents the average reflected signal level within the container, and a Doppler shift measurement is made that represents motion inside the container. The signals are conveyed to the transmitter for conveyance to the remote receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: James E. Stevens, Frederick W. Eggers, Feng Tang, Niall Creedon, Douglas H. Marman
  • Patent number: 7009550
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an oil spill identification system and oil spill identification sensors to be used in connection with this system. The system is used primarily on fixed offshore structures, but may also be used on fixed onshore constructions. The sensor comprises a combination of a radar and at least a microwave radiometer. The data collected are transmitted to a control station. Preferably, the transmittal takes place at pixel level between the sensors and the control station. The control station processes the data received at pixel level and transmits data to an end-user, preferably through the internet. The invention also relates to a method for utilizing the system and a use of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventor: Peter Moeller-Jensen
  • Patent number: 6992615
    Abstract: A method for dynamically verifying a multiple beam antenna placed on a craft including a device for determining the position and course of the craft and a transmitter that via the antenna can emit pulsed signals. At least two transponders are placed in different directions round a measuring area with each transponder receiving a pulsed signal of at least one frequency, different for the different transponders, from the antenna. The transponders are adapted to send, after receiving the pulsed signal, a corresponding pulsed signal to the measuring station in such a manner that the transponder sending the signal can be determined at the measuring station which evaluates how well the antenna has managed to direct the radiated energy in the desired directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Totalforsvarets Forskningsinstitut
    Inventor: Anders Eneroth
  • Patent number: 6977608
    Abstract: An airborne network system (ANS) on a member aircraft receives incoming geo-referenced atmospheric data regarding atmospheric conditions from other member aircraft and can re-transmit the data to other members. An air data system senses local pressure and temperature conditions. A navigation system calculates geo-referenced aircraft position. An inertial data system senses member aircraft attitude, angular rates and accelerations. A data processing system (DPS) generates the member aircraft's perspective of the atmospheric conditions, based on input data from the above-mentioned systems. Network directed DPS output atmospheric data is provided to the ANS to be transmitted to other airborne network systems positioned on other member aircraft. An airborne display system is adapted to receive crew directed DPS output atmospheric data and in response thereto display desired atmospheric forecast conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins
    Inventors: Eric N. Anderson, Patrick D. McCusker
  • Patent number: 6967612
    Abstract: The system and method for standoff detection of human carried explosives (HCE) is a portable system that automatically detects HCE up to a range of 200 meters and within seconds alerts an operator to HCE threats. The system has radar only, or both radar and video sensors, a multi-sensor processor, an operator console, handheld displays, and a wideband wireless communications link. The processor receives radar and video feeds and automatically tracks and detects all humans in the field of view. Track data continuously cues the narrow beam radar to a subject of interest, the radar repeatedly interrogating cued objects, producing a multi-polarity radar range profile for each interrogation event. Range profiles and associated features are automatically fused over time until sufficient evidence is accrued to support a threat/non-threat declaration hypothesis. Once a determination is made, the system alerts operators through a handheld display and mitigates the threat if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventors: John D. Gorman, Robert J. Douglass, Thomas J. Burns, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6954171
    Abstract: Radar Pulse detection and radar signal length detection are used to detect and provide information for identifying radar signals. Pulse detection estimates a radar pulse size when it is too short for meaningful measurement. Pulse detection identifies a radar by identification of an in-band pulse without a communication or data packet encoded therein, or a communication error is detected with the in-band pulse. Signal length detection counts the length of a received signal after the received signal exceeds a radar threshold. The count identifies the received signal length upon drop of the power. The signal is identified as a radar when the power drops before a PHY error occurs, or when the power drop occurs after a PHY error and a delay time equivalent to the shortest radar signal. A radar signal is also identified upon a timeout wait for a power drop after a PHY error.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Atheros Communications, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Husted, William J. McFarland, Xiaoru Zhang, John Thompson
  • Patent number: 6943723
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a combined radar and laser detector that enables a driver to drive safely and, more particularly, to a combined radar and laser detector, in which a signal receiving module for receiving various kinds of signals including traffic information and an information display module for informing a driver of the signals are separated, the signal receiving module and information display module are constructed to communicate with each other using wireless communication, and the information display module is integrated with a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver detecting GPS data related to the location and speed of a moving vehicle, so that the combined radar and laser detector can not only provide accurate traffic information to the driver, but also allow the installation thereof to be easy, the miniaturization thereof to be achieved, and power consumption to be minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Channel Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Dong-Ryeol Kim, Sun-Woung Jung
  • Patent number: 6914554
    Abstract: A reflected energy detecting device includes a transmitter for transmitting an electromagnetic signal and a receiver for receiving a reflected electromagnetic signal. An antenna may be operatively connected with the transmitter and the receiver for radiating the electromagnetic signal and capturing the reflected electromagnetic signal and the antenna may be movable. A main controller may be provided for controlling operation of the transmitter and the receiver and the movement of the antenna and the reflected energy detecting device may further include at least one platform. The at least one platform may support a remote reflector that is dimensioned and configured to redirect the transmitted electromagnetic signal in a desired direction and a platform controller that is configured to communicate with the main controller and to maintain alignment between the remote reflector and the antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Leon H. Riley, Brian R. Strickland
  • Patent number: 6867727
    Abstract: A system-of-systems avionics architecture that is compatible with futuristic multi-function multi-platform sensor applications. The method and device of the invention is based on localized “adaptive” waveform and spectrum allocation for ultra-wideband radio frequency and microwave signals. The invention includes a plurality of system platforms with each platform comprising a common radio frequency front end for receiving ultra-wideband signals, a common radio frequency back end for transmitting ultra-wideband signals and a plurality of sensors for exchanging data between platforms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force
    Inventor: Atindra Mitra
  • Patent number: 6864828
    Abstract: A system and method provide for the collection of interferometric synthetic aperture radar (IFSAR) data. In the system, a first space vehicle configured for emitting electro-magnetic energy and collecting the reflection from a region of interest (ROI), may be directed along a first orbital track. The collected image data may be stored and later provided to a ground station for image and interferometric processing. A second space vehicle may also be configured for emission and collection of electro-magnetic energy reflected from the plurality of ROI's. The second space vehicle is positioned in an aligned orbit with respect to the first space vehicle where the separation between the vehicles is known. In order to minimize decorrelation of the ROI during image processing, the lead and trail satellite are configured to substantially simultaneously emit electromagnetic pulses image data collection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Arthur C. Golubiewski, Randall Schnathorst
  • Publication number: 20040263381
    Abstract: A system for visually indicating receipt of a radio communication directed to a user having an associated unique identification code. The system includes a radio transponder having an audio output, means for obtaining and storing the unique identification code; a speech recognition circuit operably connected to the radio transponder audio output and the stored identification code; and a visual indicator operably connected to an output of the speech recognition circuit, such that when the stored identification code and said audio input are substantially the same the visual indicator is driven to activation. A method is similarly disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Robert P. Mitchell, Wayne C. Crouch, Martin J. Foley
  • Publication number: 20040239551
    Abstract: As previously mentioned in the introduction this concept uses components already available and in use, but not being used to achieve this systems goals of providing a safeguard for weapon user/owner their families, and societies. Communications technology combined with firearms to enhance the weapons reliability and improve on its significance as a vital instrument of protection. This modification will bring age-old safety into the information age.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Joyce M. Ellis
  • Publication number: 20040239553
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a combined radar and laser detector that enables a driver to drive safely and, more particularly, to a combined radar and laser detector, in which a signal receiving module for receiving various kinds of signals including traffic information and an information display module for informing a driver of the signals are separated, the signal receiving module and information display module are constructed to communicate with each other using wireless communication, and the information display module is integrated with a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver detecting GPS data related to the location and speed of a moving vehicle, so that the combined radar and laser detector can not only provide accurate traffic information to the driver, but also allow the installation thereof to be easy, the miniaturization thereof to be achieved, and power consumption to be minimized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Applicant: CHANNEL TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Dong-Ryeol Kim, Sun-Woung Jung
  • Publication number: 20040222917
    Abstract: An identification interrogator is provided for surveillance of objects within an area. The identification interrogator transmits interrogation signals to all objects within the surveillance area, the reflections of which are received back by the interrogator to determine the locations of the objects, and communicates the determined locations to a processing facility to determine their authorized locations. Upon receipt of interrogation signals, some of the objects within the surveillance area broadcast their position and identification to processing facility for correlation with the locations determined by the reflection signals. The locations of other objects are found by correlating the location determined by the reflection signal with a predetermined list of objects and their location within the surveillance area. These may be objects with no means or method to transmit position and identification information, such as rock formations or buildings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventor: Walker Butler
  • Patent number: 6816106
    Abstract: An identification interrogator is provided for surveillance of objects within an area. The identification interrogator transmits interrogation signals to all objects within the surveillance area, the reflections of which are received back by the interrogator to determine the locations of the objects, and communicates the determined locations to a processing facility to determine their authorized locations. Upon receipt of interrogation signals, some of the objects within the surveillance area broadcast their position and identification to processing facility for correlation with the locations determined by the reflection signals. The locations of other objects are found by correlating the location determined by the reflection signal with a predetermined list of objects and their location within the surveillance area. These may be objects with no means or method to transmit position and identification information, such as rock formations or buildings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Inventor: Walker Butler
  • Patent number: 6806825
    Abstract: A radar scan conversion protocol is defined to communicate radar data from application servers to thin clients with reduced network bandwidth requirements. The radar scan conversion protocol may be implemented as an extension to existing thin client protocols. The system is also capable of transmitting audio and video data through the application servers to the thin clients using appropriate compressed formats in order to minimize network bandwidth requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Martin J. Andrusiak, Scott J. Benjamin
  • Publication number: 20040201517
    Abstract: A radar detector (10) includes a first period detector (76, 122), a second period detector (96, 120) and a third period detector (86, 124) within a multi-period periodicity validator 38. The first period detector (76, 122) detects radar pulses exhibiting one-half of an expected pulse period (48), the second period detector (96, 120) detects radar pulses exhibiting the expected pulse period (48), and the third period detector (86, 124) detects radar pulses exhibiting twice the expected pulse period (48). A plurality of pulse-train records (40) can simultaneously track a plurality of possible pulse trains. A control element (84, 136, 138) accounts for missing pulses and corrects the expected pulse period when missing pulses have caused the expected pulse period to be inaccurate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Applicant: GlobespanVirata, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Davidson MacFarlane Shearer
  • Publication number: 20040140925
    Abstract: A network, sensor and method are provided that utilize the capabilities of impulse radio technology to help monitor and/or control the environment within a building. In particular, the network includes a sensor attached to a first impulse radio unit that is capable of transmitting an impulse radio signal containing sensor related information to a second impulse radio unit. The second impulse radio unit is attached to a control station that uses the sensor related information (e.g., environmental related information, safety related information or surveillance related information) to monitor and/or control the environment within a building. In one aspect of the present invention, the control system can better control and monitor the environment within the building because the sensor may be moved around within the building and reference impulse radio units may interact with the first impulse radio unit to enable the determination of the current position of the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventor: Jonnathan H. Kim
  • Patent number: 6720907
    Abstract: A system for the detection and determination of the success of interception of incoming missiles, used in conjunction with a defense weapon system capable of identifying and tracking incoming missiles and interceptors. The system comprises at least one of a plurality of sensing units. Each sensing unit comprises: an optical sensor for detecting optical signals within a predetermined range; tracking means coupled to the optical sensor for tracking an intercepting missile or an incoming missile; processing means for processing optical input detected by the optical sensor and analyzing the optical input to identify an optical signature and determine detonation of interceptor or incoming missile; communicating means for communicating data between the sensing unit and the defense weapon system; and control means for controlling the tracking means, the processing means and the communicating data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Rafael-Armament Development Authority Ltd.
    Inventor: Raphael Miron
  • Publication number: 20040056792
    Abstract: A system for the detection and determination of the success of interception of incoming missiles, used in conjunction with a defense weapon system capable of identifying and tracking incoming missiles and interceptors. The system comprises at least one of a plurality of sensing units. Each sensing unit comprises: an optical sensor for detecting optical signals within a predetermined range; tracking means coupled to the optical sensor for tracking an intercepting missile or an incoming missile; processing means for processing optical input detected by the optical sensor and analyzing the optical input to identify an optical signature and determine detonation of interceptor or incoming missile; communicating means for communicating data between the sensing unit and the defense weapon system; and control means for controlling the tracking means, the processing means and the communicating data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: Raphael Miron
  • Patent number: 6710736
    Abstract: A system and method for highly selective intrusion detection using a sparse array of time modulated ultra wideband (TM-UWB) radars. Two or more TM-UWB radars are arranged in a sparse array around the perimeter of a building. Each TM-UWB radar transmits ultra wideband pulses that illuminate the building and the surrounding area. Signal return data is processed to determine, among other things, whether an alarm condition has been triggered. High resolution radar images are formed that give an accurate picture of the inside of the building and the surrounding area. This image is used to detect motion in a highly selective manner and to track moving objects within the building and the surrounding area. Motion can be distinguished based on criteria appropriate to the environment in which the intrusion detection system operates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Time Domain Corporation
    Inventors: Larry W. Fullerton, James L. Richards
  • Patent number: 6691947
    Abstract: The present invention includes a system and method for accurately locating moving targets. The system includes a targeting aircraft that has a radar system with a simultaneous SAR radar/moving target mode that generates an image and identifies moving targets in the generated image. The targeting aircraft also includes a mapping component that matches the generated image to a stored digital map, and generates moving target location information based on the matched image and map and the identified moving targets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Christopher M. La Fata
  • Patent number: 6674391
    Abstract: A system includes a storage medium storing contextual information about a target or target area, and a simulator communicatively coupled to the storage medium and operable to receive the contextual information. The simulator is operable to generate a set of simulated information about the target using the contextual information. The system further includes a sensor operable to collect a set of actual information about the target. A comparator is operable to generate a set of delta information in response to differences between the set of simulated information and the set of actual information. The delta information is transmitted and added to a second set of simulated information to generate a set of information that is substantially similar to the set of actual information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Robert A. Ruszkowski, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6670909
    Abstract: A network, sensor and method are provided that utilize the capabilities of impulse radio technology to help monitor and/or control the environment within a building. In particular, the network includes a sensor attached to a first impulse radio unit that is capable of transmitting an impulse radio signal containing sensor related information to a second impulse radio unit. The second impulse radio unit is attached to a control station that uses the sensor related information (e.g., environmental related information, safety related information or surveillance related information) to monitor and/or control the environment within a building. In one aspect of the present invention, the control system can better control and monitor the environment within the building because the sensor may be moved around within the building and reference impulse radio units may interact with the first impulse radio unit to enable the determination of the current position of the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Time Domain Corporation
    Inventor: Jonnathan H. Kim
  • Publication number: 20030222811
    Abstract: An airborne radar antenna system for detecting a target in a volume includes a tethered aerostat and an antenna that is supported above ground by the aerostat. The aerostat-based antenna is used for transmitting and receiving a radar beam into the volume to detect the target. Additionally, the system includes a ground-based transmitter that generates a beacon signal which monitors the antenna configuration at the aerostat. A computer then evaluates the beacon signal to create an error signal which is used to maintain a predetermined configuration for the antenna. The system also includes mechanisms for orienting the radar beam along preselected beam paths between the antenna and the volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: J. Doss Halsey, James Boschma
  • Publication number: 20030214430
    Abstract: Radar Pulse detection and radar signal length detection are used to detect and provide information for identifying radar signals. Pulse detection estimates a radar pulse size when it is too short for meaningful measurement. Pulse detection identifies a radar by identification of an in-band pulse without a communication or data packet encoded therein, or a communication error is detected with the in-band pulse. Signal length detection counts the length of a received signal after the received signal exceeds a radar threshold. The count identifies the received signal length upon drop of the power. The signal is identified as a radar when the power drops before a PHY error occurs, or when the power drop occurs after a PHY error and a delay time equivalent to the shortest radar signal. A radar signal is also identified upon a timeout wait for a power drop after a PHY error.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventors: Paul Husted, William J. McFarland, Xiaoru Zhang, John Thomson
  • Publication number: 20030210184
    Abstract: An inexpensive, small, low-power consumption, wide-band, high resolution spectrum analyzer is provided as a listening device for throw-away applications such as surveillance that involve deployment of large numbers of battery-powered spectrum analyzer modules to detect a signal source such as two-way radio traffic. Power requirements are minimized by the utilization of only one chirp generator to elongate battery life while providing a high resolution result. In order to minimize power drain the spectrum analyzer includes a single compound-chirp Fourier Transform generator. The compound chirp generator is used in one embodiment with a surface acoustic wave, SAW, dispersive delay line in conjunction with a surface electromagnetic wave, SEW dispensive delay line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Applicant: BAE SYSTEMS Information Electronic Systems Integration, Inc.
    Inventor: John T. Apostolos