초록 ▼

An imaging system (30, 30′) and corresponding method has a two-dimensional imaging sensor array (32) and an associated optical system. The optical system includes at least one optical arrangement (34, 36a, 36b) defining a field of view (38a, 38b) of given angular dimensions and an optical switching

An imaging system (30, 30′) and corresponding method has a two-dimensional imaging sensor array (32) and an associated optical system. The optical system includes at least one optical arrangement (34, 36a, 36b) defining a field of view (38a, 38b) of given angular dimensions and an optical switching mechanism (40) for alternately switching an optical axis of the imaging system between two directions (42a, 42b). The optical switching mechanism and the optical arrangement(s) are deployed such that the imaging sensor array generates images of at least two generally non-overlapping fields of view of equal angular dimensions and with diverging optical axes in fixed spatial relation. Rapid switching between the fields of view allows quasi-continuous monitoring of a larger field of view than would otherwise be possible while maintaining sensitivity to transient events. Also disclosed is an infrared search and tracking system based on such imaging systems.

대표청구항 ▼

What is claimed is: 1. An infrared search and tracking (IRST) system for a waterborne vessel, the system comprising:(A) at least one stabilized platform stabilized to within a predefined level of precision;(B) at least one imaging assembly having a plurality of imaging systems, each of said imaging

What is claimed is: 1. An infrared search and tracking (IRST) system for a waterborne vessel, the system comprising:(A) at least one stabilized platform stabilized to within a predefined level of precision;(B) at least one imaging assembly having a plurality of imaging systems, each of said imaging systems comprising:(a) a two-dimensional imaging sensor array; and(b) an optical system including:(i) at least one optical arrangement associated with the imaging sensor array and defining a field of view of given angular dimensions; and(ii) an optical switching mechanism for alternately switching an optical axis of the imaging system between a first direction and a second direction,said optical switching mechanism and said at least one optical arrangement being deployed such that said imaging sensor array generates staring images of at least two substantially non-overlapping fields of view of equal angular dimensions, said substantially non-overlapping fields of view having diverging optical axes in fixed spatial relation,