Optical Line-of-Sight Steering Using Gimbaled Mirrors

摘要

As the resolution and throughput of optical sensors increase, they require higher line-of-sight slew rates and more precise stabilization. Furthermore, smaller and lighter sensor systems are also preferred because on-vehicle space is always at a premium. Consequently, mirror based line-of-sight control and stabilization systems have become more attractive as they are generally lighter and more compact than other systems. A general strategy for deriving the kinematic equations for mirror based imaging systems is established in this paper. Some of the most common mirror configurations and their basic kinematic equations are also presented. Some challenges and design considerations of gimbaled mirrors line-of-sight steering and stabilization systems are also discussed.