AIM thermal imagers for reconnaissance and targeting applications

摘要

AIM has developed a thermal weapon sight HuntIR based on a cooled MCT 384x288 MWIR detection module combining long range battlefield surveillance and target engagement purposes. Since December 2004 the device is in service for the Germany Future Infantryman (IdZ) basic system. To satisfy the demands of the follow-up program German Future Infantryman extended system (IdZ ES) additional components like a laser range finder, digital magnetic compass and a wireless data link will be included to provide e.g. an improved hit rate by accurate range data. To reduce power consumption and increase operation time of the actual device on the one hand and give the possibility to include new components and functions a new optimized command and control electronics and image processing unit was designed using latest digital signal processors resulting in lower power consumption and higher computing power. This allows also an implementation of additional image enhancement functions. The design concept of the upgraded HuntIR is introduced together which the features of the new electronics. Additionally some new implementations will be presented concerning the existing HuntIR device like fire control for the 40mm Grenade Machine Gun made by Heckler&Koch which where possible due to the reprogrammable architecture of the design. Also an uncooled IR Imaging Module designed for use in small UAVs and short range thermal weapon sights was successfully tested in the German Army small UAV ALADIN made by EMT. After the first flight trials the design was revised to incorporate lessons learned including e.g. an athermal lens design to avoid any need of focussing. The features of the revised design will be presented.