New infrared seeker technology

摘要

Abstract: A field-of-view-multiplexer is presented which images several fields of view with high resolution onto a single focal plane array. The field-of-view-multiplexer consists of a primary objective, a micro-optical image steering device, and a secondary objective. The primary objective images the individual fields of view onto a common intermediate image plane. The image steering device comprises a focusing and a defocusing micro-lens array which are mounted parallel to each other near the intermediate image plane. This micro-optical image steerer selects a particular field of view by laterally displacing the two micro-lens arrays. The selected field of view is relayed onto the focal plane array by the secondary objective. This way, a large field of regard can be sampled quickly without the use of electromechanical gimbals. The paper outlines the IR sensor concept, explains the underlying principles, and delineates the optical systems layout. In addition, performance data of a proof-of-concept imaging system are presented. !5