Dead reckoning optoelectronic intelligent docking system
US4834531A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 31, 1985 |
| Grant date | May 30, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 31, 2005 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/646
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An intelligent, optoelectronic docking system for use in manned or unmanned spacecraft for automatically docking with a target spacecraft. The system is a multifaceted, active sensor using a controlling microprocessor to integrate the operation of independently triggerable laser sources for target illumination and optical receiver arrays for target detection. Returning signal waveforms are processed to sense the direction, range, and attitude of a target docking surface which may be equipped with passive optical aids to enhance the reflective signature. The docking system reconfigures its active sensor elements as the target range closes by sequentially employing three laser transceiver arrangements. As a result, the system effectively tracks a target from a range of several hundred meters down to a range of only a few centimeters. The system microprocessor operates on data received from each sensor arrangement to generate the information necessary to guide a host spacecraft safely through hard docking maneuvers. Wide field coverage is achieved without moving parts by electronic selection of independently directed laser beams.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.