Short-range/long-range integrated target (SLIT) for video guidance sensor rendezvous and docking
US7515257B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 15, 2004 |
| Grant date | Apr 7, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 7, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/2429
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A laser target reflector assembly for mounting upon spacecraft having a long-range reflector array formed from a plurality of unfiltered light reflectors embedded in an array pattern upon a hemispherical reflector disposed upon a mounting plate. The reflector assembly also includes a short-range reflector array positioned upon the mounting body proximate to the long-range reflector array. The short-range reflector array includes three filtered light reflectors positioned upon extensions from the mounting body. The three filtered light reflectors retro-reflect substantially all incident light rays that are transmissive by their monochromatic filters and received by the three filtered light reflectors. In one embodiment the short-range reflector array is embedded within the hemispherical reflector.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.