DARPA’s Urban Photonic Sandtable Display enables 3D battlefield planning without goofy glasses

You probably point and laugh at your friends when they have big, bulky 3D glasses perched on their noses in theaters. That kind of tomfoolery just won’t do amongst the military brass, who frown at the slightest hint of snickering in the operations room. This new 3D system, called the Urban Photonic Sandtable Display (UPSD), should help. It’s a DARPA project, a fully holographic table (no glasses required) that can be scaled up to six feet diagonally and allows visual depth of up to 12-inches. The technology comes courtesy of Zebra Imaging , which earlier wowed us with some insane 3D printouts , and the data will come from LIDAR systems like this ROAMS bot

Thermal sights for infantry weapons

The Thermal Revolution
March 4, 2011: Back in the 1990s, thermal sights for infantry weapons were unheard of. But now the second generation of these sights have been in combat for three years, and new models keep arriving with improvements in range, detail, zoom and reliability. Some of the latest models can be clipped on day sights, without requiring zeroing the combined sight all over again. 
It was only four years ago that the second generation of thermal weapons sights began reaching the troops. The new sights revolutionized the way troops fight at night, since "thermals" sense heat, and are effective anywhere (the old night sights depended on amplifying available light). Thermal sights are particularly popular because they also identify any warm machinery, at long distance, by detecting heat, and they can be used in caves (and other places that lack any light to amplify) as well as in situations like sandstorms and fog.
The U.S. TWS I (officially the AN/PAS-13 weapons-mounted thermal sight) has been around for a nearly a decade, but the new version addresses a long list of user complaints and suggestions. Basically, TWS II is lighter, easier to use, and easier to keep supplied with batteries. The TWS II comes in three sizes; light (for M-16 type rifles, weighs .86 kg/1.9 pounds and is good out to 550 meters), medium (for light machine-guns, weighs 1.27 kg/2.8 pounds and is good out to 1,100 meters) and heavy (for .50 caliber weapons and 40mm grenade launchers, weighs 1.73 kg/3.8 pounds and is good out to 2,200 meters). The light sight batteries last 5-25 hours, while the heavier models are good for 6.5-18 hours.
Compared to TWS I, the new versions are about a third lighter, and use standard AA batteries. This was something the troops were emphatic about. TWS I used special batteries, which, too often, the users could not get replacements for. But you can always get AAs. Even during combat, troops have found local Iraqi or Afghan shops selling AAs, and were able to keep their electronic gear going as a result.
Over 20,000 TWS II sights have been produced so far. And everyone wants one. The army alone expects to eventually spend over $2 billion on new thermal sights, and it will be another three years before production catches up with demand for helmet and weapons mounted thermals
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AN/APG-71 fire-control radar for the F-14D (United States), Airborne radar systems

Description (From Jane's Avionics)
AN/APG-71, in part derived from the AN/APG-70 FCR in the Boeing F-15E Strike Eagle, replaced the AN/AWG-9 radar originally fitted to F-14A/B aircraft.Compared with the AWG-9, the APG-71 provided for better overland performance, expanded velocity search capability, a larger target engagement zone, a raid assessment mode and programmable electronic countermeasures and clutter control features.The APG-71 introduced greatly improved ECM performance, acknowledging the new and vastly more sophisticated jamming technologies that appeared since design of the F-14 was frozen. New modes included medium-PRF all-aspect capability, monopulse angle tracking, digital scan control, target identification and raid assessment while the number of Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) reduced from 26 to 14. The system also employed elements developed by Hughes for the AN/APG-70; for example the APG-71 signal processor was 86 per cent common (in modules) with that in the APG-70. The AWG-9's transmitter, power supply and aft cockpit tactical information display were retained for the APG-71.The APG-71 also incorporated Non-Co-operative Target Recognition (NCTR), by which radar contacts may be identified as friendly or hostile, at beyond visual range, through close examination of the raw radar returns at high resolution; this technique alleviates problems with deficiencies and ambiguities in IFF equipment.The APG-71's antenna retained the gimbal system of the AWG-9 and added a new array with low sidelobes and a guard channel to eliminate sidelobe penetration of ground clutter and electronic warfare interference. The APG-71 also provided an improved radar master oscillator which significantly increased the number of radar channels and provided frequency-agile

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The AN/AWG-9 and AN/APG-71 radars are all-weather, multi-mode X-Band pulse doppler radar systems designed for the F-14 Tomcat. It is a very long-range air-to-air system with the capability of guiding several AIM-54 Phoenix or AIM-120 AMRAAMmissiles at the same time using its track while scan mode. The primary difference between the AWG-9 and APG-71 is the replacement of the former's analog electronics with all-digital units. Both the AWG-9 and APG-71 were designed and manufactured by Hughes Aircraft; contractor support is now being provided byRaytheon.

The AN/AWG-9 offers a variety of air-to-air modes including long-range continuous wave velocity search, range-while-search at shorter ranges, and the first use of an airborne track-while-scan mode with the ability to track up to 24 airborne targets, display 18 of them on the cockpit displays, and launch against 6 of them at the same time. This function was originally designed to allow the Tomcat to shoot down formations of bombers at long range.

UAV Payloads at AUVSI

CellPhone SpotterApplied Signal Technology (AST) is offering several types of electronic payloads enhancing target acquisition and identification from unmanned aerial systems. These include the Model 580 STYX small-size wireless interrogator, designed for interrogation of wireless communications using CDMA protocol. The system weighs only 7 pounds and consumes 7-12 watts that actively interacts with the cell station to obtain a mobile identification of dialed numbers from cellphones operating at any direction, over a distance of about 100 meters. Targets at longer distances can be obtained using directional antennae. STYX can operate in stealth mode, without any interruption of calls in progress. Alternatively, the STYX can operate passively to collect cal activity messages from a base station and nearby cell phones, including SMS messages, paging messages and responses and calls.
Another COMINT system developed by AST for UAVs is the Hydra. This system integrates adaptive beam forming and direction finding systems configured into small-size package. The system uses a software defined radio architecture to host a variety of signal-specific applications. The prototype Hydra has eight RF channels covering the 20-3000MHz range with 25 MHz IF bandwidth. The system weighs 30 pounds and consumes 180 watts. Further enhancements of the Hydra will include GSM identification and monitoring of GSM emitters, including the ability to geolocate each emitter.

Advanced Datalinks

Cubic Corp. and Rockwell Collins performed the first successful flight test of the Mini Common Data Link (CDL) system linking a King Air aircraft and a KillerBee unmanned system with ground stations. The prototype M-CDL weighs 1.5 pounds and demonstrated communications over a distance of 20 miles transmitting signals at data rates up to 10.7 Mbps. The tests support the US military's goal of developing CDL terminals that meet the payload restrictions of small unmanned aerial systems (SUAS) platforms and enable data link communications with current ground systems. Existing CDL systems are too heavy and too large to fit within SUAS platforms. The Mini TCDL is designed to operate at rates up to 45 Mbps and achieves interoperability with other vendor units through compliance with current DoD CDL waveform specifications.
A new datalink innovator at AUVSI was Enerdyne Technologies, a subsidiary of ViaSat. The company that specialized in video compression is now introducing a conversion system enabling analog datalinks to transfer digital signals at high data rates. Analog links are s widely used with current UAVs, including most of the MALE, SUAVs, mini and micro UAVs. The system uses a signal modulator that 'superimposes' a digital protocol over a standard analog link. After the conversion the link can carry digital data rates of 4-5 Mbps data. The signals are demodulated at the ground station using a special receiver provided by Enerdyne. The airborne segment weighs only four ounces (100 gr.) and its power consumption is very low. It can be installed in a UAV within few hours.

Miniature Stabilized EO Payloads

AeroMech Engineering introduced the TigerEye miniature EO payload designed for small UAS (SUAS). The five inch diameter turret weighs 1.7 pounds in the EO configuration (0.1 lb heavier for the IR version)is designed for unmanned aerial and ground vehicles,

with interface to the Cloud cap plug and play operating system complying with CAN or serial bus interface. TigerEye uses on board video processor providing electronic image stabilization and hardware embedded target tracking. The design uses a quick change of sensors in the field, without special tools. Optional sensors include a Sony EX980S camera with x26 zoom, a Flir Photon with 50 mm lense, a laser illuminator or low light CCD imager. Cloud Cap Technologies offers several versions of its lightweight payload known as TASE weighing about 1 kg. The payload can accommodate a number of sensors, including daylight cameras such as the Sony EX980S with x26 zoom or EX480C with 18x zoom. A range of FLIRs is also available for this payload, including the FLIR Photon Block II core (324x256) with a single or dual lense, Thermoteknix Miricle modules (384x288 or 640x480) or a Short Wave InfraRed (SWIR) 320x240 sensor from Goodrich. Cloud Cap also offers a unique mechanism retracting the TASE gimbal into the aircraft to support belly landing or other operations. The entire mechanism adds only 280 grams to the payload weight while eliminating the need for much heavier parachute, airbag or landing carriage.Controp Precision Technologies from Israel, a pioneer in the field of miniature EO turrets for UAVs, unveiled enhanced versions of its STAMP miniature stabilized payload at AUVSI 07, introducing an operational Uncooled IR sensor packed version (U-STAMP) for the first time. This payload weighing only one kilogram is designed for nighttime missions, and, according to Controp, has already been delivered to several customers worldwide. According to Controp, the 3 axis gyro stabilization of the STAMP platform's line of sight provides unique attributes to this turret, including highly stable video imaging including high quality pictures in full zoom, without vibrations or jittering, It also provides continuous target tracking regardless of aircraft attitude and motion. Wide field of regard and the ability to 'point to coordinates' makes this small payload simple to use and highly efficient when operated by ordinary soldiers.

TacVue MiniSAR

Enabling effective tactical battlefield reconnaissance/surveillance from UAS or manned platform applications, today’s unmanned/manned vehicle platforms need superior all weather, obscurant, day/night operational radar systems for all environments. Towards this requirement, Rockwell Collins and Sandia National Laboratories have joined together to develop a high performance Synthetic Aperature Radar (SAR) system. With Sandia’s radar experience and Rockwell Collins’ ability to manufacture field-grade reliable products for use in harsh environments, we ensure unmanned/manned vehicle platforms superior radar performance. The radar operates at the Ku band (16.8 GHz) providing 4-inch resolution imagery from a distance of 10 kilometers or 1 meter resolution from 23 km. Images can be used for identification and accurate geo-location of small targets at a geolocation error level of 25 meters. The current system weighs about 27 lbs, with future version downsized to about 18 lbs.

From:  

http://defense-update.com/events/2007/summary/auvsi07_8payloads.htm

Advanced Targeting Forward Looking Infrared (ATFLIR) in F18 Hornet

Advanced Targeting Forward Looking Infrared (ATFLIR)

Types of Thermal Sensors | eHow.com

Types of Thermal Sensors | eHow.com

About Night Vision Device Equipment | eHow.com

About Night Vision Device Equipment | eHow.com

Electro-Optics Measurement

Electro-Optics is the field of technology which, aided by electronic components and techniques, involves the emission and/or reception of radiation in the Infra-Red, Visible and Ultra Violet portion of the Electromagnetic spectrum.

In Electro-Optics it is common to use the measurement of wavelength (l) to describe different components. Wavelength is measured in Microns (m) while the Frequency is very rarely referred to.

IED jammer

Bomb Jammer - Portable countermeasures for IED Defeat

The C-Guard TXP ECM is a portable, battery powered IED Jamming device, designed for multiple use: it can be operated using a car battery, an external 110/220 Vac or rechargeable batteries, allowing total mobility. The TXP ECM is housed in a trolley-style pelican case which can be carried by one person. Fully ruggedized, this IED jammer can be used under tough environmental conditions.

The TXP ECM is designed for easy and rapid field deployment, providing IED protection also in combat fields where the anti IED vehicle has no access. Blocking multiple frequency bands in one case, the C-Guard TXP ECM can block VHF, UHF, cell phones, satellite phones and more.

The C-Guard TXP ECM IED jammer was built to support any mission profile, including long missions in field. Optional spare rechargeable batteries can be instantly field-swapped during the jammer’s operation, this "hot-swap" option enables continuous use of the bomb jammer for IED defeat.

The C-Guard TXP ECM IED jammer may be operated for anti-IED vehicle protection, and then easily removed from the vehicle to provide portable secutrity for ground troops by powering it using batteries.

Netline offers variety of antennas for the TXP ECM, selected according to mission requirements and limitations. C-Guard TXP ECM Bomb Jammer The TXP ECM is battle-proven and is being used worldwide by: Military forces Bomb-Squads SWAT teams Anti – terror units Special Response Teams VIP protection units For a lighter, portable IED jamming system see the C-Guard ManPac

Counter Remote Control Improvised Explosive Device (RCIED) Electronic Warfare (CREW)

This effort is in response to an urgent Operational Need Statement (ONS) for an operational capability to prevent and/or defeat Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonation ambushes that are a pervasive threat throughout the Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) theater of operation. This Statement of Objectives (SOO) provides the government's overall objectives for executing contract actions to produce, field and support a next generation Counter Remote Control Improvised Explosive Device (RCIED) Electronic Warfare (CREW) system, herein referred to as CREW Spiral 2 (CREW-2). The CREW-2 system shall provide increased capability over existing CREW Spiral 1 (CREW-1), a.k.a Warlock Family of Systems, with simultaneous coverage against all RCIED threats at increased ranges, broader frequency coverage extendable to higher frequencies, ease of programmability, reduced size-weight-and-power and built-in capacity for future growth. The ONS requirement is for use in tracked/wheeled vehicles, dismounted (note, not man-packable) and fixed sites for convoy, gate-keeping and Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) operations.

On 3 June 2004, the U.S. Army Central Command (CENTCOM), Multi-National Corps?Iraq (MNC-I), identified an urgent Operational Need for Electronic Countermeasure (ECM) Devices and associated logistics support services to counteract the enemy use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) against Coalition Forces. This requirement was validated by Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA) on 10 August 2004. CENTCOM provided classified information to HQDA that detailed the number of convoys, gate-keeping and EOD operations that require CREW systems. To date this requirement has been met with the fielding of multiple configurations of CREW-1 devices (Warlock Family of Systems) which have certain limitations. CREW-2 systems are required to continue to meet urgent mission requirements and to provide a one system solution that can meet the full operational capability in a single system configuration.

CREW is a US Army managed evolutionary acquisition program that employs a spiral development approach to allow for rapid fielding of incremental CREW capabilities. CREW-1 was initiated in 2003 to address the immediate warfighter need by producing and fielding a Warlock Family of Systems. These CREW-1 systems are in various configurations and varied levels of performance. As currently configured, none of these systems completely address the total MNC-I operational requirement. With multiple configurations come a training and sustainment burden, and the adaptive and evolving nature of the threat dictates that CREW systems must have an open architecture to accommodate system growth. The CREW-2 system shall address these issues by providing a capability against a broader spectrum of RCIED threats, a common supportability approach, a design that is sufficiently flexible to allow for future capability growth, and one that is affordable to the government. Future CREW spirals are envisioned that will encompass requirements beyond this immediate acquisition.

Improvised Explosive Device Disposal (IEDD) Suit and Helmet

The Med-Eng EOD 9 Bomb Suit and Helmet ensemble has been designed with direct input from bomb disposal technicians to provide the highest degree of modular protection and operational flexibility for EOD and CBRN missions. The Med-Eng EOD 9 platform can be configured in the field by EOD or IEDD technicians based on the suspected presence of a CBRN agent in an IED.

At least 14 types of testing have been performed to validate the performance of the EOD 9, including extensive live-blast testing.

The Med-Eng EOD 9 bomb suit includes a Jacket, Integrated Groin Protector, Trousers and Boot Covers for integrated blast protection against IEDs and bombs. The system is stored in a rugged bag for storage in bomb squad response vehicles.

Mini Night Vision Aiming System (ANVS-1344)

The ANVS-1344 is an ultra compact
multipurpose night vision monocular developed
for a variety of ground-based nighttime missions.
It can be used as a self-contained pocket scope or
mounted onto a weapon for use in conjunction
with an infrared laser aimer or a reflex sight. While
using the monocular with head or helmet mount,
the user retains greater situational awareness and
peripheral vision of close-range objects as one
eye always remains unaided and dark-adapted.
The night vision aided eye can easily focus on
identifying potential threats and targets farther
ahead. Covered by two-year warranty.
ANVS-1344 Monocular Kit Includes:
Monocular, Weapon Mount Assembly, Neck Cord,
Headmount Adapter Assembly, Eye Cup, Shoulder
Strap, Lens Cap, Sacrificial Window, Demist
Shield, Headmount Assembly, Lens Tissue, 1.5V
AA Battery, AA Battery Sleeve Adapter, 3V CR 123
Battery, Browpads (Thin, Medium, Thick),
Operator Manual, Soft Carrying Case.
Optional Accessories for ANVS-
1344 Monocular:
3x Afocal Magnifier Lens, 5x Afocal Magnifier
Lens, Flip-up Helmet Mount, Camera Adapter
Shipping & Storage Case, Magnetic Compass
1. Lightweight & Compact
2. US Made Gen 3 Image Intensifier or European equivalents
are available
3. Automatic brightness control & automatic cut-off function
4. Uses One “AA” or 3V CR 123 battery
5. Close-up IR illuminator
6. Multifunctional
7. Waterproof to 66' for 1 hour
8. Mil. Spec.

SPECIFICATIONS
Magnification 1x
Field of View 40°
Focus Range 9.8” to infinity
Objective Lens 27 mm F/1.2
Diopter Adjustment -6 ...+4
Eye Relief 27 mm
Power Source One (1) AA or One (1) 3V CR 123 battery
Battery Life up to 40 hours
Dimensions 4.2”x2”x2.5”
Weight 9.3 oz.

FROM: http://www.nightvis.com/

How Camcorders Work - CCD

How Camcorders Work

Hoe CCD Work

Hoe CCD Work

First Video/Electronic/Audio

First Video/Electronic/Audio

Airplane Cockpit Video Recording

Airplane Cockpit Video Recording

Night vision device Zero to Fouth Generation

Night vision device Zero to Fouth Generation

IR Windows

IR Windows

Black Body

Black Body