EP3699544B1 - Dircm with dual target tracking - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to DIRCMs (Directed Infrared Counter Measures) or corresponding DIRCM systems.

A laser-based DIRCM (Directed Infrared Counter Measure) system for protecting tactical transport aircraft, other aircraft types or helicopters from rocket attacks or modern guided missiles. The protection system uses high-tech sensors from the manufacturer Elbit Systems to be able to fend off seeker-controlled guided missiles. Such missiles, used by portable air defense systems, pose a great danger, especially during take-off and landing. Diehl Defense is integrating three of the tried-and-tested J-MUSIC (Multi-Spectral Infrared Countermeasure) laser devices from Elbit into an expanded overall system To ensure 360° all-round protection for the aircraft. The new DIRCM system works in conjunction with the on-board missile detector and focuses the highly dynamic and precisely guided laser beam directly onto the infrared seeker head of the attacking object.

From the EP 3 081 895 B1 is known a method of operating a DIRCM system for protecting a platform against IR-guided missiles, the DIRCM system comprising a plurality of DIRCM subsystems operable to track and jam IR-guided missiles; and wherein the DIRCM subsystems include a first DIRCM subsystem and a second DIRCM subsystem based on the Platform are installed such that: the first DIRCM subsystem is operable to track and jam IR-guided missiles in a first coverage area; the second DIRCM subsystem is operable to track and jam IR-guided missiles in a second coverage area; and both the first and second DIRCM subsystems are operable to track and jam IR-guided missiles in an overlap area that includes a first handover subsection adjacent to the first coverage area and a second handoff subsection adjacent to the second coverage area includes. The procedure includes an overlap operation and a handover operation.

From the US 2011/0113949 A1 A modulation device is known which supplies optical energy to impede the operation of a mobile tracking device. The optical energy may include multiple optical codes specific to the mobile device directed in parallel at the mobile tracking device.

From the WO 2008/062401 A1 a laser-based system for protecting a platform against armament equipped with an optical seeker head is known. The system includes a command and control arrangement with an interface to a detection and detection system. This detects and locates a threatening weapon and provides a warning about the detection of the threatening weapon in combination with relevant data. The system receives a laser source that can be operated by the command and control assembly to generate the energy required to jam the optical seeker of the threatening weapon. The system additionally includes a sectioned array of multiple end units connected to the laser source for selectively directing laser energy from the source to an end unit selected by the command and control assembly as the end unit most appropriate under the prevailing conditions is to point at the threatening weaponry and attack it by sending a laser beam in its direction.

The object of the invention is to provide improvements in DIRCMs.

The task is solved by a method according to claim 1 for combating an approaching target using a DIRCM system. Preferred or advantageous embodiments of the invention and other categories of invention result from the further claims, the following description and the attached figures.

The DIRCM system contains an interface to a warning system. The warning system is used to report approaching targets to the DIRCM system via the interface. The DIRCM system contains at least two DIRCM modules or subsystems. Each of the modules is used to track the target in a pursuit mode (so-called "tracking") and to engage the target in a beam mode (so-called "jamming"). Tracking means locating the target, especially the one mentioned above. IR seeker head, so that targeted irradiation is possible. The fight is carried out by irradiation, i.e. the emission of radiation, in particular the above-mentioned. Laser beam that is irradiated specifically into the search head, i.e. H. that the search head is irradiated. The module contains in particular a tracking unit that carries out the tracking and a beam unit that carries out the irradiation. The beam unit contains in particular a jamming laser for irradiating the target. A respective module or its tracking/beam units are accommodated in particular in so-called “turrets” or are structurally concentrated or integrated.

Each of the modules has an overall area for tracking and/or engaging targets. In particular, tracking and fighting is possible in the entire area. However, it is also conceivable that - especially at the edge of the overall area - only tracking or fighting is possible. However, these edge areas are so small that they can be neglected. The overall area is therefore the entire spatial area in which - particularly in the case of a module installed on a platform to be protected - the module can track and/or combat or irradiate potential targets. The overall area usually contains a solo area in which only the module in question is available for tracking and/or combating the target. Alternatively or additionally and also generally, the overall area contains an intersection area with at least one, in particular exactly one, other of the modules. In this cutting area, all relevant modules, in particular two, are used to track and/or combat the destination available. The totality or combination of all areas forms a defense area, in which the DIRCM system is able to track and/or combat targets with the help of at least one module. Activating a module means starting and continuing the irradiation or tracking, deactivating means stopping and leaving the irradiation or tracking finished.

The procedure has the following steps:

A step A) is carried out when the target is reported by the warning system. In this case, exactly one of the modules is chosen as the active module for this goal. The active module activates the tracking mode and the beam mode for the target. All other modules remain disabled for this target. The module in question begins with tracking and irradiating or combating the target and continues this until further notice. In general, the statements below always apply to a specific goal. The system can combat other targets in parallel. However, this should be ignored here.

In step A), in particular, a specific module is activated due to the detection of a target by the warning system. This applies in particular to the case where a target is newly reported in the defense area. This means that a target is recognized in the defense area for the first time or is recognized again after losing (e.g. unintentionally breaking off the pursuit).

From now on, i.e. after step A) has been carried out, i.e. an active module is in tracking mode and beam mode, the following steps are optionally carried out:
A step B) is performed when the target is in one of the solo areas. In this step, the tracking mode and the beam mode are activated or remain activated for the active module that is associated with the relevant solo area. In particular, the modes are already activated and therefore remain activated and do not need to be activated again. In particular, the active module continues to pursue and engage the target. Track mode and beam mode all other modules will be or remain deactivated (depending on their previous status).

A step C) is carried out when the target is in the intersection between the active module and a second of the modules. In this case, the (only) active module forms a first module. A single active module is particularly or regularly present because the target was either detected in the cutting area and exactly one module was activated according to step A) or the target enters the cutting area from a solo area, in which case the only one in the solo area according to step B). The responsible module is the currently active module.

Within step C), either a step C2) or C3) (see below) or a step C1) is carried out as follows: This step is only carried out if the tracking mode is not activated on the second module. For the first (active) module, the tracking mode and beam mode remain activated and for the second module they remain deactivated. In particular, the target continues to be pursued and irradiated or combated by the first module. This applies in particular in the event that a target moves from a solo area in which it has already been or is being tracked and irradiated by the first module into the adjacent cutting area. The first or active module continues tracking and irradiation without interruption.

Alternatively, a step C2) is carried out. This step is also only carried out if the tracking mode is not activated on the second module. The tracking mode on the second module will be activated and on the first module the tracking mode and the beam mode will remain activated. This means that the target is tracked twice by the first and second module.

Alternatively, a step C3) is carried out. This step is only carried out if the tracking modes are activated on the first and second module. This step enables the beam mode on the second module, disables the beam mode on the first module, and leaves the tracking modes enabled on the first and second modules. If double tracking continues, the irradiation is transferred from the first to the second module. Disabling the first beam mode and enabling the second beam mode can be done in any order.

In particular, in step C3), the target or its combat is transferred from the first to the second module by deactivating the beam mode in the first module and then activating it in the second module. Now the second module is the active module.

After changing the active module from the first to the second module according to step C3), the following applies: The second module now becomes the "active" and thus the "first" module in a next new step C3). As a result, i.e. H. If step C3 is carried out again, a transfer back to the previous (now "second" module) or a transfer to a third (previously uninvolved, now "second") module can also take place if there are other modules responsible in the cutting area are. Step C3) can therefore be carried out again if necessary or desired.

Although unusual in practice, it would also be conceivable for three or more modules to overlap in one cutting area with regard to their ability to track and/or irradiate. In this case, in step C2) or C3), one of the modules must be selected, which is then to take over the tracking and/or irradiation of the target as the second module.

Since after executing step C2 once, the tracking mode is activated for the first and second module and none of the tracking modes are deactivated again by (even repeatedly) executing step C3, no return is made to step C1 or C2 as long as the target is Do not leave the cutting area. This means that once the tracking modes have been activated on two modules in the cutting area, there will be no return to a single tracking mode until the target has left the cutting area or has been successfully engaged. This offers the advantage that the irradiation within the cutting area can be taken up again at any time by another module, in particular can be taken back by the originally first active module. There is also redundancy in tracking by at least two tracking units.

Steps C1, C2, C3, in this order, describe an escalation procedure to make no change to the response - then prepare a handover to another module - and then carry out the handover.

The target is in particular a missile or rocket. The warning system is in particular a missile warning system (missile warning system or MWS: Missile Warning System).

The invention is based in particular on a DIRCM system that is mounted on a platform/object to be protected. This means that the alignments, placements, relative positions, location, shape and orientation of the resulting overall, solo, cutting areas and the defense area on an object to be protected are fixed and known, since the modules are fixed or in a known manner on the object are arranged.

In particular, when a module is activated, its tracking unit, which carries out the tracking, and its beam unit, which carries out the irradiation, must be "free" or available in order to be able to track and irradiate the target in question. Furthermore, it applies in particular that every module that is not occupied by tracking and/or irradiation at a certain point in time is free at any time to track and/or irradiate another target.

According to the invention, this creates a possibility for controlling or managing a multiple DIRCM system (with two, three or more modules).

According to the invention, it is possible to carry out parallel tracking by the first and second module when transferring from one module (in particular turret) to another (in particular another turret) according to step C3).

In particular, the following embodiments are possible according to the invention:

The DIRCM systems according to the invention are used in particular, for. B. installed in aircraft and are used to defend against infrared-guided missiles (target) that come either from the ground (so-called MAN-PADs, Man Portable Air Defense Systems) or from other aircraft (so-called air-to-air missiles). be shot down. In larger aircraft including helicopters (platform, object to be protected), more than one DIRCM device (module) is installed in order to cover a larger solid angle and thus be able to offer more protection. Multiple DIRCM devices form a DIRCM system. The part of the DIRCM device (module) that controls (tracking unit) and emits (beam unit) the laser beam is specifically referred to as a turret.

In particular, the aircraft have missile detectors (warning system) that detect the incoming threat (target) and forward the coordinates (approach area) to the DIRCM system (via the interface). Based on the coordinates, the DIRCM system (or its control and evaluation unit, see below) calculates in particular the best positioned turret (so-called selection criterion, see below), which then swings towards the target, takes over the track (tracking) and the The seeker head of the incoming missile is disrupted (irradiated) by means of a laser and thus deflects (fights) the missile.

If during the combat process the missile leaves the effective area (total area) of the currently operating (active) turret (so-called handover criterion, see below), the DIRCM system selects a second turret, which is in particular better positioned. The invention is particularly concerned with the transfer of the target from one turret to the second turret, possibly to a third turret, etc., if available.

The invention is based on the following findings: Particularly in agile encounter situations between aircraft (object to be protected) and incoming missile (target), it can happen that combating the threat (target) from one turret to the next becomes necessary because the target moved out of the effective range (total range) of the first turret. The DIRCM system decides (handover criterion) about the change from one turret to the next (selection criterion). If a handover is necessary, the newly selected (second) turret pivots towards the incoming threat, e.g. B. based on the information from the warning system regarding the approach area, and activates its tracking mode. As soon as the field of view of the second turret (detection range of the pivoted tracking unit) detects the target or detection becomes possible, the first turret switches off the laser (beam mode) and then or before that, the second turret switches on its laser and begins jamming (irradiating ) of the search head of the incoming missile. The first turret continues to pursue the target in order to provide redundancy or, if necessary, to be able to immediately resume irradiation of the target. If a third turret is installed on the aircraft to be protected and the threat threatens to leave the field of vision (overall area) of the second turret, the DIRCM system commands the third turret accordingly to the top of the missile. In this case, too, the laser of the second turret is switched off as soon as the third turret's field of vision (detection range of the pivoted tracking unit) has reached the threat or vice versa.

In a preferred embodiment, in step A), the active module is selected according to a selection criterion. A variety of options are available to the person skilled in the art for such selection criteria, e.g. B. can be selected or adjusted depending on the combat tactics, threat situation, object to be protected, etc. A corresponding selection criterion can also be used if there are more than two modules in the cutting area that, as a respective second module, could take over the goal of a first module. Here too, a selection criterion can be used to determine which of the existing modules should be the second module responsible for additional tracking and, if necessary, for taking over the fight. However, the basic condition that the module is free and ready for tracking and/or irradiation must be met, in particular for all variants of the selection criterion.

In particular, the following procedure results: If the target is detected by the warning system in the solo area, combat is started with the module responsible there. If the target is detected by the warning system in the cutting area, a tracking and combat module is selected according to the selection criterion.

• Bei einem Ziel, das sich in einem Solobereich aufhält: das zugehörige Modul zum Solobereich.
• Bei einem Ziel im Schnittbereich: das Modul aus denen, die im Schnittbereich verfügbar sind nach folgenden Kriterien:
• Dasjenige in einem vorgebaren Entfernungsbereich zum Ziel, insbesondere dasjenige, das dem Ziel am nächsten ist. Hier kann von einer möglichst guten Bekämpfung ausgegangen werden.
• Dasjenige mit der wenigsten Abweichung der aktuellen Verfolgungs- und/oder Bekämpfungs-ausrichtung der Verfolgeeinheit und Strahleinheit von einer Mittelstellung bezüglich eines Verfolgungs- und/oder Bekämpfungsbereiches des Moduls, der insbesondere der Gesamtbereich ist. Dies beruht auf der Überlegung, dass ein Modul bzw. dessen bewegliche Verfolge-/Strahleinheit aus einer Mittelstellung ausgelenkt werden muss, um Ziele bis zu einem Rand des Gesamtbereiches erfassen zu können. Optimal erscheint es daher, ein Modul auszuwählen, für das die aktuelle Ausrichtung der Komponenten zur Bekämpfung des Ziels aktuell möglichst nahe der Mittelstellung liegt. So verbleibt ein maximaler "Reservebereich" bis zum Rand des Gesamtbereiches, um das Ziel bei entsprechenden Bewegungen möglichst lange durch Auslenkung der Komponenten verfolgen zu können.
• Dasjenige mit einem vorgebbaren (d. h. bestimmten vorgebbaren Eigenschaften eines) Gesamtbereich oder Schnittbereich, insbesondere einem möglichst großen entsprechenden Bereich. So ist eine möglichst lange weitere Bekämpfung durch das betreffende Modul zu erwarten.
• Dasjenige mit einer vorgebbaren Erfolgsprognose zur erfolgreichen Bekämpfung, insbesondere mit der besten Erfolgsprognose. Eine solche Erfolgsprognose kann beispielsweise aus einer zu erwartenden Flugbahn des Ziels und einer voraussichtlichen Bestrahlungsdauer zur effektiven Bekämpfung des Ziels ermittelt werden. So ist ein besonders guter und/oder schneller Bekämpfungserfolg zu erwarten.

In a preferred variant of this embodiment, the selection criterion is alternatively or in any combination z. B. used:

• For a target that is in a solo area: the module associated with the solo area.
• For a target in the cutting area: the module from those available in the cutting area according to the following criteria:
• The one within a predetermined distance range from the target, in particular the one that is closest to the target. The best possible control can be assumed here.
• The one with the least deviation of the current tracking and/or combat orientation of the tracking unit and beam unit from a center position with respect to a tracking and/or combat area of the module, which is in particular the entire area. This is based on the idea that a module or its movable tracking/beam unit must be deflected from a central position in order to be able to detect targets up to an edge of the overall area. It therefore seems optimal to select a module for which the current alignment of the components to combat the target is currently as close as possible to the center position. This leaves a maximum "reserve area" up to the edge of the overall area in order to be able to track the target for as long as possible by deflecting the components during appropriate movements.
• The one with a predeterminable (ie certain predeterminable properties of a) overall area or sectional area, in particular a corresponding area that is as large as possible. The module in question can therefore be expected to continue fighting for as long as possible.
• The one with a predeterminable prognosis for successful combat, especially with the best prognosis for success. Such a success prognosis can be determined, for example, from an expected trajectory of the target and an expected duration of irradiation to effectively combat the target. This means that particularly good and/or quick control success can be expected.

In a preferred embodiment, an interface to a warning system for reporting a respective approach area of an approaching target is used as an interface. In other words, the warning system is able to issue an approach area for the target and transmit it to the system. The approach area is in particular an area that is larger than the target area or larger than or equal to the detection area of a module at a specific deflection. The target range indicates the accuracy within which the target is successfully tracked by the module. This is small enough that irradiating the target in the target area results in the interference beam being irradiated precisely into the target's IR seeker head. The detection area is the area in which the target must be in order to do so the module can successfully track, that is, it can successfully capture the target accurately within the target area. In other words, the module enables sufficiently precise aiming to safely irradiate the target. The warning system, on the other hand, only provides a rough direction or position of the target, so that targeted irradiation is not always guaranteed.

Step C2 is only carried out if an activation criterion is met. The same statements apply to the activation criterion as to the selection criterion above. Here, too, the specialist has a variety of options available.

• dass das zweite Modul zu einer erfolgreichen Zielverfolgung bereit wird. Dies bedeutet, dass derjenige Moment abgewartet wird, ab dem das zweite Modul überhaupt in der Lage ist, die Zielverfolgung zu bewerkstelligen, z. B. da es zuvor wegen der Verfolgung und/oder Bestrahlung eines anderen Ziels belegt war.
• dass ein vorgebbarer Grenzparameter beim ersten und/oder zweiten Modul erreicht (über oder unterschritten) ist. Mögliche Grenzparameter sind z. B. Grenztemperatur, Grenzbelastung, Grenzbetriebsdauer, Grenzentfernung zum Ziel usw. Insbesondere soll so z. B. das betreffende Modul geschützt werden oder Belastungen auf die Module verteilt werden.
• dass das erste Modul das Ziel nicht mehr erfolgreich verfolgt. Eine sichere Zielbekämpfung durch das erste Modul ist dann nicht mehr möglich.
• dass das Ziel eine vorgebbare Grenzfläche im Schnittbereich erreicht. Dies ist ein geometrisch besonders einfaches Kriterium.
• dass das Ziel eine vorgebbare Entfernung zum zweiten Solobereich unterschreitet. Im zweiten Solobereich könnte das erste Modul das Ziel ohnehin nicht mehr bekämpfen, eine vorherige Bereitschaft zur Übergabe durch Verfolgung anhand des zweiten Moduls ermöglicht eine schnelle Übergabe bzw. nahtlose Bekämpfung, falls das Ziel tatsächlich in den zweiten Solobereich auswandert.
• dass das Ziel den Schnittbereich zum zweiten Solobereich hin verlässt, insbesondere in den zweiten Solobereich eintritt. Spätestens dann ist das erste Modul nicht mehr in der Lage, das Ziel zu bekämpfen und die Bekämpfung muss an das dann zuständige (hier zweite) Modul übergeben werden.

In a preferred embodiment, the following activation criterion is used:

• that the second module is ready for successful goal pursuit. This means that the moment from which the second module is actually able to track the target is waited for, e.g. B. because it was previously occupied for the pursuit and/or irradiation of another target.
• that a predeterminable limit parameter has been reached (above or fallen below) for the first and/or second module. Possible limit parameters are e.g. B. Limit temperature, limit load, limit operating time, limit distance to the target, etc. In particular, e.g. B. the module in question can be protected or loads can be distributed across the modules.
• that the first module no longer successfully pursues the goal. A safe target attack using the first module is then no longer possible.
• that the target reaches a predeterminable interface in the cutting area. This is a geometrically particularly simple criterion.
• that the target falls below a predetermined distance to the second solo area. In the second solo area, the first module could no longer fight the target anyway. A prior readiness to hand over through tracking using the second module enables a quick handover or seamless combat if the target actually moves into the second solo area.
• that the target leaves the cutting area towards the second solo area, in particular enters the second solo area. At this point at the latest, the first module is no longer able to combat the target and the combat must be handed over to the then responsible module (in this case the second one).

Certain tactics for tracking and irradiating targets can be implemented using appropriate activation criteria. In particular, a handover takes place as soon as, i.e. immediately after, the second module is ready. However, the basic condition that the second module is free and ready for tracking and/or irradiation must be met, especially for all variants of the activation criteria.

Step C3 is only carried out if a handover criterion is met. In step C3, the handover criterion is also further checked. In particular, in step C3), the handover criterion is permanently, permanently or repeatedly checked for fulfillment. As long as it is not fulfilled, the first module remains active and the handover criterion continues to be checked. When this is fulfilled, step C3) is carried out and the target in terms of irradiation is transferred to the second module, which then becomes the first active module in terms of tracking and irradiation and the previously first module becomes the second. The same statements apply to the handover criterion as above regarding the selection criterion. Here, too, the specialist has a variety of options available.

• dass das zweite Modul zu einer erfolgreichen Zielbestrahlung bereit wird. Dies bedeutet, dass derjenige Moment abgewartet wird, ab dem das zweite Modul überhaupt in der Lage ist, die Zielbestrahlung zu bewerkstelligen, z. B. da es zuvor wegen der Verfolgung und/oder Bestrahlung eines anderen Ziels belegt war.
• dass ein vorgebbarer Grenzparameter beim ersten und/oder zweiten Modul erreicht (über- oder unterschritten) ist.
• dass das erste Modul das Ziel nicht mehr erfolgreich verfolgt und/oder bestrahlt.
• dass das Ziel eine vorgebbare Grenzfläche im Schnittbereich erreicht.
• dass das Ziel eine vorgebbare Entfernung zum zweiten Solobereich unterschreitet.
• dass das Ziel den Schnittbereich zum zweiten Solobereich hin verlässt, insbesondere in den zweiten Solobereich eintritt.

In a preferred embodiment, the following is used as the handover criterion alternatively or in any combination:

• that the second module is ready for successful target irradiation. This means that the moment from which the second module is actually able to carry out the target irradiation is waited for, e.g. B. because it was previously occupied for the pursuit and/or irradiation of another target.
• that a predeterminable limit parameter has been reached (exceeded or fallen short of) for the first and/or second module.
• that the first module no longer successfully tracks and/or irradiates the target.
• that the target reaches a predeterminable interface in the cutting area.
• that the target falls below a predetermined distance to the second solo area.
• that the target leaves the cutting area towards the second solo area, in particular enters the second solo area.

Through appropriate handover criteria, certain tactics of target tracking and irradiation can be implemented. In particular, a handover takes place as soon as, i.e. immediately after the second module is ready. However, the basic condition that the second module is free and ready for tracking and/or irradiation must be met, in particular for all variants of the handover criterion.

In a preferred embodiment - in particular in step C3) - the first and second modules emit a predeterminable signal pattern for engaging the target. The signal pattern has a time course. In step C3), the signal patterns of the first and second modules are phase-synchronized with respect to the time course.

“Phase-synchronized” means the following: In general, the irradiation or attack of the target is carried out using a jamming or irradiation code. The code is a specific pattern of radiation pulses/waveforms, where the pattern is broadcast on a specific schedule. Phase-synchronized modules generate the same pattern at the same time and over the same time course or offset by a constant time offset. This means that they emit radiation of the same or different amplitudes at the same time or with a time delay, but over time they are the same signals or in each case sections of a signal that follow the desired time course.

If the missile is irradiated by the first and second modules at the same time, no destructive interference occurs, but rather the two signals arriving at the target are added there. Therefore, in this case, in particular, the amplitude of the individual signals emitted by the modules can be reduced.

If the irradiation of the target in step C3) changes from the first module to the second module without a break or interruption, the missile is permanently hit by the uninterrupted jamming code. If, on the other hand, a pause of a time interval dT occurs during the change from the first to the second laser beam in step C3) (the missile is not irradiated by either the first or the second module during the pause), in a first embodiment the code can be stopped for the respective time dT become. The first module then ends its irradiation in the code phase P0 and after the time interval dT, the second module adds its signal the same phase P0. At the finish, the execution of the code is paused for the time dT and then continued at the same phase.

In an alternative embodiment, the fault code phase continues in real time, i.e. H. the first module ends the irradiation in step C3) with the code phase P0, after the time interval dT the second module continues the irradiation at the phase P0 + dT. At the destination, the code part is then skipped during the time interval dT; the code is transmitted with a "gap", but otherwise in continuous real time. The appropriate approach can again be chosen depending on the combat tactics.

In a preferred embodiment, the following is carried out in step C3): the beam mode is activated on the second module before the beam mode is deactivated on the first module, with the second module deliberately aiming past the target. In connection with the embodiment of synchronized codes according to above, you can also choose here: You can either consciously aim past the target or consciously aim at the target. In step C3), the beam mode on the second module remains activated after deactivation on the first module and the second module consciously aims at the target.

The targeting of one of the irradiations can - if desired - take place on the basis of the approach area of the warning system.

In a preferred embodiment, double or multiple irradiation can generally be carried out - i.e. both in the context of steps C1) to C3) - as soon as the target can be irradiated by at least two beam units: In a first variant, exactly one beam can always be aimed exactly at the target Be aimed at the target and consciously aim the other beams past the target, as explained above. In an alternative variant, however - with phase-synchronized beams - any number of phase-synchronized beams can also shine on the target at the same time or at least not consciously radiate past the target. I.e. Exactly one beam from the module with tracking mode activated can radiate through precise aiming, the others can radiate in other ways, e.g. B. based on the approach area or the activated tracking mode.

In a preferred embodiment - only in connection with the above. Approach area - the second module aims past the target by aiming at an edge or outside the approach area provided by the warning system, or it does not aim past the target (in conjunction with the embodiment of phase-synchronized modules) by aiming at the edge or within the approach area, especially towards the center of the approach area. This means that both aiming and aiming past can be carried out without using the active tracking mode on the corresponding module. As a rule, however, correspondingly more precise information is available from a tracking unit for targeting, so that the approach area does not have to be used for this.

In a preferred embodiment, an additional method step D) is provided: Step D) is carried out when the target is in a solo area starting from step B) and then directly from the current solo area, which then represents a "previous solo area", to another Solo area moves. Then in the previous solo area, the tracking mode and the beam mode are deactivated for the associated module. The tracking mode and the beam mode are then activated in the other solo area with the associated module as the active module. This means that the previously active module (that of the previous solo area) becomes inactive and that of the other solo area becomes the active module. In particular, the target changes from the previous solo area to another solo area, bypassing the cutting areas.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one or more or all of the areas (overall, solo, cutting and defensive areas) are defined in a coordinate system as a mathematical model/models. Decisions affecting these areas are then made based on the mathematical model(s). The corresponding areas can thus be stored as data models, in particular in a control and evaluation unit, and processed quickly and effectively with regard to decisions to be made.

The object of the invention is also achieved by a DIRCM system according to claim 10 for carrying out the method according to the invention, with an interface to a warning system for reporting incoming targets, with at least two DIRCM modules for tracking the target in a pursuit mode and for engaging the target in a beam mode, each of the modules having an overall area for tracking and / or engaging targets, and the overall area including a solo area in which alone the module in question is available for tracking and engaging is, and the overall area contains an intersection area with at least one other of the modules, in which all relevant modules are available for tracking and / or combat, a defense area being the union of all total areas, and with a control and evaluation unit for carrying out the method steps of the invention procedure.

The DIRCM system and at least some of its embodiments as well as the respective advantages have already been explained in connection with the method according to the invention.

Beam mode and tracking mode can be activated and deactivated independently of each other. The control and evaluation unit contains in particular the above-mentioned mathematical models or a corresponding device for implementing and processing the models.

In a preferred embodiment, the warning system is integrated into the DIRCM system as part of the system, although the warning system can still be an independent system.

In a preferred embodiment, the interface is an interface to a warning system for reporting a respective approach area of an approaching target, or the warning system is one for outputting the approach area.

In a preferred embodiment, at least two of the modules are set up to emit a predeterminable signal pattern that has a time course to combat the target, and the modules can be phase-synchronized with respect to the time course or are phase-synchronized during operation if necessary, as described above.

The object of the invention is also achieved by an object according to claim 13, which is to be protected from an approaching target, with a DIRCM system according to the invention.

The object and at least part of its embodiments as well as the respective advantages have already been explained accordingly in connection with the DIRCM system according to the invention and/or the method according to the invention.

In particular, the object is a vehicle. In particular, the vehicle is an air, land or sea vehicle, an airplane or a helicopter, in particular a transport and/or passenger aircraft or helicopter.

Figur 1

ein DIRCM-System bei der Bekämpfung eines anfliegenden Ziels,

Figur 2

einen Zeitverlauf von Signalmustern zur Bestrahlung des Ziels,

Figur 3

alternative Übergaben vom ersten zum zweiten Modul.

Further features, effects and advantages of the invention result from the following description of a preferred exemplary embodiment of the invention and the attached figures. Show, each in a schematic principle sketch:

Figure 1

a DIRCM system when engaging an incoming target,

Figure 2

a time course of signal patterns for irradiation of the target,

Figure 3

alternative handovers from the first to the second module.

Figure 1 shows a DIRCM system 2 combating an incoming target 4. The system 2 is mounted on or on an object 6 to be protected, here a transport aircraft only shown symbolically in a detail. Here, the incoming target 4 is an IR-guided enemy missile that intends to destroy target 4.

The system 2 contains an interface 8 to a warning system 10, which is also attached to the object 6. The warning system 10 is used to report approaching targets and is here a MWS. It also serves to report a respective approach area 11 of the respective target. The approach area 11 is a rough area and indicates an approximate location or direction to the target, but an exact or safe location or tracking of the target is not possible. In particular, it is therefore not possible to precisely irradiate the rocket's IR seeker head with a laser. Below will be Specific goal 4 is always spoken of as a representative of all potential goals in order to explain the invention.

The system 2 also contains two DIRCM modules 12a, b, here so-called turrets, which are attached to the transport aircraft. Both are each suitable for tracking the target 4 in a tracking mode MV, i.e. for locating it precisely, and for irradiating it in a beam mode MS and thereby combating it. To carry out the tracking mode MV, each module 12a, b contains a tracking unit 16, and to carry out the beam mode MS a beam unit 18. The target 4 can be tracked by the module 12b, i.e. H. can be located so precisely that with the help of the beam unit 18 a laser beam 20 can be irradiated into the IR seeker head of the target 4 in order to combat the target 4 by deflecting the target 4 away from the object 6. Thanks to this precise location, a laser beam can be irradiated specifically into the rocket's IR seeker head.

Each of the modules 12a, b is assigned a respective overall area BGa, b, in which the respective module 12a, b is able to pursue and combat the target 4. For clarification are in Figure 1 the edges of the total areas BGa,b are thickened and shown in dashed lines for BGb. Each of the total areas BGa,b in turn contains a solo area BOa,b. In the solo area BOa, only module 12a is able to pursue and combat target 4, in the solo area BOb only module 12b. In an intersection area BS, both modules 12a, b are able to track and combat target 4. A defense area BA is formed by the union of the total areas BGa,b; in this a defense of the target 4 is achieved. at least one of the modules 12a, b or through the system 2 possible.

The system 2 also contains a control and evaluation unit 14, which is set up to carry out the following procedure for combating the incoming target 4 by the system 2:
Initially, no target 4 flies towards object 6. System 2 is therefore initially on standby. Both modules 12a, b are deactivated. The warning system 10 monitors the object for approaching targets 4. At a certain point in time, the warning system 10 reports the approaching target 4 and additionally via the interface 8 Approach area 11. Since the target 4 is now reported by the warning system 11, exactly one of the modules 12a, b is selected as the active module according to the method and the tracking mode MV and the beam mode MS are activated for the target 4. The selection is made using a selection criterion KA. In the present case, the selection criterion KA consists in selecting the module 12a, b which is closest to the target 4, in this case the module 12b.

From now on, the target 4 is tracked by the module 12b and combated by shining the laser beam 20 into the IR seeker head of the target 4 in order to deflect the target 4 away from the object 6. The target moves along arrow 22.

From now on, the method continues to check whether the target 4 is in one of the solo areas BOa, b or in the intersection area BS. If the target 4 (not shown here) were to be in the solo area BOb or move there, the tracking mode MV and the beam mode MS would remain activated in the currently active module 12b.

According to the method, it is also checked whether the target is in the intersection area BS, which is the case here. The active module 12b is defined as the first module and the other module 12a as the second module, which would alternatively be capable of tracking and irradiating the target 4. According to the method, either the tracking mode MV and the beam mode MS remain activated only in the currently active module 12b or the tracking mode MV is additionally activated in the module 12a or it is transferred to the other module 12a, as will be explained further below.

In the present case, a decision is first made based on an activation criterion KK, which is continuously monitored or checked as to whether the tracking mode MV is activated in the module 12a: The activation criterion KK here is the achievement of a minimum distance from the solo areas BOa, b, as indicated by the lines 28 . Initially, target 4 is located beyond lines 28, i.e. further away from the solo areas BOa,b than the minimum distance requires. Therefore, the MV tracking mode is also activated on module 12a.

Furthermore, a decision is made based on a handover criterion KÜ, which is continuously monitored or checked, as to whether the irradiation should be handed over to the module 12a. In the present case, the transfer criterion KÜ is that the target 4 reaches an interface 21. As the situation progresses, target 4 moves - as shown by arrow 22 - in the defense area BA. At point P, target 4 actually reaches interface 21.

Now the above-mentioned handover is carried out as follows: the beam mode MS is deactivated for the first, currently active module 12b. The second module 12a then becomes the active module and its beam mode MS is activated. The handover criterion KÜ will continue to be checked on an ongoing basis. The tracking mode VM in the module 12b remains activated, so that a handover back to the module 12b could take place quickly at any time and redundancy with regard to tracking is also created.

However, target 4 then moves into the solo area BOa, which is why the handover criterion KÜ is not met again. In this solo area BOa, too, the currently active module 12a remains activated with regard to tracking mode MV and beam mode MS in accordance with the above procedural condition. The tracking mode MV on module 12b is deactivated in the solo area BOa. Ultimately the fight is successful and target 4 turns away from object 6.

Figure 1 also shows how the target 4 moves at a later time along the arrow 24 from the solo area BOa, bypassing the cutting area BS, directly into the solo area BOb. In this case, tracking mode MV and beam mode MS are switched directly from module 12a to module 12b, ie deactivated in module 12a and activated in module 12b.

Figure 2 shows only by way of example and schematically over time t a signal pattern according to which the laser beam 20 is emitted or its amplitude is modulated in order to deflect the target 4. Figure 2a shows the target course of the signal pattern over a longer period of time.

According to the situation Figure 1 First, the module 12b generates the laser beam 20 according to Figure 2a . The goal 4 reaches the point P in at time t0 Fig. 1 , so that from this point in time t0 the laser beam no longer comes from the module 12b, but according to Fig. 2b is emitted by module 12a. The signal patterns of the laser beams 20 of the modules 12a, b are phase-synchronized. In a first variant, the irradiation by the module 12b ends at phase P0 of the entire signal curve Fig. 2a , the irradiation of the module 12a continues at phase P0. As a result, the target 4 is permanently in accordance with the continuous signal pattern Fig. 2a (solid and dashed section) irradiated because the solid signal section in Fig. 2b exactly the dashed line in Fig. 2a corresponds.

In the event that the switching process between the irradiation by the modules 12a, b takes a time period dT, there are two variants of phase synchronization in a second alternative:
According to a first variant and Fig. 2a,c The irradiation of the target by the module 12b ends at phase P0. Then there is no irradiation of the target 4 during the period dT; However, its irradiation is resumed with the phase P0+dT. As a result, the target 4 is achieved with the patchy signal pattern Figure 2a irradiated, leaving a gap between the phases P0 and P0+dT in which no irradiation occurs or this section of the signal curve is omitted. The "code" according to Fig. 2a is therefore irradiated onto target 4 in a "continuous" time sequence, but not completely, ie incompletely.

According to a second variant Fig. 2a,d the irradiation at time t0+dT from module 12a continues with the phase P0 at which the irradiation of module 12b ended. Accordingly, the target becomes 4 with the complete signal pattern Fig. 2a irradiated, but the signal pattern is paused or stretched or stretched in time for the period dT. The "code" according to Fig. 2a is irradiated completely onto target 4 - albeit with a time gap dT.

Figure 3 shows an excerpt from System 2 and an alternative combat situation and alternative variants of the handover in the intersection area BS between the Modules 12a and 12b. The target 4 moves along the arrow 22 and is initially tracked and irradiated by the active first module 12a and tracked by the second module 12b. Even before point P is reached (there fulfillment of the handover criterion KÜ) - here from the earliest possible point in time at which the module 12b is ready for this - the beam mode MS is also activated in the second module 12b. Based on the exact tracking by the tracking unit 16 of the module 12b, the module 12b deliberately aims past the target 4, e.g. B. with a predeterminable solid angle WR. Alternatively, the module 12b uses the approach area 11 reported by the warning system 10 to aim past and deliberately aims past the target 4 by aiming at its edge (Situation I in Fig. 3 ).

In the alternative case, phase synchronization of the signal patterns according to Figure 2 takes place, this would also be possible (Situation I), but in a variant shown here, the module 12b also aims exactly at the target 4 using its tracking unit 16 (alternative situation II in Fig. 3 ). Due to the phase synchronization, both signal patterns are at the same time, so that there is no mutual extinction of the laser beams 20 in the target 4, but rather their addition with respect to the signal pattern.

At point P, the module 12a is then deactivated with regard to the beam mode MS and the tracking mode MV is maintained for the module 12b. In the case of previous aiming past, the laser beam 20 is then pivoted onto the target 4, which is possible with precise aim due to the activated tracking mode MV in the module 12b.

In order to be able to make the corresponding decisions regarding the areas mentioned, in an alternative embodiment a mathematical model 26 of the areas BGa,b, BOa,b, BS and BA is present in the control and evaluation unit 14. Goal 4 is then also located in the corresponding model 26 as a virtual goal. Decisions as to whether and where Goal 4 is located in the relevant areas, whether criteria KA, KK, KÜ are met or not, etc. are then made - where necessary - using Model 26.

Reference symbol list

2

System (DIRCM)

4

Goal

6

object

8th

interface

10

Warning system

11

Approach area

12a,b

Module (DIRCM)

14

Control and evaluation unit

16

Tracking unit

18

Beam unit

20

laser beam

21

interface

22

Arrow

24

Arrow

26

Model

28

line

BGa,b

Total area

BOa,b

Solo area

B.S

Cutting area

B.A

Defense area

MV

Tracking mode

MS

Beam mode

KA

Selection criterion

KK

Activation criterion

KÜ

Handover criterion

P

Point

t

Time

t0

time

P0

phase

dT

Duration

WR

Solid angle

Claims (13)

1. Method for combating an approaching target (4) using a DIRCM system (2), wherein the DIRCM system (2) contains:

   - an interface (8) to a warning system (10) for reporting approaching targets (4),

   - at least two DIRCM modules (12a,b) for tracking the target (4) in a tracking mode (MV) and for combating by irradiating the target (4) in a jamming mode (MS),

   - wherein each of the modules (12a,b) has an overall region (BGa,b) for tracking and/or combating targets (4),

   - and the overall region (BGa,b) contains a solo region (BOa,b), in which only the relevant module (12a,b) is available for tracking and/or combating purposes,

   - and the overall region (BGa,b) contains an intersection region (BS) with at least one of the other modules (12a,b), in which all relevant modules (12a,b) are available for tracking and/or combating purposes,

   - wherein a defended region (BA) is the union of all overall regions (BGa,b),
   in which:

   - A) if the target (4) is reported by the warning system (10):

   exactly one of the modules (12a,b) is chosen as active module and the tracking mode (MV) and the jamming mode (MS) for the target (4) are activated in said active module,

   and henceforth it is checked whether the target (4) is situated in one of the solo regions (BOa,b) or in an intersection region between the active module as a first module (12a,b) and a second of the modules (12a,b), and:

   - B) if the target (4) is situated in one of the solo regions (BOa,b):
   the tracking mode (MV) and the jamming mode (MS) are activated or remain activated in the active module (12a,b) associated with the solo region (BOa,b) and tracking mode (MV) and jamming mode (MS) are or remain deactivated in all other modules (12a,b),
   and

   - C) if the target (4) is situated in the intersection region (BS) between the active module as a first module (12a,b) and a second of the modules (12a,b):
   it is checked whether the tracking mode (MV) is activated in the second module (12a,b) and it is checked whether an activation criterion (KK) is satisfied, and:

   - C1) either, if the tracking mode (MV) is not activated in the second module (12a,b) and the activation criterion (KK) is not satisfied:

   - the tracking mode (MV) and the jamming mode (MS) remain activated in the first module (12a,b) and remain deactivated in the second module (12a,b),

   - C2) or, if the tracking mode (MV) is not activated in the second module (12a,b) and the activation criterion (KK) is satisfied:

   - the tracking mode (MV) is activated in the second module (12a,b) and the tracking mode (MV) and the jamming mode (MS) remain activated in the first module (12a,b),

   and it is checked whether a handover criterion (KU) is satisfied, and

   - C3) if the tracking modes (MV) are activated in the first and second module (12a,b) and if the handover criterion (KU) is satisfied:

   - the jamming mode (MS) is activated in the second module (12a,b) and

   - the jamming mode (MS) is deactivated in the first module (12a,b) and the tracking modes (MV) remain activated in the first and in the second module (12a,b) ,

   - the second module (12a,b) becomes the first active module (12a,b) in terms of tracking and irradiation and the formerly first active module (12a,b) becomes the second module (12a,b).
2. Method according to Claim 1,
   characterized
   in that, in step A), the active module (12a,b) is chosen according to a selection criterion (KA).
3. Method according to Claim 2,
   characterized
   in that the following is used as selection criterion (KA):

   - if the target (4) is in the solo region (BOa,b): the associated module (12a,b) of the solo region (BOa,b),

   - if the target (4) is in the intersection region (BS): the module (12a,b) of those in the intersection region (BS):

   - in a predeterminable distance range from the target (4),

   - with the smallest deviation of the current tracking and/or combating from a central position in relation to a tracking and/or combating region of the module (12a,b),

   - with a predeterminable overall region (BGa,b) or intersection region (BS),

   - with a predeterminable predicted success with regard to successful combating.
4. Method according to any one of the preceding claims,
   characterized
   in that the following is used as activation criterion (KK) :

   - the second module (12a,b) is readied for successful target tracking,

   - a predeterminable limit parameter is reached in the first and/or second module (12a,b)

   - the first module (12a,b) no longer successfully tracks the target (4),

   - the target (4) reaches a predeterminable boundary area (21) in the intersection region (BS),

   - the target (4) drops below a predeterminable distance from the second solo region (BOa,b),

   - the target (4) leaves the intersection region (BS) for the second solo region (BOa,b).
5. Method according to any one of the preceding claims,
   characterized
   in that the following is used as handover criterion (KU):

   - the second module (12a,b) is readied for successful target irradiation,

   - a predeterminable limit parameter is reached in the first and/or second module (12a,b),

   - the first module (12a,b) no longer successfully tracks and/or irradiates the target (4),

   - the target (4) reaches a predeterminable boundary area (21) in the intersection region (BS),

   - the target (4) drops below a predeterminable distance from the second solo region (BOa,b),

   - the target (4) leaves the intersection region (BS) for the second solo region (BOa,b).
6. Method according to any one of the preceding claims,
   characterized
   in that at least two of the modules (12a,b) for combating the target (4) emit a predeterminable signal pattern which has a time profile and, in step C3), the signal patterns of the first and second module (12a,b) are synchronized in phase with regard to the time profile.
7. Method according to any one of the preceding claims,
   characterized
   in that in step C3)

   - the jamming mode (MS) is activated in the second module (12a,b) before the jamming mode (MS) is deactivated in the first module (12a,b), wherein the second module (12a,b) deliberately misses the target (4) or - in conjunction with Claim 8 - deliberately misses the target (4) or deliberately targets the target (4),

   - after deactivating the jamming mode (MS) of the first module (12a,b), the jamming mode (MS) of the second module (12a,b) remains activated and the second module (12a,b) deliberately targets the target (4).
8. Method according to any one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that

   - D) if the target (4), proceeding from step B), directly moves from the current solo region (BOa,b), as a preceding solo region, to another solo region (BOa,b):

   - the tracking mode (MV) and the jamming mode (MS) are deactivated in the associated module (12a,b) in the preceding solo region (BOa,b),

   - the tracking mode (MV) and the jamming mode (MS) are activated in the associated module (12a,b) in the other solo region (BOa,b) as the active module.
9. Method according to any one of the preceding claims,
   characterized
   in that at least one or more or all of the overall region, solo region and intersection and defended region (BGa,b; BOa,b; BS; BA) regions are set as a mathematical model (26) in a coordinate system and decisions relating to these regions are made on the basis of the mathematical model (26).
10. DIRCM system (2) for carrying out the method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising

    - an interface (8) to a warning system for reporting approaching targets (4),

    - at least two DIRCM modules (12a,b) for tracking the target (4) in a tracking mode (MV) and for combating the target (4) in a jamming mode (MS),

    - wherein each of the modules (12a,b) has an overall region (BGa,b) for tracking and/or combating targets (4),

    - and the overall region (BGa,b) contains a solo region (BOa,b), in which only the relevant module (12a,b) is available for tracking and combating purposes,

    - and the overall region (BGa,b) contains an intersection region (BS) with at least one of the other modules (12a,b), in which all relevant modules (12a,b) are available for tracking and/or combating purposes,

    - wherein a defended region (BA) is the union of all overall regions (BGa,b),

    - a control and evaluation unit (14) for carrying out the method steps of the method.
11. DIRCM system (2) according to Claim 10,
    characterized
    in that the interface (8) is an interface (8) to a warning system (10) for reporting a respective region of approach (11) of an approaching target (4).
12. DIRCM system (2) according to either of Claims 10 and 11,
    characterized
    in that at least two of the modules (12a,b) are configured to emit a predeterminable signal pattern for combating the target (4), said signal pattern having a time profile, and the modules (12a,b) are synchronizable in phase with regard to the time profile.
13. Object (6) to be protected from an approaching target (4), comprising a DIRCM system (2) according to any one of Claims 10 to 12.

Images