Tracor Aerospace, Inc.

Bae Systems Integrated Defense Solutions Inc.

Marconi Aerospace Defence Systems, Inc.

James K Vinson

David J Schorr

Bradley T Sallee

Les H Richards

Lex N Allen

Armando DeJesus

The present invention relates to a system for sweeping a laser beam in a preset pattern, while, at the same time, directing the pattern to any area in a predetermined scanning area. The invention is particularly useful in LADAR applications. In one version of the invention, a series of optical prisms are arranged in concentric tubes so that the prisms have a common optical path. The tubes and, hence, the prisms, may be independently rotated by precision electric motors coupled to gear rings on the tubes.

Optical system for LADAR guidance application

An antenna structure including a ground plane that provides a good front to back ratio while maintaing a small size and which can mechanically be made to fit into tight areas. The antenna structure may be a GPS patch antenna, or any other antenna adapted to receive broadcast signals. The ground plane is made from radar absorbing material (RAM) in electrical contract with conductive radials. The RAM inherently acts to suppress surface currents on the ground plane, which in turn reduces back signals. Although RAM has some resistance, it is low enough such that the electrical effect of the radials is extended through the RAM, essentially simulating a 'solid' conductive disk. Both the RAM and radials may be made from light and flexible material, and consequently may be adapted for use in a variety of applications.

Ground plane for GPS patch antenna

The present invention pertains to the aerial deployment of generally planar structures. Typically, these structures are explosive arrays. Such explosive arrays are typically used in standoff minefield clearing and breaching on the ground, at river crossings, on beaches, and in shallow water surf zones adjoining beaches. The invention more specifically involves devices and methods for stably deploying such structures. This stable deployment is achieved by positioning the structure in a dihedral configuration as it moves through the air.

Aerial deployment of an explosive array

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Austin, TX, United States of America

James K Vinson