Description:4. DESCRIPTION
Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to the field of electronics and communications, specifically focusing on laser communications. More precisely, it relates to a laser unit that engages with a target unit to provide simulated training exercises for army soldiers.

Background of the Invention

In modern military training, simulations are a key component for preparing soldiers to handle real-world combat situations without the associated risks and costs. However, creating an effective and realistic training environment for soldiers has always been a significant challenge. The need for precision, adaptability, and safety in training systems has led to the development of various training technologies. Traditional methods, such as live-fire exercises or paintball-style simulations, often fail to provide the level of precision necessary for soldiers to develop the skills needed for real-world engagements.

Live-fire training, while highly effective, involves considerable risks and logistical complexities. Safety measures must be strictly adhered to, and there is always the potential for injuries, even with extensive precautions. Additionally, these exercises require large amounts of ammunition, making them expensive and unsustainable for prolonged training exercises. The need for large training areas further adds to the cost and complexity, limiting the scope and frequency of training exercises.

Simulations, on the other hand, offer a safer and more cost-effective alternative. Laser-based systems have been developed in an attempt to replicate real-world engagements, but the effectiveness of these systems is still far from perfect. Traditional laser-based training systems, such as those used in paintball or laser tag, lack the necessary precision and realism to simulate actual combat scenarios effectively. While they may provide basic feedback on whether a soldier hit a target, they do not simulate the complexity of a combat situation, such as multiple targets, real-time adjustments, or complex environmental factors.

The primary challenge in developing an ideal training system lies in creating a simulation that is not only cost-effective and safe but also offers the accuracy and realism needed for soldiers to hone their skills. The system must be able to merge the capabilities of visible and infrared laser systems, ensuring precision targeting, adaptability to environmental conditions, and the ability to simulate complex combat scenarios without compromise.

Various laser-based training systems have been developed to address the problem of safe and effective military training, with a primary focus on providing realistic feedback. These systems typically use laser beams to simulate the engagement of targets, allowing trainees to engage in combat-like scenarios without the dangers of live ammunition. However, these systems have limitations that reduce their overall effectiveness.

One such prior art is US20120171643A1, which describes an alignment device for a weapon that emits a simulation beam and an alignment beam to ensure the proper alignment of the simulation beam with the weapon’s sight. While the device is effective for basic target alignment, it does not address the complexity of real-time dynamic adjustments in target positioning or simulate multiple moving targets. Additionally, this system relies on alignment mechanisms that do not provide the fine degree of control required for high-precision targeting during military engagements.

Another relevant prior art is US20150377588A1, which provides an improved method for aligning laser systems at long distances using reflective materials with markings that help users align their systems. This system, while an improvement in alignment, still suffers from limitations in handling environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations, weather conditions, or rapid movement, which are essential in realistic military training scenarios. Moreover, this system does not account for the merging of visible and infrared (IR) laser beams into a single output beam, which is crucial for achieving high precision in targeting.

Further advancements are seen in US20180259295A1, which introduces a laser aiming device for firearms that incorporates multiple wavelengths of light using either a single collimator or compound collimator. The system, however, requires repositioning of the collimator for each wavelength, which introduces the risk of misalignment during training sessions. It also lacks the precision needed for complex tactical exercises and fails to simulate environmental factors effectively.

The prior art also includes US6887079, which discloses an alignment device for aligning a weapon-mounted simulator to a firearm. While the system provides alignment through a fixed angle relationship between the simulator and the sight, it does not offer the flexibility or precision required for high-fidelity targeting systems. The approach also limits the simulation to static environments, making it unsuitable for real-time training with dynamic target responses.

These existing systems demonstrate the various approaches to laser-based training but fail to provide a solution that meets the stringent demands of modern military training. Specifically, there is a lack of systems that combine visible and infrared laser beams into a single coherent output for precise targeting, with the capability to adjust the system in real-time based on dynamic scenarios. Furthermore, these systems do not sufficiently account for environmental conditions that could compromise the effectiveness of training, such as low visibility, weather conditions, or high-speed movements.

Despite the advancements made in laser-based training technologies, the existing systems have several significant drawbacks that limit their effectiveness in realistic training environments. One of the main disadvantages is the lack of precision and adaptability in target tracking and alignment. Traditional systems rely on basic alignment mechanisms that cannot provide the fine-tuned adjustments necessary for high-performance training. As a result, the training provided is often too simplistic and fails to simulate real-world conditions where multiple targets may be moving, and environmental factors play a crucial role in a soldier's ability to engage effectively.

Another significant limitation is the lack of integration between visible and infrared laser systems. Most prior systems use either visible or infrared lasers, but not both, to simulate a combat scenario. The inability to merge these beams into a single, coherent output prevents the system from providing the level of realism required for advanced training exercises. The visible laser provides high visibility, making it ideal for alignment, while the IR laser remains invisible to the human eye, simulating real-world targeting without revealing the trainee’s position. The inability to merge these two technologies means that prior art systems cannot fully simulate the complexity of real-world targeting scenarios, where both visible and IR beams would be used in tandem.

Environmental adaptability is another shortcoming of prior systems. Most systems fail to operate effectively in challenging weather conditions, such as fog, rain, or extreme lighting conditions, all of which can hinder the accuracy of training. Furthermore, the existing systems lack the ability to adapt in real-time to changing conditions. For instance, environmental factors like temperature fluctuations can affect the trajectory of the laser, and real-time adjustments are necessary to ensure the accuracy of the training system.

Finally, prior art systems typically fail to integrate real-time feedback or automatic adjustments. In military training, it is essential to provide immediate feedback to the trainee regarding their performance. Traditional systems often lack the real-time data processing capability to adjust for factors such as beam divergence, misalignment, or target movement during an exercise. The absence of automated adjustments based on the training environment and trainee performance makes the system less effective in enhancing soldier readiness.

The inventors identified the dire need for a comprehensive training system that combines the capabilities of visible and infrared lasers into a single, unified output beam, providing high precision and real-time adaptability. The system should be able to operate effectively under varying environmental conditions, simulating real-world combat scenarios with multiple dynamic targets and adjusting the system’s parameters in real-time to ensure consistent performance.

A significant innovation needed was the ability to provide adjustable beam steering, allowing precise targeting through azimuth and elevation adjustments. The system should be capable of compensating for various operational variables, including movement, weather conditions, and light levels. The inventors identified the need to create a multi-axis adjustable frame that would allow for independent and simultaneous adjustments of the azimuth and elevation mirrors, ensuring that the merged laser output could be precisely aligned with the intended target.

Furthermore, the inventors realized that integrating real-time feedback through an electronic control system would enhance the system's adaptability, ensuring that the beams remained aligned regardless of environmental changes. This would involve incorporating precision adjustment screws with a fine pitch to allow for incremental changes of less than 0.1 degrees per rotation, ensuring the highest degree of accuracy.

The inventors also identified the need for gimbal mounting systems for the elevation mirror, ensuring that the system could be stable and precise, even under conditions of vibration or rapid movement. The key was to create a system that not only merged the visible and infrared beams effectively but also provided automated adjustments based on real-time feedback, making the system suitable for a variety of training environments, from urban combat simulations to field operations in remote areas.

Brief Summary of the Invention

The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure and it does not identify key/critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The primary object of the present invention is to provide an adjustable beam steering system that integrates visible and infrared (IR) laser beams into a single, coherent output for precise and realistic military training. This system aims to address the limitations of existing training technologies by providing the necessary precision, adaptability, and environmental compatibility required for high-performance, real-time training simulations.

Another key objective of the invention is to develop a system that allows for adjustable beam steering with both horizontal and vertical control. The azimuth and elevation mirrors within the system should provide fine, independent adjustments of less than 0.1 degrees per rotation, ensuring that the merged laser output can be aligned accurately with the target. This would allow the system to adapt to dynamic target responses, varying combat scenarios, and shifting environmental conditions.

A further objective of the invention is to enable the real-time integration of visible and infrared laser systems into a single output. The visible laser is used for high-visibility alignment, while the IR laser remains invisible to the human eye and provides realistic targeting without compromising the safety of the trainee. The merging of these two beams into a unified output will enhance the training system’s realism and accuracy.

In addition, the invention aims to incorporate advanced mechanisms for precision control over the beam steering, particularly through multi-axis adjustment systems. This would ensure that the system remains stable even in highly dynamic training environments, such as high-speed simulations, variable target positions, or field conditions with fluctuating visibility.

Moreover, a significant objective of the invention is to ensure that the system is capable of operating effectively under diverse environmental conditions, including extreme weather scenarios like low light, fog, rain, or rapid temperature changes. The system must be adaptable to ensure continued high precision even under challenging conditions, where traditional systems may struggle to maintain alignment and targeting accuracy.

The final objective is to provide a system that integrates real-time feedback and automated adjustments, which would allow the system to constantly correct and optimize beam alignment based on the target's movement, the environment, or any misalignments detected during training. This feature ensures that the system can maintain high performance throughout extended training sessions and automatically adjust based on operational needs.

In accordance with the present invention, an adjustable beam steering system for merged laser outputs is disclosed, designed for high-precision, real-time military training simulations. The system integrates both visible and infrared laser beams into a single output, ensuring realistic, safe, and accurate targeting. The invention combines several unique aspects that significantly improve upon existing technologies.

At the core of the invention is the integrated laser unit that merges visible and infrared laser beams into a single, coherent output beam. This allows for the advantages of both systems: the visible laser provides high visibility for alignment and the IR laser is used for invisible targeting, closely mimicking real-world scenarios. The system incorporates advanced beam steering mechanisms consisting of both azimuth and elevation mirrors for fine, independent adjustments of the laser beam direction. The azimuth mirror adjusts the beam’s horizontal position, while the elevation mirror adjusts the vertical position, both offering precise control within ±15 degrees for azimuth and ±10 degrees for elevation.

The multi-axis adjustable frame serves to support both mirrors and allows for independent adjustments in both axes, ensuring that the merged beam can be precisely aligned with the target. This feature is crucial for maintaining accuracy in highly dynamic environments. Additionally, precision adjustment screws are employed to achieve ultra-fine alignment with resolutions of less than 0.1 degrees per rotation. These screws allow for the incremental adjustments required to ensure exact targeting accuracy.

To prevent any unintended movement during operation, the system incorporates a locking mechanism that secures the mirrors in their adjusted positions. This ensures that the system remains stable during training exercises, even under extreme conditions. Further enhancing the system’s flexibility and control, the invention includes an electronic control system, integrated with the steering mechanism, which provides real-time feedback on the orientations of the azimuth and elevation mirrors. The system can automatically adjust these orientations based on predefined operational parameters or user input, ensuring consistent performance and accuracy throughout the training session.

The dielectric coating applied to the azimuth mirror enhances its reflectivity at the wavelengths used by both the visible and IR lasers, minimizing beam divergence and maximizing optical efficiency. The gimbal mounting system for the elevation mirror provides enhanced stability and ensures that the system can withstand vibrations or high-speed operations, which are often encountered in military scenarios.

The system is also designed to be adaptable to environmental factors, including low light, fog, rain, or varying temperature conditions. It compensates for these factors through automatic adjustments made by the electronic control system, which is capable of continuously monitoring and optimizing the system's performance under various field conditions. The inclusion of optical sensors and cameras further enhances the system’s performance, allowing for integrated feedback that improves targeting accuracy and provides real-time monitoring of system operations.

The adjustable beam steering system for merged laser outputs presents several key advantages over existing systems. First and foremost, the integration of visible and infrared laser beams into a single, coherent output beam provides a level of realism and precision that previous systems could not offer. The visible laser ensures high visibility for alignment, while the infrared laser allows for realistic targeting without revealing the trainee's position, mimicking real-world conditions more closely.

The ability to make fine adjustments to both the horizontal (azimuth) and vertical (elevation) beam positions, with resolutions as small as 0.05 degrees per rotation, allows for precise targeting. This level of accuracy is crucial for realistic combat training, where even small misalignments can drastically affect the outcome of training exercises. The use of precision adjustment screws and fine-threaded designs ensures that these adjustments are both stable and repeatable, increasing the system’s overall effectiveness and reliability.

Another significant advantage is the real-time feedback and automatic adjustments provided by the integrated electronic control system (220). This allows the system to adapt to changing conditions, such as target movement, environmental changes, or misalignments, without requiring manual intervention. This feature greatly enhances the system’s usability, ensuring that the system remains accurate and responsive throughout extended training sessions.

The system’s robustness under varying environmental conditions further enhances its appeal. The ability to operate effectively in low-light, foggy, rainy, or extreme temperature conditions makes the system suitable for a wide range of real-world combat scenarios. This environmental adaptability ensures that soldiers can train in realistic conditions without worrying about system failure or misalignment.

Furthermore, the system is designed with high stability, thanks to the gimbal mounting system for the elevation mirror and the locking mechanism for securing the mirrors in place. These features ensure that the system maintains its precision and performance under high-intensity training conditions, where rapid movements or vibrations might otherwise cause misalignment.

Lastly, the multi-axis adjustable frame allows for flexible and independent adjustments, providing users with a high degree of control over the system’s alignment. This makes the system adaptable to different types of training environments, from urban combat simulations to rural or wilderness scenarios.

The adjustable beam steering system for merged laser outputs has broad applications in military training and other sectors requiring high-precision targeting and real-time feedback systems. The primary application is in military training, where soldiers are required to engage in realistic combat simulations that replicate real-world conditions as closely as possible. By merging visible and infrared lasers, the system provides a more immersive training experience, allowing soldiers to practice real-world engagement scenarios with greater accuracy and safety.

In addition to military training, the system can be applied to law enforcement training, where officers need to practice responding to various threats and situations with high precision. The system’s ability to simulate different types of engagements, from sniper fire to close-quarters combat, makes it suitable for training law enforcement personnel in a variety of scenarios, ensuring they are well-prepared for real-world situations.

The system’s adaptability to environmental factors also makes it suitable for search-and-rescue operations, where low-visibility conditions, such as smoke, fog, or darkness, can significantly impair effectiveness. Using the system to simulate search operations, personnel can practice engaging targets in poor visibility conditions, improving their response times and efficiency during actual missions.

Furthermore, the technology could find applications in industrial environments where precise targeting and real-time feedback systems are needed, such as in aerospace or automation systems, where high-precision lasers are often used for alignment or measurement tasks.

Further scope of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given hereinafter. However, the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, will be given by way of illustration along with complete specification.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will be further understood from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment taken in conjunction with an appended drawing, in which:

Fig. 1A & 1B illustrates an an adjustable beam steering system for merged laser outputs in an integrated laser unit in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

It is appreciated that not all aspects and structures of the present invention are visible in a single drawing, and as such multiple views of the invention are presented so as to clearly show the structures of the invention.

Detailed Description of the Invention

The present invention relates to an adjustable beam steering system for merged laser outputs, specifically designed to integrate visible and infrared (IR) laser beams into a single coherent output beam for high-precision military training and other high-precision applications. The system allows for real-time, adaptive beam adjustments, enabling soldiers or trainees to engage in realistic combat scenarios with a high degree of accuracy and safety. This detailed description elaborates on the various embodiments of the invention, as reflected in the claims, with an emphasis on the precision steering system, environmental adaptability, and real-time adjustments that make this invention unique.

The adjustable beam steering system incorporates an integrated laser unit that is specifically designed to merge a visible laser beam and a pulsed infrared (IR) laser beam into a single, coherent output beam used for precision targeting in military or training environments. The visible laser provides a highly visible reference for alignment, while the infrared (IR) laser serves as the targeting component, remaining invisible to the human eye. By merging these two beams into a single output, the system ensures that both alignment and targeting can occur simultaneously and effectively.

This dual-laser integration is accomplished using a long-pass filter, which allows the IR light to pass through while reflecting the visible light, combining the two beams into a single output without interference. The resulting merged beam is ideal for simulating real-world targeting situations, where soldiers might use both visible and infrared laser technologies in combat.

The integration of both lasers into a coherent beam ensures that the system meets the requirements of military training, where target acquisition, precision, and stealth are critical. The system provides a dynamic, adjustable targeting capability by merging two distinct beam types into one, creating a highly realistic training scenario.

An essential aspect of the invention is the beam steering mechanism, which consists of azimuth and elevation steering mirrors that control the direction of the merged laser output. The azimuth steering mirror is positioned in the optical path of the merged laser output, and it is capable of horizontal adjustments within a range of ±15 degrees from a neutral position. This allows the system to steer the merged beam horizontally to track moving targets or to adjust for varying target positions in dynamic training exercises.

The elevation steering mirror is positioned downstream of the azimuth mirror, and it is capable of vertical adjustments within a range of ±10 degrees from a neutral position. This mirror adjusts the height of the merged laser output, enabling precise vertical alignment with the target. Both mirrors are independently adjustable, allowing for simultaneous adjustments in both horizontal and vertical directions. The independent nature of these adjustments is crucial for maintaining precise targeting during real-time training exercises.

Both the azimuth and elevation mirrors are supported by a multi-axis adjustable frame, which enables independent and precise adjustments. The multi-axis frame supports the mirrors and ensures that adjustments can be made to both the horizontal and vertical axes with high precision. The adjustability of the frame allows for a wider range of target scenarios, ensuring that the system can be used for various applications, from stationary targets to fast-moving or evasive ones.

The system also includes a precision adjustment mechanism comprising precision adjustment screws for incremental angle adjustments of the azimuth and elevation mirrors. These precision screws are designed with a fine pitch that enables the system to achieve adjustments of less than 0.1 degrees per rotation, providing extremely fine control over the laser beam’s direction. This level of precision is vital for ensuring that targets are engaged with the highest degree of accuracy.

To prevent any unintended movement of the mirrors during operation, the system incorporates a locking mechanism that secures the azimuth and elevation mirrors in their adjusted positions. Once the mirrors have been aligned and adjusted to the desired position, the locking mechanism ensures that the mirrors remain stable throughout the duration of the training exercise, even under dynamic conditions.

The locking mechanism is particularly important in environments where rapid movement or vibration could otherwise cause misalignment. The system is designed to be highly stable and resistant to environmental disturbances, ensuring that the beam alignment remains intact during extended training sessions or high-intensity operations.

Additionally, the locking mechanism incorporates features such as quick-release levers for rapid adjustment. This feature allows the system to be quickly reconfigured for different training scenarios or operational requirements without compromising the integrity of the mirror positioning. The quick-release functionality enables efficient reconfiguration in fast-paced, high-demand training environments.

The electronic control system is an integral part of the invention, providing real-time feedback on the orientations of the azimuth and elevation mirrors. The system uses sensors to continuously monitor the alignment of the laser beam and adjust the mirrors based on the current operational parameters or user input. This ensures that the system remains in constant alignment with the target, even if the target moves or if the environmental conditions change during the exercise.

The control system incorporates an integrated software suite that includes calibration tools for optimizing mirror alignment. The software allows for automatic compensation for environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations, humidity changes, and movement. These automatic adjustments ensure that the system maintains consistent performance under varying conditions, improving the overall training experience and allowing the system to adapt in real-time to the changing training environment.

Moreover, the electronic control system facilitates real-time monitoring of system performance, enabling the user to receive continuous updates on the status of the laser alignment and beam positioning. The system is also compatible with optical sensors and cameras, allowing for integrated feedback that further enhances targeting accuracy and operational performance.

To improve the reflectivity and stability of the mirrors, the azimuth steering mirror is coated with a dielectric coating designed to enhance reflectivity specifically at the wavelengths of the visible and infrared laser beams. This coating ensures that the system achieves minimal beam divergence and optimal optical efficiency, allowing the system to maintain high performance over long distances and in varying environmental conditions. The enhanced reflectivity of the azimuth mirror is critical for minimizing beam losses and ensuring that the merged output beam retains its intensity and accuracy.

The elevation steering mirror incorporates a gimbal mounting system, which provides additional stability and precision during adjustments. The gimbal mounting system allows for fine-tuned vertical adjustments and minimizes the effects of vibrations or external disturbances that could otherwise affect beam alignment. This feature ensures that the system maintains its stability and accuracy even in high-performance, dynamic operational environments.

The invention’s ability to operate in challenging environmental conditions is another critical feature. The system has been designed to adapt to environments where visibility is compromised, such as in low light, fog, rain, or highly variable temperature conditions. These environmental factors often present significant challenges to traditional training systems, which may suffer from alignment issues or performance degradation under such conditions. The present invention, however, uses real-time feedback and automatic adjustments to ensure that the system remains effective regardless of the environment.

The system is also designed for use in various military applications, including urban combat simulations, field operations, and live-fire training exercises. It is highly adaptable, ensuring that it can be used in both small-scale training scenarios and large, complex exercises involving multiple targets and dynamic movements. In addition to military applications, the system can be used in law enforcement training and search-and-rescue operations, where high-precision targeting is essential for improving the performance of personnel in realistic and challenging conditions.

The system’s real-time adaptability, high precision, and environmental resilience make it a valuable tool for various sectors beyond military training, including industrial applications that require precision laser systems, such as aerospace, automation, or optical measurement systems.

The adjustable beam steering system for merged laser outputs represents a significant advancement in laser-based training technologies. By integrating visible and infrared laser beams into a single, coherent output beam, the system enhances targeting precision and realism. Its ability to adjust in real-time, adapt to environmental conditions, and provide stable and accurate alignment makes it a versatile and robust solution for military, law enforcement, and industrial applications.

The following detailed description explains the components of the invention with reference to the figures, which illustrate the system's key features and functionality.

The integrated laser unit (101) is at the core of the invention. This unit is responsible for merging the visible laser beam (110) and the pulsed infrared (IR) laser beam (120) into a single, unified output beam (150). The visible laser beam (110) is used for alignment purposes, providing high visibility to the operator, while the IR laser beam (120) is used for targeting, remaining invisible to the human eye. The long-pass filter, not explicitly shown in the figures but essential in practice, allows the IR light to pass through while reflecting the visible light, thus combining the two beams into one coherent output without interference.

The merged laser output (150), as shown in Figure 1A and 1B, is directed through the system and is ready for precise targeting. This integration of visible and IR beams enhances the realism of military training, enabling the simultaneous use of visible targeting for alignment and invisible IR for actual targeting, much like real-world combat scenarios.

The core of the beam steering mechanism involves two mirrors: the azimuth steering mirror (170) and the elevation steering mirror (180). As shown in Figure 1A and Figure 1B, the azimuth steering mirror (170) is placed in the optical path of the merged laser output (150) to control the horizontal direction of the beam. The azimuth mirror (170) is capable of adjusting the beam direction within a range of ±15 degrees from its neutral position. These fine adjustments ensure that the merged laser output (150) can be directed horizontally to track moving targets or adjust to various target positions in dynamic training exercises.

Similarly, the elevation steering mirror (180) is positioned downstream of the azimuth mirror (170), as seen in Figure 2.1. The elevation mirror (180) controls the vertical alignment of the merged laser output (150), capable of redirecting the beam within a range of ±10 degrees from its neutral position. This enables precise vertical alignment with the target, ensuring that both horizontal and vertical angles can be independently and simultaneously adjusted to achieve perfect alignment.

Both the azimuth and elevation mirrors (170, 180) are supported by the multi-axis adjustable frame (190), depicted in Figure 1B. This frame provides the structural support for the mirrors and allows for precise adjustments in both the horizontal and vertical axes. The multi-axis frame (190) ensures that the adjustments to the mirrors remain independent of each other, thereby achieving precise beam alignment for real-time, dynamic training environments.

The system features a precision adjustment mechanism that includes precision adjustment screws (201), which are responsible for making fine adjustments to the azimuth and elevation mirrors (170, 180). These screws, depicted in Figure 1A, are designed with a fine-threaded pitch, enabling adjustments of less than 0.1 degrees per rotation. This fine control is critical for achieving the high precision required for military training scenarios, where even slight misalignments could impact the training outcomes.

These adjustment screws (201) are integrated into the system in a manner that allows for incremental angle adjustments to both the azimuth and elevation mirrors (170, 180). The precision screws ensure that adjustments are highly repeatable and stable, providing the system with the fine-tuned control necessary for accurate targeting. This level of precision is crucial when simulating complex target engagement scenarios, particularly in dynamic or rapidly changing training environments.

The system incorporates a locking mechanism (210) to secure the positions of the azimuth and elevation mirrors (170, 180) once they have been adjusted to the desired angles. As shown in Figure 2.1, this locking mechanism prevents any unintended movement of the mirrors during operation. The locking mechanism (210) ensures that the mirrors remain stable throughout the training exercise, preventing any misalignment due to external factors such as vibrations or rapid movements.

The locking mechanism (210) also features a quick-release lever that allows for rapid adjustments when necessary. This feature, depicted in Figure 1A, ensures that the system can be quickly reconfigured for different training scenarios, offering flexibility without compromising on stability or precision.

A crucial aspect of the invention is the electronic control system (220), which is responsible for providing real-time feedback on the orientation of the azimuth and elevation mirrors (170, 180). As illustrated in Figure 1B, this control system continuously monitors the alignment of the laser output (150) and adjusts the mirrors accordingly to ensure the beam remains aligned with the target.

The electronic control system (220) integrates a software suite that includes calibration tools for optimizing the alignment of the mirrors. These tools allow the system to compensate for environmental factors such as temperature changes, humidity, or motion, which might otherwise affect beam alignment. For example, changes in temperature could cause the laser beam to shift, but the electronic control system (220) can automatically adjust the mirrors to correct for these shifts in real time.

Additionally, the system allows for automated adjustments based on user input or predefined operational parameters. This ensures that the system can adapt to changing conditions during a training exercise, maintaining optimal performance at all times. The electronic control system (220) is also integrated with optical sensors and cameras, as shown in Figure 1B, which provide integrated feedback to improve the system’s performance and targeting accuracy.

The azimuth steering mirror (170) is coated with a dielectric coating, which is specifically designed to enhance the mirror's reflectivity at the wavelengths of both the visible and infrared laser beams. This is essential for ensuring minimal beam divergence and high optical efficiency, which are crucial for long-range operations and maintaining beam quality over extended distances. The dielectric coating is integral to ensuring the efficiency of the system during training exercises.

The elevation steering mirror (180) incorporates a gimbal mounting system, as shown in Figure 1B. This mounting system provides additional stability and ensures that the mirror can make precise vertical adjustments without being affected by vibrations or movement. The gimbal system allows for precise control over the vertical alignment of the merged laser output (150), improving the overall performance of the system in high-performance, dynamic training scenarios.

The invention is designed to be environmentally adaptable, ensuring it can perform reliably in challenging conditions. The system operates effectively in low light, fog, rain, and even under highly variable temperature conditions. As illustrated in Figure 1A, the system is capable of automatic adjustments in response to these environmental changes, ensuring that the laser output (150) remains aligned with the target despite shifts in visibility or other factors.

For example, in low-light conditions, the system adjusts the visible and infrared laser beams to maintain clear visibility and precise targeting. The ability to adapt to these environmental factors ensures that the system is suitable for real-world military training, where conditions can vary significantly.

The adjustable beam steering system for merged laser outputs provides numerous advantages in military training and other precision applications. By integrating visible and infrared lasers into a single output beam, the system provides a highly realistic training experience. The real-time feedback and automatic adjustments ensure that the system can operate effectively under dynamic training conditions, allowing trainees to engage in real-time target acquisition, tracking, and engagement scenarios. The system's precision, stability, and environmental adaptability make it a highly effective tool for simulating a wide range of combat situations.

Method of Manufacturing the Adjustable Beam Steering System
The method of manufacturing the adjustable beam steering system for merged laser outputs involves several key steps designed to ensure the system’s precision, stability, and adaptability under various operational conditions. The following steps outline the process for fabricating the system, integrating the components, and ensuring optimal performance during military or high-precision training operations.

Step 1: Selecting High-Reflectivity Optical Material for Mirrors
The first step in the manufacturing process is to select the appropriate high-reflectivity optical material for the azimuth steering mirror (170) and the elevation steering mirror (180). The materials chosen must be compatible with both the visible laser wavelength (625 nm) and the infrared (IR) laser wavelength (930 nm). Common materials used for these mirrors include BK7 glass or fused silica, known for their durability and optical clarity.

These materials are chosen for their ability to handle high precision adjustments and their compatibility with the laser wavelengths used in the system. The selection ensures minimal energy loss and high optical efficiency, which are critical for maintaining beam quality over long distances and under varying environmental conditions.

Step 2: Fabricating the Azimuth Steering Mirror with Dielectric Coating
Once the optical material for the mirrors has been selected, the next step is to fabricate the azimuth steering mirror (170) by applying a dielectric coating. This coating is specifically optimized for maximum reflectivity at the 625 nm (visible) and 930 nm (IR) wavelengths. The dielectric coating ensures minimal beam divergence and enhanced optical efficiency.

The dielectric coating is applied through techniques such as ion beam sputtering or electron beam evaporation, which allow for high-precision coating of the mirror surface. This step is crucial for ensuring that the azimuth steering mirror reflects both the visible and IR beams with high reflectivity, minimizing energy losses and maintaining beam intensity for long-range operations.

Step 3: Fabricating the Elevation Steering Mirror with Gimbal Mounting System
The elevation steering mirror (180) is fabricated in a similar manner, with special attention paid to incorporating a gimbal mounting system. The gimbal system allows for precise vertical adjustments and ensures that the mirror remains stable during operation, minimizing the effects of vibrations or rapid movements. This is particularly important in high-performance or dynamic training environments, where the system must maintain alignment despite external forces.

The gimbal mounting system provides a flexible and stable base for the mirror, enabling it to adjust smoothly in the vertical direction. This system ensures that the elevation steering mirror can make fine adjustments to the beam without introducing instability, thus maintaining the overall precision of the merged laser output.

Step 4: Constructing the Multi-Axis Adjustable Frame
The next step in the manufacturing process is to construct the multi-axis adjustable frame (190), which is responsible for supporting both the azimuth and elevation steering mirrors (170, 180). The frame is constructed using lightweight, durable materials such as aluminum alloys or composite materials, which provide the necessary strength to support the mirrors while keeping the overall weight of the system minimal.

The frame is designed to allow for precise independent adjustments in both horizontal (azimuth) and vertical (elevation) directions. The multi-axis frame ensures that the mirrors can be adjusted with high precision without interfering with each other’s movement, providing the flexibility required for high-precision targeting.

The adjustable frame also integrates tensioning mechanisms that fine-tune the stability and response of the mirrors during operation. These mechanisms ensure that the mirrors remain stable throughout training sessions, even under high-intensity conditions, and can be adjusted for optimal performance.

Step 5: Integrating Precision Adjustment Screws
Next, precision adjustment screws (201) are integrated into the system to allow for fine-tuned adjustments of the azimuth and elevation mirrors (170, 180). The screws are designed with a fine-threaded pitch, which enables incremental angle adjustments of less than 0.1 degrees per rotation. These screws are carefully calibrated during the manufacturing process to ensure that they provide high-precision control over the alignment of the mirrors.

Each adjustment screw is installed with precision and is tested for stability to ensure that the adjustments made during training exercises are repeatable and reliable. The precision screws are an essential part of the system, as they allow the operator to make minute changes to the direction of the merged laser output (150) with minimal effort.

Step 6: Implementing the Locking Mechanism
The locking mechanism (210) is an important feature of the adjustable beam steering system, as it ensures that the mirrors (170, 180) remain in their adjusted positions once they have been set. The locking mechanism includes quick-release levers and other fasteners that secure the mirrors in place, preventing unintended movement during operation.

The locking mechanism is designed to be both robust and easy to use, allowing the operator to quickly secure the mirrors without the need for complex tools. The system is tested for durability and ease of operation to ensure that it can withstand the rigors of military or high-precision training environments.

Step 7: Assembling the Electronic Control System
The electronic control system (220) is assembled and integrated with the rest of the system. This control system provides real-time feedback on the orientation of the azimuth and elevation mirrors (170, 180) and enables automated adjustments based on operational parameters or user input. The control system is equipped with sensors that continuously monitor the alignment of the laser output (150), ensuring that it remains accurately directed at the target.

The control system also integrates a software suite that includes calibration tools for optimizing mirror alignment. The software allows for real-time adjustments based on environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, or movement. This automated adjustment ensures that the system maintains optimal performance in dynamic training environments, where conditions may change rapidly.

Step 8: Quality Control and Calibration
Once the system components have been assembled, a quality control testing process is conducted to ensure that the adjustable beam steering system operates as intended. The mirrors (170, 180) are calibrated to ensure that they are capable of making precise adjustments within the specified ranges (±15 degrees for azimuth and ±10 degrees for elevation).

The system is also subjected to tests under various environmental conditions, including temperature fluctuations, humidity, and vibration, to ensure that the system remains stable and performs optimally in real-world training environments. Any misalignments or discrepancies detected during these tests are corrected by adjusting the mirrors and fine-tuning the control system (220) to compensate for environmental variations.

Step 9: Final Assembly and Deployment
After passing the quality control tests, the system is finalized and prepared for deployment. The mirrors, frame, locking mechanism, precision adjustment screws, and electronic control system are fully integrated, ensuring that the system functions as a cohesive unit. The final assembly is tested to ensure that all components work together seamlessly, and the system is calibrated for final deployment.

Once fully assembled and calibrated, the adjustable beam steering system is ready for use in military training environments, law enforcement applications, search-and-rescue operations, or other high-precision sectors. The system is capable of providing realistic, real-time training simulations, allowing for precise targeting and engagement in dynamic scenarios.
, Claims:5. CLAIMS
We claim:
1. An adjustable beam steering system (100) for merged laser outputs, comprising:
an integrated laser unit (101) configured to merge a visible laser beam (110) and a pulsed infrared (IR) laser beam (120) into a single, coherent output beam (150) for precision targeting;
Characterized by,
an azimuth steering mirror (170) positioned in the optical path of the merged laser output (150), wherein the azimuth steering mirror (170) is capable of horizontal adjustments to redirect the beam direction within a range of ±15 degrees from a neutral position;
an elevation steering mirror (180) positioned downstream of the azimuth steering mirror (170), wherein the elevation steering mirror (180) is capable of vertical adjustments to redirect the beam direction within a range of ±10 degrees from a neutral position;
a multi-axis adjustable frame (190) supporting both the azimuth steering mirror (170) and the elevation steering mirror (180), enabling independent and simultaneous adjustments to achieve precise alignment of the merged laser output (150);
a precision adjustment mechanism comprising precision adjustment screws (201) for incremental angle adjustments of the azimuth and elevation mirrors (170, 180), wherein each screw is configured with a fine pitch to enable adjustments of less than 0.1 degrees per rotation;
a locking mechanism (210) that secures the mirrors (170, 180) in their adjusted positions, preventing any unintended movement during operation;
an electronic control system (220) integrated with the mechanism, providing real-time feedback on the orientations of the azimuth and elevation mirrors (170, 180), and enabling automated adjustments based on operational parameters or user input;
wherein the system (100) incorporates a dielectric coating on the azimuth steering mirror (170) and gimbal mounting system for the elevation steering mirror (180), enhancing reflectivity, stability, and precision under varying operational conditions.

2. The adjustable beam steering system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the azimuth steering mirror (170) features a dielectric coating that enhances reflectivity specifically at the wavelengths of the visible and infrared laser beams (110, 120), ensuring minimal beam divergence and high optical efficiency.

3. The adjustable beam steering system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the elevation steering mirror (180) incorporates a gimbal mounting system, enabling enhanced stability and precise alignment adjustments, minimizing the effects of vibrations during high-performance use.

4. The adjustable beam steering system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the multi-axis adjustable frame (190) includes adjustable tensioning mechanisms to fine-tune the stability and response of the mirrors (170, 180) during operation, improving the system's performance in high-impact or mobile environments.

5. The adjustable beam steering system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the precision adjustment screws (201) are equipped with a fine-threaded design, allowing for incremental adjustments of 0.05 degrees per rotation, providing ultra-fine beam alignment.

6. The adjustable beam steering system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism (210) utilizes a quick-release lever, allowing for rapid adjustments while maintaining the integrity of the mirror positioning.

7. The adjustable beam steering system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electronic control system (220) features an integrated software suite that includes calibration tools for optimizing mirror alignment based on user-defined parameters, and automatic compensation for environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and motion.

8. The adjustable beam steering system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) is designed for compatibility with optical sensors and cameras, allowing for integrated feedback that enhances targeting accuracy, and enabling real-time monitoring of system performance.

9. The adjustable beam steering system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) operates within a wide range of environmental conditions, including low-light, fog, and rain, where visibility or beam integrity could be compromised, ensuring reliable operation in challenging field conditions.

10. A method of manufacturing the adjustable beam steering system (100) for merged laser outputs as claimed in claim 1, comprising the steps of:
a. selecting a high-reflectivity optical material for the azimuth steering mirror (170) and the elevation steering mirror (180), ensuring compatibility with both visible (625 nm) and infrared (930 nm) laser wavelengths;
b. fabricating the azimuth steering mirror (170) with a dielectric coating specifically optimized for maximum reflectivity at the 625 nm and 930 nm wavelengths, ensuring minimal energy loss and maximal beam efficiency;
c. fabricating the elevation steering mirror (180) with a gimbal mounting system to facilitate precise adjustments and stability during operation, reducing the effects of vibrations;
d. constructing the multi-axis adjustable frame (190) from lightweight, durable materials such as aluminum alloys or composites, ensuring both strength and minimal weight for field deployment;
e. integrating precision adjustment screws (201) with fine-threaded designs into the assembly to enable incremental angle adjustments of less than 0.1 degrees, with each screw calibrated for high precision;
f. implementing a locking mechanism (210) utilizing a quick-release lever to secure the adjusted positions of the mirrors (170, 180), ensuring stable operation during real-time targeting;
g. assembling the electronic control system (220) with real-time feedback capabilities, ensuring compatibility with the adjustment mechanisms and the ability to compensate for environmental variations;
h. conducting a quality control testing process to verify the alignment and performance of the adjustable beam steering system (100) before final deployment, including calibration of the mirrors (170, 180) to ensure optimal targeting accuracy, and incorporating automated environmental compensation in the software.

6. DATE AND SIGNATURE
Dated this 28th November 2024
Signature

Mr. Srinivas Maddipati
IN/PA 3124
Agent for Applicant