Dr. V. Khavkin, I. Havkin

Laser Television System for Observation under Conditions of Poor Visibility Main Principle and Short Description The laser television system is a unique opto-electrical and television device based on the recent achievements in the laser-pulse technology. It provides the analysis and television mapping of the reflected laser-illuminated picture. The system is in the main stream of technology, it belongs to the "Hi-Tech", it utilizes a new and novel approach in the field of the laser night vision. Block diagram of the optoelectronic unit is shown in Fig. 1 in which: 1-Low-light level TV camera. 2-Objective lens of the low-level TV camera. 3- Control unit of objective lens. 4 Power unit of the image receiver. 5- Synchronizing device. 6- Control unit of camera. 7- Power unit of emitters. 8- Emitting unit. 9- Illuminators. 10- Power unit of emitters. The main unit is devoted to magnify the image of the surface section in conjunction with the objects located upon it in the form of electric signals. The opto-electronic unit is a complex device incorporating a receiving chamber and a special illuminator which operates within the spectral range invisible to the human eye. The light reflected from the objects located in the field of view enters the objective lens of the low light level camera. The objective lens creates the 3D image of the object. The image brightness is intensified by 30000 times in the low light level camera. The image then is converted into the black-and-white TV signals and is transmitted to the monitor. The system can operate in a passive or an active mode. The passive mode of operation is used more frequently because in most cases the natural illumination level is enough to create a fairly clear picture on the monitor screen. The active mode of operation is used when the natural illumination level is insufficient for creation a picture, for example, in the dark night conditions. The active mode of operation means a simultaneous operation of the low light level camera and the emitting unit. The special mode of operation uses the principle of optical location and is not inherent in human observation. The emitting unit serves for providing an additional illumination. Basic Specifications of the System The sensitivity distance (maximum range) is through 1000 m and may be increased by using more powerful lasers. The display is a standard television monitor. The output signal of the opto-electronic unit is a standard CCIT. The resolution is 350 TV lines. Stage of Development The device is manufactured using a conventional industrial technology. The complete system includes an external chamber equipped with a pulse light source combined with a control console and a connecting cable. Three modifications of the system are available: for installation on tanks and motor vehicles; for installation on vessels and helicopters; for submarine vision in turbid media at extreme distances. Applications The device for the night vision and for the vision in the difficult conditions ("SEA LYNX" family) is intended for cars, helicopters, tanks, vessels and submarines. The device is the most efficient for applications in which conventional radars are unable to cope with their tasks because they lead to an extremely large error at short distances, for example: ship navigation; tanks guidance; helicopters navigation. It can be also used in security observation systems or in instruments for hidden observation. The system can be used in conjunction with other navigation or radar equipment. Novelty and Advantages Unlike any analogous devices, the described system is feasible for observation: in the night darkness; in turbid and opaque media; in the bushes and thickets; in the mist, snowfall and smoke. It is possible to detect an object even in the full darkness.