Remote detection of fire sources using an ultraviolet sensor

Abstract

The possibilities of using an on-board ultraviolet (UV-C) sensor in the wavelength range of 250-280 nm for operational detection, determination of the coordinates of fires and guidance of a carrier of fireextinguishing liquid (for example, water) are investigated. The principles of the sensor operation are described, the implementation of which allows to quickly determine the azimuth and angle of sight of the fire in the on-board coordinate system. It is shown that these data, together with the standard data of the onboard Doppler velocity and drift meter (DISS) and altimeter, make it possible to calculate the current range to the fire site, point the aircraft carrier at it and inform the crew about the rational moment to discharge the extinguishing liquid. The capability of the detection system in flight conditions of both flat and uneven terrain is noted. Thus, the complete autonomy of the entire on-board detection system is ensured. The problems of determining the limiting range of fire detection using the on-board sensor in the presence of smoke on the sensing path and the influence of the screening effect of vegetation for the case of forest fires are considered. Calculations of real detection ranges are given that vary from 2.4 to 4.7 km.