1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to a gimbal assembly for an optical imaging system.
2. Background Information
Optical imaging systems can be mounted externally to an aircraft for detection and targeting, and can include a structure, such as an optical bed, with associated gimbal drive assemblies. Laser systems with output of the desired wavelength can be used as the illumination or designation source.
Some current imaging systems locate most or all of the optical components within the optical bed, and mount the optical bed on a two axis gimbal, so the entire optical bed is movable. An example of an imaging system for a tracked vehicle which includes both a laser transmitter and a laser receiver mounted to a gimballed support is found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,973,309 (Livingston). U.S. Pat. No. 6,226,125 B1 (Levy), and U.S. Pat. No. 5,936,771 (Cooper), are examples of imaging systems which are contained within a spherical housing which rotates on a gimbal base.