FINAL REPORT FOR AERIAL EQUIPMENT PROGRAM UNDER SC 21-54
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CIA-RDP66B00762R000100200001-1
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1
Case Number:
Publication Date:
August 20, 1959
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REPORT
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1
FINAL REPORT
for
AERIAL EQUIPMENT PROGRAM
under
SC 21-54
STATINTL
Copy No.
STATINTL
Contributing Authors:
STATINTL
4
Report No. 5490
August 20, 1959
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1
Title Page
I. INTRODUCTION . . ? ? . ? . ? ? ? . . . . ? 1* ? ? ... ? 1* . ? ? 1
II. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES . .. . . . . . . . . . 2
III. GENERAL HISTORY* ? ? e ? . e ? ? . e 6
IV. GENERAL EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . 8
V. DESCRIPTION OF EQUIPMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ? . 11
A. panoramic Camera System . ? . . . . . 11
1. MK I Tracking Camera . . . . 11
2. MK I-A Tracking Camara, 17
B. Viewing and Control;. Sysew.~ . ., ?. ?.. ... 19
L. Hand Contro,11*, 21i
2.., Memory Unit. . , ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? e ? ? ? ? ? 24
3. Driftsight ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ? ? . 26
C. Optical Systems for, the Camera Configurations . . . . . . 28
1. System for A Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . 28
2. System for B Configuration. . . ? ? . . ? ? ? ? . 31
3.. System for C Configuration. . ? . . . . . ? . . . 33
4. Windows ? ? ? . ? ? ? ? ? ? ? . ? ? ? ? ? . e . . 36
D. Significant Au" ;Nary Equipment . . . . . . . . . , . 37
VI? CONCLUSIONS* . . . . 43
VII. APPENDIX . s o ? 46
A. List of Pertinent Publications. . ? . . . . . ? ? ? ? ? . 46
Engineering Report No. 5490 Y?
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LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
Title Page
I. PANORAMIC CAMERA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12
II. PANORAMIC CAMERA - ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL COMPONENTS. . . . .
13
III. PANORAMIC CAMERA - FILM COMPARTMENT- ? ? ? . . ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?
15
IV. PANORAMIC CAMERA - FILM FORMAT
16
V. PANORAMIC CAMERA - SCANNING DIRECT AND LIMITS . . . . . . . . ..
18
VI. VIEWING AND CONTROL SYSTEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . ; . . . . .
20
VII. HAND CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22
VIII. MEMORY UNIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25
IX. DRIFTSIGHT . . . . . .
27
X. 24" f/8 LENS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
29
XI. 36" f/10 LENS . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . .
32
XII. C SYSTEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 011000 , 0 . .
34
XIII. OPTICAL ARRANGEMENT, COLLIMATOR . . . .
39
XIV. 100" COLLIMATOR. . . . . . . .
41
XV0 300" COLLIMATOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
42
Engineering Report No. 5490
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I. INTRODUCTION
1
This report is a brief summary of the activities carried
out by The Perkin-Elmer Corporation in its participation in the Aerial
Equipment Program under SC 21-54. It presents the primary objective of
this activity, gives the historical developments, and describes the
equipment supplied by this corporation. Technical advancements which
resulted are also discussed.
Engineering Report No. 5490
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II. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
This firm was delegated certain areas of responsibility in optical
instrumentation. The primary purpose of this optical instrumentation was to
supply photographic reconnaissance equipment for high altitude surveillance.
The time urgency of producing operational equipment had a major influence
in determining the philosophy and method of approach. The philosophy was
to obtain an operational capability at the earliest possible time and with
the utmost security. This operational capability was to include equipment
which would give maximum performance possible for the surveillance mission.
It was apparent that the vehicle for the mission would be available consider-
ably in advance of the more sophisticated optical systems required for it-he
ultimate capability. These considerations formed the basis for a decision
to supply several equipment packages,.each of which was to be a definite
improvement over the preceding one.
The first equipment package, which may be considered Phase I. was
based on an effort to obtain an immediate reconnaissance capability. It
consisted of modifying existing equipment available to give improved per-
formance.
It was obvious at the outset that existing photographic equipment,
1
'even with a judicious amount of carefully executed optical refinement, would
not be capable of achieving the performance levels that could be accomplished
by equipment designed and manufactured specifically for this intended mission.
That recognition led to the formation of Phase II, Phase II consisted of a
program to design and manufacture optics which would replace the optics used
in Phase I.
Phase II, however, was also an intermediate step. It did not
Engineering Report No. 5490
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represent the maximum general reconnais ance performance desired. To obtain
maximum general reconnaissance capability, it was felt-that equipment would
have to be designed for this specific mission. It was obvious that the
achievement of such an objective would require more time than that allowed
for the previous phases. Therefo , it was decided that specific new equip-
ment would be developed concurrez # ,with the other phases. This program
constituted Phase III. The resultijg.equipment would eventually replace
the Phase I and II units for general.,Yreconnaissance use.
Finally, Phase IV would catst of equipment whose use would be
highly specialized. It was envi,s#ned that equipment built under this phase
might well have to advance the state of the art to perform the specialized
function. To advance the state of the art, new auxiliary equipment was
necessary and had to be constructed to make a complete operational unit.
Moreover, the design and manufacture of this equipmen=t had to be undertaken
on a crash schedule.
Equipment built under this phase would be used for special re-
connaissance missions based on information from Phase III equipment. It
was felt that in this way both requirements, that of immediate availability
and that of maximum capability, could best be accomplished.
The tables on the following two pages describe the equipment and
coverage intended for these phases.. The Al Configuration satisfied Phase It
the A2 Configuration corresponded to Phase II, Phase III was initiated with
the B Configuration, and it was the purpose of the C Configuration to pro-
vide Phase IV.
Engineering Report No, 5490 3.
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III. GENERAL HISTORY
To achieve these objectives within the security requirements, an
organization tailored to serve this program was necessary. When the nature
of the task is considered and the difficulties under which the program was
undertaken (short delivery and rigid:. security restrictions) are recognized,
the magnitude of the job of liaison becomes apparent.
Perkin-Elmer was given primary responsibility for a major portion
of the Aerial Equipment Program. In January, .1955, this Corporation formed
a separate division which became known as the Projector Division. Facilities
were located in an office in Stamford, Connecticut, apart from the main head-
quarters,and facilities of the parent Corporation, and
Vice President of the Corporation, took personal responsibility for the STATINTL
Projector Project. To safeguard the high security aspects of the program,
the staff of this office was kept to a minimum.
The primary functions.of the Projector Office were controlling,
defining, scheduling, coordinating, expediting, and integrating the various
phases of the program. Customer contact was made through this office be-
ginning February, 1955.
The office was fully protected and equipped with private, monitored
'-telephone lines. The method followed was to conduct business on an informal
and personal basis; on this basis to convey all essential information with-
out revelation of the program, its purpose, or other secure information.
The prime contract with the customer was subdivided by this office
to contracts with various subcontractors (some of which were specified by the
customer), and with Perkin-Elmer. Throughout the program, suppliers' meet-
ings aided in detailing project planning, served to coordinate broad planning
efforts of the various contractors, and helped solve many of the current
En_inecring Report No. 5490 6.
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problems.
A facility, known as Plant No. 9, was established in Pasadena,
California, in which a subcontractor carried on its portion of the program.
As the program progressed, a test site was established by the customer, to
serve as a facility at which the equipment could be tested.
STATINTL Close coordination with of SPICA made it possible
to manufacture optics from design data within the shortest possible lead
times. SPICA, under subcontract to Perkin-Elmer, was responsible for the
design of the new optical systems which were used in the program. Besides
design and performance specifications themselves, the scope of the sub-
contract included some supervision of the construction of the lenses and
cameras to insure that design specifications would be met.
Frequently technical problems , arose.whiLch, !Lt appeared, were cer-
tain to result in compromise of capability or delay. However, by careful
analysis and diligent effort, the philosophy originally laid out was main-
tained throughout the program.
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IV. GENERAL EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
The entire photo reconnaissance system equipment was planned and
tailored to meet the needs of the mission. Mission requirements made it
essential to:
(a.). Obtain a continuous photographic recording which would give
(be
1
maximum, high quality coverage of the general area being
surveyed. To satisfy the requirements for monitoring the
mission, a panoramic tracking camera was designed and de-
livered.
Provide a means for an operator to visually observe this
area and equip that operator with a means of pointing
special photographic equipment. To satisfy the require-
ments for operator viewing and control, a periscope-type`
viewer, hand control device, and memory-computer device
were designed and delivered.
(c.) Provide a number of camera configurations for the survey
and spotting functions. To satisfy the need for high
acuity photo reconnaissance, four camera configurations
were developed. These were known as the Al, A2, B and C
Configurations.
It was also necessary to test and maintain the equipment-in-plant
and in the field. For this purpose, special support equipment was also
necessary. This equipment was considered in two groups: factory develop-
ment and test equipment, and field test and support equipment.
Contrary to the philosophy of most contracts, in which equipment
designed is finally turned over to the using agency, the equipment under
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this program was designed to be operated and/or serviced by specially
trained factory personnel. A separate program was established to permit
proper training of personnel while the equipment was being manufactured.
This approach resulted in a considerable saving of time in providing oper-
ational equipment and also maintaining high reliability in the use of this
equipment.
The following chart lists the specific equipment assigned to
Perkin-Elmer, and describes the sub-contracting organization.
This report does not discuss the mechanical aspects of the A, B,
and C Configurations, which are included in the final report submitted to
the Government by Hycon Mfg. Co.
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V. DESCRIPTION OF EQUIPMENT
A. Panoramic Camera System
(Fig. No's. I, II, III, IV and V)
1. Mark I Tracking Camera
It was clear at the inception of this program that a panoramic
monitor would be needed to photographically record the flight path. A pri-
mary requirement was to provide a camera of high image quality to give hor-
,izon-to-horizon coverage with 60% overlap of the entire flight path. A
further requirement was to provide entirely automatic operation.
The resulting panoramic camera, often referred to as the Data
Camera or Tracking Camera, proved to be a very useful and important instru-
ment. The unit employed scanning principles to obtain successive 180?.pan-
oramic photographs and had the capability of a 607. stereo overlap. It was
fully automatic in operation and had a film capacity large enough to provide
horizon-to-horizon photographic coverage for a complete mission. Completely
self contained and requiring only a 28- volt dc power source, it weighed less
than 53 pounds fully loaded. No special accessories were needed; image motion
compensators, intervalometers, aperture controls and other devices necessary
to obtain sharp, clear images were built into the instrument. The entire
.field was scanned through a small 5-inch diameter dome. The resulting photo-
graph, on 70mm film, had a 2.47 by 9.425-inch format. Data presentation which
appeared on each frame consisted of a level and time indicator.
Under close Perkin-Elmer direction throughout the course of the
contract, a portion of the design (in details only) plus drafting, manufactur-
ing, assembly, and teat was, subcontracted to DACO Instrument Company. A
rigid delivery schedule was established with DACO which was satisfactory to
the program.
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1. Access Cover for Change Gears 4. Dry Gas Supply Hose Connection
2. Desiccator 5. Vacuum Pump Hose Connection
3. Receptacle
Figure I. Mark IA Tracking Camera, Showing Forward Cover
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Thermal Relay (H802, H803)
6.
Metering Solenoid (L804)
2.
Relay (K811)
7.
Scan Solenoid
3.
Relay (K810)
8.
Take -up Clutch
4.
Latching Relay (K812)
9.
Drive Shaft for Programmer
Mechanism
5.
Aperture Programmer Gear
Assembly
10.
Metering Cam Switch (S806)
Figure U. View of Camera Showing Electrical
and Mechanical Components
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problems:
(a.) The rigid delivery schedule did not allow enough
time for thorough prototype debugging tests prior
to operation, and
(b.) due to the necessary security measures, project
engineers who designed the equipment did not have
cognizance of the ultimate end-use of the equip-
ment. This lack of end-use knowledge resulted in
slight over-design in some functions of the camera.
The degree to which these problem areas were anticipated is
questionable. The fact is that the lack of thorough prototype debugging
resulted in specific and definite problems which appeared later in the pro-
gram.
One prototype and 20 production units were built and supplied
to the field. Ater the units had beie;AJx{ the figl, for some time, it be-
came apparent to field engineers that certain minor changes could be made
in the field to improve operation and better serve the end-use.. It was
found, for example, that bushings in the scan prism mechanism had become
worn and had to be replaced (by a factory representative) with a more last-
ing type of bushing. Banding occurred and resilient couplings in the drive
mechanism were incorporated to absorb vibrations which were contributing to
banding.
It should be made clear that since this was a new, uncon-
ventional and highly secretive application, a number of unknowns would be
introduced into the problem and that these unknowns might seriously. affect
the performance of the equipment. Decisions, however, had to be made, and
it is a recognized fact that these decisions did affect equipment performance,
both favorably and adversely. In some instances these decisions forced a
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1.
Brake Tension Adjustment
4.
Retracting Lever
2.
Clock Dimmer (R830)
S.
Filter Selector
3.
Aperture Cam
6.
Sprocket Gate
Figure UI. Film Compartment of Camera With Film and
Spools Removed
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RIGHT HORIZON
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breakthrough in the state of the art and resulted in performance far above
expectations.
In other instances these decisions caused results which re-
quired corrective action. With regard to the panoramic tracking camera,
for example, a decision was made to incorporate an integrating type system
for the automatic control apparatus. This decision was based upon an assump-
tion of environmental conditions, and while it was a logical. decision, it
was wrong. Because the automatic exposure system was an integrating system,
it was influenced by underlying cloud cover and, therefore, did not give
satisfactory results. Until it was possible to make a major overhaul, of the
cameras (for a period of approximately two years) it was necessary to oper-
ate the cameras with fixed slit aperture. Fortunately, the camera was de-
signed to provide this alternate method of operation.
Some method of exposure control was desirable. However, limited
field facilities did not permit incorporation of an alternate system into
the camera. The first opportunity to make this conversion presented itself
in the spring of 1958. A retrofit program was then undertaken. During this
retrofit program changes were made in the camera, converting the Mark I
cameras to what was then designated as the Mark IA.
2. Mark IA Tracking Camera
Mark I cameras in the field were returned to the factory in
1958 on a scheduled basis, overhauled and tested, and returned to the field.
By returning only a few cameras at a time for modification, the customer was
assured of having tracking camera capability in the field at all times.
The program had two purposes; that of overhauling the Mark I
cameras which had by then accumulated a great number of hours of use, and
that of incorporating into these cameras those changes which would make them
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Figure . V, Scanning Direction and Limits
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functionally more reliable or equip them for improved performance.
A pre-programmed cam-activated exposure control was designed and
installed, to provide a suitable exposure control for the mission. The IMC
capability of the camera, which was found to be unnecessary for this partic-
ular mission, was removed. Stray light was a problem, and prism masks were
added to prevent stray light effects, Moreover, it was realized that the
operation could be improved by changing the electrical wiring, and several
wiring changes were incorporated. Circuit changes were made and the substi-
tution of improved sealed relays were added.
While the. overhauled Mark IA cameras were being tested (and in
some instances after they were deployed into the field), several malfunctions
developed which required field retrofit programs to correct, Again, this
was due to a debugging time limitation. Improvements in the metering mechan-
isms insured more positive c1 i$~ a~Ct~i,7on,r cl,,Mgher. duty switches and re-
sistors were installed to reduce arcing and welding of contacts.
The Mark IA modification program added many hours of reliable
operation to the equipment, and incorporated features to improve performance.
Although a statistical study has never been undertaken to determine the actual
resolution of either the Mark I or Mark II units, it is estimated that performancs
between 25 to 45 lines per mm AWAR has been recorded on film. The resolution
levels obtained were affected by atmospheric conditions, image contrast, and
similar variables.
B. Viewing and Control System
(Fig. No. VI)
To make the reconnaissance system effective, it was necessary to
(1) equip the operator with a viewing device to observe the terrain and areas
of general interest over which he was operating and (2) to equip him with a
control device to control the various modes of operation of the different
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or B configurations) the original plan was to provide two different hand
control units' The first hand control, which would be employed with either
the A or B con#igurations,was to be a relatively simple device, Basically
it would permit a selection of the various modes of operation of these con-
more of a problem. Due to the difference in complexity of the control
functions (the C configuration required a more complex control than the
Camara configurations,
The need for a viewing device was readily solved by developing a
suitable scanning periscope. The need for a control unit, however, proved
figurations, as well as direct the line of sight of a periscope type viewing
The second and more complicated hand control for the C configur-
ation was to provide V/H information, a correction for drift, and a com-
puter, The computer would, in effect, be a memory unit which would enable
the operator to pre-select targets of interest observed through the driftm
sight and store this target information in the computer., When the vehicle
wee in an optimum position.for photography, operation of-the C configuration
spotting cameras would be automatically initiated.
To be consistent with the number of C configurations anticipated,
it was envisioned that six of the more complicated hand controls would be
required. After careful consideration of scheduling and production diffi-
culties, it was decided to produce only that hand control which would have
full system capability. The computer mechanism ?a separate unit - would
simply not be attached to the hand control with either A or B configuration..
1. Hand Control (Fig. No. VII)
The Hand Control itself was an electromechanical device which
provided basic control of the periscope viewing mechanism and also delivered
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06
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information to and partially controlled the equipment configurations, as
indicated earlier. It was a panel mounted tracking control consisting
primarily of a number of gear drive mechanisms and electrical components.
It was equipped with both a master ON-OFF switch for energising related
equipment in the over-all system and an OFF-STANDBY-MODS selector switch
for turning the automatic tracking feature off, placing it on standby,
selecting any one of three modes of operation. A control handle on tha
unit provided direct azimuth and elevation control of the periscope line of
eight, and a switch permitted changing power (magnification) of the peri-
scope by electrical drive, Adjustments for V/H and for correction of drift
were included, as well as a storage switch for energizing the Mowry Unit
when attached. Finally, several teat lamps for fault-proof checking of
related equipment were incorporated in the device.
The problem areas which arose were somewhat representative
of those encountered in other hardware areas by prime and sub-contractors
alike. The design of the Hand Control, for example, was handled by Parkin-
Elmer and the manufacturing sub-contracted to H. O. Boer Company. Saba,ul-,
Lag permitted only limited testing and, in general, functional operation was
good. When placed in the final operational environments however, several
.problem arose arose, High cable friction in the connecting cables botwee
Driftsight and Hand Control resulted from the unusually cold environment,
and it was necessary to reroute the connecting cables and substitute re
suitable (dry molykote impregnated) cables for the final operation envir
ment. Failures of the protective rubber boot became frequent due to sensi-
tivity. of the rubber to the, ozone environment, During retrofit program the
boots were replaced with specially dipped neoprene ones,
Another significant problem was the fact that production unite
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to pr
lacked adequate means for accurate b?resighting due to the lack ?f know-
ledge during the design stage of the difgicultiesr of ccc srs to the equip-
ment when installed) in the vehicle. A subsequent ratrrofit program made it
possible to incorporate a cone-clutch coupling for accurate, convenient,
boresighting of those Hand Controls to be ussrc d With the C configuration.
1,) Memory Unit
(Figs No,) VIII)
One of the requirements of the viewing and control Oyeteaaa W@ O
o
vide a merry .capability to be used in conjunction with the C? con-
figuration. It was the purpose of this memory system to provide a mean
of storing information an the position of the object tracked, and to signal
the time at which the object crossed a predetermined position. Since the
object, vehicle, or both might be moving at some velocity, and since tlai?r
equipment delivers the signal to related equipmeant? allowance was made for
lead angle and anticipation of the required signal.
These functions were accomplished by recording the angular
position C4_' (1) of the object, a particular value ?f tangent , (2) and
@ubtracting that from the V/L of speed altitude ratio until the time when
the difference between tangent and V/H is zero,) At that time n signal
s delivered to indicate that the object had reached the predetermined po-
eitiono The lead angle was preset into the wait (before use) to pr ide the
anticipation required to prepare other equipment for the final ei 1,)
The memory-co
titer unit was mounted) directly below the lend!
Control from which it received directional information. It eras a coding
device combining both computing and storage functions in a single unit,) Xt
employed the syncopic coding principle, converting information from s f?
rotations to pin positions,) It was able to store and read-out inf?r radon with
~1) Cc represents the angle in a lateral plane perpendicularf
to the direction of flight.
(2) represents the forward angle as measured from t ho Nadir,)
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an accuracy of about plus or minus .25% of full scale.
Unfortunately, the C configuration was not operational for
this program and therefore the Memory Unit did not have the opportunity
to provide its intended function.
3. Drif tsight
(Fig. No No. IX)
The periscope-type viewing device was designed to permit the
operator to see beneath the vehicle as well as to acquire targets. The
periscope, which later became known as the Driftsight, was an in-line track-
ing device equipped with a dual prism scanning head and display type eyepiece.
Scanning in azimuth and elevation.was accomplished by a dome-protected ro-
tatable scanning prism at the objective end of the optical system. Cables
from the Hand Control provided manual control for azimuth and elevation
scanning. By proper calibration with the Hand Control azimuth and elevation
coordinates of a selected target could be determined.
A power changer, increasing the power and reducing the field
was incorporated. During the change in magnification, the image always re-
mained in focus. The power selector was mounted on the Hand Control panted.
As mentioned earlier, one of the requirements was to use the
Periscope in conjunction with the Hand Control to determine velocity/height
'(V/H) rates as well as drift, V/H rate determinations were made by adjust-
ing the elevation scan rate of the periscope's scanning head until?& viewed
target did not move with respect to a reticle in the periscope. Direct
calibration of the scan rate adjustment permitted determination of the V/
ratio. Drift determination was accomplished by rotating the scanning head
to compensate for a horizontal or diagonal movement of the target with re-
spect to a fixed reference.
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Design considerations of the periscope were to make It eo
lightweight as possible, thoroughly reliable and eaoily installed,, Theoe
requirements were met by the use of plastic lenses where possible, by i
oration of detachable sections for easy installation, and by use of
mechanical linkages instead of servo motors to provide ocannning contr61
from the Hand Control. One of the early operational problem of the DriftoigI'at
was fogging of the dome. This was eventually rectified with the
loym@r t
of pre-purified nitrogen as a desiccant and a rather sophisticated desiccat,mtg
procedure.
In retrospect the design of the unit could have better facil-
itated installation and maintenance if the designers had been made knowledge-
able of the environment. In particular,. accommodations would have been pro-
vided fora ready detachment of the eyepiece knuckle ton facili,ta.ts ,nstrltl-
ation, and replacement of the power changer rotor for maintenance mnnld have
been made possible without ,removing the instrument from the vehicle.
Early optics manufactured presented a blurred line across thce
field where the scanning prisms were cemented back cc back, and a fairly
prominent line where the elements of the roof mirror were cemented together,,
crests eventually were all replaced to minimise these diotxaction@o
In addition, modification of the reticle provided a crow?o foot at the cceantcer
C. The Optical Systems of the Camera Configurations
1. System for,A Confi?yration (pig. No. x)
To accomplish the initial objective of getting coma cequipmont
available in the shortest possible time, a quantity of lenses were euppliQd
to Perkin-Elmer for refinement. The lenses were intendeed for uoe in the A
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FXG? X. 24`0 f/8 LENS
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configuar ation. the first to ba received %varre a gunarsntii:y @:Z sizz 24?A 9/6
Bausch and Lomb lenses. Because the coatings were of bs&so and ware an-
timely too heavy for the purpose they were discarded almost immediately.
Almost simultaneously a quantity of about 60 }pacific
any 2400
f/6 lenses were provided. Under Dr. Bakerr?s direction these lenses were
evaluated and reworked. Preliminary examination showed that all the lensea
suffered inaccurate centering to some degree, making it Madeseary to rreq
work the cells. After this action, a program of rreasp accing various ale
ments and modifying the radii of two of the curves ways initiated. These
modifications resulted in a disappointingly small improvement In perform-
ance. A further modification was the application of an aspharic figure to
one of these surfaces in order to maximize the on-axis pcsrformance. The
improvement was considerable, bringing the resolving power from about 28
lines per millimeter up to about 48 lines per millimeter in the immediate
vicinity of the center of the field. The changes at larger field angles,
however, was exceedingly small. A final modification program was initiated
to modify the lens to improve the field perrforrmanceo These modifications
were performed on a prototypes basis. When sufficient
izeda production began on the quantity of 60.
Concurrent with the stopgap program of reworking the 2410
f/6 (Pacific optical) lenses, a program was established far producing an
entirely new lens (phase 11). Based on Dr. Bakerr? s designs a prototype of
a 24" focal length and f/8 aperture lens was built. After considerable
testing and some modification, the protot
e wr4a@ found to be acceptable. At
this point the new lens was placed in production and the reworking of the
pacific optical lenses wee halted. (About 40 Pacific
completed by that time). A program of field replacement of the pacific
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lenses was then introduced.
A quantity of red and yellow filters to be used with the 2400
lenses were also supplied. These were examined and filters which would not
reduce the resolution capability of the lane were selected. Unfortunattely,
it was found that there were not enough filters of sufficient quality to
compliment the quantity of lenses being produced. A@ a results additional
filters had to be manufactured.
2. System for B Configuration (Fig. No. XI)
A lens design was originated by Dr. Baker which was to be used
in the unit known as the B Configuration (Phase 111). This was a 3600 focal
length f/10 lens. As the design became available, glass was ordered and
the unit was placed in production. Six units were originally planned, Dur-
ing the production phase some problems with the shutter developed by Iiycon
arose and a new drawer-shutter was developed. It was decided that this new
drawer-shutter should be incorporated. This, in turn, required the pro-
duction of new castings to accommodate the new shutter.
Filters also caused difficulty. A yellow filter was necessary
and a dichroic coating was placed on the inner surfaces of a 36" lane to
provide the yellow filter. Due to certain technical reasons, difficulty was
encountered in selecting an appropriate coating. A requirement later aroso
for a red filter, and it was necessary to add a glass filter, in.conj nctio
with the existing dichroic coating to produce an equivalent red. Due to
clearance problems these glass filters had to be made thinner than was desiro
able.
The design of the 36" f/10 lens required its use with a light-
weight elliptically shaped mirror. Due to the extremely tight tolerances,
production of this mirror was very difficult. Considerable engineering was
required before a satisfactory mirror was produced.
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FIG. XL 36?? f/1? LENS
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3. System for the C Configuration (Fig. No. XII)
The requirement for an optical system such as the "C" Config-
uration was based upon the need for a reconnaissance spotting system which
would record specific targets and obtain maximum detailed information. It
was envisioned that such a system would be used on missions which were
planned on the basis of information gained by previous missions with other
configurations. The original design and concepts of the "C" Configuration
contained more sophisticated thinking and advancement in current technolo-
gies than any of the other configurations, and required a substantial ad-
vancement in the state of the art.
Original planning envisioned a camera with a long focal length
optical system, IMC, magazine for 5,300 ft. of 3 mil film for 18 x 18 inch
format, center of gravity mount for inertia stabilization, drive for ob-
lique scan, a min-vib unit, an automatic exposure control, and a capability
for several modes of operation.
During the first year of work on the "C" Configuration, the
original configuration changed several times. Originally it was planned as,
a 200-inch re-imaging system with 18.x 18 inch format. It became evident
that because of space limitations this focal length was impractical, and-was
changed to a 144-inch focal length system. Optical considerations dictated
the next change, to a 120-inch re-imaging system. The final dimensions of
180-inch focal length, and 13 x 13 inch format were based on the primary
need for maximum foci" length. A"SKEW-Z" optical configuration was decided
upon in order to make maximum use of the available space.
As originally planned, the configuration was designed with
three modes of operation. In mode 1, the spotting mode, objects of interest
could be selected by the operator of the periscope. This selection could be
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made ahead of the lateral plane of the aircraft. By pushing a button, the
operator could store the desired object so that a burst of pictures would
automatically be initiated when the selected object reached the lateral
plane of the vehicle. A burst of six pictures with 60% overlap in the later-
al direction resulted, Mode It, run away mode, permitted the camera to take
photographs continuously from a fixed oblique angle position equal to the
oblique angle of the periscope line of sight. In Mode III, alternating
mode, the operation is similar to that of Mode II, except that the camera
is cycled in oblique angle to provide 10% overlap in the lateral plane.
Thus, the coverage along the line of sight track is the same as in Mode II
but the area is wider by a factor of 1.9.
work progressed at Perkin-Elmer facility from designs delivered by Dr. Bakere
The first :production camera was completed in October 1956,
Flight tests of this initial unit revealed several areas which
required further work, Essentially, performance of this initial system
Under Perkin-Elmer engineering liaison, Hycon designed and
constructed the hardware for six configurations. At the same time,, optical
indicated that results were far below design expectations, The programs
which followed this initial investigation were all aimed at improving the
resulting performance of the system. Certain design concepts were changed,
optical quality was improved, although it was recognized that such factors
as vibration were certain to cause image degradation.
Although many of the concepts used in the configuration were
advancements in the state of the art, there were also occasions where ill-
conceived designs were incorporated. During the various programs that occurred
after the original unit was built, attempts were made to improve performance.
New optics systems were made, new and modified components were installed, and
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various changes were incorporated. Unfortunately, these attempts did not
seen to meet the degree of improvement desired, Based upon the relatives
unsuccessful efforts to improve the system and based upon considerations
of customer requirements, support for the ?'CB? Configuration was terminated
in the spring of 1955.
4. Windows
With. the exception of the Data Camera and the periscope which
had their own protruding dome, all the other optical configurations needed
windows in the equipment bay. Since an attempt was being made to obtain
maximum resolution from each of the optical systems, it was imperative that
the widows be of sufficiently high quality to avoid degrading the ultimate
image. Thus, the design and construction of appropriate windows became more
than a simple hardware problem.
Eight different sizes and shapes of windows were required.
Because of the atmosphere and environment in which they were working, a study
had to be undertaken to determine necessary window strength. Preliminary de-
sign included extensive tests to establish strength of glass on a statistical,
basism and develop strength equations for designs.. Production included 100%
strength testing by hydrostatic pressure to insure that the windows were
flawless and not subject to breakage. optical requirements were held to strict
pre-determined tolerances. The resulting window designs proved very satis-
factory in use and pressure blowout or bre kage never occurred.
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D. Significant Auxiliary Equipment
1. Electronic Image Evaluator
In searching for a more accurate indication of lens quality a
concept long familiar to communication engineers was suggested whereby a
"transmission factor" is determined for each lens. This factor is the measure
of the amount of information transmitted by the lens when imaging a lined
pattern whose brightness varies harmonically across it. It is determined
by dividing the amplitude of the sinusoid ally varying brightness in the image
by that in the object. A plot of this factor as a function of number of lines
per millimeter in the pattern is highly informative, It provides information
on the performance expected by the lens when imaging specific targets.
To be able to select and test the best possible reconnaissance
lenses to be used with this program, a lens testing instrument based on these
principles was built. In this instrument, a contrast transmission curve is
obtained by analyzing electronically for the Fourier components of a period-
ically scanned slit image. This system presented advantages over the use of
multiple slits in that data on almost all lined frequencies could be obtained
using a single slit and a nutating mirror to scan its image across an exit
slit.
Use of this instrument proved that there was unquestionably more
useful information available from contrast transmission curves than from the
standard resolution charts. The information presented was also more direct.
The instrument was used successfully in selecting and evaluating
the performance of the 24 and 36 inch lenses, and in evaluating the effects
of various modifications on these lenses.
2. Rotating Light Time Equipment (ROLIT)
Since the program was concerned with developing a series of
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cameras which would give optimum performance, a system had to be developed
which would adequately test the various functions of the different units.
In addition to the standard type of ground tests usually employed on aerial
reconnaissance cameras, it was proposed that certain in-flight testing be
provided. In order to accomplish this an assembly of equipment known as the
"rotating light time equipment" was built.
This equipment consisted of a rotating 12 sided mirror which
sequentially reflected light to a line of 81 reflecting mirrors located on
posts on the ground. These mirrors reflected the light skywards. In this
manner, the equipment provided a string of blinking lights on the ground for
use by airborne aerial cameras. The spacing sequence and rate of blinking
was accurately known, thus providing a time and space standard. If a camera
exposure was made of the blinking lights the developed negative yielded an
accurate record of shutter speed, accuracy of I.M.C. and motion.
There were relatively-few problems in building and installing
this equipment. The major difficulty was in obtaining a light source of
sufficient intensity. Even though the installation was accomplished, due
to other technical difficulties with the equipment and the urgency of delivery,
the equipment found very limited use.
It is felt that this type of test equipment is a sophisticated
approach which will find great use in future programs.
3. Test Collimators (Fig, No's. XIII, XIV and XV)
In order to test the different optical configurations two types
of collimating devices were designed and constructed. Both collimators were
essentially the same except for focal length and aperture. One was a 100"
f/25 system, while the other was a 300" f/27 system. The collimator design
employed an off-axis optical system to contain the folded optical path. The
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collimator head contained a light source, various pin-holes and resolution
targets, as well as a viewing eyepiece and attachment for a 'Land Camera,
A scanning mirror was located at the objective end of the collimator to direct
the collimated bundle either into the equipment being tested or back into
the collimator head. Each collimator was mounted on a base which had adjust-
ments necessary to facilitate its use.
Both collimators were used extensively in the field. The 300"
collimator was limited mainly to use with the "C" Configuration. It was found
that the 300" collimator, being of such long focal length, was very sensitive
to such degrading influences as vibration and thermal gradients. Extreme
precautions had to be taken when it was used so that its effects were not
misconstrued to be that of the optical system under test.
Less sensitive to vibration and thermal effects, the 10011 a'
proved to be very versatile and useful in testing the A and B configurations.
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VI. CONCLUSIONS
1
1
The program was quite successful, and this can be attributed to three
considerations:
1. The contracting organisation engendered maximum application of tech-
nical talents by permitting the suppliers great freedom in technical
decisions and choice of subcontractors, and encouraging close liaison
among the suppliers. In addition, the contracting organisation was
at all times receptive to imaginative approaches to technical problems,
fully appreciative that advancements in the state of the art were
necessary to preserve the intention of the program.
2. The concept of a completely compatible photographic reconnaissance
system, designed from its inception for a particular set of conditions,
as opposed to the more usual assemblage of universal components, has
markedly increased the ability to obtain maximum information for a
specific type of mission. This is best exemplified by the fact that
optics design was predicated on detection of medium and low contrast
objects; not the high contrasts usually employed as design bases, which
.are not found under actual flight conditions. Optics designs were
tempered by considerations of parameters of films which would be avail-
able, Films were tailored to obtain maximum compatibility with the image
forming system. Mechanical structures were designed with stabilisation
requirements, vibration frequencies and levels, and witk performance
goals in mind.
3. The services of manufacturers' field engineers. were exclusively employed
for maintenance and operation. These field services were in close liaison
with the continuing product improvement programs maintained by the aanu-
facturers. The field activities included periodic visits by high level
technical support groups.
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The results have been impressive. Embodied in the equipment of
this program are several technical advancements, numerous functional improve-
ments as well as examples of the application of unique techniques and philoso-
phies which contributed to advancements to the state of the art of aerial re-
connaissance. Performance levels of modified standard equipment in the Al
Configuration have nearly doubled. The A2, employing a modified standard
camera,but special optics,has increased performance capability even more.
The B Configuration, employing the new philosophy of object space scanning,
obtained consistent resolution levels far in excess to any obtained with
standard equipment of equivalent focal length, and,thus introduced a new
reconnaissance technique. The Panoramic Camera virtually out-performed and
obsoleted the tri-metrigon system for aerial reconnaissance where space, weight
and reliability were considerations.
Although the termination of the C Configuration did not provide
the ultimate"spotting operation" desired, the system nevertheless developed
four advanced design features: (1.) a reimaging projection system, (2.) a
center of gravity support, (3.) object space scanning, and (4.) lightweight
reflecting optics. During tests this configuration produced results which
yielded more information than any other known photographic reconnaissance
camera.
The capability of target storage, as embodied in Mode I operation
of the C Configuration successfully demonstrated a new and impressive capa-
bility which could be incorporated in other reconnaissance systems. The
Memory Unit itself represents an advance in the state of the art as a mechan-
ical mechanism capable of reliably performing its functions, yet being at
the same time lightweight and compact.
In order to be able to comprehensively evaluate design and perform-
ance characteristics of the optics, new evaluation techniques had to be de-
veloped which would yield more information than the standard resolution tests.
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The image evaluator which resulted has led to concepts which are now finding
wide interest in the industry and which promise to become standard tools of
the trade.
Acute weight considerations led to the use of ribbed construction
of high quality optical mirrors in the B and C Configurations. The lightweight
construction of the mirrors in these systems showed that such a philosophy was
practical.
Additionally, more sophisticated testing and handling techniques
were developed which permitted a more comprehensive knowledge of equipment
capabilities so necessary to maintaining the equipment at maximum operating
conditions.
In conclusion, the prime factor in the success of this program was
the integration of vehicle and equipment performances. All vehicle functions
were designed to accommodate the specific mission, and all reconnaissance
equipment considered both mission and vehicle characteristics. This is an
ideal, but unfortunately rare, consideration and this organization is most
pleased to have participated in this enterprise,
' Engineering Report No. 5490
Approved For Release 2000/04/11 : CIA-RDP66B00762R000100200001-1 4g?
Approved For Release 2000/04/11 : CIA-RDP66B00762R000100200001-1
APPENDIX
LIST OF PERTINENT PUBLICATIONS
Publication Number
151-1374
522-0026
152-1571
Description
Instruction Manual for Model 151 Tracking
Camera and Test Equipment
Instruction Manual for MK I-A Tracking
Camera and Teat Equipment
Instruction Manual for Model 152 Hand
Control and Periscope, Model 153 Memory
Computer and Junction Box, and Test-Equip-
sent
162-1235 Inatruction,Manual for Model 162 100-inch
f/25 Auto-Collimator
162-1236 Instruction Manual for Model 162 300-inch
f/25AAuto-Collimator
Final Engineering Report - Aerial Survey.
ing Equipment Program, by Rycon Manufactur-
ing Company
Summary Test Report 73-C Configuration -
Approximately April 1958, by Rycon Manu-
facturing Company
ApdrFF4s20M4/11 : CIA-RDP66B00762R000100200001-1 46.