Abstract:
A light generation and emission system and method is disclosed. A light generator generates light from a diode at a wavelength between 300 nm and 490 nm. A light beam forming subsystem forms the light to a directional light beam, and a controller that controls and directs the directional light beam to a target. The light generator can be suitably used for aiming, target acquisition, communication, identification, scanning, surveying, tracking, ignition and weapons operation.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/209,303, filed Aug. 12, 2011, titled: “Light Source for Aiming, Target Acquisition, Communication and Tracking;” which in turn claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/410,554, filed on Nov. 5, 2010 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/373,085, filed on Aug. 12, 2010, each of which are incorporated herein in its entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Laser Diodes (LDs) and Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) currently exist in the red, green, and infrared wavelength ranges, and have been used for target acquisition and communications for some time. Most of these colors are very bright and visible by the human eye, which has both positive and negative aspects, as well as being more visible between the source and target. The infrared range cannot be readily detected by the human eye, but requires special equipment to be used. 
         [0003]    However, the near UV spectrum is near the end of the visible color spectrum and has not been used with LDs or LEDs due to visibility and power limitations. The UV range also has the unique properties of the beam being harder to see while also fluorescing the target. This can allow for enhanced covertness, safety, and utility of operation for users of the devices. Diodes (LDs or LEDs) in the UV or near-UV range have historically been too costly to produce or too difficult to control their power. However, what is needed is an LD or LED device for aiming, target acquisition, communication, identification, scanning, surveying, and tracking that is cost-effective and practical with regards to power consumption and producibility. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0004]    This document presents a near-UV or equivalent light source having a wavelength between a range of 300 nm to 490 nm, and in some implementations between 10 nm and 490 nm, and implemented as either a Laser Diode (LD) or Light Emitting Diode (LED). The light source also includes power regulation circuitry, controller software and a batter monitor. The light source and a system employing the light source can optionally use control circuitry and modulation, using digital or analog logic, and software to alter behavior and functionality as well as interfaces for activation and communications. The light source replaces existing devices for aiming, target acquisition, communication, identification, scanning, surveying, tracking, ignition and weapons operation. 
         [0005]    In one aspect, a method is disclosed. The method includes the steps of generating light from a diode, the light being generated at a wavelength between 300 nm to 490 nm. The method further includes forming the light to a directional light beam, and controlling to the directional light beam to direct the directional light beam at a target. The target can be a moving target, a combustion chamber, a weapons trigger, or any other type of target. 
         [0006]    In another aspect, a system includes a light generator that generates light from a diode at a wavelength between 10 nm and 490 nm, a light beam forming subsystem that forms the light to a directional light beam, and a controller that controls and directs the directional light beam to a target. 
         [0007]    In yet another aspect, a light emission system includes a housing having at least one outlet aperture. The housing contains a diode that emits light at a wavelength between 10 nm and 490 nm, a power regulator that provides power to the diode at a specific power level, a controller responsive to input signals for controlling the power regulator to generate the power at the specific power level, and optics for forming and directing the light from the diode into a directional light beam that is output through the outlet aperture. 
         [0008]    The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0009]    These and other aspects will now be described in detail with reference to the following drawings. 
           [0010]      FIG. 1  is a block diagram of a light emission system. 
           [0011]      FIG. 2  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system in accordance with an alternative implementation. 
           [0012]      FIG. 3  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system in accordance with yet another alternative implementation. 
           [0013]      FIG. 4  is a functional block diagram of a light emission and targeting system with feedback sensor. 
           [0014]      FIG. 5  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system for weapons operation in accordance with an alternative implementation. 
           [0015]      FIG. 6  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system for an ignition system in accordance with an alternative implementation. 
           [0016]      FIG. 7  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system for communications, tracking, guidance and signaling, in accordance with an alternative implementation. 
           [0017]      FIG. 8  is a block diagram of a light emission system in accordance with another alternative implementation. 
           [0018]      FIG. 9  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system in accordance with yet another alternative implementation. 
           [0019]      FIG. 10  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system for communications and tracking in accordance with an alternative implementation. 
           [0020]      FIG. 11  is a block diagram of a light emission system for landscape enhancement in accordance with an alternative implementation. 
           [0021]      FIG. 12  is a functional block diagram of a blackout system. 
           [0022]      FIG. 13  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system for weapons operation in accordance with an alternative implementation. 
           [0023]      FIG. 14  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system for an ignition system in accordance with yet another alternative implementation. 
       
    
    
       [0024]    Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0025]    This document describes a near-UV or equivalent light source having a wavelength between a range of 10 nm to 490 nm, and implemented as either a Laser Diode (LD) or Light Emitting Diode (LED). The light source also includes power regulation circuitry. The design can optionally use control circuitry and modulation, using digital or analog logic, and software to alter behavior and functionality as well as interfaces for activation and communications. 
         [0026]    The light emitter described herein replaces existing devices for aiming, target acquisition, communication, identification, scanning, surveying, and tracking. The light emitter described herein improves on existing devices through the use of a Near-UV or equivalent Laser Diode or LED in the 10 nm to 490 nm range, which benefits due to the qualities of light in the near UV, blue, and violet spectrum in terms of low visibility of beam, power usage, increased luminance for a target, end point, or subject of interest. 
         [0027]    A laser diode or light emitting diode is used to create a beam in the range of 10 to 490 nanometers (Blue, Violet and Near UV) to illuminate a target. A LED or LD that uses light in the 10-490 nm range has the benefits of low visibility of beam, power usage, increased luminance for an object, for applications such as aiming, target acquisition, communication, identification, scanning, surveying, and tracking. 
         [0028]      FIG. 1  is a block diagram of a light emission system  100 . The light emission system  100  includes an input  102  that provides input signals to a controller  104 , which is preferably implemented at least in part in software. The input signals can be from buttons, switches, dials, a keyboard, optical sensors, or other third party systems, computers, or controllers. The controller  104  also receives input from a power monitor  106 , which monitors the power supply (battery or from other sources) and provides input into the controller on the status of the power source. In particular, the power monitor  106  notifies the controller module  104  when the power source is low, i.e. when a battery is almost dead. 
         [0029]    The light emission system  100  further includes a power regulator  108 , which includes discrete components and/or dedicated integrated circuits to control the voltage and current going to the LED/LD. The power regulator  108  maintains the proper power to the LD/LED over a range of voltages, raising or lowering the input voltage to ensure proper efficient power output. In some implementations, the power regulator  108  sets a maximum power level for the LD/LED, and optionally receives input from a controller mechanism which tells it when to power the LD/LED on or off. Preferably, the power regulator  108  can be modulated to obtain different relative power levels, provide different effects and turn on/off the LD. In alternative implementations, the power regulator  108  can have additional mechanisms for lowering and/or raising maximum power to adjust for environmental conditions. 
         [0030]    The controller  104  outputs a signal to control the power regulator  108 . The controller  104  can be implemented using embedded micro controllers, computers, specialized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other discrete analog or digital components. Input provided to the controller  104  turns on power, activates the unit, selects modes, and sets the power level. The controller  104  can optionally take input from the power monitor  106  and modulate the beam to indicate the battery level is low. This can optionally go to a separate visual, audible, or mechanical indicator to notify the power state. The controller  104  preferably controls the power level outputted by the LD/LED through pulse width modulation. Battery low indictor is current indicated through the periodic lowering/raising of the power level on the laser light, could also be done through blinking. 
         [0031]    The light emission system includes a light emitter  110 . The light emitter  110  is preferably a laser diode having a wavelength centered on the near-UV 405 nm range, but may have a wavelength of between 300 to 490 nm. In some implementations, a diode is used that is rated between 20-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control from the power regulator  108 . 
         [0032]      FIG. 2  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system  200  in accordance with an alternative implementation. Similar to the light emission system  100  shown in  FIG. 1 , light emission system  200  includes a power switch  202  and input switches/buttons  203  that provide other input signals. The light emission system  200  further includes a controller  204  that also receives input from a power monitor  206 , which monitors the power supply (battery or from other sources) and provides input into the controller on the status of the power source. In particular, the power monitor  206  notifies the controller module  204  when the power source is low, i.e. when a battery is almost dead. 
         [0033]    The light emission system  200  further includes a power regulator  208 , which, as substantially described above, includes discrete components and/or dedicated integrated circuits to control the voltage and current going to the LED/LD. The power regulator  208  maintains the proper power to the LD/LED over a range of voltages, raising or lowering the input voltage to ensure proper efficient power output. In some implementations, the power regulator  208  sets a maximum power level for the LD/LED, and optionally receives input from a controller mechanism that can determine when to power the LD/LED on or off. Preferably, the power regulator  208  can be modulated to obtain different relative power levels, provide different effects and turn on/off the LD. In alternative implementations, the power regulator  208  can have additional mechanisms for lowering and/or raising maximum power to adjust for environmental conditions. 
         [0034]    The controller  204  outputs a signal to control the power regulator  208 . The controller  204  can be implemented using embedded micro controllers, computers, specialized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other discrete analog or digital components. Input provided to the controller  204  from the power switch  202  turns on power and activates the unit. Input from input buttons/switches  203  can be used to select modes, and set the power level. The controller  204  can optionally take input from the power monitor  206  and modulate the light beam to indicate the battery level is low. This can optionally go to a separate visual, audible, or mechanical indicator to notify the power state. The controller  204  preferably controls the power level outputted by the LD/LED through pulse width modulation. Battery low indictor is current indicated through the periodic lowering/raising of the power level on the laser light, could also be done through blinking. 
         [0035]    The light emission system includes a light emitter  210 . The light emitter  210  is preferably a laser diode having a wavelength centered on the near-UV 405 nm range, but may have a wavelength of between 300 to 490 nm. In some implementations, a diode is used that is rated between 20-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control from the power regulator  208 . The light emission system  200  further includes optics  212 . The optics  212  include one or more glass or acrylic lenses, at least one of which can include an optional antireflective coating to maximize optical transfer and culminating of the lens. This lens can be focused to a point or collimated. The focusing process can be done automatically (i.e. electro-mechanically) or manually, or be fixed at manufacturing. 
         [0036]    The light emission system  200  further includes a maximum power selector  214  implemented as passive or active electronics that alters the settings for the power regulator setting maximum power/current that can be sent to the LED/LD. The maximum power selector  214  can optionally be controlled through another mechanism manually or automatically which can adjust for distance, ambient light, temperature, or other environmental conditions. 
         [0037]      FIG. 3  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system  300  in accordance with yet another alternative implementation. Similar to the light emission system  100  shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , light emission system  300  includes a power switch  302  and input switches/buttons  303  that provide other input signals. The light emission system  300  further includes a controller  304  that also receives input from a power monitor  306 , which monitors the power supply (battery or from other sources) and provides input into the controller on the status of the power source. In particular, the power monitor  306  notifies the controller module  304  when the power source is low, i.e. when a battery is almost dead. 
         [0038]    The light emission system  300  further includes a power regulator  308 , which, as substantially described above, includes discrete components and/or dedicated integrated circuits to control the voltage and current going to the LED/LD. The power regulator  308  maintains the proper power to the LD/LED over a range of voltages, raising or lowering the input voltage to ensure proper efficient power output. A power selector  314  sets the power level of the power regulator  308 , and can be implemented as passive or active electronics that alters the settings for the power regulator setting maximum power/current that can be sent to the LED/LD. The maximum power selector  314  can optionally be controlled through another mechanism manually or automatically which can adjust for distance, ambient light, temperature, or other environmental conditions. The power selector  314  can be controlled or influenced by feedback mechanism  315 . The feedback mechanism  315  is configured to implement a power correction method created either by a manually or automatically through optical sensors that adjust power level for position telemetry for communication or alteration in target trajectory. 
         [0039]    The controller  304  outputs a signal to control the power regulator  308 . The controller  304  can be implemented using embedded micro controllers, computers, specialized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other discrete analog or digital components. Input provided to the controller  304  from the power switch  302  turns on power and activates the unit. Input from input buttons/switches  303  can be used to select modes, and set the power level. The controller  304  can optionally take input from the power monitor  306  and modulate the light beam to indicate the battery level is low. This can optionally go to a separate visual, audible, or mechanical indicator to notify the power state. The controller  304  preferably controls the power level outputted by the LD/LED through pulse width modulation. Battery low indictor is current indicated through the periodic lowering/raising of the power level on the laser light, could also be done through blinking. 
         [0040]    The light emission system  300  includes a light emitter  310 . The light emitter  310  is preferably a laser diode having a wavelength centered on the near-UV 405 nm range. In some implementations, a diode is used that is rated between 20-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control from the power regulator  308 . The light emission system  300  further includes optics  312 . The optics  312  include one or more glass or acrylic lenses, at least one of which can include an optional antireflective coating to maximize optical transfer and culminating of the lens. This lens can be focused to a point or collimated. The focusing process can be done automatically (i.e. electro-mechanically) or manually, or be fixed at manufacturing. 
         [0041]    The light emission system  300  further includes optical sensor  320 . The optical sensor  320  can be any type of electronic optical pickup, camera or sensor, and is implemented as a receiving device as either a photo or optical sensor that can sense LD/LED transmission or light emission for communication or tracking for software and/or hardware analysis by analyzer  322 . The analyzer  322  in turn is configured for executing a structured algorithm either by digital or analog methods to process light signals received through the optical sensor  320 . The light emission system  300  further includes an output device  324  and/or a third party system  326 . The output device  324  can include a display, a transmitter, or a signal conditioner for outputting the results of the software/hardware analysis. The third party system  326  can be implemented as any additional devices or control systems that utilize the communication of tracking signal from the LD/LED, provide input, as well as inputting back to the controller  308 . 
         [0042]      FIG. 4  is a functional block diagram of a light emission and targeting system  400  with feedback sensor. The system  400  includes a light emitter  410 . The light emitter  410  is preferably a laser diode having a wavelength centered on the near-UV 405 nm range, but may have a wavelength of between 300 to 490 nm. In some implementations, a diode is used that is rated between 20-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control. The light emitter  410  produces a light beam that can be directed toward a receiver/target  412 . The direction of the light beam from light emitter  410  can be controlled by any type of controller mechanism, such as electronic controls, mechanical controls, and software controls. 
         [0043]    Reflected light and/or a feedback signal is directed away from the receiver/target  412  and received by feedback sensor  414  for processing. For example, feedback sensor  414  can receive the reflected light as a second light beam to process the strength and content of the light beam to identify the receiver/target, determine a distance and/or location of the receiver/target, or discern any other useful information about the receiver/target based on the reflected light/feedback signal from the receiver/target. 
         [0044]      FIG. 5  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system  500  for weapons operation in accordance with an alternative implementation. The light emission system  500  can be used for providing and directing laser light in the range of 300 nm to 490 nm to a target, for guiding a payload from a weapon to the target based on the laser light. The payload can be a bullet, a rocket, a guided missile or any other form of ordinance or payload. 
         [0045]    The light emission system  500  includes a weapon enable control  501  that allows a user to enable a weapon, i.e., allows the weapon to fire once all parameters are met, and which activates controller software in a controller  504  of the light emission system  500 . The controller  504  also receives signals from a weapon release control  503 , is a fire switch for the weapon. The controller  504  also receives control and data signals from other sources, including energy storage  502  and a thermal management module  505 . The controller  504  also controls the energy storage  502  and thermal management module  505 . The energy storage  502  includes an electrochemical or solid state energy storage device that provides power impulse for firing the laser. The thermal management module  505  includes a cooling unit and controller package that monitor and keeps the controller  504 , a power regulator  506 , and an LD/LED light source  508  within an optimal or desired thermal range, which can be set by a user either through controller  504  or directly with the thermal management module  505 . 
         [0046]    The power regulator  506 , is substantially as described above, and includes discrete components and/or dedicated integrated circuits to control the voltage and current going to the LED/LD light source  508 . The power regulator  506  maintains the proper power to the LD/LED light source  508  over a range of voltages, raising or lowering the input voltage to ensure proper efficient power output. 
         [0047]    The controller  504  outputs a signal to control the power regulator  506 . The controller  504  can be implemented using embedded micro controllers, computers, specialized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other discrete analog or digital components. Input provided to the controller  504  from the weapon release control  503  turns on power and activates the LD/LED light source  508 . The controller  504  preferably controls the power level outputted by the LD/LED light source  508  through pulse width modulation by the power regulator  506 . 
         [0048]    The LD/LED light source  508  is preferably a laser diode having a wavelength centered on the near-UV 405 nm range, but may have a wavelength of between 300 to 490 nm. In some implementations, a diode is used that is rated between 20-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control from the power regulator  506 . The light emission system  500  further includes optics  510 . The optics  510  include one or more glass or acrylic lenses, or crystal lenses, at least one of which can include an optional antireflective coating to maximize optical transfer and culminating of the lens. This lens can be focused to a point or collimated. The focusing process can be done automatically (i.e. electro-mechanically) or manually, or be fixed at manufacturing. The optics  510  focus and direct the laser light from the LD/LED light source  508  to a target, as desired. 
         [0049]      FIG. 6  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system  600  for an ignition system in accordance with an alternative implementation. The light emission system  600  can be used for providing and directing laser light in the range of 300 nm to 490 nm to a combustion chamber  620 , to ignite fuel provided therein as part of the ignition system. 
         [0050]    The light emission system  600  includes an engine position sensor  601  that communicates a position of an engine shaft (combustion, turbine, etc.) for a controller  604 , and for a timing advance/retard module  605  that executes a timing advance/retard algorithm. The controller  604  includes controller software responsive to a throttle demand module  603 , which operator/system demand for power or speed derived from fuel that is ignited in measured amounts by the light emission system  600 . 
         [0051]    The controller  604  also receives and sends control and data signals from/to other modules, including capacitor  602 , which provides high-power impulses to a power regulator  606  to feed an LD/LED light source  608  for fuel ignition. The power regulator  606  includes discrete components and/or dedicated integrated circuits to control the voltage and current going to the LED/LD light source  608 . The power regulator  606  maintains the proper power to the LD/LED light source  608  over a range of voltages, raising or lowering the input voltage based on energy pulses from the capacitor  602  to ensure proper efficient power output bursts or continual output. 
         [0052]    The controller  604  outputs a signal to control the power regulator  606 . The controller  604  can be implemented using embedded micro controllers, computers, specialized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other discrete analog or digital components. Input provided to the controller  604  from the weapon release control  603  turns on power and activates the LD/LED light source  608 . The controller  604  preferably controls the power level outputted by the LD/LED light source  608  through pulse width modulation by the power regulator  606 . 
         [0053]    The LD/LED light source  608  is preferably a laser diode having a wavelength centered on the near-UV 405 nm range, but may have a wavelength of between 300 to 490 nm. In some implementations, a diode is used that is rated between 20-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control from the power regulator  606 . The light emission system  600  further includes optics  610 . The optics  610  include one or more glass or acrylic lenses, or crystal lenses, at least one of which can include an optional antireflective coating to maximize optical transfer and culminating of the lens. This lens can be focused to a point or collimated. The focusing process can be done automatically (i.e. electro-mechanically) or manually, or be fixed at manufacturing. The optics  610  focus and direct the laser light from the LD/LED light source  608  to a combustion chamber  620 . 
         [0054]      FIG. 7  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system  700  for communications, tracking, guidance and signaling, in accordance with an alternative implementation. Similar to the light emission system  700  shown in  FIG. 7 , light emission system  700  includes a power switch  702  and input switches/buttons  703  that provide other input signals. The light emission system  700  further includes a controller  704  that also receives input from a power monitor  706 , which monitors the power supply (battery or from other sources) and provides input into the controller  704  on the status of the power source. In particular, the power monitor  706  notifies the controller module  704  when the power source is low, i.e. when a battery is almost dead. 
         [0055]    The light emission system  700  further includes a power regulator  708 , which, as substantially described above, includes discrete components and/or dedicated integrated circuits to control the voltage and current going to the LED/LD light source  710 . The power regulator  708  maintains the proper power to the LD/LED light source  710  over a range of voltages, raising or lowering the input voltage to ensure proper efficient power output. A power selector  714  sets the power level of the power regulator  708 , and can be implemented as passive or active electronics that alters the settings for the power regulator setting maximum power/current that can be sent to the LED/LD light source  710 . The maximum power selector  714  can optionally be controlled through another mechanism manually or automatically which can adjust for distance, ambient light, temperature, or other environmental conditions. The power selector  714  can be controlled or influenced by feedback mechanism  715 . The feedback mechanism  715  is configured to implement a power correction method created either by a manually or automatically through optical sensors that adjust power level for position telemetry for communication or alteration in target trajectory. 
         [0056]    The controller  704  outputs a signal to control the power regulator  708 . The controller  704  can be implemented using embedded micro controllers, computers, specialized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other discrete analog or digital components. Input provided to the controller  704  from the power switch  702  turns on power and activates the unit. Input from input buttons/switches  703  can be used to select modes, and set the power level. The controller  704  can optionally take input from the power monitor  706  and modulate the light beam to indicate the battery level is low. This can optionally go to a separate visual, audible, or mechanical indicator to notify the power state. The controller  704  preferably controls the power level outputted by the LD/LED light source  710  through pulse width modulation. Battery low indictor is current indicated through the periodic lowering/raising of the power level on the laser light, could also be done through blinking. 
         [0057]    The LD/LED light source  710  is preferably a laser diode having a wavelength centered on the near-UV 405 nm range, but may have a wavelength of between 300 to 490 nm. In some implementations, a laser or light emitting diode is used that is rated between 20-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control from the power regulator  708 . The light emission system  700  further includes optics  712 . The optics  712  include one or more glass or acrylic lenses, at least one of which can include an optional antireflective coating to maximize optical transfer and culminating of the lens. This lens can be focused to a point or collimated. The focusing process can be done automatically (i.e. electro-mechanically) or manually, or be fixed at manufacturing. 
         [0058]    The light emission system  700  further includes a detector  720 . The detector  720  can be any type of biological, electronic, chemical, mechanical, electro-chemical or biochemical sensing or detecting mechanism. For example, the detector  720  can include a biological organism that can sense the light provided by the light emission system  700 . In another implementation, the detector  720  can be an electro-mechanical system such as a photovoltaic cell that detects the light from the LD/LED light source  710 , or even a phosphorescent paint that fluoresces at a specific wavelength corresponding to the wavelength of the light provided by light emission system  700 . 
         [0059]      FIG. 8  is a block diagram of a light emission system  800 , having an input  802  that provides input signals to a controller  804 , which is preferably implemented at least in part in software. The input signals can be from buttons, switches, dials, a keyboard, optical sensors, or other third party systems, computers, or controllers. The controller  804  also receives input from a power monitor  806 , which monitors the power supply (battery or from other sources) and provides input into the controller on the status of the power source. In particular, the power monitor  806  notifies the controller module  804  when the power source is low, i.e. when a battery is almost dead. 
         [0060]    The light emission system  800  further includes a power regulator  808 , which includes discrete components and/or dedicated integrated circuits to control the voltage and current going to the LED/LD. The power regulator  808  maintains the proper power to the LD/LED over a range of voltages, raising or lowering the input voltage to ensure proper efficient power output. In some implementations, the power regulator  808  sets a maximum power level for the LD/LED, and optionally receives input from a controller mechanism which tells it when to power the LD/LED on or off. Preferably, the power regulator  808  can be modulated to obtain different relative power levels, provide different effects and turn on/off the LD. In alternative implementations, the power regulator  808  can have additional mechanisms for lowering and/or raising maximum power to adjust for environmental conditions. 
         [0061]    The controller  804  outputs a signal to control the power regulator  808 . The controller  804  can be implemented using embedded micro controllers, computers, specialized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other discrete analog or digital components. Input provided to the controller  804  turns on power, activates the unit, selects modes, and sets the power level. The controller  804  can optionally take input from the power monitor  806  and modulate the beam to indicate the battery level is low. This can optionally go to a separate visual, audible, or mechanical indicator to notify the power state. The controller  804  preferably controls the power level outputted by the LD/LED through pulse width modulation. Battery low indictor is current indicated through the periodic lowering/raising of the power level on the laser light, could also be done through blinking. 
         [0062]    The light emission system includes a light emitter  810 . The light emitter  810  is preferably a laser diode having a wavelength of between 10 nm to 490 nm. In some implementations, a diode is used that is rated between 20-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control from the power regulator  808 . 
         [0063]      FIG. 9  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system  900  in accordance with an alternative implementation. Similar to the light emission system  100  shown in  FIG. 1 , light emission system  900  includes a power switch  902  and input switches/buttons  903  that provide other input signals. The light emission system  900  further includes a controller  904  that also receives input from a power monitor  906 , which monitors the power supply (battery or from other sources) and provides input into the controller on the status of the power source. In particular, the power monitor  906  notifies the controller module  904  when the power source is low, i.e. when a battery is almost dead. 
         [0064]    The light emission system  900  further includes a power regulator  908 , which, as substantially described above, includes discrete components and/or dedicated integrated circuits to control the voltage and current going to the LED/LD. The power regulator  908  maintains the proper power to the LD/LED over a range of voltages, raising or lowering the input voltage to ensure proper efficient power output. In some implementations, the power regulator  908  sets a maximum power level for the LD/LED, and optionally receives input from a controller mechanism that can determine when to power the LD/LED on or off. Preferably, the power regulator  908  can be modulated to obtain different relative power levels, provide different effects and turn on/off the LD. In alternative implementations, the power regulator  908  can have additional mechanisms for lowering and/or raising maximum power to adjust for environmental conditions. 
         [0065]    The controller  904  outputs a signal to control the power regulator  908 . The controller  904  can be implemented using embedded micro controllers, computers, specialized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other discrete analog or digital components. Input provided to the controller  904  from the power switch  902  turns on power and activates the unit. Input from input buttons/switches  903  can be used to select modes, and set the power level. The controller  904  can optionally take input from the power monitor  906  and modulate the light beam to indicate the battery level is low. This can optionally go to a separate visual, audible, or mechanical indicator to notify the power state. The controller  904  preferably controls the power level outputted by the LD/LED through pulse width modulation. Battery low indictor is current indicated through the periodic lowering/raising of the power level on the laser light, could also be done through blinking. 
         [0066]    The light emission system includes a light emitter  910 . The light emitter  910  is preferably a laser diode having a wavelength of between 10 to 490 nm. In some implementations, a diode is used that is rated between 20-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control from the power regulator  908 . The light emission system  900  further includes optics  912 . The optics  912  include one or more glass or acrylic lenses, at least one of which can include an optional antireflective coating to maximize optical transfer and culminating of the lens. This lens can be focused to a point or collimated. The focusing process can be done automatically (i.e. electro-mechanically) or manually, or be fixed at manufacturing. 
         [0067]    The light emission system  900  further includes a maximum power selector  914  implemented as passive or active electronics that alters the settings for the power regulator setting maximum power/current that can be sent to the LED/LD. The maximum power selector  914  can optionally be controlled through another mechanism manually or automatically which can adjust for distance, ambient light, temperature, or other environmental conditions. 
         [0068]      FIG. 10  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system  1000  in accordance with yet another alternative implementation, and suitable for use in communications and tracking. The light emission system  1000  includes a power switch  1002  and input switches/buttons  1003  that provide other input signals. The light emission system  1000  further includes a controller  1004  that also receives input from a power monitor  1006 , which monitors the power supply (battery or from other sources) and provides input into the controller on the status of the power source. In particular, the power monitor  1006  notifies the controller module  1004  when the power source is low, i.e. when a battery is almost dead. 
         [0069]    The light emission system  1000  further includes a power regulator  1008 , which, as substantially described above, includes discrete components and/or dedicated integrated circuits to control the voltage and current going to the LED/LD. The power regulator  1008  maintains the proper power to the LD/LED over a range of voltages, raising or lowering the input voltage to ensure proper efficient power output. A power selector  1014  sets the power level of the power regulator  1008 , and can be implemented as passive or active electronics that alters the settings for the power regulator setting maximum power/current that can be sent to the LED/LD. The maximum power selector  1014  can optionally be controlled through another mechanism manually or automatically which can adjust for distance, ambient light, temperature, or other environmental conditions. The power selector  1014  can be controlled or influenced by feedback mechanism  1015 . The feedback mechanism  1015  is configured to implement a power correction method created either by a manually or automatically through optical sensors that adjust power level for position telemetry for communication or alteration in target trajectory. 
         [0070]    The controller  1004  outputs a signal to control the power regulator  1008 . The controller  1004  can be implemented using embedded micro controllers, computers, specialized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other discrete analog or digital components. Input provided to the controller  1004  from the power switch  1002  turns on power and activates the unit. Input from input buttons/switches  10010  can be used to select modes, and set the power level. The controller  1004  can optionally take input from the power monitor  1006  and modulate the light beam to indicate the battery level is low. This can optionally go to a separate visual, audible, or mechanical indicator to notify the power state. The controller  1004  preferably controls the power level outputted by the LD/LED through pulse width modulation. Battery low indictor is current indicated through the periodic lowering/raising of the power level on the laser light, could also be done through blinking. 
         [0071]    The light emission system  1000  includes a light emitter  1010 . The light emitter  1010  is preferably a laser diode having a wavelength between 10 and 490 nm. In some implementations, a diode is used that is rated between 20-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control from the power regulator  1008 . The light emission system  1000  further includes optics  1012 . The optics  1012  include one or more glass or acrylic lenses, at least one of which can include an optional antireflective coating to maximize optical transfer and culminating of the lens. This lens can be focused to a point or collimated. The focusing process can be done automatically (i.e. electro-mechanically) or manually, or be fixed at manufacturing. 
         [0072]    The light emission system  1000  further includes optical sensor  1020 . The optical sensor  1020  can be any type of electronic optical pickup, camera or sensor, and is implemented as a receiving device as either a photo or optical sensor that can sense LD/LED transmission or light emission for communication or tracking for software and/or hardware analysis by analyzer  1022 . The analyzer  1022  in turn is configured for executing a structured algorithm either by digital or analog methods to process light signals received through the optical sensor  1020 . The light emission system  1000  further includes an output device  1024  and/or a third party system  1026 . The output device  1024  can include a display, a transmitter, or a signal conditioner for outputting the results of the software/hardware analysis. The third party system  1026  can be implemented as any additional devices or control systems that utilize the communication of tracking signal from the LD/LED, provide input, as well as inputting back to the controller  1008 . 
         [0073]      FIG. 11  is a block diagram of a light emission system  1100 , configured for landscape enhancement, such as for lightening dark landscape areas or features, lane tracking for automobiles, enhanced digital mapping, collision avoidance systems and parking sensors. The light emission system  1100  includes an input  1102  that provides input signals to a controller  1104 , which is preferably implemented at least in part in software. The input signals can be from a Controller Area Network (CAN) and/or a Local Interconnect Network (LIN) message-generating system. The controller  1104  also receives input from operator controls  1103 , such as buttons, switches, knobs, or touch screen displays, which produce electronic input control signals. The controller  1104  also receives power level selection input signals from a power level selector  1122 , which monitors the power supply (battery or from other sources) and provides input into the controller  1104  on the status of the power source. In particular, the power level selector  1122  notifies the controller module  1104  when the power source is low, i.e. when a battery is almost dead, or controls a power level to be fixed or dynamically adjusted. 
         [0074]    The light emission system  1100  further includes a power regulator  1106 , which includes discrete components and/or dedicated integrated circuits to control the voltage and current going to a scanner or LED/LD assembly  1108 . The power regulator  1106  maintains the proper power to the LED/LD assembly  1108  over a range of voltages, raising or lowering the input voltage to ensure proper efficient power output. In some implementations, the power regulator  1106  sets a maximum power level for the LED/LD assembly  1108 . Preferably, the power regulator  1106  can be modulated to obtain different relative power levels, provide different effects and turn on/off the LED/LD assembly  1108 . In alternative implementations, the power regulator  108  can have additional mechanisms for lowering and/or raising maximum power to adjust for environmental conditions. The controller  1104  outputs a signal to control the power regulator  1106 . The controller  1104  can be implemented using embedded micro controllers, computers, specialized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other discrete analog or digital components. 
         [0075]    The power regulator  1106  causes the LED/LD assembly  1108  to illuminate a landscape  1110 , terrain or object therein. The LED/LD assembly  1108  may have a wavelength of between 10 to 490 nm. In some implementations of an LD, a diode is used that is rated between 10-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control from the power regulator  1108 . Reflected light from the landscape  1110  is received, sensed or otherwise picked up by optical pickup  1112 . The optical pickup  1112  can be a camera, sensor, or may be a material embedded or laminated into a pickup surface, such as the windshield of an automobile. 
         [0076]    The reflected light picked up by optical pickup  1112  is sent, either in received form or processed, to integrated software and hardware  1114 , which processes the reflected light to send or transmit the processed signals to a third party system  1116  or an output device  1118 , such as a display, monitor, head-up display (HUD), portable computer, or the like. In the case of an output device  1118 , the processed signals can be displayed or further transferred to a feedback module  1120 , which can provide input and control signals to the power level selector  1122  to modulate the power level of the light emission system  1100 . 
         [0077]      FIG. 12  is a functional block diagram of a blackout system  1200 , i.e. in a scenario when the landscape is devoid of light, or is needed to be devoid of light or visible light emitters. The blackout system  1200  includes an LD/LED beacon  1202  that provides light at a wavelength of between 10 and 405 nm. The blackout system further includes optical filter  1204 , and an enhancement device  1206 . 
         [0078]      FIG. 13  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system  1300  for weapons operation in accordance with an alternative implementation. The light emission system  1300  can be used for providing and directing laser light in the range of 300 nm to 490 nm to a target, for guiding a payload from a weapon to the target based on the laser light. The payload can be a bullet, a rocket, a guided missile or any other form of ordinance or payload. 
         [0079]    The light emission system  1300  includes a weapon enable control  1301  that allows a user to enable a weapon, i.e., allows the weapon to fire once all parameters are met, and which activates controller software in a controller  1304  of the light emission system  1300 . The controller  1304  also receives signals from a weapon release control  1303 , is a fire switch for the weapon. The controller  1304  also receives control and data signals from other sources, including energy storage  1302  and a thermal management module  1305 . The controller  1304  also controls the energy storage  1302  and thermal management module  1305 . The energy storage  1302  includes an electrochemical or solid state energy storage device that provides power impulse for firing the laser. The thermal management module  1305  includes a cooling unit and controller package that monitor and keeps the controller  1304 , a power regulator  1306 , and an LD/LED light source  1308  within an optimal or desired thermal range, which can be set by a user either through controller  1304  or directly with the thermal management module  1305 . 
         [0080]    The power regulator  1306 , is substantially as described above, and includes discrete components and/or dedicated integrated circuits to control the voltage and current going to the LED/LD light source  1308 . The power regulator  1306  maintains the proper power to the LD/LED light source  1308  over a range of voltages, raising or lowering the input voltage to ensure proper efficient power output. 
         [0081]    The controller  1304  outputs a signal to control the power regulator  1306 . The controller  1304  can be implemented using embedded micro controllers, computers, specialized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other discrete analog or digital components. Input provided to the controller  1304  from the weapon release control  1303  turns on power and activates the LD/LED light source  1308 . The controller  1304  preferably controls the power level outputted by the LD/LED light source  1308  through pulse width modulation by the power regulator  1306 . 
         [0082]    The LD/LED light source  1308  is preferably a laser diode having a wavelength of between 10 to 490 nm. In some implementations, a diode is used that is rated between 20-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control from the power regulator  1306 . The light emission system  1300  further includes optics  1310 . The optics  1310  include one or more glass or acrylic lenses, or crystal lenses, at least one of which can include an optional antireflective coating to maximize optical transfer and culminating of the lens. This lens can be focused to a point or collimated. The focusing process can be done automatically (i.e. electro-mechanically) or manually, or be fixed at manufacturing. The optics  1310  focus and direct the laser light from the LD/LED light source  1308  to a target, as desired. 
         [0083]      FIG. 14  is a functional block diagram of a light emission system  1400  for an ignition system in accordance with an alternative implementation. The light emission system  1400  can be used for providing and directing laser light in the range of 300 nm to 490 nm to a combustion chamber  1420 , to ignite fuel provided therein as part of the ignition system. 
         [0084]    The light emission system  1400  includes an engine position sensor  1401  that communicates a position of an engine shaft (combustion, turbine, etc.) for a controller  1404 , and for a timing advance/retard module  1405  that executes a timing advance/retard algorithm. The controller  1404  includes controller software responsive to a throttle demand module  1403 , which operator/system demand for power or speed derived from fuel that is ignited in measured amounts by the light emission system  1400 . 
         [0085]    The controller  1404  also receives and sends control and data signals from/to other modules, including capacitor  1402 , which provides high-power impulses to a power regulator  1406  to feed an LD/LED light source  1408  for fuel ignition. The power regulator  1406  includes discrete components and/or dedicated integrated circuits to control the voltage and current going to the LED/LD light source  1408 . The power regulator  1406  maintains the proper power to the LD/LED light source  1408  over a range of voltages, raising or lowering the input voltage based on energy pulses from the capacitor  1402  to ensure proper efficient power output bursts or continual output. 
         [0086]    The controller  1404  outputs a signal to control the power regulator  1406 . The controller  1404  can be implemented using embedded micro controllers, computers, specialized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other discrete analog or digital components. Input provided to the controller  1404  from the weapon release control  1403  turns on power and activates the LD/LED light source  1408 . The controller  1404  preferably controls the power level outputted by the LD/LED light source  1408  through pulse width modulation by the power regulator  1406 . 
         [0087]    The LD/LED light source  1408  is preferably a laser diode having a wavelength of between 10 to 490 nm. In some implementations, a diode is used that is rated between 20-600 mW, and where the desired power output is achieved with a combination of current and pulse width modulation (PWM) control from the power regulator  1406 . The light emission system  1400  further includes optics  1410 . The optics  1410  include one or more glass or acrylic lenses, or crystal lenses, at least one of which can include an optional antireflective coating to maximize optical transfer and culminating of the lens. This lens can be focused to a point or collimated. The focusing process can be done automatically (i.e. electro-mechanically) or manually, or be fixed at manufacturing. The optics  1410  focus and direct the laser light from the LD/LED light source  1408  to a combustion chamber  1420 . 
         [0088]    In any of the implementations described above, all of the components can be formed into a single package or housing. Although a few embodiments have been described in detail above, other modifications are possible. For example, any of the diodes used for providing light in the range of 10 nm to 490 nm can be rated between 600 mW and 10 W or more. Further, various other materials can be used for the optics to control the direction of the light source, such as crystals, rubies or other precious stones. Other embodiments may be within the scope of the following claims.