AN INVESTIGATION OF COMPUTER-ASSISTED STRAY RADIATION ANALYSIS PROGRAMS

Qualitative and quantitative evaluations aimed at defining the capabilities and limitations of computer assisted stray radiation analysis programs are the main concern of this study. The two most sophisticated computer programs available for evaluation were Arizona's Paraxial Analysis of Radiation Transfer (APART) and Honeywell's General Unwanted Energy Rejection Analysis Program (GUERAP III). Each underwent close examination to identify major assumptions and approximations, to gauge any resulting errors, and to devise possible remedies to extend the accuracy and capabilities of each program. Identical formats were used in organizing the analyses of both programs into a series of topics for easy comparison.; One important vehicle for comparison was the stray light analysis of a heat seeking missile. Both APART and GUERAP III were used to analyze the same opto-mechanical catadioptric system. APART was then used as a tool for design modifications that resulted in predicted performance improvements of four orders of magnitude. Performance measurements were not available to verify predictions. Although other systems have been analyzed by both programs, measured data are not available to the general public.