Modular radar system and method of calibration thereof

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of radars, in particular to a block type radar system and a correction method thereof. Block type active antenna branches including a plurality of digital array modules in the block type radar system can adjust antenna array surfaces according to different terrains and different use environments. When great power is required, the block type active antenna branches in the block type radar system can include a larger number of digital array modules, so as to be expanded into a large antenna array surface. In the case of being blocked, only a small amount of antenna array surface can meet the actual space coverage requirement. That is to say, the block type radar system can select a proper number of modules to form a required radar product according to actual task requirements. Meanwhile, the comprehensive processing branch can correct a plurality of digital array modules through a correction channel, so as to ensure the radar performance of the discrete and modular antenna array surfaces in the block type radar system.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of radar, in particular to a block type radar system and a correction method thereof. BACKGROUND

[0002] A conventional radar array is designed according to radar system indexes and basically does not have the ability to be split or expanded according to task requirements. On the one hand, the poor mobility caused by a large antenna array makes it difficult to erect and adapt to the mobility requirements in different terrains and the power requirements in different environments. In addition, the conventional phased array radar needs to be corrected in real time to ensure the power and accuracy of the radar. The correction network can be well guaranteed in an overall machine. However, for a discrete and modular antenna array, how to solve the correction problem is a key to the radar performance. SUMMARY

[0003] In view of the problem in the prior art that the performance is not high and cannot adapt to different environments, the present application provides a block type radar system and a correction method thereof.

[0004] In a first aspect, the present application provides a block type radar system, which comprises a block type active antenna extension and a comprehensive processing extension.

[0005] The comprehensive processing extension is configured to calculate a transmitting digital beam coefficient and a receiving digital beam coefficient.

[0006] The block type active antenna extension comprises a plurality of digital array modules, each of which is connected to the comprehensive processing extension, so as to transmit a radar signal according to the transmitting digital beam coefficient and receive a radar signal.

[0007] The comprehensive processing extension is further configured to correct the plurality of digital array modules through a correction channel and to perform digital beam synthesis on the received radar signal according to the receiving digital beam coefficient.

[0008] In the above embodiment, the block type active antenna extension comprising a plurality of digital array modules can adjust the antenna array according to different terrains and different use environments. When a large power is required, the block type active antenna extension in the block type radar system can comprise a larger number of digital array modules, so as to be expanded into a large antenna array. In the case of being blocked, only a small number of antenna arrays are required to meet the actual airspace coverage. That is, the block type radar system can select a proper number of modules to form a required radar product according to actual task requirements. Meanwhile, the comprehensive processing extension can correct the plurality of digital array modules through the correction channel, so as to ensure the radar performance of the discrete and modular antenna array in the block type radar system.

[0009] According to the embodiment of the present application, optionally, in the above-mentioned modular radar system, the digital array module comprises:

[0010] a signal generation module, configured to generate a radar modulation signal and a local oscillator signal;

[0011] a radio frequency transceiver assembly, connected with the signal generation module, configured to generate a radio frequency signal according to the radar modulation signal and the local oscillator signal;

[0012] an antenna array, connected with the radio frequency transceiver assembly, configured to transmit the radio frequency signal;

[0013] a sampling processing module, connected with the antenna array and the integrated processing sub-module respectively, configured to collect intermediate frequency echo signals received by the antenna array, perform IQ demodulation on the intermediate frequency echo signals, and send IQ data obtained by the IQ demodulation to the integrated processing sub-module.

[0014] According to the embodiment of the present application, optionally, in the above-mentioned modular radar system, the antenna array comprises a plurality of transmitting units, and the radio frequency transceiver assembly comprises a plurality of radio frequency transceiver units, each of the transmitting units is correspondingly connected with one radio frequency transceiver unit.

[0015] According to the embodiment of the present application, optionally, in the above-mentioned modular radar system, the digital array module further comprises a radome and a structural member, the radome and the structural member form a cavity, and the antenna array, the radio frequency transceiver assembly, the signal generation module and the sampling processing module are arranged in the cavity.

[0016] According to the embodiment of the present application, optionally, in the above-mentioned modular radar system, the connection between the radio frequency transceiver assembly and the signal generation module, the connection between the antenna array and the radio frequency transceiver assembly, and the connection between the sampling processing module and the antenna array are all connected by means of blind plug-in connectors.

[0017] According to the embodiment of the present application, optionally, in the above-mentioned modular radar system, the digital array module further comprises:

[0018] a correction network, connected with the antenna array and the sampling processing module, configured to couple signals received or transmitted by the antenna array, and send the signals to the sampling processing module for amplitude and phase correction.

[0019] According to the embodiment of the present application, optionally, in the above-mentioned modular radar system, the signal generation module comprises a signal generator, a clock driver, a field programmable logic gate array and an interface circuit.

[0020] The signal generator is used to generate a local oscillator signal, and the clock driver is used to generate a clock signal;

[0021] The field-programmable gate array is connected to the signal generator and the clock driver to generate a radar modulation signal based on the local oscillator signal and the clock signal.

[0022] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system, the integrated processing unit includes a channel correction component, a signal processing component, and a digital beamforming component;

[0023] The signal processing component is used to generate co-source excitation signals;

[0024] The channel correction component is connected to the signal processing component and is also connected to each of the digital array modules through a correction channel to receive the coupled data of each of the digital array modules. The channel correction component is also used to send a homogeneous excitation signal to the digital array module through the correction channel to enable the digital array module to perform internal correction.

[0025] The digital beamforming component is used to calculate the transmit digital beam coefficient and the receive digital beam coefficient.

[0026] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system, the integrated processing unit further includes:

[0027] The frequency source component is used to generate a coherent clock signal to synchronize the clock between the signal processing component and the digital beamforming component.

[0028] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system, two adjacent digital array modules are detachably connected by pins and locking screws.

[0029] Secondly, this application provides a method for correcting a modular radar system, applied to the modular radar system described in the first aspect, the method comprising:

[0030] Amplitude and phase control values ​​are obtained based on the modular radar system described above;

[0031] Obtain the internal correction results of the modular radar system during real-time operation;

[0032] The external correction result is determined based on the amplitude and phase control value and the internal correction result;

[0033] The reference channels of different digital array modules are calibrated based on the external calibration results.

[0034] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction method, the step of obtaining amplitude and phase control values ​​based on the modular radar system includes:

[0035] Obtain the amplitude and phase distribution of different transmitted signals emitted by the digital array module;

[0036] Obtain the amplitude and phase distribution of different received signals received by the digital array module;

[0037] External correction data are determined based on the transmitted amplitude and phase distribution and the received amplitude and phase distribution;

[0038] The internal correction data is obtained by acquiring the correction amplitude and phase distribution of the signals received by the integrated processing unit through different correction channels from the digital array modules.

[0039] The amplitude and phase control values ​​of the correction channel are determined based on the external correction data and the internal correction data.

[0040] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction method, the step of obtaining the transmission amplitude and phase distribution of different transmitted signals emitted by the digital array module includes:

[0041] Turn off the external radiation source and control the digital array module to transmit signals;

[0042] Record the emission amplitude and phase distribution of different transmitting units in the digital array module.

[0043] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction method, the step of obtaining the received amplitude and phase distribution of different received signals received by the digital array module includes:

[0044] Turn on the external radiation source and control the digital array module to receive signals;

[0045] Record the amplitude and phase distribution of different receiving units in the digital array module.

[0046] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction method, the step of determining the amplitude and phase control value of the correction channel based on the external correction data and the internal correction data includes:

[0047] Calculate the difference between the external correction data and the internal correction data;

[0048] The difference is determined to be the amplitude and phase control value.

[0049] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, the above-described modular radar system correction method further includes:

[0050] Based on the modular radar system, the transmit phase shift control table and the receive phase shift control table are obtained;

[0051] The transmit channel and the receive channel are calibrated according to the transmit phase shift control table and the receive phase shift control table.

[0052] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction method, the step of obtaining the transmit phase shift control table and the receive phase shift control table based on the modular radar system includes:

[0053] Initialize the amplitude and phase, and control the multiple transmission channels of the digital array module to transmit sequentially, and receive multiple first echo signals through the self-test channel;

[0054] The amplitude and phase correction coefficients of multiple transmission channels are determined based on the amplitude and phase and the multiple first echo signals, and the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of the multiple transmission channels are converted into amplitude and phase control codes and written into the transmission phase shift control table.

[0055] The multiple receiving channels of the digital array module are controlled to transmit sequentially, and multiple second echo signals are received after the self-test channel transmits.

[0056] Based on the amplitude and phase and the multiple second echo signals, the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of multiple receiving channels are determined, and the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of the multiple receiving channels are converted into amplitude and phase control codes and written into the receiving phase shift control table.

[0057] Thirdly, this application also provides a modular radar system correction device, the device comprising:

[0058] Amplitude and phase control value acquisition module, used to acquire amplitude and phase control values ​​based on the modular radar system;

[0059] The internal calibration result acquisition module is used to acquire the internal calibration result of the modular radar system during real-time operation.

[0060] An external correction result determination module is used to determine the external correction result based on the amplitude and phase control value and the internal correction result;

[0061] The calibration module is used to calibrate the reference channels of different digital array modules based on the external calibration results.

[0062] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction device, the amplitude and phase control value acquisition module includes:

[0063] The transmission amplitude and phase distribution acquisition unit is used to acquire the transmission amplitude and phase distribution of different transmission signals transmitted by the digital array module;

[0064] A received amplitude and phase distribution acquisition unit is used to acquire the received amplitude and phase distribution of different received signals received by the digital array module;

[0065] An external correction data determination unit is used to determine external correction data based on the transmitted amplitude-phase distribution and the received amplitude-phase distribution;

[0066] The acquisition unit is used to acquire the internal correction data as the correction amplitude and phase distribution of the signals received by the integrated processing unit through different correction channels and transmitted and received by the digital array module.

[0067] An amplitude and phase control value determination unit is used to determine the amplitude and phase control value of the correction channel based on the external correction data and the internal correction data.

[0068] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction device, the transmitted amplitude and phase distribution acquisition unit includes:

[0069] The signal transmission control subunit is used to shut down the external radiation source and control the digital array module to transmit signals;

[0070] The emission amplitude and phase distribution acquisition sub-unit is used to record the emission amplitude and phase distribution of different emission units in the digital array module.

[0071] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction device, the received amplitude and phase distribution acquisition unit includes:

[0072] The signal receiving control subunit is used to turn on the external radiation source and control the digital array module to receive signals.

[0073] A receiving amplitude and phase distribution acquisition sub-unit is used to record the receiving amplitude and phase distribution of different receiving units in the digital array module.

[0074] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction device, the amplitude and phase control value determination unit includes:

[0075] The difference calculation subunit is used to calculate the difference between the external correction data and the internal correction data;

[0076] Amplitude and phase control value determination subunit is used to determine the difference as the amplitude and phase control value.

[0077] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-mentioned modular radar system correction device, the phase shift control table acquisition module is used to acquire the transmission phase shift control table and the reception phase shift control table based on the modular radar system.

[0078] The channel correction module is used to correct the transmission channel and the receiving channel according to the transmission phase shift control table and the receiving phase shift control table.

[0079] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction device, the phase shift control table acquisition module includes:

[0080] The first echo signal receiving unit is used to initialize the amplitude and phase, control the multiple transmission channels of the digital array module to transmit sequentially, and receive multiple first echo signals through the self-test channel.

[0081] The transmit phase shift control table acquisition unit is used to determine the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of multiple transmit channels based on the amplitude and phase and the multiple first echo signals, and convert the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of the multiple transmit channels into amplitude and phase control codes and write them into the transmit phase shift control table;

[0082] The second echo signal receiving unit is used to control the multiple receiving channels of the digital array module to transmit sequentially, and to receive multiple second echo signals after the self-test channel transmits.

[0083] The receiving phase shift control table unit is used to determine the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of multiple receiving channels based on the amplitude and phase and the multiple second echo signals, and to convert the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of the multiple receiving channels into amplitude and phase control codes and write them into the receiving phase shift control table.

[0084] Fourthly, this application provides a storage medium storing a computer program that can be executed by one or more processors and can be used to implement the modular radar system correction method described above.

[0085] Fifthly, this application provides an electronic device including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program that, when executed by the processor, performs the aforementioned modular radar system correction method.

[0086] Compared with the prior art, one or more embodiments of the above solutions may have the following advantages or beneficial effects:

[0087] This application provides a modular radar system and its calibration method. The modular radar system includes a modular active antenna unit and a comprehensive processing unit. The comprehensive processing unit is used to calculate the transmit digital beamform and the receive digital beamform. The modular active antenna unit includes multiple digital array modules, each of which is connected to the comprehensive processing unit to transmit radar signals according to the transmit digital beamform and to receive radar signals. The comprehensive processing unit is also used to calibrate the multiple digital array modules through a calibration channel and to perform digital beamforming on the received radar signals according to the receive digital beamform. The modular active antenna unit, including multiple digital array modules, can adjust the antenna array according to different terrains and operating environments. When high power is required, the modular active antenna unit in the modular radar system can include a large number of digital array modules, thereby expanding into a large antenna array. In the case of obstruction, only a small number of antenna arrays are needed to achieve the required airspace coverage. In other words, this modular radar system allows for the selection of an appropriate number of modules to assemble the required radar product based on actual mission needs. Simultaneously, the integrated processing unit can also calibrate multiple digital array modules via a calibration channel, thereby ensuring radar performance for the discrete, modular antenna arrays within the modular radar system. Attached Figure Description

[0088] The present application will be described in more detail below based on embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0089] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a modular radar system provided in Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0090] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a modular radar system provided in Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0091] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of a digital array module provided in Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0092] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a digital array module provided in Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0093] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a radio frequency transceiver component provided in Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0094] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a signal generation module and a sampling processing module provided in Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0095] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a modular radar system calibration method provided in Embodiment 2 of this application.

[0096] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a modular radar system correction device provided in Embodiment 4 of this application.

[0097] Figure 9 This is a connection block diagram of an electronic device provided in Embodiment Six of this application.

[0098] In the accompanying drawings, the same parts are referred to by the same reference numerals, and the drawings are not drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0099] The following detailed description of the embodiments of this application, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, will provide a thorough understanding of how this application uses technical means to solve technical problems and achieve corresponding technical effects, enabling its implementation. The embodiments of this application and the various features within them can be combined with each other without conflict, and all resulting technical solutions are within the protection scope of this application.

[0100] Example One

[0101] Firstly, this application provides a modular radar system, please refer to... Figure 1 The modular radar system 10 includes a modular active antenna unit 110 and a comprehensive processing unit 120.

[0102] The integrated processing unit 120 is used to calculate the transmit digital beam coefficient and the receive digital beam coefficient;

[0103] The modular active antenna sub-unit 110 includes multiple digital array modules 111, each of which is connected to the integrated processing sub-unit 120 for transmitting radar signals according to the transmit digital beam coefficient and for receiving radar signals.

[0104] The integrated processing unit 120 is also used to correct multiple digital array modules 111 through a correction channel, and to perform digital beamforming on the received radar signal according to the received digital beam coefficient.

[0105] Multiple digital T / R components are integrated to form a radar front-end functional module called a "digital array module (DAM)". The phase shifting function based on DDS technology replaces the traditional microwave digital phase shifter, and the amplitude control function replaces the microwave digitally controlled attenuator. Beamforming and signal generation are fused together to achieve transmit digital beamforming (DBF).

[0106] In the aforementioned modular radar system, the digital array module 111 includes: a signal generation module for generating radar modulation signals and local oscillator signals; a radio frequency transceiver assembly connected to the signal generation module for generating radio frequency signals based on the radar modulation signals and local oscillator signals; an antenna array connected to the radio frequency transceiver assembly for transmitting the radio frequency signals; and a sampling and processing module connected to the antenna array and the integrated processing unit, respectively, for acquiring the intermediate frequency echo signals received by the antenna array, performing IQ demodulation on the intermediate frequency echo signals, and sending the IQ data obtained from the IQ demodulation to the integrated processing unit. The antenna array includes multiple transmitting units, and the radio frequency transceiver assembly includes multiple radio frequency transceiver units, with each transmitting unit correspondingly connected to one radio frequency transceiver unit.

[0107] The connections between the RF transceiver component and the signal generation module, the connection between the antenna array and the RF transceiver component, and the connection between the sampling processing module and the antenna array are all made using blind-plug connectors.

[0108] The digital array module also includes an antenna radome and structural components. The antenna radome and the structural components form a cavity. The antenna array, the radio frequency transceiver assembly, the signal generation module, and the sampling and processing module are disposed within the cavity.

[0109] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system, the digital array module further includes:

[0110] A calibration network is connected to the antenna array and the sampling processing module to couple the signals received or transmitted by the antenna array and send the signals to the sampling processing module for amplitude and phase correction.

[0111] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system, the signal generation module includes a signal generator, a clock driver, a field-programmable gate array, and an interface circuit.

[0112] The signal generator is used to generate a local oscillator signal, and the clock driver is used to generate a clock signal;

[0113] The field-programmable gate array is connected to the signal generator and the clock driver to generate a radar modulation signal based on the local oscillator signal and the clock signal.

[0114] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system, the integrated processing unit includes a channel correction component, a signal processing component, and a digital beamforming component;

[0115] The signal processing component is used to generate co-source excitation signals;

[0116] The channel correction component is connected to the signal processing component and is also connected to each of the digital array modules through a correction channel to receive the coupled data of each of the digital array modules. The channel correction component is also used to send a homogeneous excitation signal to the digital array module through the correction channel to enable the digital array module to perform internal correction.

[0117] The digital beamforming component is used to calculate the transmit digital beam coefficient and the receive digital beam coefficient.

[0118] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system, the integrated processing unit further includes:

[0119] The frequency source component is used to generate a coherent clock signal to synchronize the clock between the signal processing component and the digital beamforming component.

[0120] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system, two adjacent digital array modules are detachably connected by pins and locking screws.

[0121] like Figure 2 As shown, the modular active antenna sub-unit consists of multiple Digital Array Modules (DAMs). Within each DAM, multiple digital receiver (TR) components are integrated to form a comprehensive radar front-end functional module, called a "Digital Array Module (DAM)". Each DAM integrates multiple (as shown in the figure, 16 channels are used as an example) digital TR components, waveform generation circuits, multi-channel control circuits, digital receivers, power supply modules, etc. The integrated processing sub-unit mainly includes digital beamforming (DBF), digital signal processing, and data processing, employing a high-performance computing platform to implement advanced algorithms in real-time. In both the DAM and the high-performance computing platform, all control signals and digitized signals are transmitted via optical fiber.

[0122] Under this architecture design, large and complex phased array radars can be built in a modular way. The size of the front-end active antenna array and the back-end digital signal processing module can be split or expanded to quickly reconstruct the radar. It has the distinct characteristics of modularity, expandability and easy reconfiguration, which greatly improves the flexibility of the radar system.

[0123] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4Each Digital Array Module (DAM) consists of a radome, microstrip antenna and power divider network, RF transceiver and frequency conversion module, intermediate frequency signal generation and sampling module, DBF formation module, and high-speed data transmission module. Taking a single DAM with 16 channels as an example, each DAM can complete the transmit and receive calibration of its 16 internal channels. External interfaces include coherent clock and high-speed data transmission. Taking a 16-element DAM as an example, the radar antenna array consists of four rows of horizontal radiators, with each row consisting of four radiating elements. Each radiating element is connected to a TR (Transmitter Transmission) module.

[0124] The antenna array is designed with a correction network, which is a 1-to-16 equal-power traveling wave network. Each radiating element has independent transmit and receive capabilities. The isolation between channels is ensured through the cavity design. The correction network can couple the transmitted or received signals to the sampling component for sampling and comparison one by one, thus completing the amplitude and phase correction within the DMA.

[0125] like Figure 5 As shown, the RF transceiver assembly mainly consists of filters, power amplifiers, up and down converters, circulators, limiters, low-noise amplifiers, RF switches, power chips, etc., and completes power signal transmission and weak signal amplification; conversion between RF and baseband (up and down conversion); transmit power control and receive gain control; and has a transmit / receive correction channel.

[0126] like Figure 6 As shown, the signal generation module and the sampling processing module generate radar modulation signals (pulse train phase synchronization) based on timing and control signals; generate the local oscillator signal required for up and down conversion via DDS; complete radar intermediate frequency echo sampling and IQ demodulation; complete internal transceiver channel compensation and antenna transceiver correction; receive overall timing signals and real-time control information; complete high-speed transmission of IQ data and parameter data through the fiber optic interface; automatically identify TR channel numbers; and perform clock synchronization and automatic compensation. The signal generation module and the sampling processing module generate baseband modulation signals and generate corresponding intermediate frequency excitation signals to be sent to the transmit channel. Local oscillator signals are generated for up and down conversion. Intermediate frequency echo information is received, demodulated using IQ, and packaged before being sent to the signal processing unit. The signal generation module and the sampling processing module consist of a 16+1 channel DDS, a 16+1 channel ADC, two FPGAs, 16 DDR3s, a fiber optic interface, and their peripheral circuitry.

[0127] In summary, this application provides a modular radar system and its calibration method. The modular radar system includes a modular active antenna unit and a comprehensive processing unit. The comprehensive processing unit is used to calculate the transmit digital beamform and the receive digital beamform. The modular active antenna unit includes multiple digital array modules, each of which is connected to the comprehensive processing unit to transmit radar signals according to the transmit digital beamform and to receive radar signals. The comprehensive processing unit is also used to calibrate the multiple digital array modules through a calibration channel and to perform digital beamforming on the received radar signals according to the receive digital beamform. The modular active antenna unit, including multiple digital array modules, can adjust the antenna array according to different terrains and operating environments. When high power is required, the modular active antenna unit in the modular radar system can include a large number of digital array modules, thereby expanding into a large antenna array. In the case of obstruction, only a small number of antenna arrays are needed to achieve the required airspace coverage. In other words, this modular radar system allows for the selection of an appropriate number of modules to assemble the required radar product based on actual mission needs. Simultaneously, the integrated processing unit can also calibrate multiple digital array modules via a calibration channel, thereby ensuring radar performance for the discrete, modular antenna arrays within the modular radar system.

[0128] Example Two

[0129] This invention also provides a modular radar system calibration method; please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 7 This method is applied to the modular radar system 10 and includes the following steps:

[0130] Step S710: Obtain amplitude and phase control values ​​based on the modular radar system;

[0131] Step S720: Obtain the internal correction results of the modular radar system during real-time operation;

[0132] Step S730: Determine the external correction result based on the amplitude and phase control value and the internal correction result;

[0133] Step S740: Correct the reference channels of different digital array modules according to the external correction results.

[0134] In the above implementation, the amplitude and phase control values ​​of the correction channel are first obtained based on the modular radar system. Then, when the radar is working in real time, the external correction result is determined based on the amplitude and phase control values ​​and the internal correction result. Thus, different digital array modules are corrected based on the external correction result.

[0135] In the above-mentioned modular radar system correction method, step S710, which involves obtaining amplitude and phase control values ​​based on the modular radar system, includes the following steps:

[0136] Step S711: Obtain the amplitude and phase distribution of different transmitted signals emitted by the digital array module;

[0137] Step S712: Obtain the received amplitude and phase distribution of different received signals received by the digital array module;

[0138] Step S713: Determine external correction data based on the transmitted amplitude and phase distribution and the received amplitude and phase distribution;

[0139] Step S714: Obtain the internal correction data as the correction amplitude and phase distribution of the signals received by the integrated processing unit through different correction channels from the digital array modules;

[0140] Step S715: Determine the amplitude and phase control values ​​of the correction channel based on the external correction data and the internal correction data.

[0141] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, the step of obtaining the emission amplitude and phase distribution of different transmitted signals emitted by the digital array module includes the following process: first, turning off the external radiation source, controlling the digital array module to transmit signals, and recording the emission amplitude and phase distribution of different transmitting units in the digital array module.

[0142] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, the step of obtaining the received amplitude and phase distribution of different received signals received by the digital array module includes the following process: first, turning on the external radiation source, controlling the digital array module to receive signals, and recording the received amplitude and phase distribution of different receiving units in the digital array module.

[0143] The integrated processing unit receives and transmits data from each digital array module, and performs down-conversion and sampling processing on the received and transmitted data to obtain the transmission and reception amplitude-phase distributions of different digital array modules. Specifically, when recording the transmission and reception amplitude-phase distributions of different transmitting units and different receiving units within the digital array module, the transmission and reception amplitude-phase distributions of the correction channel can also be recorded.

[0144] Optionally, in the above-mentioned modular radar system correction method, when determining the amplitude and phase control value of the correction channel based on the external correction data and the internal correction data, the difference between the external correction data and the internal correction data can be calculated, and the difference can be determined as the amplitude and phase control value.

[0145] Example Three

[0146] Based on Example 2, this example illustrates the method in Example 2 through specific implementation cases.

[0147] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, the above-described modular radar system calibration method further includes: obtaining a transmit phase shift control table and a receive phase shift control table based on the modular radar system; and calibrating the transmit channel and the receive channel according to the transmit phase shift control table and the receive phase shift control table.

[0148] Optionally, in the above-described modular radar system calibration method, when acquiring the transmit phase shift control table and receive phase shift control table based on the modular radar system, the amplitude phase can be initialized first, and multiple transmit channels of the digital array module can be controlled to transmit sequentially, while multiple first echo signals are received through the self-test channel. Then, the amplitude phase correction coefficients of multiple transmit channels are determined based on the amplitude phase and the multiple first echo signals, and the amplitude phase correction coefficients of the multiple transmit channels are converted into amplitude phase control codes and written into the transmit phase shift control table. Multiple receive channels of the digital array module are controlled to transmit sequentially, and multiple second echo signals are received after the self-test channel transmits. The amplitude phase correction coefficients of multiple receive channels are determined based on the amplitude phase and the multiple second echo signals, and the amplitude phase correction coefficients of the multiple receive channels are converted into amplitude phase control codes and written into the receive phase shift control table.

[0149] The transmission employs a time-division, step-by-step self-test and correction method. During transmission correction, the amplitude and phase are first initialized, and multiple TR channels are controlled to start transmitting one by one. The echo data received by the self-test channels are stored, the amplitude and phase are compared, and the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of multiple transmission channels are obtained. These coefficients are then converted into amplitude and phase control codes and written into the transmission phase shift control table.

[0150] The receiver employs simultaneous, sequential self-test correction. After the transmit correction, the receiver controls multiple TR channels to be in receive mode. After the self-test channel transmits, the received echo data is compared in amplitude to obtain the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of multiple receive channels, which are then converted into amplitude and phase control codes and written into the receive phase shift control table.

[0151] Example Four

[0152] Please refer to Figure 8 This application provides a modular radar system correction device 800, which includes:

[0153] Amplitude and phase control value acquisition module 810 is used to acquire amplitude and phase control values ​​based on the modular radar system.

[0154] The internal calibration result acquisition module 820 is used to acquire the internal calibration result of the modular radar system during real-time operation.

[0155] The external correction result determination module 830 is used to determine the external correction result based on the amplitude and phase control value and the internal correction result;

[0156] The calibration module 840 is used to calibrate the reference channels of different digital array modules based on the external calibration results.

[0157] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction device, the amplitude and phase control value acquisition module includes:

[0158] The transmission amplitude and phase distribution acquisition unit is used to acquire the transmission amplitude and phase distribution of different transmission signals transmitted by the digital array module;

[0159] A received amplitude and phase distribution acquisition unit is used to acquire the received amplitude and phase distribution of different received signals received by the digital array module;

[0160] An external correction data determination unit is used to determine external correction data based on the transmitted amplitude-phase distribution and the received amplitude-phase distribution;

[0161] The acquisition unit is used to acquire the internal correction data as the correction amplitude and phase distribution of the signals received by the integrated processing unit through different correction channels and transmitted and received by the digital array module.

[0162] An amplitude and phase control value determination unit is used to determine the amplitude and phase control value of the correction channel based on the external correction data and the internal correction data.

[0163] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction device, the transmitted amplitude and phase distribution acquisition unit includes:

[0164] The signal transmission control subunit is used to shut down the external radiation source and control the digital array module to transmit signals;

[0165] The emission amplitude and phase distribution acquisition sub-unit is used to record the emission amplitude and phase distribution of different emission units in the digital array module.

[0166] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction device, the received amplitude and phase distribution acquisition unit includes:

[0167] The signal receiving control subunit is used to turn on the external radiation source and control the digital array module to receive signals.

[0168] A receiving amplitude and phase distribution acquisition sub-unit is used to record the receiving amplitude and phase distribution of different receiving units in the digital array module.

[0169] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction device, the amplitude and phase control value determination unit includes:

[0170] The difference calculation subunit is used to calculate the difference between the external correction data and the internal correction data;

[0171] Amplitude and phase control value determination subunit is used to determine the difference as the amplitude and phase control value.

[0172] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-mentioned modular radar system correction device, the phase shift control table acquisition module is used to acquire the transmission phase shift control table and the reception phase shift control table based on the modular radar system.

[0173] The channel correction module is used to correct the transmission channel and the receiving channel according to the transmission phase shift control table and the receiving phase shift control table.

[0174] According to an embodiment of this application, optionally, in the above-described modular radar system correction device, the phase shift control table acquisition module includes:

[0175] The first echo signal receiving unit is used to initialize the amplitude and phase, control the multiple transmission channels of the digital array module to transmit sequentially, and receive multiple first echo signals through the self-test channel.

[0176] The transmit phase shift control table acquisition unit is used to determine the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of multiple transmit channels based on the amplitude and phase and the multiple first echo signals, and convert the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of the multiple transmit channels into amplitude and phase control codes and write them into the transmit phase shift control table;

[0177] The second echo signal receiving unit is used to control the multiple receiving channels of the digital array module to transmit sequentially, and to receive multiple second echo signals after the self-test channel transmits.

[0178] The receiving phase shift control table unit is used to determine the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of multiple receiving channels based on the amplitude and phase and the multiple second echo signals, and to convert the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of the multiple receiving channels into amplitude and phase control codes and write them into the receiving phase shift control table.

[0179] Example Five

[0180] This embodiment also provides a computer-readable storage medium, such as flash memory, hard disk, multimedia card, card-type memory (e.g., SD or DX memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic memory, disk, optical disk, server, App application store, etc., which stores a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a processor, it can implement the steps of the method described in the above embodiment. For specific implementation processes, please refer to the above embodiment. This embodiment will not repeat the description here.

[0181] Example Six

[0182] This application provides an electronic device, which may be a mobile phone, computer, or tablet computer, etc., including a memory and a processor. The memory stores a calculator program, which, when executed by the processor, implements the modular radar system correction method as described in Embodiment 1. It can be understood that... Figure 9 As shown, the electronic device 900 may further include: a processor 901, a memory 902, a multimedia component 903, an input / output (I / O) interface 904, and a communication component 905.

[0183] The processor 901 is used to execute all or part of the steps in the modular radar system correction method as described in Embodiment 1. The memory 902 is used to store various types of data, which may include, for example, instructions for any application or method in the electronic device, as well as application-related data.

[0184] The processor 901 may be implemented as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a digital signal processing device (DSPD), a programmable logic device (PLD), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a controller, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, or other electronic components, and is used to execute the modular radar system correction method in Embodiment 1 above.

[0185] The memory 902 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic storage, flash memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0186] Multimedia component 903 may include a screen, which may be a touchscreen, and an audio component for outputting and / or inputting audio signals. For example, the audio component may include a microphone for receiving external audio signals. The received audio signals may be further stored in memory or transmitted via a communication component. The audio component also includes at least one speaker for outputting audio signals.

[0187] I / O interface 904 provides an interface between processor 901 and other interface modules, such as keyboards, mice, and buttons. These buttons can be virtual or physical buttons.

[0188] Communication component 905 is used for wired or wireless communication between the electronic device 900 and other devices. Wireless communication includes, for example, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), 2G, 3G, or 4G, or one or more combinations thereof. Therefore, the corresponding communication component 905 may include: a Wi-Fi module, a Bluetooth module, or an NFC module.

[0189] In summary, this application provides a modular radar system and its calibration method. The modular radar system includes a modular active antenna unit and a comprehensive processing unit. The comprehensive processing unit is used to calculate the transmit digital beamform and the receive digital beamform. The modular active antenna unit includes multiple digital array modules, each of which is connected to the comprehensive processing unit to transmit radar signals according to the transmit digital beamform and to receive radar signals. The comprehensive processing unit is also used to calibrate the multiple digital array modules through a calibration channel and to perform digital beamforming on the received radar signals according to the receive digital beamform. The modular active antenna unit, including multiple digital array modules, can adjust the antenna array according to different terrains and operating environments. When high power is required, the modular active antenna unit in the modular radar system can include a large number of digital array modules, thereby expanding into a large antenna array. In the case of obstruction, only a small number of antenna arrays are needed to achieve the required airspace coverage. In other words, this modular radar system allows for the selection of an appropriate number of modules to assemble the required radar product based on actual mission needs. Simultaneously, the integrated processing unit can also calibrate multiple digital array modules via a calibration channel, thereby ensuring radar performance for the discrete, modular antenna arrays within the modular radar system.

[0190] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems and methods can also be implemented in other ways. The system and method embodiments described above are merely illustrative.

[0191] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0192] Although the embodiments disclosed in this application are as described above, the content is merely for the purpose of facilitating understanding of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any person skilled in the art to which this application pertains may make any modifications and changes in the form and details of the implementation without departing from the spirit and scope disclosed in this application; however, the scope of patent protection of this application shall still be determined by the scope defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A modular radar system, characterized in that, The modular radar system includes modular active antenna units and integrated processing units; The integrated processing unit is used to calculate the transmit digital beam coefficient and the receive digital beam coefficient; The modular active antenna sub-unit includes multiple digital array modules, each of which is connected to the integrated processing sub-unit to transmit radar signals according to the transmit digital beam coefficient and to receive radar signals. The integrated processing unit is also used to correct multiple digital array modules through the correction channel, and to perform digital beamforming on the received radar signal according to the received digital beam coefficient. The integrated processing unit includes a channel correction component, a signal processing component, and a digital beamforming component. The signal processing component generates a co-source excitation signal. The channel correction component is connected to the signal processing component and is also connected to each of the digital array modules via correction channels to receive coupling data from each digital array module. The channel correction component also sends a co-source excitation signal to the digital array modules via the correction channels to enable the digital array modules to perform internal correction. The digital beamforming component calculates the transmit digital beam coefficient and the receive digital beam coefficient. The integrated processing unit is also used to acquire the transmission amplitude and phase distribution of different transmitted signals emitted by the digital array module; acquire the reception amplitude and phase distribution of different received signals received by the digital array module; determine external correction data based on the transmission amplitude and phase distribution and the reception amplitude and phase distribution; acquire the correction amplitude and phase distribution of different transmitted and received signals received by the integrated processing unit through different correction channels as internal correction data; determine the amplitude and phase control value of the correction channel based on the external correction data and the internal correction data; acquire the internal correction result when the modular radar system is working in real time; determine the external correction result based on the amplitude and phase control value and the internal correction result; and correct the reference channel of different digital array modules based on the external correction result.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The digital array module includes: The signal generation module is used to generate radar modulation signals and local oscillator signals; A radio frequency transceiver component, connected to the signal generation module, is used to generate a radio frequency signal based on the radar modulation signal and the local oscillator signal; An antenna array, which is connected to the radio frequency transceiver assembly, is used to transmit the radio frequency signal; The sampling and processing module is connected to the antenna array and the integrated processing unit respectively, for acquiring the intermediate frequency echo signal received by the antenna array, performing IQ demodulation on the intermediate frequency echo signal, and sending the IQ data obtained from the IQ demodulation to the integrated processing unit.

3. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The digital array module also includes: A calibration network is connected to the antenna array and the sampling processing module to couple the signals received or transmitted by the antenna array and send the signals to the sampling processing module for amplitude and phase correction.

4. A method for correcting a modular radar system, characterized in that, Applied to the modular radar system as described in any one of claims 1-3, the method comprises: Amplitude and phase control values ​​are obtained based on the modular radar system described above; Obtain the internal correction results of the modular radar system during real-time operation; The external correction result is determined based on the amplitude and phase control value and the internal correction result; The reference channels of different digital array modules are calibrated based on the external calibration results.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The step of obtaining amplitude and phase control values ​​based on the modular radar system includes: Obtain the amplitude and phase distribution of different transmitted signals emitted by the digital array module; Obtain the amplitude and phase distribution of different received signals received by the digital array module; External correction data are determined based on the transmitted amplitude and phase distribution and the received amplitude and phase distribution; The internal correction data is obtained by acquiring the correction amplitude and phase distribution of the signals received by the integrated processing unit through different correction channels from the digital array modules. The amplitude and phase control values ​​of the correction channel are determined based on the external correction data and the internal correction data.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the amplitude and phase distribution of different transmitted signals emitted by the digital array module includes: Turn off the external radiation source and control the digital array module to transmit signals; Record the emission amplitude and phase distribution of different transmitting units in the digital array module.

7. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the received amplitude and phase distribution of different received signals received by the digital array module includes: Turn on the external radiation source and control the digital array module to receive signals; Record the amplitude and phase distribution of different receiving units in the digital array module.

8. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The step of determining the amplitude and phase control values ​​of the correction channel based on the external correction data and the internal correction data includes: Calculate the difference between the external correction data and the internal correction data; The difference is determined to be the amplitude and phase control value.

9. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Based on the modular radar system, the transmit phase shift control table and the receive phase shift control table are obtained; The transmit and receive channels are calibrated according to the transmit phase shift control table and the receive phase shift control table.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The steps of acquiring the transmit phase shift control table and the receive phase shift control table based on the modular radar system include: Initialize the amplitude and phase, and control the multiple transmission channels of the digital array module to transmit sequentially, and receive multiple first echo signals through the self-test channel; The amplitude and phase correction coefficients of multiple transmission channels are determined based on the amplitude and phase and the multiple first echo signals, and the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of the multiple transmission channels are converted into amplitude and phase control codes and written into the transmission phase shift control table. The multiple receiving channels of the digital array module are controlled to transmit sequentially, and multiple second echo signals are received after the self-test channel transmits. Based on the amplitude and phase and the multiple second echo signals, the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of multiple receiving channels are determined, and the amplitude and phase correction coefficients of the multiple receiving channels are converted into amplitude and phase control codes and written into the receiving phase shift control table.

Images