Agile Beam Pulse-to-Pulse Interleaved Radar Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional radar systems are limited by sequential operation of multiple functions, leading to slow agile beam updates, slow receiver or exciter frequency switching, and a lack of programmable waveforms and timing control, which can result in prolonged imaging times and missed detection opportunities, such as during missile launches.
Innovation Solution
The system groups radar modes, allocates time and pulse repetition frequency (PRF) for each mode, schedules transmission and reception, and interleaves signals to enable concurrent operation of multiple radar functions, prioritizing modes based on compatibility and scenario requirements, using a phased array antenna and a controller for rapid frequency switching and beam steering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional radar systems perform multiple functions sequentially, then system complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but productivity decreases and loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the radar operation into multiple independent functional modes (SAR, GMTI, dismount detection, etc.) that can be independently scheduled and executed. Each mode is assigned specific time slots and PRF values, allowing parallel execution of multiple functions without interference, thereby reducing total imaging time while maintaining manageable system complexity through structured organization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic scheduling where the radar system can adaptively allocate time slots and PRF values to different modes based on operational priorities and requirements. The controller dynamically adjusts beam steering, frequency switching, and mode activation in real-time, enabling the system to handle multiple functions concurrently with optimized resource allocation rather than fixed sequential operation
2Speed
If conventional radar systems use sequential operation for multiple functions, then resource allocation is simplified, but speed of operation decreases and agility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by assigning specific pulse repetition frequencies (PRF) to different radar modes and executing them in periodic time slots. The system uses a base PRF that is an integer multiple relationship among different modes, creating a periodic interleaved structure that enables fast beam updates and frequency switching while maintaining systematic resource allocation through regular, predictable timing patterns
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by dynamically adjusting PRF values, duty cycles, and beam steering angles for different modes. The system changes operational parameters on a pulse-to-pulse basis to switch between modes, enabling rapid agile beam updates and frequency switching without complex resource reallocation, as parameter transitions are pre-planned and systematically managed
3Measurement precision
If radar systems allocate dedicated time for each function, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by interleaving multiple radar modes in time such that the system continuously performs useful detection functions without idle periods. While one mode is executing, another mode can be prepared or is executing in parallel time slots, ensuring the radar resource is continuously utilized for target detection and surveillance across multiple functions simultaneously rather than alternating with idle transitions
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional systems lack programmable waveforms and timing control, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability decreases and productivity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single radar system capable of performing multiple functions (SAR imaging, GMTI, dismount detection, tracking) through programmable waveform generation and unified timing control. The system uses a universal controller that manages all modes with a common architecture, allowing adaptive waveform programming for different modes while maintaining manageable complexity through integrated control rather than separate dedicated systems for each function
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for concurrently operating a plurality of agile beam radar modes by pulse-to-pulse interleaving groups of the radar modes. Radar modes are grouped, each radar mode being allocated a certain amount of time for operation and a suitable pulse repetition frequency to improve or optimize the duty cycle of the antenna while concurrently operating the plurality of modes. Priorities may be assigned to groups or to individual radar modes within each group. In some embodiments, TDM communications are further interleaved within the radar modes to enhance the operation of the radar antenna.