Airborne Radar Altitude Management with Real-Time Propagation Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining and controlling the altitude of an aircraft's radar rely on environmental propagation models based on weather forecasts that are not validated with real-time data, leading to erroneous altitude estimations and lack of control, which is time-consuming and costly in operational missions.
Innovation Solution
A method involving an advanced propagation model using real-time measured meteorological data and radar detection performance estimation, combined with neural networks to compare estimated and measured performance, ensuring accurate altitude control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If environmental propagation models based on weather forecasts are used to determine radar altitude, then the method is simple to implement, but the accuracy of altitude estimation deteriorates because the models are not validated with real-time data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by comparing estimated radar detection performance with actual measured performance and using this comparison to validate and adjust the propagation model. The system continuously monitors whether the model predictions match real-world observations, allowing operators to verify model accuracy and make corrections based on actual data feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary validation of the propagation model by comparing forecast-based predictions with actual measured meteorological data and radar performance before final altitude determination. This preliminary check ensures the model is accurate for current conditions before using it to recommend altitudes.
2Ease of operation
If manual altitude determination methods are used, then the process is simple to understand, but the operational time and fuel consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically determining optimal radar altitudes using the propagation model, eliminating the need for manual calculations by operators. The computer system autonomously processes meteorological data, runs the propagation model, and generates altitude recommendations, freeing operators from time-consuming manual work while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated computer-based processing. Instead of operators manually analyzing weather data and calculating altitudes, the system uses computational algorithms to automatically determine optimal altitudes, dramatically reducing operational time while maintaining or improving accuracy.
3Reliability
If the propagation model is executed multiple times with varying altitudes to find optimal detection, then the detection probability improves, but the computational time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calculations using the propagation model with forecast data to predict optimal altitudes before actual radar operations. This preliminary action provides a starting point that reduces the need for extensive iterative testing during actual operations, as the model has already identified promising altitude ranges based on environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the propagation model to create a virtual representation of radar performance at different altitudes without physically testing each altitude. The model copies and simulates detection probabilities computationally, allowing operators to evaluate multiple altitude scenarios mentally or on screens without actual flight maneuvers.
4Ease of operation
If no validation of propagation conditions is performed, then the system is simple to operate, but the reliability of altitude recommendations deteriorates when environmental conditions are atypical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that allow the system to detect when propagation conditions are atypical or when the model predictions do not match actual radar performance. Operators receive feedback about model accuracy and can verify whether current environmental conditions are within the model's valid range, maintaining reliability even in unusual conditions.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for managing the altitude of an aircraft equipped with an airborne radar, comprising: - a step (2) of calculating in flight a set altitude to which the aircraft moves, comprising a first sub-step implementing an advanced propagation model APM using as input measurements of parameters representative of the surrounding atmosphere and delivering as output a coefficient of amplification/attenuation of the radar signals used as input to a second sub-step of calculating a set altitude from an estimate of the radar detection performance using a radar model; and - a step (3) of checking the set altitude to which the aircraft has moved using a comparison between an estimate of the radar detection performance using a radar model and a measurement of the radar detection performance.