Arc Antenna Array Layout for Low-RCS Drone Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies face challenges in detecting and intercepting drones, especially those with low radar cross-sections, due to limitations in field of view, angular resolution, and complexity, which impede effective pursuit and capture of threat drones.
Innovation Solution
A drone radar system with an arc-configured antenna array and modular hardware architecture, capable of high angular accuracy and range, is developed to detect and track drones with low radar cross-sections, incorporating millimeter wavelength and phased array radar technologies, and featuring a calibration system for improved resolution and reduced complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional radar systems are used for drone detection, then the system structure is simple, but the angular resolution and field of view are insufficient to detect drones with low radar cross-sections
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna array is divided into multiple arc configurations with different curvature radii. Each arc configuration contains multiple antenna elements arranged along a circular arc, allowing the system to achieve high angular resolution through the combined signals from multiple segmented arcs while maintaining a manageable system structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional linear or planar antenna arrangements to three-dimensional arc configurations. By arranging antenna elements along circular arcs with different radii in 3D space, the system achieves enhanced angular resolution and field of view without proportionally increasing system complexity
2Area of stationary object
If the antenna array uses multiple arc configurations, then the field of view and angular resolution are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple arc configurations serve multiple functions simultaneously: they expand the field of view, provide diverse angular resolution capabilities, and enable detection of drones at various ranges and positions. This multi-functionality justifies the increased complexity by delivering comprehensive detection performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs arc configurations with different curvature radii and spatial arrangements rather than uniform symmetric patterns. This asymmetric design allows optimization of the field of view in specific directions where drone threats are most likely, while reducing complexity in less critical areas
3Reliability
If millimeter wavelength radar is used, then the detection capability for low radar cross-section drones is improved, but the signal attenuation and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical scanning systems with electronic beamforming and signal processing. By using phased array technology with multiple arc configurations, the system achieves high detection reliability through electronic control of radar beams, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining or improving detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system uses feedback mechanisms to measure and compensate for signal attenuation and phase errors in the millimeter wavelength radar. By continuously monitoring signal characteristics and adjusting transmission parameters, the system maintains reliable detection capability while managing the inherent complexity of millimeter wave signal processing
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides enhanced detection and tracking capabilities, enabling effective pursuit and capture of threat drones with improved angular resolution and range, while maintaining a compact and efficient design suitable for counter drones.
Implementation Method 1
A system for drone radar is disclosed. The system comprises an antenna array. The antenna array comprises an arc configuration. A set of transmitter antennas and a set of receiver antennas are arranged in an arc along the arc configuration.
Implementation Method 2
incorporating millimeter wavelength and phased array radar technologies, and featuring a calibration system for improved resolution and reduced complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A system for drone radar includes an antenna array. The antenna array includes an arc configuration. A set of transmitter antennas and a set of receiver antennas are arranged in an arc along the arc configuration.