Azimuth Calculation Device Using Vector Decomposition for 2D FFT Segmentation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing azimuth calculation methods for radar waves are limited by the requirement of phase information for two-dimensional FFT processes, restricting the degree of freedom for azimuth calculation algorithms.

Innovation Solution

An azimuth calculation device and method that includes acquiring signals from plural receiving antennas arranged in both a first and second axis direction, performing vector decomposition to enhance azimuth calculation algorithms, and using a second azimuth calculation unit to determine the direction of arrival in the second axis direction, allowing for higher flexibility in antenna arrangement and algorithm usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If two-dimensional FFT process is performed on beat signals, then direction of arrival in both horizontal and vertical directions can be calculated, but the azimuth calculation algorithm is limited to DBF (Digital Beam Forming)

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirection of arrival calculationVSAvoidazimuth calculation algorithm
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the two-dimensional FFT process into two separate one-dimensional FFT processes. First, FFT is performed in the horizontal direction to obtain horizontal direction of arrival. Then, the received signals are reorganized by horizontal direction, and FFT is performed in the vertical direction to obtain vertical direction of arrival. This segmentation allows different azimuth calculation algorithms to be applied independently in each direction, breaking the limitation of DBF and enabling greater algorithmic versatility while maintaining measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If signals from plural receiving antennas arranged in two-dimensional configuration are processed, then both horizontal and vertical direction of arrival can be obtained, but processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveazimuth calculationVSAvoidsignal processing
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the complex two-dimensional signal processing into two simpler one-dimensional processing stages. The first stage processes signals horizontally to obtain horizontal azimuth. The second stage reorganizes signals by horizontal direction and processes them vertically to obtain vertical azimuth. This segmentation reduces processing complexity compared to direct two-dimensional FFT, while maintaining the ability to calculate both horizontal and vertical direction of arrival with high precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary organization of received signals by horizontal direction before performing vertical FFT. This preliminary action groups signals in a way that simplifies subsequent vertical processing, reducing the overall computational complexity. By preparing the signal structure in advance according to the segmented processing strategy, the system achieves efficient two-dimensional azimuth calculation without the full complexity of traditional two-dimensional FFT.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11150338B2Azimuth calculation device and azimuth calculation method
Publication Date: 2021.10.19 DENSO TEN LTD
  • US11150338B2 patent drawing
  • US11150338B2 patent drawing
  • US11150338B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An azimuth calculation device includes: an acquiring unit configured to acquire signals of plural receiving antennas of an antenna group in which the plural receiving antennas are arranged in each of a first axis direction and a second axis direction, based on reception signals received by the antenna group; a first azimuth calculation unit configured to perform a calculation of a direction of arrival of radio wave in the first axis direction based on the signals of the plural receiving antennas acquired; a vector decomposition unit configured to perform vector decomposition with respect to each of antenna arrangement positions in the second axis direction using a result of the calculation by the first azimuth calculation unit; and a second azimuth calculation unit configured to perform a calculation of a direction of arrival of radio wave in the second axis direction, using a result of the vector decomposition.