Radar Altimeter Self-Test via DDS Signal Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radar altimeters rely on expensive Bulk Acoustic Wave (BAW) devices for self-testing, which fail to accurately detect improper system operation, necessitating a cost-effective and efficient self-test method to identify deviations from acceptable limits.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a Direct Digital Synthesizer (DDS) to generate a voltage signal by comparing a fixed reference frequency to a ramped frequency signal, integrating it over a predefined number of clock signals, and sampling at a defined clock tick, with a comparison to a threshold value to indicate malfunctioning, leading to system deactivation if exceeded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Bulk Acoustic Wave (BAW) devices are used for self-testing, then self-test capability is provided, but the system cost increases and measurement accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual representation of the radar signal path using software-based signal processing. Instead of using expensive BAW devices, the system generates test signals through a DDS, processes them through virtual signal paths that mirror the actual radar architecture, and compares the results against expected outcomes to detect malfunctions accurately.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical BAW device with a software-based signal generation and processing system. The DDS generates test signals, and software algorithms process these signals through virtual signal paths, eliminating the need for expensive acoustic wave devices while maintaining or improving test accuracy.
2Reliability
If Bulk Acoustic Wave (BAW) devices are used for self-testing, then self-test capability is provided, but the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses inexpensive software-based signal processing components instead of expensive BAW devices. The DDS and associated software algorithms provide a cost-effective solution that can be implemented without costly hardware, making the system more economical while maintaining self-test functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical BAW device with a software-based signal generation and processing system. The DDS generates test signals, and software algorithms process these signals through virtual signal paths, eliminating the need for expensive acoustic wave devices while maintaining or improving test accuracy.
3Ease of operation
If BAW devices are used for self-testing, then testing is performed, but the system fails to accurately detect improper operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the generated test signal is processed through virtual signal paths that mirror the actual radar architecture, and the results are compared against expected outcomes. This closed-loop approach provides accurate feedback for detecting malfunctions, improving detection accuracy compared to BAW device methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual representation of the radar signal path using software-based signal processing. Instead of using expensive BAW devices, the system generates test signals through a DDS, processes them through virtual signal paths that mirror the actual radar architecture, and compares the results against expected outcomes to detect malfunctions accurately.
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
This approach provides a cost-effective and accurate self-test for radar altimeters, effectively identifying and addressing malfunctions, thereby ensuring proper operation within acceptable limits without the need for expensive BAW devices.
Implementation Method 1
a ramped frequency signal generated by the DDS based on a clock-based reference signal is generated
Implementation Method 2
a voltage signal derived by comparing a fixed reference frequency to a ramped frequency signal
Implementation Method 3
The generated voltage signal is integrated over a predefined number of clock signals
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for testing a signal generated by a Direct Digital Synthesizer (DDS) in a radar altimeter. In an embodiment of the method, a voltage signal derived by comparing a fixed reference frequency to a ramped frequency signal generated by the DDS based on a clock-based reference signal is generated. The generated voltage signal is integrated over a predefined range of clock signals. The integration is sampled at a previously defined clock tick. The sample is compared to a desired value and an indication that the radar altimeter is malfunctioning is provided if the comparison exceeds a predefined threshold value. The radar altimeter system is deactivated if an indication that the radar altimeter is malfunctioning has been provided.