Distributed DFRC Power Allocation for MIMO Localization Accuracy

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current dual-function radar-communication (DFRC) systems for distributed Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) architectures lack a resource-aware approach to simultaneously achieve high target localization accuracy and wireless communication performance, particularly in scenarios where resource constraints are present.

Innovation Solution

A novel resource-aware DFRC architecture that optimizes transmit power allocation among dual-function radar transmitters, using a controller to calculate and set transmit power values based on minimizing a vector of transmit power values while adhering to minimum and maximum power constraints, and switching between radar-only, communication-only, and dual-function modes based on target location and data transmission requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If transmit power is increased to improve target localization accuracy, then localization performance improves, but total power consumption increases beyond available resources

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetarget localization accuracyVSAvoidtotal transmit power
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by allocating different transmit power levels to different radar transmitters based on their specific roles and positions in the distributed MIMO network. Each transmitter receives a customized power allocation from the controller, optimizing the power distribution locally at each node rather than using uniform power allocation, thereby achieving high localization accuracy while respecting total power constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the transmit power parameter of each radar transmitter based on real-time system conditions, target locations, and communication requirements. The controller calculates optimal power values and updates transmitter parameters adaptively, allowing the system to achieve high localization accuracy while maintaining power consumption within available resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If more radar transmitters are activated to improve localization, then localization accuracy improves, but the complexity of power management increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocalization accuracyVSAvoidpower allocation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by enabling the controller to autonomously calculate and distribute optimal power allocations to all radar transmitters without requiring manual intervention or complex centralized coordination. The controller automatically manages the power allocation based on system conditions, reducing the operational complexity of managing multiple active transmitters while maintaining high localization accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If distributed MIMO architecture is used to improve localization, then localization capability improves, but resource constraints make simultaneous radar and communication difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocalization capabilityVSAvoidavailable power resources
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a power allocation framework that simultaneously supports both radar localization and communication functions within the distributed MIMO system. The controller optimizes power distribution to satisfy both radar detection requirements and communication data rate requirements, enabling the same hardware resources to perform multiple functions efficiently without exceeding available power constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11598841B1System and method for distributed dual-function radar-communication
Publication Date: 2023.03.07 TEMPLE UNIV
  • US11598841B1 patent drawing
  • US11598841B1 patent drawing
  • US11598841B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for distributed dual-function radar-communication comprises a plurality of dual-function radar transmitters positioned within a region of interest, each configured to transmit at least one radar waveform, with each transmitter for having a minimum transmit power, a maximum transmit power, and a working transmit power, a plurality of radar receivers positioned within the region of interest, each configured to receive the radar waveforms, at least one controller communicatively connected to at least one connected transmitter of the plurality of dual-function radar transmitters, configured to calculate a vector of transmit power values for the plurality of dual-function radar transmitters. A method of transmitting a radar waveform is also disclosed.