Distributed Radar Signal Processing for Scalable Multi-Unit Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radar systems face challenges in scalability, cost, and complexity due to the need for a unified processor to synchronize and process data from multiple radio frequency chips, limiting the development and integration of large-scale systems with improved detection range and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
Distribute signal processing among radar units, employing a bus or master-slave structure to reduce processing requirements and enable easier integration of RF channels, using SoC chips for on-chip integration and simplifying design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of antennas is increased to improve angular resolution, then the antenna array size increases, but the radar cross section increases and stealth performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna array is divided into multiple sub-arrays, each sub-array independently controls the phase and amplitude of transmitted signals, enabling the radar cross section to be dynamically adjusted and reduced while maintaining angular resolution through coordinated beamforming across segmented elements
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna array transitions from a static configuration to a dynamic one where each antenna element can independently control its radiation characteristics in real-time, allowing the radar cross section to be adaptively adjusted according to operational requirements while preserving measurement precision
2Reliability
If the antenna array size is increased to improve detection capability, then the physical dimensions increase, but the probability of detection by enemy radar increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna array implements dynamic control where each element can independently adjust its radiation pattern and phase, allowing the system to maintain large physical dimensions for detection capability while dynamically minimizing the observable cross section to reduce probability of detection by enemy radar
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters including phase, amplitude, and frequency distribution across antenna elements to create variable radiation patterns that enhance detection capability while simultaneously reducing the effective radar cross section presented to potential threats
3Measurement precision
If the antenna elements are densely packed to improve resolution, then the angular resolution improves, but mutual coupling between elements increases affecting performance
Solution Approach 1:
The densely packed antenna array is segmented into multiple independent sub-arrays, allowing each element to be individually controlled and calibrated, thereby managing mutual coupling effects through localized beamforming while preserving the high angular resolution benefits of dense packing
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
Enhances scalability, reduces implementation costs, and improves detection range and accuracy by allowing flexible expansion without redesigning individual chips or modules, thus streamlining the design process.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of antenna elements arranged in a predetermined array pattern are independently controlled so as to transmit electromagnetic signals
Implementation Method 2
A control signal generation unit generates control signals for controlling phases and amplitudes of the transmitted electromagnetic signals from the antenna elements based on the principle of minimum entropy
Data Source
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AI summary
A radar system and control method thereof is disclosed. The radar system comprises a plurality of radar units, each comprising: one or more radio frequency (RF) channels configured to receive a reflected signal and then generate an analog input signal according to the reflected signal; and a processing module connected with all the RF channels and configured to sample the analog input signal to obtain a digital signal and perform the first digital signal processing on the digital signal to obtain intermediate data, wherein when the plurality of radar units work jointly, a designated radar unit performs the second digital signal processing on the plurality of intermediate data provided by the plurality of radar units, thereby obtaining result data of the radar system.