Dual-Mode Radar Waveforms for Near- and Far-Range Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radar systems cannot simultaneously provide long-range, moderate-range, and very short-range resolution with high-range resolution, limiting their applicability in both marine and aviation contexts.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode radar system that operates in frequency modulation continuous wave (FMCW) and linear or nonlinear frequency modulated pulse-compression modes, utilizing a synthesizer and dual-mode transmitter with a processor to determine targets and output presentations, incorporating a digital phase-locked loop and gallium nitride high-power transmitter for efficient signal processing across various ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If a radar system is designed for long-range detection, then detection range is improved, but range resolution at short distances deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The radar system dynamically switches between different operational modes (FMCW for short-range with high resolution, pulse-compression for long-range with high resolution) based on detection needs. The synthesizer dynamically adjusts frequency modulation parameters to optimize performance for the current operational context, resolving the contradiction between detection range and range resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes key parameters including modulation type (linear vs nonlinear), frequency sweep characteristics, and pulse duration to optimize performance for different range requirements. By varying these parameters, the radar achieves high resolution at both short and long ranges without compromising either capability.
2Measurement precision
If separate radar systems are used for different range modes, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single radar system is designed to perform multiple functions by implementing both FMCW and pulse-compression modes within one architecture. The dual-mode synthesizer and configurable transmitter enable the system to adapt to different operational requirements, eliminating the need for separate specialized radar systems while maintaining high measurement precision across all ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The radar system uses dynamic reconfiguration of its signal generation and processing components to switch between operational modes. The synthesizer can be programmed to generate different waveforms, and the receiver can adapt its processing algorithms, allowing one system to replace multiple fixed-function systems.
3Measurement precision
If FMCW mode is used for short-range detection, then range resolution is improved, but long-range detection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The radar system periodically switches between FMCW mode (optimized for short-range high-resolution detection) and pulse-compression mode (optimized for long-range detection). This periodic alternation between different operational modes ensures that both short-range resolution and long-range detection capabilities are maintained through time-multiplexed operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for providing an efficient radar system that can operate at both near and far ranges. An exemplary radar system includes a controller that generates a clock signal and a mode signal, a transmitter with a synthesizer, and a dual-mode transmitter. The synthesizer and the transmitter generate a signal in a first or a second mode (frequency ranges) based on the clock or mode signals. An antenna transmits the generated signal and receives a return signal based on the transmitted signal. A receiver processes the received return signal according to the first or second mode, based on the generated at least one clock signal or mode signal. A processor determines existence of a target included in the processed return signal. An output device (such as a display device) outputs a presentation based on the determination. The system operates in FMCW or pulse modes.