Dual Port Super-Element Phased Array Radar Scan Volume
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array radar systems with super-elements have limited scan volume coverage due to the use of a single port, which restricts their operational range and effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
Implementing dual port super-element assemblies with independent image and main beam ports to generate both beams, allowing for wider scan coverage by positioning the ports at opposing ends and tilting the aperture to increase the scan volume and provide multiple look angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If super-element assemblies use a single port to reduce costs, then device complexity is reduced, but scan volume coverage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The super-element assembly is segmented into multiple functional ports (first port for main beam, second port for image beam) instead of using a single port. This segmentation allows independent control of different beam functions, resolving the contradiction by maintaining structural simplicity while expanding scan volume coverage through multi-port operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The super-element assembly is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both main beam generation and image beam generation capabilities within a single assembly structure. The first port generates the main beam while the second port generates the image beam, allowing the assembly to perform multiple functions simultaneously without requiring separate structures for each function.
2Ease of manufacture
If super-element assemblies use a single port, then ease of manufacture is improved, but scan volume coverage is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into modular port implementations where the first port and second port can be fabricated independently and then integrated into the super-element assembly. This segmentation maintains ease of manufacture by allowing standardized production of each port type while achieving enhanced scan volume through their combined operation.
3Volume of moving object
If dual port super-element assemblies are implemented, then scan volume coverage is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dual port super-element assembly merges the main beam generation function and image beam generation function into a single integrated assembly structure. By combining these functions in one assembly rather than using separate assemblies, the patent achieves enhanced scan volume coverage while minimizing the increase in device complexity through functional integration.
4Reliability
If dual port super-element assemblies are implemented, then target detection capabilities are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The super-element assembly achieves multi-functionality by incorporating both main beam and image beam generation capabilities, enabling diverse target detection scenarios (broadside targets, endfire targets, targets at various angles) from a single assembly structure. This universal design improves target detection capabilities while keeping device complexity manageable through functional integration rather than multiple separate systems.
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 significantly enhances the scan volume coverage of phased array radar systems, enabling broader target tracking and improved accuracy by generating independent main and image beams with opposing propagation vectors, thereby increasing the radar's operational range and target detection capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
phased array radars have a number of advantages over other types of radar systems
Implementation Method 2
employing a first signal at the first port to generate a main beam, and employing a second signal at the second port to generate an image beam
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for a super-element assembly for a phased array radar aperture, the super-element assembly having a first port and a second port to receive a first signal at the first port to generate a main beam, and receive a second signal at the second port to generate an image beam for generating scan volume coverage using the main and image beams.