Fragmented Phased Array Radar Subarrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array radars experience significant scan loss and beam distortion when the beam is steered off the boresight, leading to reduced antenna gain, which is not effectively mitigated by existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A phased array radar system with multiple flat subarray panels disposed on a curved surface, such as conical or dome-shaped, forming a fragmented array, which reduces scan loss in azimuth and elevation by dividing the 360° coverage into smaller regions and minimizing grating lobe levels through strategic subarray placement and gap management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the beam is steered off the boresight to achieve wide scan coverage, then the coverage area is improved, but the antenna gain is reduced due to scan loss
Solution Approach 1:
The phased array is divided into multiple independent subarrays (first subarray, second subarray, etc.) that can be independently controlled. Each subarray can form its own beam, allowing the system to maintain high gain by using smaller, more focused subarray beams while achieving wide overall coverage through multiple subarrays working in parallel or sequentially.
2Loss of energy
If multiple faces or conformal arrays are used to reduce scan loss, then the antenna gain is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The subarrays are arranged in a three-dimensional spatial configuration (e.g., distributed around a curved surface or in multiple layers) rather than a simple planar arrangement. This spatial distribution allows the system to achieve wide coverage and maintain gain without requiring complex mechanical steering or multiple rotating faces, as the 3D geometry naturally provides diverse beam directions.
3Reliability
If a continuous phased array is used to minimize grating lobes, then the beam quality is improved, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The array is constructed from discrete, modular subarrays that can be independently manufactured, tested, and assembled. This segmentation makes the system easier to manufacture and maintain compared to a continuous array, while the subarray spacing and phasing are designed to minimize grating lobes through careful geometric arrangement and signal processing.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for a phase array radar system having a fragmented array. In one embodiment, subarrays forming a generally rectangular shape are disposed on the surface of a truncated cone or a dome so that gaps are formed between adjacent segments of subarrays or between every adjacent subarrays.