GRIN Radar Lens Layout for Wide Vertical Field of View
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensing systems, particularly those using gradient index (GRIN) lenses, face challenges in achieving a wide vertical field of view, which limits their ability to detect objects close to the ground or in environments with varying elevations.
Innovation Solution
The proposed sensing system incorporates a combination of GRIN lenses and multiple antenna elements arranged in different azimuth planes, oriented at angles relative to each other, to enhance the vertical field of view. This configuration allows for a combined vertical field of view greater than 90 degrees, improving object detection capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single GRIN lens with antenna elements is used, then the system structure is simple, but the vertical field of view is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing system is divided into multiple sub-sensing systems, each with its own GRIN lens and antenna elements. The first sub-sensing system has a first azimuth plane and the second sub-sensing system has a second azimuth plane oriented at an angle (about 90 degrees) with respect to the first azimuth plane. This segmentation allows each subsystem to cover a specific angular range, and when combined, they achieve a total vertical field of view greater than 90 degrees, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and wide field of view coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension by orienting multiple sub-sensing systems at different azimuth plane angles relative to each other. Instead of trying to achieve wide vertical field of view with a single planar array, the system uses spatial arrangement of multiple GRIN lens assemblies at angled orientations, effectively utilizing three-dimensional spatial configuration to expand the combined vertical field of view beyond what a single system could achieve.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sub-sensing systems with different azimuth planes are combined, then the vertical field of view exceeds 90 degrees, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sub-sensing systems, each consisting of a GRIN lens and antenna elements in different azimuth planes, are merged into a single integrated sensing system. The first sub-sensing system and second sub-sensing system are combined such that their fields of view overlap and complement each other, achieving a combined vertical field of view greater than 90 degrees. This merging allows the system to achieve wide-angle coverage while maintaining the compact GRIN lens architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
Each sub-sensing system with GRIN lens and antenna elements serves multiple functions: it provides signal transmission and reception in its specific azimuth plane, contributes to the overall wide vertical field of view when combined with other subsystems, and maintains the high-gain, broadband characteristics of the GRIN lens architecture. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components for different angular ranges.
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
The enhanced sensing system achieves a significant improvement in vertical field of view, enabling more effective detection of objects across a broader range of elevations, which is crucial for autonomous vehicles navigating complex environments.
Implementation Method 1
Gradient index (GRIN) components are electromagnetic structures that can exhibit spatially-continuous variations in their index of refraction n. The Luneburg lens is an attractive gradient index device for multiple beam tracking because of its high gain, broadband behavior, and ability to form multiple beams.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensing system is provided that includes a first sub-sensing system having a first azimuth plane. The first sub-sensing system includes a Gradient-index lens, and a first plurality of antenna elements arranged adjacent to the Gradient-index lens and configured to receive a first signal emanating from a first field of view. The sensing system also includes a second sub-sensing system having a second azimuth plane oriented at an angle with respect to the first azimuth plane and a second plurality of antenna elements configured to receive a second signal emanating from a second field of view.