Headlight Phased Array Radar With 2D Scanning Using Fewer RF Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 2D phased array radar systems require a large number of RF channels for 2D beam scanning, leading to increased size, complexity, and cost, while also being limited in their ability to efficiently scan and detect objects in both azimuth and elevation planes.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution reduces the number of RF channels needed for 2D beam scanning by using N and M RF channels for transmit and receive antennas respectively, employing fan beams that are perpendicular and synchronized to achieve similar beam-widths, and incorporates meta-structure elements to enhance phase shifting and beam steering capabilities, allowing for faster scanning and reduced complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 2D phased array radar systems use traditional beam scanning methods, then complete 2D coverage is achieved, but the number of RF channels increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the 2D scanning function into two separate 1D scanning operations: one for azimuth and one for elevation. This is achieved by using separate antenna arrays oriented in different directions, each performing scanning in its respective dimension, thereby reducing the total number of RF channels required while maintaining complete 2D coverage capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single 2D scanning system to a multi-dimensional approach by deploying antenna arrays in different spatial orientations (azimuth and elevation dimensions). This dimensional separation allows independent 1D scanning operations to collectively achieve 2D coverage, reducing system complexity
2Ease of operation
If traditional phased array systems are used, then beam steering is achieved, but system size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the beam steering function into separate azimuth and elevation components, with dedicated antenna arrays for each dimension. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be optimized independently, reducing overall system size while maintaining full beam steering capability in 2D space
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a single large phased array to achieve 2D beam steering, the patent inverts the approach by using multiple smaller 1D arrays arranged in different orientations. This inversion reduces the size of individual array elements and overall system footprint while achieving the same beam steering functionality
3Productivity
If more RF channels are used for 2D scanning, then scanning performance improves, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the scanning operation into independent 1D scans for azimuth and elevation, reducing the computational burden from 2D beamforming to two separate 1D beamforming operations. This segmentation maintains scanning performance while significantly reducing the computational complexity of signal processing
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 results in a more cost-effective and simplified radar system capable of scanning a 360° field of view with enhanced performance, enabling long-range and short-range object detection while maintaining high signal quality and reducing computational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
employing phase shifters coupled to each element
Implementation Method 2
Phased array antennas form a radiation pattern by combining signals from a number of antenna elements and controlling the phase and amplitude of each element
Data Source
AI summary
Examples disclosed herein relate to a radar system for use in millimeter wave applications. The radar system includes a lighting device, such as a light bulb or an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs). The radar system further includes an array of transmit elements to transmit at least one transmit signal, where at least one transmit signal reflects off of at least one object to generate at least one receive signal. The array of transmit elements is configured around at least a first portion of a perimeter of the lighting device. Also, the radar system includes an array of receive elements to receive at least one receive signal, where the array of receive elements is configured around at least a second portion of the perimeter of the lighting device.