IFF Interrogator Dual Sequencer Mode 5 MkXII Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The simultaneous implementation of Mode 5 and Mode MkXII on IFF interrogators using rotating antennas results in a degradation of identification time performance due to reduced interrogation frequencies, leading to unsatisfactory results for all modes, especially in query configurations where multiple rounds are required to obtain results.
Innovation Solution
The solution combines the capabilities of 'Supermode' and 'Asynchronous' interrogation modes by using two sequencers with frequency limiters set to 225 Hz and 450 Hz respectively, synchronized at 450 Hz or 750 Hz, allowing simultaneous transmission of Mode 5 and MkXII/S interrogations at their maximum authorized frequencies, maintaining high interrogation frequencies and optimizing identification performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Mode 5 and Mode MkXII are simultaneously implemented on IFF interrogators, then both modes can be interrogated, but the interrogation frequency is reduced leading to degradation of identification time performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the interrogation system into two independent sequencers (first sequencer for Mode 5, second sequencer for Mode MkXII/S), each capable of operating at its own optimal frequency. This segmentation allows each mode to maintain its maximum authorized interrogation frequency without being constrained by the other mode's timing requirements, thereby resolving the contradiction between multi-mode capability and identification time performance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mode interleaving is used to query multiple modes, then mode versatility is maintained, but the number of shots on goal is reduced leading to unsatisfactory identification results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements separate sequencers for different modes, allowing each mode to generate its full complement of interrogations independently. This eliminates the frequency division problem inherent in mode interleaving, ensuring that each mode receives sufficient shots on goal while maintaining multi-mode versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Each sequencer operates continuously at its maximum authorized frequency without interruption or sharing of time slots with other modes. This continuous operation ensures that the number of shots on goal for each mode meets the minimum requirements (6 for Mode 5, 9 for MkXII) while maintaining versatility across multiple modes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If Supermode is used to combine Mode 5 and MkXII interrogations, then both modes are queried simultaneously, but the frequency for MkXII mode is reduced leading to unsatisfactory results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the generation of Mode 5 and MkXII/S interrogations into two independent sequencers, each operating at its own frequency. This eliminates the frequency coupling problem in Supermode where both modes share the same PRF, allowing MkXII to maintain its optimal 450 Hz frequency while Mode 5 operates at 225 Hz.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an improved interrogator device in an IFF query/reply system, said device being characterized in that it comprises, altogether, at least the following elements: a first sequencer (10) and a second sequencer (20). Said sequencers each comprise a frequency limiter (11, 21) that is set on a first frequency F1, corresponding to a first transmission mode M1, and a second frequency F2, set on a second transmission mode M2. Said system comprises a synchronization module than enables simultaneous transmission at the first sequencer and second sequencer from a single synchronization frequency Fs. The invention is of use for Mode 5 and Mk XII/S mode transmission for STANAG.