Imaging Radar Module Layout for High-Resolution Signal Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current imaging radar systems face challenges in obtaining high-resolution images due to limitations in spatial resolution and efficient signal processing, particularly when using multiple transmitters and receivers.

Innovation Solution

The proposed imaging radar apparatus employs a configuration with multiple transmission and reception modules, each comprising integrated circuit chips and phase-locked loops, arranged in a polygonal structure to optimize antenna activation and signal processing, including Fourier transforms and variable activation orders based on reflected wave responses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple transmitters and receivers are used to obtain high spatial resolution, then image resolution is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespatial resolutionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The radar system is divided into multiple independent transmission modules and reception modules, each capable of autonomous operation. Each module includes its own transmitter, receiver, and control unit, allowing the system to achieve high spatial resolution through distributed sensing while managing complexity through modular architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a polygonal geometric arrangement of modules with variable activation orders, adding a spatial-dimensionality aspect to the signal acquisition process. By activating modules in different sequences along the polygonal structure, the system enhances spatial resolution without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If multiple transmission and reception modules are activated simultaneously, then signal processing capability is improved, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal processing capabilityVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs periodic activation of transmission and reception modules in a cyclic manner around the polygonal structure. Instead of simultaneous activation, modules are activated in sequential periods, which reduces the processing time required for each complete scanning cycle while maintaining comprehensive signal acquisition capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The activation order of modules is made dynamic and variable based on the polygonal geometry. The system can adjust which modules are active at different times, optimizing the balance between signal processing capability and processing time by selectively activating subsets of modules rather than all modules simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of manufacture

If modules are arranged in a fixed configuration, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different imaging scenarios is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of manufactureVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The polygonal module arrangement is designed with universal characteristics that allow the same structural configuration to serve multiple imaging scenarios. The regular geometric pattern enables the system to adapt to different target types and imaging requirements by simply varying the activation sequence and phase relationships, without requiring physical reconfiguration or custom manufacturing for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 configuration enables the generation of high-resolution images by improving spatial resolution and signal processing efficiency, allowing for precise detection and imaging of targets.

Implementation Method 1

The transmission controller may include a phase-locked loop (PLL) and may control the reference frequency signal by means of the PLL

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhase-locked loop (PLL):

Implementation Method 2

The plurality of transmit antennas may radiate a transmission wave to an external target

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation:

Implementation Method 3

The plurality of receive antennas may receive a reflected wave from the external target

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic wave reflection and detection:

Implementation Method 4

The main controller may perform a signal processing operation for the digital signal to convert the digital signal into an image

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFourier transform:

Data Source

PatentUS20230358858A1High-resolution imaging radar apparatus and operating method thereof
Publication Date: 2023.11.09 ELECTRONICS & TELECOMM RES INST
  • US20230358858A1 patent drawing
  • US20230358858A1 patent drawing
  • US20230358858A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An imaging radar apparatus for obtaining an image includes a plurality of transmission modules and a plurality of reception modules. Each of the plurality of transmission modules includes a main controller, a first printed circuit board, a transmission controller, a plurality of transmitters, and a plurality of transmit antennas. Each of the plurality of reception modules includes a second printed circuit board, a reception controller, a plurality of receivers, and a plurality of receive antennas. A transmission unit including the plurality of transmitters is disposed on a top surface of the first printed circuit board. The plurality of transmit antennas are linearly arranged on the top surface of the first printed circuit board. The transmission controller is disposed on a bottom surface of the first printed circuit board. A reception unit including the plurality of receivers is disposed on a bottom surface of the second printed circuit board.