Interferometric Switched Beam Radar for Compact Terrain Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radar systems are limited by the need for expensive and bulky components, and require different processing algorithms for various applications, making them unsuitable for wide-ranging deployments with compact, lower-cost components.
Innovation Solution
A switched beam interferometric radar apparatus and method using a signal generation module to produce a continuous frequency modulated transmit signal, a planar array of beam forming antennas, and an antenna selection module to direct the signal, along with phase extraction and presentation modules for generating spatial maps and tracking graphs, allowing for efficient terrain mapping and target tracking with compact, cost-effective components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional radar systems are used, then reliable target detection and tracking are achieved, but the system becomes bulky and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical radar components with electronic signal processing systems. The interferometric processing and beam forming are achieved through electronic algorithms rather than physical mechanical structures, enabling compact integration while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The radar system is designed to perform multiple functions (target detection, tracking, and environmental mapping) using a single integrated apparatus. The same antenna array and signal processing infrastructure support both military and civilian applications, reducing overall system complexity and size
2Measurement precision
If application-specific processing algorithms are used, then accurate target tracking is achieved, but the system cannot be easily adapted to different applications
Solution Approach 1:
The signal processing algorithms are designed to be dynamically configurable and adaptable. The interferometric processing framework can be adjusted through software parameters to optimize performance for different applications (military target tracking vs. civilian terrain mapping) without requiring hardware changes
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves application adaptability by changing processing parameters and algorithm configurations rather than physical structures. The same hardware platform can switch between different measurement precision levels and processing modes by adjusting signal processing parameters
3Ease of manufacture
If compact lower-cost components are used, then system cost and size are reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes expensive precision mechanical components with electronic signal processing and interferometric algorithms. The measurement precision is achieved through computational methods rather than expensive physical components, enabling accurate spatial mapping with lower-cost electronics
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses interferometric phase information to create virtual copies and representations of the physical environment. By processing phase data from multiple antennas, the system reconstructs accurate spatial maps without requiring physically larger or more expensive antenna arrays
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
Enables the use of compact, lower-cost radar systems for diverse applications by providing accurate spatial maps and target tracking information, reducing ambiguity and enhancing information collection with a broad viewing angle capability.
Implementation Method 1
Interferometric switched beam radar apparatus and method
Implementation Method 2
a phase extraction module that receives return signals from two or more return antennas that have a known offset distance relative to each other and extracts phase information from the return signals
Data Source
AI summary
An interferometric switched beam radar apparatus and method are disclosed. In one embodiment, a selected antenna of a planar array of beam forming antennas is activated with a substantially continuous frequency modulated transmit signal and a return signal is received from at least two return antennas that have a known offset distance relative to each other. Phase information is extracted from each return signal and used to present information regarding an operating environment to a user. Each beam forming antenna within the array may correspond to a particular viewing angle within the operating environment.