Mobile Virtual Target Generation for Realistic Radar Trajectories
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing virtual target generators are typically provided in a static configuration, failing to demonstrate a realistic movement profile for generated targets.
Innovation Solution
A transport system is integrated with the virtual target generator, allowing the antenna to assume various positions relative to the radar, enabling the generation of virtual targets from a broader range of locations and simulating realistic movement profiles through controlled movement and signal processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a virtual target generator is provided in a static configuration, then the device structure is simple and easy to implement, but the generated virtual target cannot demonstrate a realistic movement profile
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by transitioning the virtual target generator from a static configuration to a dynamic one. The antenna is mounted on a transport system (such as a vehicle, vessel, or mobile platform) that enables it to move through space and change its position relative to the radar. This movement allows the generated virtual target to demonstrate realistic movement profiles, including changing positions, velocities, and trajectories, thereby resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and movement realism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the antenna is moved to generate virtual targets from various locations, then the range of target positions is expanded, but the device complexity increases due to the transport system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Universality principle by designing the virtual target generator to serve multiple functions through a single integrated system. The transport system not only moves the antenna to generate virtual targets at various positions but also inherently provides the movement profile that makes the virtual target realistic. This multi-functionality expands the target position range while avoiding the need for separate complex control systems, as the transport system itself fulfills both positioning and movement simulation roles.
3Reliability
If physical aircraft or vessels are used for radar testing, then realistic movement profiles can be achieved, but the testing becomes costly and environmentally harmful
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Copying principle by creating a virtual target that replicates the radar signature and movement characteristics of real targets without using actual physical objects. The virtual target generator processes radar transmissions and generates synthetic echoes that mimic the behavior of aircraft or vessels, including their movement profiles, positions, and radar cross-sections. This approach achieves testing realism while eliminating the environmental harm and high costs associated with deploying physical test targets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the Mechanics substitution principle by replacing the mechanical system of physical aircraft or vessels with an electronic signal processing system. Instead of physically moving real targets through space, the invention uses a transport system to move the antenna and electronic processing to generate virtual target signals. This substitution maintains testing realism while eliminating the environmental impact and operational costs of using actual aircraft or vessels for radar testing.
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 system generates virtual targets with realistic trajectories, positions, and speeds, providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to physical testing by allowing simulations over a larger area without the need for actual aircraft or vessels, enhancing the realism and efficiency of radar testing.
Implementation Method 1
In response to receiving a signal from the RADAR transmitter, the TG processes the received signal... The RADAR transmitter has an associated RADAR receiver, which upon receipt of the delayed and attenuated transmission from the TG, regards the signal as an echo from a genuine target
Implementation Method 2
A transport system is integrated with the virtual target generator, allowing the antenna to assume various positions relative to the radar... The transport system may comprise a pair of cables, each connected to opposed sides of the antenna, and each cable is connected to a motor via a pulley system, thereby permitting movement of the antenna
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a virtual target generator system (100) for use with a RADAR system (300). The virtual target generator system (100) comprises a transport system arranged to permit an antenna (131a) of a virtual target generator to assume a given position with reference to the RADAR (300), such that a generated virtual target appears at a position dictated (at least in part) by the position of the antenna (131a).