Movable Radome Radar Sensor for Range and Angle Trade-off
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional radar sensors are bulky and limited in their ability to simultaneously achieve a large opening angle and long range due to fixed radome designs, which restrict their application in vehicles that require both short-range and long-range detection capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A radar sensor with a movable, one-piece radome featuring multiple radar optics sections that can be adjusted to change detection properties by moving between different mode positions, utilizing CMOS technology for a compact and integrated design, allowing for both high-frequency transparency and mechanical simplicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed radome design is used, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the radar sensor cannot switch between different detection modes (range and opening angle)
Solution Approach 1:
The radome is designed as a movable component that can switch between different positions to change the detection properties. The radome moves between a first position for long-range detection and a second position for short-range detection, enabling dynamic adaptation without permanent structural changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The radome is divided into multiple sections (first radome section and second radome section) with different geometries. Each section is optimized for specific detection requirements, allowing the system to switch between detection modes by positioning different sections in front of the antenna.
2Length of stationary object
If a hemispherical radome is used, then the detection range is increased, but the opening angle of the detection area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between radome configurations based on detection requirements. The hemispherical radome section is used when long range is needed, while the flat radome section is used when a larger opening angle is required, allowing optimal performance for each detection scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the radome have different geometrical properties optimized for specific functions. The hemispherical section provides range extension, while the flat section maintains a wide opening angle. Each section's local geometry is tailored to its specific detection purpose.
3Area of moving object
If a flat radome is used, then the opening angle of the detection area is increased, but the detection range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The radome position is dynamically adjusted based on detection needs. When a large opening angle is required for short-range detection, the flat radome section is positioned in front of the antenna. When extended range is needed, the hemispherical section is positioned, optimizing performance for each scenario.
4Device complexity
If conventional radar sensors with integrated antenna and electronics are used, then the design is simple, but the sensor size is large and installation space is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna and electronic components are integrated into a single compact unit, reducing the overall sensor size. This integration allows the radar sensor to be more space-efficient while maintaining full functionality, addressing installation space constraints in vehicles.
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 radar sensor to switch between different detection modes without altering the radar front end, achieving a balance between range and opening angle, thus enhancing its versatility for various applications, including both short-range and long-range data collection.
Implementation Method 1
the curved outer boundary surface results in a lens effect that reduces the opening angle but increases the range, since the radar radiation is focused on a smaller area
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Radar sensor (2, 2a, 2b) comprising a CMOS chip (8) arranged on a circuit board (5) and realizing at least one radar transceiver, an antenna arrangement (9) and a radome (11), wherein the radome (11), which is in particular a single piece, has at least two differently acting radar optic sections (12, 13) and a movement device (18) for moving the radome (11) is provided in the individual radar optic sections (12, 13) assigned mode positions in which the antenna arrangement (9) emits through the respective radar optic section (12, 13).