Near-Field Antenna Array for Compact Multi-Target Radar Testing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current radar production facilities lack a compact near-field test system capable of presenting multiple targets simultaneously to the radar-under-test, as existing systems are large and limited in functionality, often requiring extensive space and only allowing single-target testing from fixed positions.
Innovation Solution
A near-field test system comprising an array of radiating antenna elements connected to a beam former, phase shifters, and signal generators, configured to generate simultaneous plane waves, allowing for multiple targets to be presented to the radar-under-test in a small production space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional radar test systems (anechoic chambers, HIL chambers) are used, then testing capability is provided, but the system occupies very large space and is not suitable for production lines
Solution Approach 1:
The test system is divided into multiple independent antenna elements (e.g., 64 elements) that can be individually controlled. Each antenna element acts as an independent radiating unit, allowing the system to create multiple plane waves simultaneously without requiring a single large complex structure. This segmentation enables compact deployment while maintaining full testing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/analog beam steering methods with digital signal processing. Digital beam forming is used to control the phase and amplitude of each antenna element independently, eliminating the need for large mechanical structures. This substitution enables precise control in a compact space, resolving the contradiction between testing capability and space occupation.
2Area of stationary object
If production line testing is implemented with fixed single-target configuration, then space is saved, but testing functionality is limited to single target only
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna array is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it can generate multiple plane waves at different angles, present multiple targets to the radar-under-test, and support various test scenarios. This multi-functionality allows a single compact system to replace multiple dedicated test setups, providing both space efficiency and testing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic beam forming where the phase and amplitude of each antenna element can be changed in real-time. This dynamic control allows the system to switch between different target configurations, angles, and wave patterns on-the-fly, enabling multi-target testing in a compact space without requiring physical reconfiguration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple plane waves are generated simultaneously, then multi-target presentation is enabled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple plane waves are generated by combining the outputs of individual antenna elements in a coordinated manner. The beam forming network merges signals from multiple elements to create multiple simultaneous plane waves, achieving multi-target presentation without requiring separate independent systems. This merging approach reduces overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
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 enables rapid and efficient testing of radar systems by generating high-quality simultaneous plane waves, enabling multiple target presentation and rapid antenna pattern measurements, occupying minimal space and improving production line testing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an array of radiating antenna elements, each antenna element in the array operatively connected to a beam former... configured to generate simultaneous plane waves in the near-field region
Data Source
AI summary
A test system comprising an array of radiating antenna elements, each antenna element in the array operatively connected to a beam former; and at least one signal generator operatively connected to the beam former; wherein the test system is configured to generate simultaneous plane waves in the near-field region.