Nonlinear Object Distance Detection via Harmonic Radar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting and measuring the distance of objects with non-linear components, such as semiconductor components, are limited to determining presence and direction, without providing distance information, which is crucial for safely inspecting booby traps or similar hazards at varying distances.
Innovation Solution
A modified secondary radar principle is employed using high-frequency transmission signals to induce object signals at twice or three times the frequency, allowing for distance measurement through time difference or frequency-modulated continuous wave methods, with calculations based on the speed of light or frequency differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If high-frequency transmitted signals are used to detect nonlinear components in objects, then the presence and direction of objects can be determined, but distance information cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the frequency parameter by detecting harmonic frequencies (second and third harmonics) generated by nonlinear components. By measuring the frequency difference between the transmitted signal and the received harmonic signal, distance information can be obtained without adding complex measurement equipment. The frequency multiplication effect in nonlinear components is utilized to create detectable signal differences that encode distance information.
2Measurement precision
If the frequency of the transmitted signal is doubled or tripled by nonlinear components, then distance measurement becomes possible through frequency difference, but signal strength decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic pulsed transmission of high-frequency signals to excite nonlinear components. By transmitting signals in periodic pulses rather than continuously, the system accumulates energy during the pulse and maintains sufficient signal strength for detection. The periodic nature allows for synchronized detection of harmonic frequencies, improving measurement precision while managing signal strength requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The nonlinear component itself acts as an intermediary that converts the transmitted frequency to harmonic frequencies (2x or 3x). This intermediary effect enables distance measurement through frequency difference without requiring the transmitting system to directly generate or detect the harmonic frequencies, thus maintaining signal strength while achieving precise distance measurement.
3Measurement precision
If pulsed transmission signals are used for distance measurement, then distance can be calculated from time difference, but the system requires precise timing synchronization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the received harmonic signals are processed and compared with the transmitted pulse timing. The system uses the known relationship between pulse transmission time and harmonic signal reception time to calculate distance, with feedback loops ensuring precise timing synchronization. This feedback approach maintains measurement precision while simplifying operational complexity through automated timing adjustment.
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 accurate determination of the distance to objects with non-linear components, enhancing safety by providing critical distance information for defusing or destroying booby traps and similar hazards.
Implementation Method 1
which, when irradiated with a high-frequency transmitted signal, generates and re-emits an object signal with twice and/or three times the frequency of the transmitted signal
Implementation Method 2
a primary radio frequency signal being radiated from a transmitting antenna connected to a radio frequency transmitter onto the object under investigation
Implementation Method 3
the second and/or third harmonics of which (secondary high-frequency radiation) are in turn received and evaluated by a receiving antenna
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and devices (1; 1´) for determining the distance of an object (2) which contains at least one non-linear component (3), in particular a semiconductor component. According to the invention, a modified secondary radar principle is used in order to ascertain the distance, wherein the object signals (5-5´´) induced by the non-linear component (3) are used as response signals to the transmission signals (4) incident on the object.