Phased Array Beam-Scanning System for Multi-Object Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing location and tracking systems using dipole or parabolic reflector antennae face challenges in distinguishing and simultaneously tracking multiple objects of interest within a field of regard, as dipole antennae are omni-directional and parabolic reflector antennae require additional antennas for each object.
Innovation Solution
A beam-scanning system utilizing a phased array to receive and process radio frequency signals from objects of interest, allowing for the simultaneous detection, location, and tracking of multiple objects by forming directive receive beams and adjusting gain and frequency to determine location and direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dipole antennae are used for signal reception, then the system can receive signals from all directions, but it becomes difficult to distinguish signals from different objects of interest
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal reception function by using multiple dipole antennae arranged in an array, where each antenna receives signals from different spatial directions. The signal processing system then segments and identifies signals from different objects based on their directional characteristics, resolving the contradiction between omni-directional reception and signal source identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces signal processing techniques as an intermediary between the dipole antenna array and the object identification system. By processing the combined signals from multiple antennas to determine direction of arrival and spatial characteristics, the system can identify signals from different objects even though the antennas themselves are omni-directional.
2Measurement precision
If parabolic reflector antennae are used for unidirectional signal reception, then the system can track objects in a specific direction, but additional antennas are required for each object of interest
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single dipole antenna array universal by enabling it to receive and identify signals from multiple different directions simultaneously through signal processing. This eliminates the need for multiple separate parabolic antennas, as one antenna array performs the function of what would otherwise require multiple directional antennas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual directional reception patterns through signal processing of the dipole antenna array, effectively copying the directional characteristics of parabolic antennas without using physical parabolic structures. The processed signals replicate the directional selectivity that would otherwise require separate physical antennas.
3Productivity
If multiple parabolic reflector antennae are used to track multiple objects simultaneously, then the system can detect and track multiple objects of interest, but the system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple parabolic reflector antennas into a single dipole antenna array with signal processing capabilities. By combining the reception function of multiple directional antennas into one omnidirectional array and using digital signal processing to achieve directional selectivity, the system maintains simultaneous multi-object tracking capability while reducing hardware complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical solution of using multiple physical parabolic antennas with an electronic signal processing approach. Instead of mechanically having separate antennas for each object, the system uses electronic processing to distinguish and track multiple objects from a single antenna array, substituting mechanical complexity with electronic intelligence.
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 flexible and practical simultaneous tracking of multiple objects of interest within a field of regard, improving detection accuracy and operational coordination by transmitting location and tracking information to external systems.
Implementation Method 1
The beam-scanning system may use a phased array to receive a radio frequency (RF) signal emitted by an object of interest
Implementation Method 2
the beam-scanning system processes the received signal to determine a location and direction of the object of interest
Data Source
AI summary
Technologies are described herein for locating and tracking objects of interest within a field of regard (FOR). Aspects include using a phased array to scan the FOR and receive signals emitted from an object of interest. The object of interest may then be located and tracked by processing the signals emitted from the object of interest.