Phased Transmission Array Grouping for Wide-Angle Target Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional target detection devices require complex configurations and are costly due to the need for multiple transmission arrays to cover a target angle range, which complicates the detection process.
Innovation Solution
A target detection device with a single transmission array that uses different phase settings for grouping transmission elements into various configurations, allowing for the generation of multiple grating lobes with distinct transmitting directions, enabling efficient detection of target objects with a simplified configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transmission arrays are used to cover the target angle range, then the detection coverage is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission array is segmented into multiple groups, where each group is assigned a specific grouping configuration (first, second, or third) and transmits at a specific frequency. This segmentation allows a single physical array to generate multiple grating lobes with different transmitting directions, effectively providing multi-directional coverage without requiring multiple separate transmission arrays.
Solution Approach 2:
The single transmission array is designed to perform multiple functions by varying the grouping configurations of its elements. The same physical array can generate grating lobes in different directions by changing how its elements are grouped and what frequencies they transmit, making it a multi-functional device that replaces what would traditionally require multiple dedicated arrays.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transmission arrays are used to generate transmission beams with different transmitting directions, then the target angle range coverage is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission array elements are segmented into groups with different grouping configurations, allowing one manufactured array to serve the function of multiple arrays. Each group transmits at a different frequency, creating grating lobes in different directions, thereby achieving wide angle coverage without manufacturing multiple separate arrays.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters (grouping configuration and transmission frequency) of the transmission array elements rather than changing the physical structure. By adjusting these parameters, the same manufactured array can generate transmission beams in different directions, eliminating the need to manufacture multiple arrays with different physical configurations.
3Ease of operation
If the pitch of transmission elements is adjusted to generate grating lobes, then the transmitting direction can be specified, but the grating lobes are inclined at fixed angles relative to the front direction
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission array is divided into multiple groups, each with a different grouping configuration. This segmentation allows different portions of the array to generate grating lobes at different fixed angles, and by controlling which groups are active, the system can selectively transmit in different directions, effectively overcoming the limitation of fixed inclination angles.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic switching between different grouping configurations and frequency assignments to achieve flexible beam steering. By periodically changing the operational state of different groups, the system can dynamically control the transmitting direction without physically adjusting the array geometry.
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 device achieves smooth detection of target objects by differentiating grating lobes in transmitting directions, reducing the need for multiple transmission arrays and simplifying the configuration, thereby lowering costs and enhancing detection efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of transmission elements configured to convert an electric signal into a transmission wave
Implementation Method 2
a reflection wave resulting from a reflection of the transmission wave on a target object
Data Source
AI summary
A target detection device is provided, which includes a transmission array and a signal generator. The transmission array includes a plurality of transmission elements configured to convert an electric signal into a transmission wave. The signal generator generates first and second sets of electric signals, each set being generated with different phase settings. The signal generator groups the transmission elements according to grouping configurations including first and second grouping configurations. In the first grouping configuration, the plurality of transmission elements are grouped into a plurality of groups each having p transmission elements, and, in the second grouping configuration, the plurality of transmission elements are grouped into a plurality of groups each having q transmission elements. The signal generator inputs the first set of electric signals to each group of the first grouping configuration, and inputs the second set of electric signals to each group of the second grouping configuration.