Phased Array Radar Mode Switching via Electronic Beam Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surveillance radar systems face challenges in switching between tracking while scanning (TWS) and single target tracking (STT) modes, particularly in azimuth scanning, which hinders effective tracking and detection of small moving targets.
Innovation Solution
A radar system with phased array antenna and a control method that allows switching between TWS and STT modes by receiving user input, emitting detection waves, analyzing echo signals, and generating tracking data, using a digital signal processor and human-machine interface to facilitate mode control and target selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a servo rotating system with rotary joint is used for azimuth scanning, then the radar system can achieve mechanical scanning coverage, but it becomes difficult to switch between TWS and STT tracking modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical servo rotating system with a phased array antenna system that uses electronic beam steering. The azimuth scanning is achieved by electronically controlling the phase of signals across multiple antenna elements rather than physically rotating the antenna, enabling rapid and flexible switching between TWS and STT modes without mechanical constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic mode switching capability where the radar system can transition between TWS and STT modes in real-time based on operational requirements. The phased array architecture allows the beam direction to be dynamically adjusted by changing phase parameters, providing adaptability that mechanical systems cannot achieve
2Adaptability or versatility
If a phased array antenna is used to achieve beam steering function, then mode switching between TWS and STT becomes possible, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The phased array antenna system serves multiple functions: it performs both TWS and STT tracking modes, provides electronic beam steering for azimuth scanning, and enables rapid mode transitions. This multi-functionality justifies the increased complexity by consolidating what would otherwise require separate mechanical systems for each mode
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls the phased array system by changing phase parameters of the transmitted signals across different antenna elements. By adjusting these phase parameters, the beam direction is steered electronically to track targets in different modes, replacing complex mechanical adjustments with simple parameter modifications
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 efficient switching between tracking modes, improving the radar system's ability to detect and track small targets by allowing users to select and manage tracking operations through a user-friendly interface, enhancing situational awareness and operational flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
radar sensor system to emit at least one first detection wave beam toward a first direction
Implementation Method 2
controlling, by the computing system, the radar sensor system to receive at least one first echo waves corresponding to the at least one first detection wave beam
Data Source
AI summary
An operation mode control method implemented by a radar system, the operation mode control method includes steps of: (S1) receiving a single target tracking (STT) triggering data comprising a representation of triggering of a STT tracking mode and a selected tracking target to be tracked by the radar system; (S2) controlling a radar sensor to emit detection wave beam; (S3) controlling, the radar sensor to receive echo waves; (S4) analyzing, echo signal to generate STT target data; (S5) executing a STT program to obtain a tracking data of a selected tracking target; (S6) outputting the tracking data to a memory device for storage or to a human-machine interface (HMI) device for presenting to the user of the radar system.