Radar Altimeter Calibration via Piecewise Linear Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional radar altimeters face challenges in maintaining accurate altitude measurements due to variations in signal strength, which are affected by ambient temperature and terrain conditions, leading to reduced measurement accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for calibrating radar altimeters using piecewise linear altitude correction, where signal strength is monitored and corrected to generate altitude correction data, ensuring accurate measurements by applying integer correction coefficients based on real-time or simulated data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional radar altimeters use closed-loop gain control to improve altitude accuracy, then altitude measurement accuracy is improved, but signal strength attenuation limits the gain control and directly impacts measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies piecewise linear altitude correction based on monitored signal strength parameters. By dividing the signal strength range into segments and applying different linear correction models to each segment, the system adapts to varying signal conditions and maintains measurement accuracy despite signal attenuation
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors signal strength and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust altitude measurements through piecewise linear correction. This closed-loop approach ensures that measurements are corrected in real-time based on actual signal conditions, improving reliability under variable signal strength
2Reliability
If radar altimeters monitor and apply piecewise linear altitude correction to maintain accuracy under variable signal strength, then measurement reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the altitude correction into multiple linear segments based on signal strength ranges. Each segment has its own linear correction model, making the complex non-linear correction problem manageable through piecewise linear approximation. This segmentation approach balances accuracy with computational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes correction parameters (linear coefficients) based on signal strength thresholds. By pre-calibrating different linear models for different signal strength ranges, the system maintains reliability without requiring complex real-time calculations, thus managing device complexity
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 piecewise linear altitude correction method improves measurement accuracy by maintaining correct altitude readings even with variable signal strength, enhancing the reliability of radar altimeter data.
Implementation Method 1
A radar altimeter measures altitude by using the time for a radio signal to reflect from a surface (terrain) back to the aircraft
Implementation Method 2
traditional altimeter measurements determine the altitude of an aircraft above a fixed level by measuring air pressure (where air pressure decreases with an increase of altitude)
Data Source
AI summary
A method for calibrating an altimeter is disclosed. The method comprises monitoring signal strength of one or more altitude measurements. Based on the signal strength, the method applies piecewise linear altitude correction to the one or more altitude measurements to generate altitude correction data. The method further determines a goodness-of-fit for the altitude correction data. The altitude correction data maintains a correct altitude measurement in the presence of variable signal strength.