Radar Angle Estimation Using Range-Rate Ambiguity Resolution

The patent applies asymmetry by introducing a calibration matrix that breaks the symmetric ambiguity between positive and negative angles. The calibration matrix contains asymmetric correction factors derived from known reference positions, allowing the system to distinguish between symmetric angle candidates (e.g., +θ and -θ) by applying position-specific calibration data that breaks the symmetry and identifies the correct unique angle.

The patent changes parameters by incorporating calibration data that transforms the ambiguous angle parameter into a disambiguated parameter. The calibration matrix modifies the relationship between range rate and angle by introducing correction factors that account for system-specific characteristics, thereby transforming the ambiguous angle estimation into a precise unique angle determination.

The patent applies universality by creating a single calibration matrix that serves all sensor positions simultaneously. Instead of performing separate calibration procedures for each sensor, the system generates one comprehensive calibration matrix containing correction factors for multiple reference positions, which can then be applied universally to disambiguate angles from all sensors in the array, greatly reducing overall system complexity.

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating calibration factors for multiple reference positions in advance and storing them in a calibration matrix. This preliminary calibration process is performed once during system setup or initialization, and the resulting matrix is then reused for all subsequent angle determinations, eliminating the need for repeated individual sensor calibrations during operation.

The patent substitutes the mechanical Fourier transform process with a simpler mathematical operation. Instead of performing computationally intensive Fourier transforms to determine angle from range rate, the system uses direct algebraic calculations combined with lookup operations in a pre-computed calibration matrix, replacing the complex signal processing mechanism with a more efficient mathematical approach.

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-computing the calibration matrix containing all necessary correction factors for various reference positions before actual angle determination is needed. This preliminary computation phase separates the heavy computational work from the real-time angle calculation, allowing rapid angle determination during operation by simply looking up and applying pre-calculated factors rather than performing complex transforms in real-time.