Radar Optical Beam Expansion for Lateral Near-Field Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radar systems struggle to reliably detect objects that are close to the radar sensor but laterally offset from its main axis, particularly when the sensor is integrated into a vehicle to minimize protrusion from the outer skin.
Innovation Solution
The radar optical element is designed to cause beam expansion in at least one azimuth direction orthogonal to the main direction, enhancing detection range and enabling reliable detection of laterally offset objects by shaping the radar beam.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the radar sensor is integrated flush with the vehicle outer skin to minimize protrusion, then the aesthetic appearance and aerodynamic performance are improved, but the detection capability for laterally offset objects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The radar optical element is divided into multiple segments arranged in a staggered configuration. Each segment can be independently optimized to expand the beam in specific azimuth directions, enabling the system to detect laterally offset objects while maintaining a flush mounting profile.
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the radar optical element are positioned at different locations and orientations to create localized beam expansion in specific azimuth directions. This allows the beam to be expanded laterally where needed for detecting offset objects, while other regions maintain the compact flush profile.
2Measurement precision
If a traditional radar optical element is used that focuses the beam, then the detection precision along the main axis is improved, but the detection range for laterally offset objects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The radar optical element is segmented into multiple sections, each capable of directing or expanding the beam in specific azimuth directions. This segmentation allows the system to maintain focused detection along the main axis while simultaneously expanding coverage to lateral regions where offset objects are located.
Solution Approach 2:
The segments are arranged in an asymmetric staggered configuration rather than a symmetric pattern. This asymmetric arrangement enables the beam to be expanded preferentially in azimuth directions that cover lateral detection zones, while maintaining appropriate focus along the main detection axis.
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 solution improves the detection of objects close to the radar sensor laterally, expanding the detection range and allowing integration into vehicles without protruding from the outer skin, enhancing object detection capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
the radar optical element is designed to cause a beam expansion in at least one azimuth direction orthogonal to the main direction when the radar radiation passes through the radar optical element
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a radar system (10) having: a radar sensor (20) with an antenna device (28, 32) for transmitting radar radiation (TX) and receiving radar radiation (RX) reflected on an object in a solid-angle range around a main axis (A), running in a main direction (z), of the antenna device (28, 32); a control device (50), which is designed to operate the radar sensor (20) and to evaluate the radar radiation (RX) received for a detection of objects; and a radar-optical element (60), which is arranged in front of the antenna device (28, 32) as viewed in the main direction (z), in order to effect beam shaping as the radar radiation (TX, RX) passes through the radar-optical element (60). In order to allow an improved detection of objects which are close to the radar sensor (20), but laterally offset in relation to the radar sensor (20) or the main axis of the antenna device (28, 32), according to the invention the radar-optical element (60) is designed, as the radar radiation (TX, RX) passes through the radar-optical element (60), to effect a beam expansion in at least one azimuth direction (x) orthogonal to the main direction (z).