Phased Array Radar Beam Spoiling for Horizon Surveillance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional phased array antenna systems require iterative, non-realtime optimization for beam pattern parameters, limiting their ability to produce broad, focused beams across a horizon for simultaneous surveillance and are not suitable for real-time adjustments in mobile applications.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of closed-form processing to calculate a phase-only weighting function that directly focuses beams across a desired field of view, allowing for near-constant gain and adjustments for scan loss, tilt, and roll, enabling the generation of beams with a curve of constant phase for horizon-wide coverage without iterative processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If iterative optimization methods are used to calculate phase weighting patterns, then beam pattern parameters can be optimized, but the processing is non-realtime and cannot support real-time adjustments in mobile applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces iterative numerical optimization methods with a closed-form analytical solution. The phase weighting function is calculated directly using a mathematical formula (Equation 1) that provides the optimal phase distribution across array elements, eliminating the need for time-consuming iterative processing while achieving the same beam pattern optimization results
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-calculates the phase weighting function using closed-form expressions that can be evaluated instantly. The formula incorporates all necessary parameters (beamwidth, scan angle, array geometry) and directly outputs the optimal phase distribution, allowing real-time adaptation to different operating conditions without iterative computation
2Manufacturing precision
If phase-only weighting patterns are calculated using iterative optimization, then various antenna parameters can be optimized, but the system cannot produce broad focused beams across the horizon for simultaneous surveillance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the approach from optimizing individual parameters separately through iterative methods to using a closed-form solution that directly produces phase weightings achieving simultaneous optimization of beamwidth, sidelobe levels, and horizon coverage. The analytical formula (Equation 1) inherently balances these parameters to create broad focused beams across the entire horizon
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the optimization problem into independent phase calculations for each array element based on their geometric positions. The closed-form formula calculates the phase weighting for each element individually using its specific coordinates, allowing the system to achieve complex horizon-wide beam patterns through simple element-by-element phase control
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for a phase array radar to generate fan beams with curve of constant phase with spoiling in u and/or v space. In embodiments, beam pattern weighting is phase-only and applicable to transmit and receive. In embodiments, the beam pattern accounts for the apparent curvature of the horizon in uv space.