Radar Contact Steering Using Platform Orientation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering modules on platforms like aircraft lack the ability to manage radar signatures in real-time and adapt to different radar systems, failing to control observability effectively.
Innovation Solution
A steering module that accesses orientation, RCS, and radar parameters to control physical mechanisms for altering the platform's orientation to manage radar observability, using direction finding systems to adjust yaw, pitch, and roll for optimal radar cross section.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional RCS reduction measures (shaping, absorbing materials) are used, then radar signature is reduced, but the measures have limited effectiveness and cannot be quickly controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the platform's orientation adjustable and controllable in real-time. The steering module dynamically changes the platform's orientation parameters (yaw, pitch, roll) to adapt to different radar threats, transforming a static RCS reduction approach into a dynamic, adaptable system that can respond to changing radar conditions
2Object-affected harmful factors
If RCS enhancement measures (corner reflectors, repeaters) are used, then radar signature is increased, but the measures are cumbersome requiring additional physical space and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical RCS modification structures (corner reflectors, repeaters) with a control system that uses the platform's existing orientation mechanisms. Instead of adding physical structures to modify radar signature, the system substitutes a steering control approach that manipulates the platform's orientation to achieve RCS management objectives
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the steering module universal by integrating multiple functions: navigation, course control, and radar signature management. The same orientation control mechanisms serve both mission navigation purposes and RCS management purposes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated RCS control structures
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the platform alters orientation to control radar signature, then radar observability is managed, but this may conflict with navigation and mission objectives
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring radar contact conditions and using this information to adjust platform orientation. The steering module receives feedback about radar threats and mission requirements, then dynamically balances RCS management against navigation objectives, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes orientation parameters (yaw, pitch, roll) to control radar signature while considering mission requirements. By adjusting these parameters dynamically based on radar threat assessment and mission context, the system achieves RCS management without permanently compromising navigation or mission objectives
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for and method of using derived information about the direction of propagation of an incoming radar beam to control radar return. The information about the direction of propagation of the incoming radar beam is used to alter aspects of a platform's orientation to control the cross section presented to the radar.