Radar Signature Control Through Platform Orientation Adjustment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for managing radar signatures on platforms like aircraft lack the ability to control radar observability in real-time, as they do not have access to necessary radar parameters or the capability to adjust orientation based on radar beam characteristics, limiting their effectiveness in adapting to different radar sources.
Innovation Solution
An integrated system comprising a steering module and a radar direction finding module that provides access to orientation, RCS, and radar parameters, allowing the platform to adjust its orientation to manage radar observability by altering yaw, pitch, and roll, thereby controlling the radar cross-section presented to incoming radar beams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If shaping and special materials are used to reduce radar signal reflection, then radar signature reduction is achieved, 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 present different radar cross-sections to incoming radar beams, transforming a static radar signature into a dynamically controllable characteristic.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the orientation parameters of the platform as a variable to control radar observability. By adjusting yaw, pitch, and roll angles, the system modifies the radar cross-section parameter in real-time, allowing adaptive response to different radar threats.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If corner reflectors or repeaters are added to enhance radar signature, then radar observability is increased, but the measures are cumbersome requiring additional physical space and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical additions (corner reflectors, repeaters) with a control system that uses the platform's existing orientation mechanisms. Instead of adding physical radar-enhancing structures, the system electronically controls the platform's attitude to achieve desired radar signature effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering module serves multiple functions: it controls the platform's course for navigation purposes and simultaneously manages radar signature by adjusting orientation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate radar signature enhancement devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the platform adjusts orientation to control radar observability, then real-time radar signature management is achieved, but the platform must balance multiple steering objectives including comfort, safety, and navigation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges radar signature management with the existing steering control system. The steering module integrates multiple objectives including navigation, comfort, safety, and radar observability control into a unified control framework, coordinating all these requirements through a single control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from radar direction finding modules that provide information about incoming radar beams' angle of arrival. This feedback enables the steering module to adjust orientation in real-time to manage radar signature while considering other operational constraints.
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.