Radar Test System Using Fiber Optic Delay Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radar test systems face challenges in efficiently simulating high-speed targets and replicating the propagation path of radar signals, leading to errors and the need for multiple emulators for different modulation schemes, which increases costs and time for field trials.
Innovation Solution
A high-speed radar test system that employs a propagation path replicator to simulate the radar environment, including distance, motion, and propagation loss, using fiber optic transmission lines for delay and programmable I/O controllers to update simulation parameters in real-time, allowing for accurate simulation of moving targets without the need for physical field tests.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If system emulators are used to produce pre-programmed output based on emulator response and settings, then radar testing can be performed, but multiple emulators are required for different modulation schemes increasing device complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal emulator architecture that can handle multiple modulation schemes (LFM, linear frequency modulation, non-linear frequency modulation, phase modulation, pulse compression) through a single device. The emulator uses programmable signal generation capabilities to adapt to different radar waveforms and modulation types, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated emulators while maintaining full compatibility with various radar systems.
2Productivity
If emulators use pre-programmed response based on fed information, then testing can be performed, but errors may be introduced causing false positives or negatives
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs high-fidelity signal copying techniques where the emulator precisely replicates actual radar target responses rather than using simplified pre-programmed models. The system captures and reproduces authentic radar echo characteristics, including amplitude, phase, and frequency variations, ensuring that test results accurately reflect real-world performance without introducing emulator-induced errors or false positives.
3Ease of operation
If emulators do not replicate the communication environment, then emulator operation is simplified, but interaction between multiple signals at different distances and power levels produces erroneous output
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic parameter adjustment capabilities that allow the emulator to modify signal characteristics (amplitude, delay, frequency, phase) in real-time based on the simulated radar scenario. The system can accurately represent multiple targets at different ranges and power levels by programmatically changing signal parameters, thereby replicating complex communication environments and signal interactions without compromising operational simplicity.
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 system reduces test costs and time, provides a controlled and repeatable test environment, and accurately simulates high-speed targets, enabling end-to-end radar system testing with low phase noise and high dynamic range, eliminating the need for physical radiation and reducing missile weight and cost.
Implementation Method 1
employing fiber optic transmission lines to transmit the radar signal with a delay corresponding to a simulated distance to a target
Implementation Method 2
The radar test system is to simulate a moving target for a radar system under test. The radar test system may include a Doppler simulation circuit coupled to an input, the Doppler simulation circuit to apply a frequency shift to radio frequency (RF) pulses received on an RF signal generated by the radar system
Data Source
AI summary
A system simulates a moving target for a radar system under test. The system includes a Doppler simulation circuit (DSC), coupled to an input, to apply a frequency shift to RF pulses received on an RF signal to simulate speed. A signal attenuator coupled to the DSC is to simulate signal attenuation due to propagation loss of the RF pulses in atmosphere. A pulse detection circuit is to detect time of receipt of the RF pulses, including a first time of receipt of a falling edge of a first RF pulse. An I/O controller updates a value of the frequency shift for the DSC and of the signal attenuation for the signal attenuator during a time period between the first RF pulse and one of a second RF pulse or a second time at which the second RF pulse should have been received in case of a missing pulse.