Software-Defined Threat Emitter for Rapid Multi-Threat Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current training range systems are antiquated, unable to replicate modern threats effectively, are costly, and limited in mobility and quantity, failing to prepare pilots for conventional warfare scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost, dynamic threat emitter system using software-defined commercial off-the-shelf equipment, capable of rapid reprogramming and deployment, which can be easily moved and assembled, replicating multiple threats to simulate realistic air defense networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If older threat replication systems are used, then infrastructure support is established, but mobility is limited and deployment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The threat emitter system is divided into modular components including a control module, power supply module, cooling module, and emitter array that can be independently assembled and deployed. This segmentation enables rapid field deployment while maintaining reliable threat replication capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic reconfigurability where the emitter array can be dynamically controlled to replicate different threat signatures and operational modes. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to various training scenarios without requiring physical reconfiguration or extended deployment time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If newer threat replication systems are deployed, then threat representation capability improves, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses software-defined radio technology to create virtual copies of various threat emitter signatures rather than requiring physical replicas of each threat system. This copying approach enables versatile threat representation while significantly reducing hardware costs and manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A single threat emitter system is designed to universally replicate multiple different threat signatures and operational modes through software configuration. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized systems, thereby reducing overall program cost while maintaining high adaptability.
3Reliability
If multiple threat emitters are fielded to create realistic scenarios, then training fidelity improves, but program cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each threat emitter system incorporates dynamic reconfigurability that allows a single unit to simulate multiple different threat signatures and operational scenarios. This dynamic capability enables realistic training fidelity without requiring proportional increases in the number of physical systems deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes software-controlled parameter changes to dynamically alter emitter characteristics, frequency, power output, and modulation patterns. These parameter changes enable a single system to faithfully replicate diverse threat scenarios, reducing the total quantity of hardware needed while maintaining high training fidelity.
Data Source
AI summary
A threat emitter system comprising a threat emitter comprising a main power supply, an external power source, a first sequencer, a driver amp, a second sequencer, a main amp, and a radio; a three-way power supply; a mixer, synthesizer, pre-amp, and cooling fans receiving electrical power from the three-way power supply; and an antenna in communication with the main amp; a user interface in communication with radio; the radio in communication with the mixer; the mixer in communication with the synthesizer; a filter in communication between the mixer and the pre-amp; the driver amp in communication with the pre-amp; the first sequencer in communication with the driver amp; the driver amp in communication with the main amp; a second sequencer in communication with the main amp; and a processor with access to a memory storing instructions executable by the processor.