Submersible Forward Radar Array for Low-Exposure Maritime Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Naval and maritime operations face challenges in maintaining tactical awareness using forward deployment positions for radar systems while minimizing the risk of detection and potential harm to vessels and personnel, as traditional radar systems increase the risk of being detected and perceived as aggressive.
Innovation Solution
A submersible forward deployed sensor system with a radar array that can be fully submerged and selectively raised above the surface for scanning, equipped with sonar, electromagnetic, and optical sensors, and featuring an articulated arm system for sensor deployment, propulsion, buoyancy control, and anchoring capabilities to avoid detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If radar systems are forward deployed for threat detection, then detection capability is improved, but risk of detection and harm to vessels increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the radar sensor array from the main vessel, deploying it on an independent articulated arm platform that can be positioned forward while the main vessel remains in a passive, submerged state. This segmentation allows the detection function to be forward-deployed without exposing the main vessel to harm.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated arm system acts as an intermediary mechanism between the main vessel and the radar sensor array, enabling the sensors to be extended forward for detection while the main vessel stays protected and submerged. The arm system mediates the spatial relationship between the platform and sensors.
2Measurement precision
If radar systems are positioned closer to threats for better detection, then detection effectiveness is improved, but the vessels become more vulnerable
Solution Approach 1:
The detection function is segmented from the vulnerable vessel platform. The radar sensor array operates independently on an articulated arm, allowing it to be positioned close to threats for effective detection while the main vessel remains at a safe distance in submerged mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated arm system provides dynamic positioning capability, allowing the radar array to be extended forward when detection is needed and retracted when safety is concerned. This dynamic adjustment optimizes both detection effectiveness and vessel safety based on operational conditions.
3Measurement precision
If forward deployment position is used for radar scanning, then tactical awareness is improved, but aggressive posture is perceived
Solution Approach 1:
The radar scanning function is segmented from the main vessel body and implemented on a separate articulated arm platform. This allows the sensor array to be positioned forward for tactical awareness while the main vessel maintains a passive, submerged posture that does not convey aggression.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated arm system serves as an intermediary that decouples the radar scanning position from the vessel's overall posture. The arm can extend the sensors forward for awareness while the vessel itself remains in a non-aggressive, submerged configuration.
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 enables effective threat detection while avoiding detection by threats, maintaining a passive posture, and safeguarding personnel and vessels by allowing selective submersion and resurfacing of sensors.
Implementation Method 1
a submersible forward deployed radar (FDR) system
Implementation Method 2
one or more of, sonar, electromagnetic, and optical detectors
Implementation Method 3
means for controlling the level of submersion or buoyancy
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates generally to a forward deployed sensor system and, in specific implementations, a forward deployed radar (FDR) system. The forward deployed sensor system includes a radar system and may also include other types of sensors such as optical sensors, acoustic sensors including sonar, and electromagnetic sensors. Further, the forward deployed sensor system may also include a communication system such as a full spectrum receiver/transmitter, a ship to ship relay transponder, a satellite communication system, and global positioning system (GPS) capability. The forward deployed sensor system is able to detect objects in the air, on the sea, and underwater, and communicate such detection to a ship, submarine, aircraft, satellite, or other remote location. Such systems may be used to augment the protection of shipping lanes by military or security forces to allow for peaceful commerce and utility of the sea by all nations.