Dynamic UAS Array for RF Emitter Geolocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RF emitter location methods using fixed array geometries suffer from reduced accuracy and limited field-of-view due to fixed relative positions of sensor arrays, which restricts the ability to accurately geolocate emitters, especially in complex environments like beneath tree canopies or within buildings.
Innovation Solution
The system employs dynamically reconfigurable unmanned autonomous systems (UAS/UTS) that adapt their relative positions to form a mobile array, allowing for enhanced emitter location accuracy and increased operational field-of-view by optimizing array geometry and orientation based on real-time measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fixed array geometries are used for RF emitter location, then system structure is simple and stable, but emitter location accuracy and field-of-view are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by transitioning from fixed array geometries to dynamically reconfigurable sensor arrays. The sensor nodes can autonomously adjust their spatial positions and orientations in real-time to optimize array geometry for different emitter locations, thereby improving measurement precision without being constrained by a fixed configuration. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain high accuracy across a wider field-of-view.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed array geometries are used, then device structure is simple, but operational field-of-view is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic reconfiguration of sensor arrays where nodes can autonomously adjust their positions and orientations to adapt to different operational scenarios. This enables the array to maintain optimal geometry for emitters located in various directions and environments, significantly expanding the operational field-of-view compared to fixed arrays.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor nodes possess autonomous capabilities to self-organize and self-reconfigure into optimal array geometries without requiring external control. Each node can independently determine its position and orientation to contribute to the overall array performance, enabling the system to adapt to different field-of-view requirements automatically.
3Measurement precision
If sensor arrays are repositioned to improve emitter location accuracy, then location precision increases, but system complexity increases due to fixed relative positions limitation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic array reconfiguration where sensor nodes can freely adjust their relative positions unlike fixed arrays. This allows the system to optimize array geometry for improved emitter location accuracy while maintaining operational flexibility, as nodes can be repositioned autonomously without the constraints of fixed mounting structures.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and Methods for RF Emitter Location with automatic UAS array reconfiguration. The system includes at least a first emitter of electromagnet emissions. There is an array controller and, in some situations, at least one array follower. The controller(s) each have a receiver to receive signals from the first emitter. The controller calculates the location of the first emitter based upon communications with the first emitter and any array follower.