USB Wireless Traffic Radar with Distributed Signal Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional traffic radar systems rely heavily on hard-wired cables for communication and power, limiting configuration flexibility and processing capabilities, and do not allow for independent processing of radar antennas or easy module interconnection.
Innovation Solution
A digital signal processing-based Radar Base Module (RBM) that communicates and receives power via USB, enabling wireless communication and distributed processing among multiple RBM modules, with the ability to configure and control operations through a host USB device, and allowing for mechanical interfaces to mount and connect modules for various product offerings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hard-wired cables are used for communication and power in traditional radar systems, then connection reliability is maintained, but configuration flexibility and system adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable connection system with a wireless communication system. Each radar module contains a wireless transceiver that communicates with the host computer and other modules via wireless signals, eliminating the need for physical cables for data transmission and power delivery. This substitution enables flexible configuration while maintaining system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal interface design where each radar module can function independently or be combined with others. Modules can be selectively activated or deactivated based on operational needs, and the system can adapt to different configurations (single module, multiple modules, various antenna combinations) without requiring rewire or physical reconfiguration.
2Productivity
If a single centralized processing system is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but processing capabilities and target detection versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized processing function into distributed processing units. Each radar module contains its own signal processing capabilities, allowing independent processing of targets in different directions. Multiple modules can operate simultaneously and independently, with each module processing signals from its dedicated antenna element, thereby increasing overall processing capability without creating a single point of congestion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point processing architecture to a distributed spatial processing architecture. By placing processing capabilities at multiple spatial locations (different radar modules positioned at different orientations), the system gains the ability to process targets in multiple directions simultaneously, adding a spatial dimension to the processing architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple radar antennas are connected through centralized processing, then system integration is maintained, but independent processing of targets in multiple directions is not enabled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the radar system into independent functional units, with each radar module containing its own antenna and processing capabilities. Each module can independently detect and process targets in its specific direction, and the host computer coordinates the overall system operation. This segmentation enables versatile target detection across multiple directions while maintaining ease of operation through centralized coordination.
Data Source
AI summary
A traffic radar system utilizes a standard USB interface of power and communication to a host USB device. Modules of the radar system communicate over a wireless network to reduce hard-wire cabling in the patrol vehicle or radar platform. Digital signal processing (DSP) is utilized in a distributed processing architecture to increase processing functionality and target detection capabilities. The system modules incorporate electrical and mechanical interfaces which allow modules to be connected together to form unique radar systems.