Doppler micro sense and avoid radar

Ashok Gorwara; Pavlo Molchanov; Olga Asmolova

doi:10.1117/12.2201066

13 October 2015 Doppler micro sense and avoid radar

Ashok Gorwara, Pavlo Molchanov, Olga Asmolova

Proceedings Volume 9647, Unmanned/Unattended Sensors and Sensor Networks XI; and Advanced Free-Space Optical Communication Techniques and Applications; 964708 (2015) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2201066
Event: SPIE Security + Defence, 2015, Toulouse, France

Abstract

There is a need for small Sense and Avoid (SAA) systems for small and micro Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to avoid collisions with obstacles and other aircraft. The proposed SAA systems will give drones the ability to “see” close up and give them the agility to maneuver through tight areas. Doppler radar is proposed for use in this sense and avoid system because in contrast to optical or infrared (IR) systems Doppler can work in more harsh conditions such as at dusk, and in rain and snow. And in contrast to ultrasound based systems, Doppler can better sense small sized obstacles such as wires and it can provide a sensing range from a few inches to several miles. An SAA systems comprised of Doppler radar modules and an array of directional antennas that are distributed around the perimeter of the drone can cover the entire sky. These modules are designed so that they can provide the direction to the obstacle and simultaneously generate an alarm signal if the obstacle enters within the SAA system’s adjustable “Protection Border”. The alarm signal alerts the drone’s autopilot to automatically initiate an avoidance maneuver. A series of Doppler radar modules with different ranges, angles of view and transmitting power have been designed for drones of different sizes and applications. The proposed Doppler radar micro SAA system has simple circuitry, works from a 5 volt source and has low power consumption. It is light weight, inexpensive and it can be used for a variety of small unmanned aircraft.

Citation Download Citation

Ashok Gorwara, Pavlo Molchanov, and Olga Asmolova "Doppler micro sense and avoid radar", Proc. SPIE 9647, Unmanned/Unattended Sensors and Sensor Networks XI; and Advanced Free-Space Optical Communication Techniques and Applications, 964708 (13 October 2015); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2201066

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