Welcome to the AMTA paper archive. Select a category, publication date or search by author.
(Note: Papers will always be listed by categories. To see ALL of the papers meeting your search criteria select the "AMTA Paper Archive" category after performing your search.)
Image editing, a post measurement data processing technique, is an established method for the identification and reduction of non-target measurement artifacts like the target support system. The Environmental Research Institute of Michigan has applied this technique to data collected at the OSU "BIG EAR" VHF-UHF wideband compact range in order to remove or reduce target sup port interference and to extract selected target feature contributions to the RCS. In this paper, the application of the method to some BIG EAR measurements data is described and examples are shown which demonstrate the improvement in data quality and usability afforded by support contamination reduction and feature extraction techniques.
ERIM is investigating the use of modem spectral esti mation techniques for extracting (editing) desired or undesired contributions to RCS and ISAR measurements in two ways. The first approach involves using parametric spectral estimators to perform frequency sweep range compression and signal history editing, while the second involves using the associated stabilized linear prediction filters to extrapolate sweep data and perform "enhanced resolution" Fourier image editing. This paper summarizes our editing algorithms and illustrates RCS editing results using measurements of a conesphere target contaminated by a metal rod and foam support. The reconstructed "clean" conesphere measurements are compared quantitatively against numerically simulated ground truth. Editing was performed using three bandwidths at two center fre quencies to provide insight into the impacts of nominal resolution and scatterer amplitude variation with fre quency on editing efficacy, and to assess the degree to which superresolution algorithms can offset reduced nominal resolution.
ERIM is investigating the use of modem spectral esti mation techniques for extracting (editing) desired or undesired contributions to RCS and ISAR measurements in two ways. The first approach involves using parametric spectral estimators to perform frequency sweep range compression and signal history editing, while the second involves using the associated stabilized linear prediction filters to extrapolate sweep data and perform "enhanced resolution" Fourier image editing. This paper summarizes our editing algorithms and illustrates RCS editing results using measurements of a conesphere target contaminated by a metal rod and foam support. The reconstructed "clean" conesphere measurements are compared quantitatively against numerically simulated ground truth. Editing was performed using three bandwidths at two center fre quencies to provide insight into the impacts of nominal resolution and scatterer amplitude variation with fre quency on editing efficacy, and to assess the degree to which superresolution algorithms can offset reduced nominal resolution.
Spatially Variant Apodization (SVA) [l] is nonlinear image domain algorithm which effectively eliminates finite-aperture sidelobes from SAR/ISAR imagery without degrading mainlobe resolution, unlike traditional methods of sidelobe suppression (e.g. Taylor weighting). Dezellum et. al. [2] demonstrated at the 16th AMTA symposium the benefits of SVA for improving RCS analysis of ISAR data. The purpose of this paper is to show that robust super-resolution via bandwidth extrapolation can be obtained in a relatively simple, straightforward manner using SVA, providing further improvement in RCS measurements from SAR/ISAR data. This new super-resolution algorithm (called Super-SVA) can extrapolate the signal bandwidth for an arbitrary set of scatterers by a factor of two or more, with a commensurate improvement in resolution. Super-resolution techniques have been traditionally limited to problems where a-priori knowledge is available and/or the scene content is suitably constrained. Using Super-SVA, no a-priori knowledge of scene content is required. Super-SVA exploits the fact that SVA applied to an image results in finite image-domain support on the scale of the system resolution for an arbitrary set of complex scatterers. Extrapolation of the frequency-domain signal data is then simply a matter of applying frequency-domain inverse amplitude weighting. The fidelity of the deconvolution process can be improved by embedding the original signal data in the extrapolated data and performing further iterations of the process.
Spatially Variant Apodization (SVA) [l] is nonlinear image domain algorithm which effectively eliminates finite-aperture sidelobes from SAR/ISAR imagery without degrading mainlobe resolution, unlike traditional methods of sidelobe suppression (e.g. Taylor weighting). Dezellum et. al. [2] demonstrated at the 16th AMTA symposium the benefits of SVA for improving RCS analysis of ISAR data. The purpose of this paper is to show that robust super-resolution via bandwidth extrapolation can be obtained in a relatively simple, straightforward manner using SVA, providing further improvement in RCS measurements from SAR/ISAR data. This new super-resolution algorithm (called Super-SVA) can extrapolate the signal bandwidth for an arbitrary set of scatterers by a factor of two or more, with a commensurate improvement in resolution. Super-resolution techniques have been traditionally limited to problems where a-priori knowledge is available and/or the scene content is suitably constrained. Using Super-SVA, no a-priori knowledge of scene content is required. Super-SVA exploits the fact that SVA applied to an image results in finite image-domain support on the scale of the system resolution for an arbitrary set of complex scatterers. Extrapolation of the frequency-domain signal data is then simply a matter of applying frequency-domain inverse amplitude weighting. The fidelity of the deconvolution process can be improved by embedding the original signal data in the extrapolated data and performing further iterations of the process.
Traditional range/doppler ISAR techniques have inherent geometric limitations. By using concepts of microwave holography and tomography, a vector-based k space approach allows a more generalized geometry of the sampled Fourier space. By constructing a complete annulus in the polar sampling space, arbitrary apertures up to 360 degrees can be processed for "full body" two dimensional images. This processing also typically exhibits better resolution. The algorithm relies on linear interpolation for potar Cartesian conversion. The general geometric formulation is also readily adaptable to arbitrary antenna configurations.
Traditional range/doppler ISAR techniques have inherent geometric limitations. By using concepts of microwave holography and tomography, a vector-based k space approach allows a more generalized geometry of the sampled Fourier space. By constructing a complete annulus in the polar sampling space, arbitrary apertures up to 360 degrees can be processed for "full body" two dimensional images. This processing also typically exhibits better resolution. The algorithm relies on linear interpolation for potar Cartesian conversion. The general geometric formulation is also readily adaptable to arbitrary antenna configurations.
A portable system for measuring the RF environment at remote sites is described. A frequency range between 500 MHz and 18 GHz is covered by this system. The design, calibration and use of this system are discussed.
A portable system for measuring the RF environment at remote sites is described. A frequency range between 500 MHz and 18 GHz is covered by this system. The design, calibration and use of this system are discussed.
Rome Laboratory has recently designed and implemented a state of the art automated antenna measurement data acquisition system at the Rome Lab/Newport antenna test facility. A generalized approach to the antenna data acquisition hardware and software was implemented which allows sequencing, control and measurement of test variables in virtually any order without test specific software modifications. The hardware design is based on distributed computers in which real-time data acquisition tasks and near real-time operator control and data analysis tasks are performed independently. The computers operate in a remote client/server configuration in which control information and data are transferred via fiber optic local area network. In this paper, the fundamental approach to the data acquisition system design is discussed and the antenna measurement hardware and software that comprises the final system are described.
Rome Laboratory has recently designed and implemented a state of the art automated antenna measurement data acquisition system at the Rome Lab/Newport antenna test facility. A generalized approach to the antenna data acquisition hardware and software was implemented which allows sequencing, control and measurement of test variables in virtually any order without test specific software modifications. The hardware design is based on distributed computers in which real-time data acquisition tasks and near real-time operator control and data analysis tasks are performed independently. The computers operate in a remote client/server configuration in which control information and data are transferred via fiber optic local area network. In this paper, the fundamental approach to the data acquisition system design is discussed and the antenna measurement hardware and software that comprises the final system are described.
In an earlier paper ("System Engineering for a Radome Test System," John R. Jones, et al, AMTA, October 1994) the system level design of a compact range enhancement for the testing of the Triband Radome was presented. This paper will discuss the installation and testing of the radome measurement system in the compact range. The purpose of the radome measurement system is to determine (within close tolerances) boresight shift, transmission loss, antenna pattern changes and polarization effects caused by the radome. Unique features include novel coordinate transformation and correction by means of a laser autocollimator and data reduction algorithms. Also featured is the tracking subsystem which consists of a specially designed two-axis track pedestal, an autotrack controller, and three five-horn compact range feed arrays operating at X, K, and Q-bands. The performance of the triband radome measurement system in the compact range setting will be presented.
In an earlier paper ("System Engineering for a Radome Test System," John R. Jones, et al, AMTA, October 1994) the system level design of a compact range enhancement for the testing of the Triband Radome was presented. This paper will discuss the installation and testing of the radome measurement system in the compact range. The purpose of the radome measurement system is to determine (within close tolerances) boresight shift, transmission loss, antenna pattern changes and polarization effects caused by the radome. Unique features include novel coordinate transformation and correction by means of a laser autocollimator and data reduction algorithms. Also featured is the tracking subsystem which consists of a specially designed two-axis track pedestal, an autotrack controller, and three five-horn compact range feed arrays operating at X, K, and Q-bands. The performance of the triband radome measurement system in the compact range setting will be presented.
The U.S. Air Force 46 Test Group, Radar Target Scattering Division (RATSCAT), at Holloman AFB, NM, in conjunction with the US Army, Navy and Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI), has developed a concept for a bistatic coherent radar measurement system (BICOMS). It will be used to measure both the monostatic and bistatic RCS of targets, as well as create two-dimensional images of monostatic and bistatic signature data. It will consist of two mobile radar units, each of which is capable of simultaineously collecting coherent monostatic and bistatic RCS data. This paper will cover the systetn design specificatiovs, layout and design of equipment, and discuss the operating parameters for the radar (power, antenna sizes, sensitivities, timing, etc.).
Portable scanners used for near-field antenna measurements are usually incapable of providing a large scan area with a high degree of probe position accuracy. This paper discusses a 4.5m x 2.0m portable scanner developed by NSI with a probe position accuracy on the order of 2 mils (0.050 mm) rms. An NSI patented optical measurement system measures the X, Y, and Z position, and provides real time position correction capability. This lightweight, portable scanner combined with optical correction provides enhanced accuracy while reducing overall antenna measurement system costs and improving test chamber flexibility.
Modem pulsed phased array radar systems bring new challenges to antenna measurement. These antennas generally consist of hundreds of Transmit-Receive (TR) modules controlled via a beam steering computer to fonn the antenna beam. Attempting to operate these modules with a CW wavefonn will not only quickly damage the mod ules but will not properly characterize the antenna. The Navel Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, recog nized the need to add pulsed capability when specifying their latest antenna measurement system. Scientific Atlanta met these requirements by integrating their newly introduced Model l 795P Pulsed Microwave Receiver into their proven 2095 Microwave Measurement System to make the Model 2095P Pulsed Microwave Measurement System.
This paper discusses results of a recent attempt to measure aperture distribution of a small active steerable array antenna at 60 GHz using planar near-field measurements and the back transform. Using a procedure which exercises every phase shifter without steering the antenna beam, it is possible to isolate problems with individual bits in the phase shifters. From calculation of the aperture fields for each case we hope to infer the individual phase shifter bit loss. We will also discuss problems which arose in the measurement because of the short wavelength, signal-to-noise ratio and small number of elements.
Measurement of active array high-power transmit patterns in an indoor near-field facility raises significant issues concerning safe microwave power levels and absorber power-handling capability. An extension of the planar near-field measurement technique for the safe and accurate measurement of active array high power transmit patterns is considered to address these issues. This new technique involves sequentially turning on groups of elements around each probe position while making measurements for each group of activated elements. Simulation results indicate that this technique is potentially feasible for safely and accurately measuring low sidelobe active array transmit patterns.
Deployable phased array antennas for satellite use have been of recent concern[ 11[2]. In a phased array antenna, the excitation phase is the most important factor. For the case when the observation point coincides with the point towards which the beam should be directed, the method for determining the excitation phase is presented in reference [1]. In this case, deflection of the main beam due to a change of the satellite attitude or distortion of the antenna surface can be corrected. However, in an antenna in which the shape of the main beam has to be maintained, the observation point should be placed apart from the main beam region. In this paper, we investigate the necessary number of observation points to correct main beam deflection and present a method that makes it possible not only to correct the deflection of the main beam but also to measure displacement of relative element positions.
A simple waveguide measurement technique is presented to determine the complex dielectric constant of a dielectric material. Using a network analyzer, the reflection coefficient of the shorted waveguide (loaded with sample ) is measured. Using the Finite Element Method the exact reflection coefficient of the shorted waveguide (loaded with the sample) is deter mined as a function of the dielectric constant. Matching the measured value of the reflection coefficient with the reflection coefficient calculated using the FEM and utilizing the Newton-Raphson Method, an estimate of dielectric constant of a dielectric material is obtained. Comparison of estimated values of dielectric constant obtained from simple waveguide modal theory and the present approach is presented.