Hybrid digital-optical radar signal processor

摘要

A hybrid digital-optical radar signal processor utilizing electro-optic crystals and having no moving parts. The processor is used with a radar having multiple discrete evenly spaced transmit frequencies, generated in a pattern, and is capable of simultaneously processing information relating to multiple targets. In the receiver section of the radar electro-optic crystals, such as Lithium Tantalate (LiTaO3), act as optical phase shifters and are arranged in a data plane which is illuminated by a CW laser. Provision is made in digital delays and the optical phase shifters to provide flexibility in the selection of the pattern of frequency utilization during the transmit period. The optical output of the processor consists of an illumination pattern in a read-out plane with maximum intensity in said plane at positions corresponding to the velocity and fine range of each target.