Architectures for High-Power Radars

Purpose and goal

The overall scope of the project was to pave the way for higher radar performance (under boost operation) independent of the platform´s power and cooling supplies. Based on analysis and optimization of the radar power architecture, concepts and technologies for energy storage and cooling were established. Both conventional supercapacitor devices (SCs) and micro-SCs have shown feasible to temporarily providing a power boost, as well as the use of phase-change materials placed close to chip for additional cooling effect.

Expected results and effects

The development of supercaps (SC) and micro-SCs for high power radar has established a toolbox for optimizing performance via electrode material, electrolyte, electrode doping, and device geometry. Carbon nanomaterials not only provide beneficial properties to the SC electrode and the phase change composite matrix for cooling, but also a great flexibility in design. Lab-based components for energi storage and cooling show characteristics in the range of the performance metrics derived from the power architecture analysis.

Planned approach and implementation

Analysis and optimization of radar system requirements and power architecture has been performed by Saab, providing a base for a common definition of design targets for the development of energy storage and cooling solutions. The experimental work around (micro-)SC technology and cooling devices, has mainly been concentrated to Chalmers, utilizing carbon nanostructures provided by Smoltek. The project results and progress benefited strongly from being at the interface of academia and industry.