Proof-of-Concept of a Monopulse Antenna Architecture Enabling Radar Sensors in Unmanned Aircraft Collision Avoidance Systems for UAS in U-Space Airspaces

In this paper, we propose and proof an innovative concept of radar antennas suited for Collision Avoidance (CA) systems installed on board small Unmanned Aircraft (UA). The proposed architecture provides 360º monopulse coverage around the host platform enabling the detection and accurate position estimation of airborne, non-cooperative hazards using lightweight, low-profile antennas. These antennas can be manufactured using low-cost 3D printing techniques and are easily integrable in the UAs airframe without degrading their airworthiness. In the paper, we sketch a Detect and Avoid (DAA) concept of operations (ConOps) built on the ConOps for separation management developed by the SESAR 2020 project BUBBLES in line with the SESAR U-space ConOps Ed. 4. In that ConOps, Remain Well Clear (RWC) and Collision Avoidance functions are provided separately (namely, the responsibility for providing the RWC function lies with ground-based U-space services whereas the CA function is considered an airborne safety net provided by on-board equipment). From the ConOps, we define operation-centric design requirements and describe the proposed architecture. We prove the concept by a combination of simulations and measurements in anechoic chamber using a prototype at 24 GHz.