Lightweight Techniques Study Program for AN/UPS-1 Class Radars

摘要

The application of lightweight techniques and design considerations has resulted in the long life, lightweight radar which has worldwide environmental capabilities. This lightweight radar weighs 76 percent less than the AN/UPS-1 and has the same performance characteristics. The use of lightweight metals, fiber glass, and plastics contributes significantly to the weight reduction. A singular example is the fiber glass reflector structure which permits the design of a foldable, self contained antenna reflector. Consequently, the reflector transport configuration requires no separate case. A single column antenna tower could then be incorporated, and the 295-pound combination reflector transport case and antenna support tower of the AN/UPS-1 is eliminated. Also contributing to the weight reduction is the use of microcircuitry in the receiver and the solid-state circuitry in the receiver and indicator circuits. The coaxial magnetron developed reduces the magnetron weight by one third from 90 pounds to 60 pounds. The hybrid solid-state-magnetic devices modulator results in a modulator weight reduction from 450 pounds to 130 pounds. The assumption that the equipment will be carefully handled in the field reduces significantly the size and weight of the protective cases. (Author)