Inventors:
K. Russell Peterman - Boulder CO
Charles Riese - Austin TX
Michael J. Smith - Knoxville TN
Assignee:
Radian Corporation - Austin TX
International Classification:
G01K 100
Abstract:
A sound detection and ranging (SODAR) system for taking wind measurements by sending out acoustic pulses and then measuring acoustic energy reflected back to the instrument by the atmosphere. The acoustic pulses are formed using digital beamforming technology which allows the acoustic pulses to be steered independent of frequency due to a time delay design. Also, the present invention SODAR instrument allows wideband capability that is limited only by the dimensions of the antenna array. Furthermore, the present invention SODAR instrument allows the acoustic pulses to be variably steered and allows multiple acoustic beams to be simultaneously received.