A Novel Method for Proximity Detection of Moving Targets Using a Large-Scale Planar Capacitive Sensor System

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Sensor Technology
• Physics

Background:

• Proximity detection of moving targets is crucial for various applications, including defense systems.
• Existing methods may lack the required sensitivity, dynamic range, or cost-effectiveness for certain applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel method for proximity detection of moving targets using a large-scale planar capacitive sensor system (PCSS).
• To investigate the performance of different electrode shapes within a planar capacitive sensor unit (PCSU) for optimal detection capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Derivation of capacitive variation with distance for moving targets with high dielectric constants.
• Design and implementation of a driving excitation circuit using a Clapp oscillator and a sensitive capacitance measuring circuit (0.21 Vp-p/pF).
• Comparative analysis of PCSU electrode shapes (spiral, comb, rectangular, circular) and evaluation of static vs. dynamic experimental data.

Main Results:

• The spiral electrode shape in a PCSU demonstrated superior sensitivity distribution homogeneity and dynamic range compared to other shapes.
• Static experimental data accurately simulated dynamic detection curves, validating the static measurement approach.
• The PCSS achieved a dynamic range of up to 60 cm for three projectiles, with four neighboring PCSUs exhibiting the highest sensitivity.

Conclusions:

• The proposed PCSS offers a feasible, low-cost, and simple-structure solution for moving target detection.
• The system's performance is influenced by factors like the number of neighboring units and the attack angle of the target.
• This technology has potential applications in interception systems requiring effective proximity detection.