Heavy-Duty Turntable – Precision Rotating Platform for Radar Signature Analysis

Precise positioning of large measurement objects

The heavy-duty turntable at Fraunhofer FHR enables precise measurements of large and heavy objects from different aspect angles. With a diameter of six meters and a load capacity of up to 25 metric tons, it is particularly suitable for measurements of vehicles and other large-scale objects. The platform reaches a rotational speed of up to 430° per minute and provides a positioning accuracy of 0.01°. In addition, it can be tilted within a range of −3° to +10°.

The combination of rotational and tilting motion makes it possible to examine a measurement object from different aspect angles without having to modify its setup between individual measurements. This is particularly advantageous for investigations in which repositioning or reconfiguring the measurement object could affect the comparability of the measurement results. The object can be positioned on the platform once and then precisely aligned relative to the measurement system. This enables angle-dependent radar signatures to be acquired while maintaining a largely unchanged measurement configuration.

Versatile applications in radar signature measurements

The heavy-duty turntable is used, among other applications, for radar signature measurements of vehicles in both camouflaged and uncamouflaged configurations. In addition, defined test setups for investigating and evaluating camouflage materials can be measured on the platform. Measurements of UAVs and projectiles have also been conducted.

Further applications include signature management, 2D and 3D ISAR measurements, and angle-dependent radar cross-section (RCS) measurements. The infrastructure can also be used to evaluate camouflage materials, for example in accordance with European Defence Agency (EDA) standards. In this way, the platform supports the development, characterization, and optimization of radar signatures of vehicles and airborne objects.

Measurement capabilities for large-scale objects

The turntable is particularly suitable for measurement objects whose dimensions prevent them from being investigated in Fraunhofer FHR’s anechoic chambers. In such cases, the facility enables outdoor measurement configurations in which large and heavy objects can be systematically examined from different aspect angles. The resulting uncontrolled environmental conditions must be taken into account when planning and conducting the measurements.

By providing precisely controlled rotation and tilt of the measurement object, the heavy-duty turntable supports a wide range of investigations into angle-dependent radar signatures. It expands Fraunhofer FHR’s measurement capabilities particularly in cases where the size and weight of an object or the required measurement geometry limit its investigation in enclosed measurement environments. The facility thus provides a powerful research and testing infrastructure for radar signature measurements, RCS analyses, ISAR investigations, and the evaluation of radar-relevant properties of large-scale objects.