Objective Optimization of Weather Radar Networks for Low-Level Coverage Using a Genetic Algorithm

The current Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) radar network is approaching 20 years of age, leading researchers to begin exploring new opportunities for a next-generation network in the United States. With a vast list of requirements for a new weather radar network, research has prov...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of atmospheric and oceanic technology 2012-06, Vol.29 (6), p.807-821
Main Authors: Kurdzo, James M, Palmer, Robert D
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Algorithms
Atmospheric sciences
Balances (scales)
Climate and population
Climate science
Climatology
Collaboration
Cost analysis
Cost benefit analysis
Decision analysis
Design
Doppler effect
Doppler radar
Doppler sonar
Fabrication
Genetic algorithms
Linear programming
Marine
Meteorological radar
Mountain regions
Multispectral radar
Network management systems
Networks
Objective analysis
Optimization
Optimization techniques
Population density
Radar
Radar networks
Surveillance radar
Weather
Weather radar
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Summary:The current Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) radar network is approaching 20 years of age, leading researchers to begin exploring new opportunities for a next-generation network in the United States. With a vast list of requirements for a new weather radar network, research has provided various approaches to the design and fabrication of such a network. Additionally, new weather radar networks in other countries, as well as networks on smaller scales, must balance a large number of variables in order to operate in the most effective way possible. To offer network designers an objective analysis tool for such decisions, a coverage optimization technique, utilizing a genetic algorithm with a focus on low-level coverage, is presented. Optimization is achieved using a variety of variables and methods, including the use of climatology, population density, and attenuation due to average precipitation conditions. A method to account for terrain blockage in mountainous regions is also presented. Various combinations of multifrequency radar networks are explored, and results are presented in the form of a coverage-based cost–benefit analysis, with considerations for total network lifetime cost.
ISSN:0739-0572
1520-0426
DOI:10.1175/JTECH-D-11-00076.1