Machine Learning Powers Cutting-edge Clutter Mitigation Product
Baron, the worldwide leader in superior weather intelligence, has developed innovative new radar processing technology to make dual-polarization radars even more powerful tools for solving weather and climate problems. This new advanced technology will allow meteorological organizations and broadcasters to identify weather and climate events with greater precision and deliver more accurate weather data displays.
Introducing Baron ClearScan™, a new patent pending radar clutter mitigation technology that provides the user with current precipitation data with unmatched clarity. Using machine learning algorithms supported by human intervention, the Baron ClearScan learns to recognize data from actual weather targets versus radio frequency interference (RF) or anomalous propagation (AP). RF interference is caused by other electronic devices and is a growing concern as new technologies like 5G cellular signals increase the potential interference with weather radars.
“The Baron ClearScan is another example of Baron innovation solving an issue for our customers by leveraging machine learning technology to automatically remove non-precipitation radar returns due to RF interference, wind farms, and other anomalous phenomena,” said Baron CEO Bob Dreisewerd. "Ultimately improving the quality of weather radar data.”
How Baron ClearScan Works
The exclusive ClearScan technology examines reflectivity, velocity, and dual-polarization data to decipher between quality radar data and anomalous propagation or radio frequency interference. The Baron ClearScan offers a hyper-local solution to recognize AP or RF and remove it from a real-time dual-polarization radar data display.
The Baron ClearScan works well with other signal processing technology, such as CLEAN-AP™, which explicitly targets ground clutter for removal. Baron offers CLEAN-AP™ through an exclusive agreement with the University of Oklahoma. With ClearScan, noise and interference removal occurs at the end of the signal processing, as opposed to CLEAN-AP™, which happens at the signal processor. The two technologies working together provide highly effective radar clutter suppression.
Additional Features of ClearScan
In addition, Baron’s new Staggered Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF) mode detects wind movement inside a storm with greater precision. This technology provides visibility of velocity couplets that cannot be seen in Dual PRF mode. The feature works well with twisting and straight-line winds, making it valuable during a tornadic event, convective thunderstorms, and tropical events.
“The implementation of Staggered PRF within the Baron radar processing ecosystem further improves the quality of radar velocity data and the ability of our customers to detect and relay critical early warning information,” Dreisewerd said.
Baron is an established leader in weather radar innovation, leading to more accurate and reliable weather detection and forecasting. The company has sold, installed, and performed dual-polarization upgrades to more than 350 radars worldwide. Baron successfully upgraded all 171 radars in the U.S. NEXRAD network to dual-polarization.
