Issues with consistent generic representations of a radar

This paper discusses the potential value of generic representations of radars for cooperation between autonomous sensor platforms, but shows that truly generic representations of radars, or other sensors are probably not possible. The practical difficulties in such a generic approach are illustrated by some examples. A theoretical justification for why such a generic approach may be impossible is produced - the abstractions which have to be made in order to be able to reason about the radars´ capabilities will inevitably over-simplify the description for other purposes. An analysis of a number of descriptions of pulse Doppler radars and their environments, taken from different radar simulations has shown major difficulties in trying to reconcile the descriptions. This is further support for the thesis that the aim of generic representations is impossible and this sub-problem could be considered a challenge to be met by any attempt to demonstrate that it is possible.