Which MWAS search pattern uses a rolling rectangular pattern to cover an area?

• A. Bar scan
• B. Rolling box
• C. Sector search
• D. Expanding square

Answer: (B)

The pattern being tested is defined by how a search area is swept to ensure nothing is missed. A rolling rectangular pattern uses a moving, box-shaped observation window that slides across the area, keeping a consistent rectangular footprint as you progress. This approach gives steady, predictable coverage with built-in overlap along the edges, which helps detect objects that might hide in the boundaries between sweeps. It’s especially effective when you want to maintain a steady, wide corridor of coverage as you move forward.

Other patterns work differently: a bar scan uses long parallel sweeps, which can leave gaps if spacing isn’t perfect; a sector search divides the area into angular wedges from a point, focusing outward in fan-shaped sectors; and an expanding square starts at a point and grows outward, which concentrates early effort near the origin before extending farther.