Radar modeling and validation of human gaits using simultaneous collections of motion capture and radar data

Abstract

Previous research in radar modeling of the human gait has implemented motion defined by a kinematic walking model. While this model captures the fundamental walking characteristics, it is limited in practical application due to the generality of its definition. To increase the fidelity and realism of human gait modeling, we utilize motion capture and radar data measurements that are simultaneously collected. We utilize the motion capture data collections to provide accurate body segment locations over time. We incorporate this information into a radar model that calculates the coherent radar return from each segment at the time of each radar pulse. We validate this model using Ku-band radar measurements that were simultaneously collected with the motion capture data. We present and analyze results for walking, jogging, and throwing motions. Comparisons of the simulated and measured results show radar modeling with motion capture data accurately depicts the radar response in both range and Doppler.