Radar Research Articles

Quantum-dot spin-VCSELs subject to optical injection and feedback for flexible photonic millimeter wave generation

A novel microwave and millimeter wave signal generation system is proposed and numerically demonstrated using an optically pumped quantum dot (QD) spin-polarized vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (spin-VCSEL) with optical injection. Different from previous optical injection systems, the signal frequency in our proposed system is dominated by both the birefringence-splitting and injection detuning frequencies. By flexibly tailoring the frequency detuning and birefringence rate, the frequency ranges from a few gigahertz to nearly 150 GHz can be obtained. To evaluate the signal quality, the dynamical behaviors of the proposed system and the characteristics of the generated millimeter wave signal are evaluated including the center frequency, power, linewidth, and phase variance. We further adopt the optical feedback structure to improve the microwave and millimeter wave signal performance. Results show that the signal linewidth and phase variance can be optimized by three to four orders of magnitude. Compared to the case of a solitary QD spin-VCSEL, this work shows more stable performance, particularly in the frequency range above 90 GHz. This scheme offers an approach for high-purity microwave and millimeter sources in wireless communication and radar systems.

Multiplier-less Broadband and Linear Phase Digital Hilbert Transformers

The Hilbert transformation for generating the analytic signal or signal envelope is widely used in modern communication receivers, in radar and sonar systems. It introduces a 90∘\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$90^{\\circ }$$\\end{document} phase shift of the input signal. Since the impulse response of the ideal Hilbert transformer is non-causal, it must be approximated by an FIR or IIR filter. This paper shows results of novel algorithms for designing broadband digital IIR Hilbert transformers and its implementation. The designs employ Galerkin or collocation techniques. The transfer function of the Hilbert transformer is a rational polynomial of low order and exhibits approximately linear phase. The filters match the 90∘\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$90^{\\circ }$$\\end{document} phase shift requirement of Hilbert transformers almost perfectly and exhibit approximately constant group delay in the passband. The achieved image rejection ratio is typically larger than 50 dB. The quantization of the filter coefficients is realized by a Canonical Signed Digit (CSD) representation, reducing the hardware resources compared with two’s complement. The resulting filters are multiplier-less, which is crucial for high-speed signal processing and low power consumption. The design techniques and the CSD representation are realized in a MATLAB toolbox. The filters were moreover implemented in VHDL and SystemC. Additionally, a MATLAB tool for automatically generating a VHDL package containing the filter parameters has been implemented.

Radar Defense and Active Interception of Kamikaze Drones

The modern combat environment is marked by the active use of kamikaze drones, posing a serious threat to lightly armored vehicles. The development of radar technologies combined with microcontroller-based control systems allows for the effective detection and neutralization of these threats. This paper examines a complex of technical means for detecting and countering kamikaze drones, utilizing radar detection and active interception methods. An analysis of existing solutions in this field is conducted, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages, and technical proposals for constructing a radar control system, guidance unit, and countermeasure device are provided. Special attention is given to the integration of systems to enhance efficiency and automate processes. The presented results confirm the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed solutions in real combat conditions, as evidenced by their application during Russia's war against Ukraine.

Artificial Intelligence applications in Noise Radar Technology

AbstractRadar systems are a topic of great interest, especially due to their extensive range of applications and ability to operate in all weather conditions. Modern radars have high requirements such as its resolution, accuracy and robustness, depending on the application. Noise Radar Technology (NRT) has the upper hand when compared to conventional radar technology in several characteristics. Its robustness to jamming, low Mutual Interference and low probability of intercept are good examples of these advantages. However, its signal processing is more complex than that associated to a conventional radar. Artificial Intelligence (AI)‐based signal processing is getting increasing attention from the research community. However, there is yet not much research on these methods for noise radar signal processing. The aim of the authors is to provide general information regarding the research performed on radar systems using AI and draw conclusions about the future of AI in noise radar. The authors introduce the use of AI‐based algorithms for NRT and provide results for its use.

Polarization-based target detection approach to enhance small surface object identification ensuring navigation safety

This research introduces a groundbreaking approach to significantly enhance the performance of navigation radars under adverse weather conditions. Traditional ship radars, relying on horizontal polarization, encounter difficulties in effectively suppressing rain interference. In response, this study proposed an innovative method employing circular polarization for detecting navigation targets. This technique capitalizes on the distinct polarization properties exhibited by stable navigation targets and fluctuating interfering objects. Theoretical analysis and model experiments substantiate consistent ellipticity parameter values of scattered waves, independent of rain intensity, for both rain interferers and surface metallic objects. The practical implications of our research are highly promising. They enable detection irrespective of the noise-to-signal ratio by integrating an additional channel of circularly polarized waves and applying straightforward mathematical functions. This advancement marks a significant stride towards overcoming the challenges posed by rainy conditions in maritime navigation radar systems.

Analysis of the peculiarities of the method of combining an electronic cartographic navigation information system with a ship's radar station

The article analyses the importance of radar image overlay on the screen of an electronic charting navigation information system (ECNIS) for improving safety and efficiency of navigation. Based on a review of scientific publications and professional literature, the article discusses the technical aspects of the overlay function, its advantages and limitations, and the impact on the decision-making process of a navigator. The overlay of radar information on an electronic navigation chart ensures the integration of planned and actual data on the environment, which contributes to the increase of situational awareness of the navigator. The combination of the systems makes it possible to visually compare radar targets with cartographic objects, clarify the vessel's location, control drift and orientation, and detect navigation hazards. The overlay function is especially valuable when sailing in confined waters and in conditions of limited visibility. At the same time, the use of overlay technology is associated with a number of technical difficulties and limitations related to ensuring the accuracy of overlap, harmonisation of data formats, and synchronisation of information updates. Errors in the operation of positioning systems, direction guidance, and cartography errors can lead to inconsistencies in image layers and incorrect interpretation of the navigation situation. The issues of equipment reliability, display parameters settings, competence and training of navigators are of critical importance. It is emphasised that radar image overlay on ECDIS is an effective tool for improving safety of navigation, but it does not replace traditional navigation practices and does not eliminate the need for critical evaluation of data. Over-reliance on technology, ignoring its limitations and disregard for the principles of good maritime practice can lead to erroneous decisions and have a negative impact on safety. Further prospects for the development of technology can be associated with the improvement of information processing algorithms, optimisation of human-machine interaction, and the development of training methods. The article emphasises the need for an integrated approach combining the improvement of technical systems and the human factor to fully realise the potential of the overlay function in ensuring safety of navigation. Only a balanced use of technological innovations and traditional navigational practices can guarantee the reliability and efficiency of modern navigation

Main directions for improvement of navigation safety through prevention of ship collisions

The article is devoted to the study of the main directions of improving the safety of navigation by preventing ship collisions. The modern development of global shipping is characterized by an increase in the intensity of maritime transportation, which significantly increases the risks of emergencies, in particular ship collisions. These incidents are one of the main causes of maritime accidents, resulting in significant economic losses, environmental damage and risk to human life. The article analyzes various aspects of improving safety of navigation, including the use of modern technologies, organizational measures, crew training and efficient ship maintenance. The focus is on the following areas: technical support, organizational measures, education and training for the crew, communication systems and international coordination, as well as ensuring the technical serviceability of ships. Radar systems allowing to detect and track ships at different distances, which is critical in difficult weather conditions. Another important aspect is crew training. Regular professional education, training, and simulation training help crews adapt to new technologies and respond effectively to dangerous situations. An effective communication system and international coordination are critical for rapid response to emergencies. Emergency communication systems ensure rapid exchange of information between ships and coastal services, and international cooperation contributes to increased preparedness and coordination. Ensuring the technical serviceability of ships through regular inspections and technical surveys is the basis for safe navigation, allowing to identify and eliminate potential problems. The article emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to improving shipping safety, including the integration of advanced technologies, organizational processes, training and maintenance. This approach helps to reduce the risk of ship collisions and improve overall safety at sea

Dynamic Monitoring of Tall Buildings

There has been an increasing demand on tall and high-rise buildings. In response, structural engineers have become more interested in improving the design of these newly constructed buildings as well as extending the life of the existing and aging ones. Field dynamic monitoring is the best method that engineers can rely on to measure the current performance of tall buildings in order to make critical decisions regarding the improvement of their designs or regarding the planning of their retrofitting and maintenance. Radar interferometry is a novel remote monitoring technique that has appeared to be exceptionally suitable for monitoring of tall buildings. However, the performance and capabilities of this system relative to other conventional sensors in not fully understood. This paper reviews the radar system and other commonly used sensors with a focus on their current status and application. A model for evaluating the relative performance of the different sensors for tall buildings is constructed and it demonstrates that the radar has unmatched capabilities for monitoring of high-rise buildings, The comparative case study on the Soul Tower, which is the first of its kind on such high-rise building, further confirms this conclusion.. Consequently, engineers are advised to always consider employing the interferometric radar for dynamic monitoring of tall buildings.

Enhancing Sustainable Transportation with Advancements in Photonic Radar Technology with MIMO and IIR Filtering for Adverse Weather Conditions

Sustainable transportation is crucial in addressing global road safety and environmental challenges. This study introduces a novel photonic radar system, leveraging Linear Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave (LFMCW) technology for high-speed data transmission. Operating in a homodyne configuration, this system uses a single oscillator to generate both signal and reference waveforms. It incorporates mode division multiplexing (MDM) to enable the detection and ranging of multiple targets, even under adverse atmospheric conditions. To counter atmospheric attenuation, the system is equipped with a 2 × 2 MIMO technique and an Infinite Impulse Response (IIR) filter. Numerical simulations demonstrate the system’s superior performance in range resolution and target detection, achieving significant power improvements. The IIR filter further enhances detection, achieving a power improvement of 200% for target 1 and 276% for target 2. With low power requirements and enhancement through IIR filter equalization, this system presents a viable option for battery-operated vehicles. This innovative approach offers a low-power high-efficiency solution suitable for battery-operated vehicles, promoting safer and more reliable sustainable transportation.

Frequency down-conversion system with image rejection using thin film lithium niobate parallel modulation phase-shifting structure

The frequency down-conversion system based on microwave photonics has been widely employed in radar, electronic warfare, and satellite communication systems. In this paper, we propose an image rejection frequency down-conversion system, wherein the phase modulator and phase shifter are integrated on thin film lithium niobate platform. The working principle is elucidated through the establishment of a theoretical model. Subsequently, the system successfully down-converts a 40 GHz radio frequency (RF) signal to a 5 GHz intermediate frequency signal, achieving an image rejection ratio of approximately 30 dB. Simultaneously, varying degrees of image rejection are observed for different RF signals. The system maintains robust image rejection performance across varying RF and image signal power, as well as different levels of input optical power.

A Time-Domain Doppler Estimation and Waveform Recovery Approach with Iterative and Ensemble Techniques for Bi-Phase Code in Radar Systems

This paper presents a novel, cost-effective technique for estimating the Doppler effect in the time domain using a single pulse and subsequently leveraging the precise Doppler value to recover the radar waveform. The proposed system offers several key advantages over existing techniques, including the ability to calculate the target speed without any frequency ambiguity and the ability to detect a wide range of target speeds. These two features are not available in any existing techniques, including the conventional moving target detection (MTD) processor. To ensure improved accuracy and robust estimation, the system employs ensemble and iterative techniques by recursively and efficiently reducing the Doppler residues from the signal. Furthermore, the proposed system demonstrates effective signal recovery of a well-known bi-phase code shape at low signal-to-noise ratios in just a few iterations. The performance evaluation of the new algorithm demonstrates its practicability and its superiority over traditional radar systems. Implementation on software-defined radio (SDR) reveals that the proposed system excels in Doppler estimation and signal recovery at low SNRs, demonstrating promising results.

A Waveform and Velocity Ambiguity Resolution Method for Corner Radar

Millimeter-wave radar is experiencing an increasing demand for higher resolution and elevation measurement, necessitating its evolution from 3D millimeter-wave radar systems to 4D millimeter-wave radar. Unlike front automotive radar, corner radar is particularly interested in close-range targets. This article proposes a composite waveform tailored for automotive corner radar, employing different waveform schemes for various distances. This allows millimeter-wave angle radar to achieve superior range resolution and velocity resolution in the close and medium ranges. However, enhancing velocity resolution inevitably results in a reduction in the maximum unambiguous velocity. Consequently, a velocity ambiguity resolution method based on target parameter matching for front and rear frames is proposed to address this issue. The feasibility of the composite waveform and method are verified through simulation. Finally, a radar designed with the ALPS PRO chip is employed to test the designed waveform and velocity ambiguity resolution method, yielding results that are largely consistent with the simulation outcomes. The findings indicate a notable enhancement in resolution for medium distances ranging from 60 to 100 m when employing the proposed waveform. Moreover, the velocity ambiguity resolution method effectively resolves velocity ambiguity, leading to enhanced accuracy in velocity measurements. This suggests that the composite waveform and algorithm are well suited for current automotive angle radar applications.

Fast Algorithm of Passive Bistatic Radar Detection Based on Batches Processing of Sparse Representation and Recovery

In the passive bistatic radar (PBR) system,methods exist to address the issue of detecting weak targets without being influenced by non-ideal factors from adjacent strong targets. These methods utilize the sparsity in the delay-Doppler domain of the cross ambiguity function (CAF) to detect weak targets. However, the modeling and solving of this method involve substantial memory consumption and computational complexity. To address these challenges, this paper establishes a target detection model for PBR based on batch processing of sparse representation and recovery. This model partitions the CAF into blocks, identifies blocks requiring processing based on the presence of targets, and improves the construction and utilization of the measurement matrix. This results in a reduction in the computational complexity and memory resource requirements for sparse representation and recovery, and provides favorable conditions for parallel execution of the algorithm. Experimental results indicate that the proposed approach increases the number of blocks by a factor of four, and reduces the number of real multiplications by approximately an order of magnitude. Hence, compared with the traditional approach, the proposed approach enables fast and stable detection of weak targets.

Analysis of Differences in the Signal Reflected from an Aircraft and Simulated Interference in an Application to Radar Protection

The creation of DRFM (Digital Radio Frequency Memory) technology is a revolutionary step in the development of simulating interference techniques. The technology made it possible to transform the received signal with high quality, make the necessary changes to it and emit it in the form of simulating interference. Currently, a high level of imitation of radar signals reflected from real objects has been achieved. The basis for counteracting such interference is a detailed analysis of the differences between the real reflected signal and simulating interference. In this regard, a mathematical model of a signal reflected from a spatially distributed object is considered before and after frequency conversion to video frequency. Based on the analysis of typical variants of interference generation, mathematical models of simulating interference are considered, providing various degrees of similarity to the reflected signal. The results of the model analysis are the basis for constructing algorithms for protecting radar stations from simulating interference.

Design of Broadband High-Frequency Multi-Throw RF-MEMS Switches.

This paper introduces a broadband triple-pole triple-throw (3P3T) RF MEMS switch with a frequency range from DC to 380 GHz. The switch achieves precise signal control and efficient modulation through its six-port design. It achieves an insertion loss of -0.66 dB across its frequency range, with isolation and return loss metrics of -32 dB and -15 dB, respectively. With its low actuation voltage of 6.8 V and rapid response time of 2.28 μs, the switch exemplifies power-efficient and prompt switching performance. The compact design is ideal for integration into space-conscious systems. This switch is pivotal for 6G research and has potential applications in satellite communications, military radar systems, and next-generation radio applications that require multi-antenna access.

Design and performance validation of CWT-MCA based interference mitigation for automotive radars

Interference mitigation has been a vital area of focus within the realm of automotive radar research, holding paramount importance for augmenting advanced driver-assistance capabilities, particularly in vehicle-dense scenarios. This paper presents a novel interference mitigation scheme based on continuous wavelet transform and morphological component analysis (CWT-MCA). This method, in essence, transforms the time-domain signal into the time-frequency domain, subsequently enabling the direct separation of target and interference components, thereby circumventing the necessity for interference detection and identification. Additionally, this paper introduces a series of MCA algorithms grounded in various transform domains, which are subsequently compared with the traditional linear prediction based approach. We show through comprehensive numerical simulations and real-data experiments that CWT-MCA algorithm exhibits markedly superior interference mitigation performance while offering lower computational complexity, which makes it well-suited for real-time implementation in automotive radar systems.

Array pattern synthesis with phase-only constraint based on scaled-ADMM algorithm

The utilization of constant modulus beamforming technology is prevalent in multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar systems and MIMO wireless communication systems. This paper investigates the problem of phase-only pattern control and synthesis in linear antenna array systems. It imposes a fixed amplitude constraint on the excitation signal, which only involves a phase constraint. However, this constraint is NP-hard and non-convex. To effectively address this challenging problem, we propose an iterative solution based on the scaled form of ADMM. This solution provides a means to rapidly synthesize patterns and significantly contributes to mitigating interference in other directions. In addition, the convergence of the proposed method is proved theoretically, and it is further demonstrated that the algorithm converges to the KKT stationary point of the original problem. Finally, simulation results show that the proposed method is superior to the most advanced methods in terms of pattern synthesis and convergence speed.

Spoof surface plasmons spawning pencil-beam antennas of subwavelength profile.

Slot-array antennas based on metallic waveguides have been widely used to generate pencil-beams, attracting attention due to their design simplicity and compact size. However, current slot-array antennas possess wavelength-scale profiles, which do not align optimally with the low-profile requisites of contemporary integrated communication and radar systems. Here, we propose a low-profile slot-array antenna designed specifically for the pencil-beam generation. Constructed with the two-dimensional-array (2D-array) slots situated on a sub-wavelength domino plasmon waveguide, the pencil-beam is generated with a peak gain of up to 21.6 dBi. Moreover, the generated pencil-beam allows for a wide scanning range of over 73.6° by adjusting the operating frequency from 45 to 65 GHz. Our research shows great potential for enhancing millimeter-wave radar capabilities and advancing communication systems.

Analysis of Cassini Altimetric Crossovers on Titan

The Cassini spacecraft performed several flybys of Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, collecting valuable data. During several passes, altimetric data were acquired. Here, we focus on altimetric measurements collected by Cassini’s radar when flying over the same region at different epochs in order to correlate such measurements (crossovers) and investigate differences in altimetry. In our study, we assess altimetric errors associated with three distinct methods for extracting topography from Cassini’s radar data: the maximum likelihood estimator (MLE), the threshold method, and the first moment technique. Focusing on crossover events, during which Cassini revisited specific areas of Titan’s surface, we conduct a detailed examination of the consistency and accuracy of these three topography extraction methods. The proposed analysis involves closely examining altimetric data collected at different epochs over identical geographical regions, allowing us to investigate potential errors due to the variations in off-nadir angle, relative impact, uncertainties, and systematic errors inherent in the application of these methodologies. Our findings reveal that the correction applied for the off-nadir angle to the threshold and first moment methods significantly reduces the dispersion in the delta difference at the crossover, resulting in a dispersion of the order of 60 m, even lower than what is achieved with the MLE (~70 m). Additionally, an effort is made to assess the potential of Cassini for estimating the tidal signal on Titan. Considering the altimetric errors identified in our study and the relatively low number of crossovers performed by Cassini, our assessment indicates that it is not feasible to accurately measure the tidal signal on Titan using the currently available standard altimetry data from Cassini. Our assessment regarding the accuracy of the Cassini altimeter provides valuable insights for future planetary exploration endeavors. Our study advances the understanding of Titan’s complex landscape and contributes to refining topographical models derived from Cassini’s altimetry observations. These insights not only enhance our knowledge of Saturn’s largest moon but also open prospects for Titan surface and interior exploration using radar systems.

Photonic generation of dual-band triangular chirps utilizing a monolithic integrated mutual injection laser and application in radars.

We propose and demonstrate a dual-band microwave photonic radar scheme based on a monolithic integrated mutual injection laser. Based on the photon-photon resonance (PPR) and the gain switching effect of the integrated laser, the C-/X-band triangular chirp signals with high-quality and comparable power at 4.75-5.25 GHz and 9.5-10.5 GHz are generated. In the current proof-of-concept experiment, the range resolution of the dual-band chirp signals can reach 16.9 cm, compared with the single-band chirp signal that cannot distinguish the targets. Through the application of a single integrated device and a transceiver module sharing a set of antennas, the dual-band microwave photonic radar system scheme improves the system integration.