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FMCW sensor
      
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FMCW sensor
24 GHz RADAR Sensor for Distance and Velocity Measurement

  • FMCW and Doppler Mode
  • ISM to 2GHz Bandwidth
  • Onboard Signal Processing
  • Evaluation Software included
  • Compact Size
  • Wireless Data Transver available

IMST has developed a versatile FMCW RADAR-system which operates in the 24 GHz band. It can be easily adapted to customer application requirements and enables a unique efficiency in product development. Due to the usage of high quality components an exceptionally high bandwidth of up to 2 GHz is achieved.

Thanks to a fully configurable Digital Direct Synthesis Controller (DDS) in combination with a fast-locking Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) the user may define an arbitrary RADAR waveform that suits the respective target environment. With an output power of 20 dBm (EIRP) targets in up to 70m distance may be detected. The RADAR system is built out of frontend-, baseband- and DC-modules that can be replaced depending on the desired functionality.

Single-Channel (TxRx) Frontend

The single-channel module consists of one transmit and one receive antenna with the FMCW frontend on the backside of the multilayer PTFE board. It is optimized for small size and low weight: (2.5x3.5)cm2, 5gr.

Multi-Channel (Tx2Rx) Frontends

For applications that require an angular resolution of targets IMST offers multi-channel modules. These modules have multiple receive (Rx) antennas in a very compact array design. A dual channel (2Rx) module with IQ mixers is directly available. Modules providing a larger number of channels can be developed on request.

Application

AirRobotTM applies our Radar modules for obstacle avoidance manoeuvers in UAV micro drones.

Single-Chip (TxRx) Solution

Our partner IHP has developed a SiGe MMIC implementing full RADAR functionality. The chip is embedded into IMST’s TxRx frontend, taking advantage of the antenna’s excellent properties. The system is intended for low cost and high volume applications within the ISM band. For initial testing the frontend is fully compatible to our high performance baseband module and software, but may be combined with a cost-optimized alternative.

Baseband and WIMOD Modules

The baseband module carries the digital processing units and implements the communication with the user system.

Depending on the systems mounting position the module may be connected with USB cable or to a WIMOD module. Accordingly the system can be directly powered by USB or battery pack to enable full mobility. IMST has developed an additional software package that enables the user to perform out-of-the-box measurements. The software establishes the data transfer and performs a variety of signal processing steps, including tracking and clearance algorithms.

These routines are already implemented on the controller of the baseband module and are ready to be applied by the user.

Parameters Typical Properties
RADAR Method TxRx FMCW and Doppler Mode
Centre Frequency 24 GHz (fISM = 24.125 GHz)
Bandwidth ISM to 2 GHz (bISM = 250 MHz)
Resolution dm Range (depending on bandwidth)
Accuracy cm Range (depending on bandwidth)
Distance to Targets 10 cm to 70 m
Output Power 25 dBm EIRP

Antenna Characteristic

TxRx 36° Elevation, 64° Azimuth
9 dBi Antenna Gain
Tx2Rx 24° Elevation, 58° (Tx), 70° (Rx) Azimuth
Angular Resolution Tx2Rx about 1° @ 5m

# References
Flyer Radar Sensor

Radar Module LTCC

[26] 24 GHz Radar Sensor integrates Patch Antenna and Frontend Module in single Multilayer LTCC
[23] LTCC Short Range Radar Sensor for Automotive Applications at 24 GHz
[22] 24 GHz radar sensor uses Green TapeTM LTCC technology to detect the proximity of objects
[20] Integrated stacked patch antenna array on LTCC material operating at 24 GHz
©2001-2010 IMST GmbH, Last update: RK 2-Sept.-2010