FMCW radar: a low cost sensor for automotive applications

The author briefly describes the requirements of an automotive sensor system and demonstrates how a simple FMCW radar can fulfil the specified requirements. In considering the cost of implementing such a system, emphasis is placed on the use of technology as is available at this time. A moderate improvement in sweep linearity enables the system to fulfil all signal to clutter requirements. This can be achieved by an `open loop´ technique, thereby avoiding the extra costs incurred by additional millimetric components. The relatively low frequency output means that simple, commercial components can be employed in the signal processing system. The inherent sensitivity of the FMCW radar allows the RF component count to be reduced to a minimum without increasing the performance requirement of the remaining circuitry