Phase migration effects in moving target localization using switched MIMO arrays

Time division multiplexing in multiple input multiple output (TDM MIMO) antenna configurations can be used to generate large virtual apertures to increase the angular resolution of a stationary radar. However, in case of moving targets the switching delays introduce a significant target range migration from pulse to pulse that will lead to a defocussing of the virtual array. Previous work primarily focused on the geometrical structure of the final array, but effects and severity of degradation are also strongly influenced by the switching order of transmit and receive antennas, altering the temporal order of virtual elements. We present four switching schemes, discuss the differences of their impact on moving target localization and propose a switching technique, supported by real-world measurements, to compensate for motion-induced phase errors.