Mutil-mode Sensor Characterization

This proposal describes the approach to be undertaken in the investigation of innovative system architectures, algorithms, and design concepts for the development of a prototype Complex Target Generator for Radar Sensors that utilize Compressed Waveforms. Various approaches will be investigated, with a focus on approaches that are consistent with real-world implementations utilizing state-of-the-art technology to provide spatially summed point reflections to represent arbitrarily complex multipoint reflectors simulating returns from a complex target. The proposed application of Digital RF Memory technology and techniques to the generation of overlapped returns is innovative and cost effective compared to “brute force” implementations employed previously, while successfully modeling what happens naturally when radar illuminates a complex object. The evolution of developmental sensors to larger bandwidths and frequency agility when using compressed waveforms drives the focus on real-time implementation and wide bandwidth capabilities. The large number of reflection points and the changing geometry due to sensor movement can overwhelm current processor technology. Algorithms suitable for real time geometry calculation (pulse to pulse time frame) implementation will be assessed. The cost and benefit of various approaches will be assessed and traded-off.