FPGA based LFMCW generator for small target detection and ranging

Abstract

Recently, drones (UAVs) have become increasingly useful in many applications such as surveillance, logistics and aerial recordings because of their cost-effectiveness. However, drones are harder to detect using pulse radar as their radar cross section is smaller and they fly at low speeds, burying the signal in the radar clutter. FMCW radar allows continuous transmission and thus increases the signal-to-noise to ease detection. Furthermore, FMCW radar also provides target’s range information. The project would investigate problems of hardware implementation of FMCW for small target detection. In particular, using FPGA to generate LFMCW for FMCW radar will be considered.