Angle of arrival estimation for automotive radar systems

Automotive radar is a key element of future autonomous vehicles. Besides distance and velocity the estimation of the angle of arrival of reflected radar signals is crucial. The resolution and accuracy with which this angle can be estimated depends on the number of used antennas and their physical size. To improve the performance advanced algorithms and antenna configurations can be used. So called super resolution techniques (such a Music and Esprit) can improve the estimation performance but suffer when few measurements are available. Moreover, these algorithm pose restriction on the configuration of the antenna array.

In this assignment we want to explore sparse antenna configurations and angle of arrival estimation algorithms that enable high resolution angle of arrival measurements in azimuth and elevation. Special attention should be paid to the possibility to integrate such an array in package (antenna in package technology).

Initial requirements

1. Automotive radar (79 GHz) system, short to medium range (up to 100m). Wide angle azimuth and medium angle elevation field of view.
2. High (better than Rayleigh) resolution angle of arrival measurements in azimuth and elevation.
3. Small form factor, credit card size or antenna in package, possibility to use MIMO principle.
4. Angle of arrival estimation algorithm should be able to run on an embedded system.

Company: NXP Semiconductors

Location: Eindhoven

Assignment duration 6 to 9 months.

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Last modified: 2020-09-23