MIMO Radar Angle Estimation with Dual-Target Cross-Path Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing MIMO radar sensors face inaccuracies and increased computational effort in angle estimation due to multipath propagation, leading to undesirable system behavior and target object losses.
Innovation Solution
A MIMO dual-target cross-path model is used to simplify the angle estimation process by reducing a two-dimensional optimization problem to a one-dimensional optimization problem, treating the radar object and its mirror as separate targets, and employing SIMO, MISO, or combined SIMO-MISO modes to reduce computational effort while maintaining accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a complete MIMO four-path cross-path model is used to account for multipath propagation, then angle estimation accuracy is improved, but computational effort and processing time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the angle estimation process into two independent stages: first estimating the direct path angle using a simplified one-dimensional model, then using this result to constrain and simplify the second estimation of the reflected path angle. This segmentation transforms the complex two-dimensional simultaneous optimization into two sequential one-dimensional optimizations, dramatically reducing computational effort while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary estimation of the direct path angle (first angle) before estimating the reflected path angle (second angle). By obtaining the first angle estimate beforehand and using it to constrain the search space for the second angle, the system reduces the computational complexity of the overall estimation process while improving robustness against multipath effects.
2Productivity
If multipath propagation is ignored in the signal model, then computational effort is reduced, but angle estimation produces incorrect results with errors of multiple angular degrees
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by first estimating the direct path angle using a simplified model, then using this intermediate result to constrain and guide the estimation of the reflected path angle. This intermediary step allows the system to account for multipath effects without requiring full complex simultaneous optimization, thus maintaining accuracy while reducing computational burden.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the estimation process into two sequential steps rather than simultaneous estimation, the patent enables accurate multipath modeling without the full computational cost. The first angle estimate serves as a constraint that simplifies the second estimation, effectively breaking down the complex problem into manageable parts.
3Productivity
If SIMO or MISO modes are used instead of full MIMO mode, then computational effort is reduced, but angle estimation capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adapts the estimation approach by first using simplified SIMO/MISO-like one-dimensional models to obtain initial angle estimates, then transitioning to a constrained two-dimensional optimization that incorporates MIMO information. This dynamic approach allows the system to achieve MIMO-level accuracy without requiring full MIMO computational complexity throughout the entire estimation process.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for angle estimation using transmitted signals and signals received after reflection of a radar sensor. The radar sensor includes a multiple input multiple output (MIMO)-capable antenna array having a plurality of transmission antennas and a plurality of reception antennas. A MIMO dual-target cross-path model is used for the angle estimation of a locating angle of a radar target, which also models reflections of transmitted and/or received signals on a reflective surface. A first angle of two transmission and reception angles of the cross-path model is estimated using a one-dimensional angle estimation model and the estimated first angle is used for the angle estimation of the second angle of the two transmission and reception angles using the cross-path model.