3D Radar Positioning via Frequency-Domain Signal Analysis

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current radar sensors using frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) signals face challenges in accurately measuring three-dimensional (3D) position information of objects, particularly in estimating distance and elevation angles, due to limitations in signal processing and antenna arrangements, which can lead to complex and costly systems.

Innovation Solution

A method employing a radar sensor that transmits a signal with a varying carrier frequency, obtaining a beat frequency signal, and using time-frequency analysis, such as short-time Fourier transform (STFT) or wavelet transform, to estimate 3D position information, including distance, azimuth, and elevation angle, through digital beamforming and changes in the center direction of transmission signals across frequency bands.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional radar signal processing methods are used, then the system structure becomes complex and costly, but measurement precision is insufficient for accurate 3D position estimation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D position estimation accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the radar signal processing from conventional time-domain methods to frequency-domain analysis by extracting beat frequency components at multiple frequency points. This parameter transformation enables accurate 3D position estimation through spectral analysis of the beat frequency signal, achieving high measurement precision without requiring complex hardware modifications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical antenna arrangements with a simplified antenna configuration that uses signal processing substitution. Instead of requiring multiple antennas in specific geometric arrangements, the invention uses frequency-domain signal analysis to achieve the same 3D position estimation functionality, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If conventional antenna arrangements are used, then 3D position measurement can be achieved, but the system becomes costly and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistance and elevation angle estimationVSAvoidantenna arrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes complex mechanical antenna arrangements with a simplified antenna configuration combined with frequency-domain signal processing. By analyzing beat frequency components at multiple frequency points, the system achieves accurate distance and elevation angle estimation without requiring complex antenna geometries or multiple antenna elements in specific arrangements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the processing parameter from time-domain signal analysis to frequency-domain analysis. By extracting and analyzing beat frequency components at multiple frequency points, the system achieves 3D position measurement with a simple antenna arrangement, eliminating the need for complex mechanical configurations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach enables accurate and efficient 3D position measurement with reduced complexity and cost, allowing for precise estimation of object positions in both horizontal and vertical directions using a simple antenna arrangement.

Implementation Method 1

A signal of a frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) is frequently used for the radar sensor, because such a signal is easily produced and has relatively high performance in detecting vehicle information. A radar sensor using such an FMCW signal may transmit a chirp signal of which a frequency is linearly modulated, and a corresponding radar system may analyze a signal reflected from a target and estimate a distance to the target and a velocity of the target.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFrequency-Modulated Continuous-Wave (FMCW):

Implementation Method 2

A radar sensor using such an FMCW signal may transmit a chirp signal of which a frequency is linearly modulated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChirp signal:

Implementation Method 3

obtaining a beat frequency signal indicating a frequency difference between the transmission signal and the reflected signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBeat frequency: Beat (acoustics)

Data Source

PatentUS12050258B2Method and apparatus with measuring of three-dimensional position using radar sensor
Publication Date: 2024.07.30 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US12050258B2 patent drawing
  • US12050258B2 patent drawing
  • US12050258B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method with three-dimensional (3D) position measuring using a radio detection and ranging (radar) sensor includes: transmitting, through the radar sensor, a transmission signal of which a carrier frequency varies over time; obtaining, through the radar sensor, a reflected signal from the transmission signal being reflected by an object; obtaining a beat frequency signal indicating a frequency difference between the transmission signal and the reflected signal; and estimating 3D position information of the object based on groups of sample data of different frequency bands extracted from the beat frequency signal.