Millimeter Wave Radar Target Type Recognition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional radar systems struggle to accurately identify the type of a target, such as a two-wheeler, relying on camera images for classification.

Innovation Solution

A millimeter wave radar apparatus using the FMCW method, which transmits frequency-modulated waves and processes reflected signals to calculate relative velocities of detected points, determines the type of a target by analyzing the spread of these velocities and comparing it to reference shapes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a radar apparatus alone is used to identify target type, then the system complexity is reduced and cost is lowered, but the identification accuracy is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem complexityVSAvoididentification accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the target into multiple detected points and analyzes the relative velocity spread among these points. By dividing the target detection into discrete points and examining velocity variations across them, the system can identify target type (e.g., two-wheeler vs. four-wheeler) based on the distribution pattern of velocities, achieving accurate identification using radar data alone without requiring camera images or additional sensors

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the analysis parameter from simple target presence to the spread of relative velocities among detected points. By calculating and comparing the velocity spread distribution against reference shapes, the system transforms raw radar measurements into meaningful target type classification, enabling accurate identification while maintaining system simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If camera images are used to identify two-wheelers, then identification accuracy is improved, but the system complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveidentification accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the optical measurement system (camera) with a radar-based velocity analysis system. By substituting mechanical/optical image processing with electromagnetic wave-based velocity spread analysis, the system achieves the same target type identification function using only radar apparatus, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining identification accuracy

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

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

Enables highly accurate recognition of specific targets, like two-wheelers, without the need for camera images, improving safety by providing precise information for driving support operations.

Implementation Method 1

a reflected wave that is reflected from a target object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

The position (distance and azimuth) or the relative velocity of the target is then detected on the basis of a frequency difference between transmission/reception signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDoppler Effect: Doppler Effect

Data Source

PatentEP3690484B1Radar device and target detection method
Publication Date: 2024.04.10 MITSUMI ELECTRIC CO LTD
  • EP3690484B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3690484B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3690484B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

This radar device can recognize the type of a specific target (in particular, a two-wheeled vehicle) with high precision, using only the radar device. The radar device comprises: a transmission unit that transmits a transmission wave, based on a transmission signal, toward the target; a receiving unit that receives a reflected wave generated by the transmission wave being reflected by the target, and thereby generates a reception signal; and a target detection unit that acquires information on the target on the basis of the transmission signal and the reception signal. The target detection unit calculates the relative speeds of a plurality of detection points within the same target, and determines the type of the target on the basis of the spread of the relative speeds.