2D mono detection spatially super-resolved microwave imaging for radar applications

Area of Science:

• Microwave Photonics
• Radar Imaging
• Electromagnetics

Background:

• Traditional radar imaging often relies on synthetic aperture radar (SAR) which requires physical movement to enhance resolution.
• Achieving high-resolution imaging with limited hardware, such as a single detector, presents a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel two-dimensional (2D) microwave photonic approach for super-resolved radar imaging.
• To demonstrate a method that enhances image resolution without requiring antenna movement or multiple detectors.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing phased array antennas with four radiating horn antennas to generate a projected plane.
• Scanning a structured electromagnetic beam over the object by adjusting antenna input phases.
• Reconstructing high-resolution images by summing azimuth cuts of object reflections at various frequencies.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated a super-resolved radar imaging technique using a single detector.
• Achieved significant resolution enhancement without synthetic aperture radar's movement requirement.
• Validated the approach through CST simulations, experiments, and MATLAB simulations.

Conclusions:

• The proposed microwave photonic approach enables super-resolved radar imaging with enhanced resolution.
• The method is effective even with a compact antenna system and a single detector.
• This technique offers a promising alternative for high-resolution radar imaging applications.