Course program
The basic concepts related to the operation of a radar system are briefly summarized with particular reference to the functions of target detection, disturbance cancellation, target localization and motion estimation, image formation.
Computer exercises are proposed, using the MatLab software, aimed at the implementation of proper processing techniques that realize the above mentioned radar functions in the framework of specific radar systems considered as illustrative examples.
Particular attention is devoted to the practical applicability of the considered techniques, there including their potential exploitation in real-time operation. The performance of these techniques are assessed when applied against real data sets (when available) acquired by means of dedicated system (students could participate in the corresponding acquisition campaigns).
In particular, with reference to a passive radar system (Part 1 of the course - 30 hours):
- the operating principle of the system is introduced and application examples are illustrated (5 hours)
- the main stages of the processing chain are analyzed and the related processing techniques are implemented on the computer (10 hours);
- experimental measurement campaigns aimed at the practical demonstration of the considered systems are planned and carried out (10 hours);
- the experimental data are processed using the processing techniques implemented in order to verify their effectiveness in real scenarios (5 hours).
With reference to an imaging radar system (Part 2 - 30 hours):
- The basic principles enabling the formation of ISAR (Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar) images of moving man-made targets are introduced and processing techniques are implemented to focus the radar images in the case of known target motion (10 hours);
- Target motion estimation techniques are implemented: particularly both translation and rotation (when possible) are considered for motion compensation and image scaling respectively (10 hours);
- Processing techniques are implemented for the selection of suitable imaging time instants and corresponding CPIs (Coherent Processing Interval) for the achievement of high quality images (10 hours).
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of radar techniques and systems, detection and estimation theory, digital signal processing.
Books
Viewgraphs of the course available at:
https://sites.google.com/uniroma1.it/fabiolacolone/rrs_lab?authuser=0
Teaching mode
The teaching method for the academic year 2021/2022 (traditional / remote / blended) will depend on the provisions in force following the covid-19 emergency.
The teaching activities includes lectures and exercises sessions .
The exercises sessions focus on the software implementation (in MatLab environment) of processing techniques that realize the basic functions of the radar systems considered.
Seminars held by professionals and / or guided visits to leading companies in the sector are also planned.
Frequency
Attendance is not mandatory but strongly recommended.
Exam mode
The final exam includes practical design activities to be carried on by the student at home (homeworks). The results of these activities are evaluated in the framework of an oral exam, during which the student illustrates the outputs of his/her homework.
Specifically, the activities include the processing and analysis of radar data collected by means of systems as those described during the lectures. Such activities are conducted by the students based on the MatLab programming tools.
In particular, 2 homeworks will be assigned which address the two areas covered in the course.
The outcomes of the two homeworks (and their presnetation) equally concur to the final evaluation of the student.
The dates of the exam sessions for the current academic year can be found in the record of the main co-lecturer.
Bibliography
- P. Lombardo, F. Colone, “Advanced processing methods for passive bistatic radar systems”, chapter in the book edited by W. L. Melvin and J. A. Scheer, “Principles of Modern Radar: Advanced Radar Techniques”, SciTech Publishing, Inc., 2012, pp. 739-821.
- Donald R. Wehner, "High resolution radar", Second Edition, Boston, MA, Artech House, 1995, Ch. 7 "Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar"
Lesson mode
The teaching activities includes lectures and exercises sessions .
The exercises sessions focus on the software implementation (in MatLab environment) of processing techniques that realize the basic functions of the radar systems considered.
Field experiments can be carried out through dedicated measurement campaigns and tests.
Seminars held by professionals and / or guided visits to leading companies in the sector are also planned.
