Automotive radar at 80-90 GHz

The author discusses a technology for low-cost mass production of automotive radar sensors and two systems applications for such sensors. The systems applications are an intelligent cruise control (ICC), which uses a relatively simple forward-looking sensor, and the other is a more sophisticated obstacle warning radar (OWR). The technologies at 80 GHz and 90 GHz are very similar to DRIVE and PROMETHEUS automotive radar applications in Europe. Many preliminary experiments have been done at around 90 GHz. An ICC system uses a sensor with a staring antenna to measure the distance and closing velocity between a car and the vehicle in front, and uses this information to control the car´s throttle and brakes to keep a safe headway between the two vehicles. An OWR would give the driver warning of any possible hazards ahead of the car. A similar sensor to that used in the ICC would be used, but with a scanning antenna to view the area in front of the car.<>