Abstract

A mathematical model for a multiple-input multiple-output radar system is presented. The model is used to track signals through the system in order to identify the impact of antenna array mutual coupling on radar system performance. Simulations using the model provide quantitative assessment of the performance degradation as a function of antenna coupling strength. Specifically, the results show that coupling can cause a target to appear at an angle notably different than its actual angle and can cause an increase in the side lobe level. A compensation technique is presented that completely removes these effects for practical levels of coupling. However, it is highly sensitive to inaccurate measurements of the system as well as time-varying system components. The technique may degrade the system performance further in some cases. Matching network design techniques and their impact on the system performance are also examined. For some levels of coupling they provide marginal improvement but may decrease system performance for other levels.

Degree

College and Department

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology; Electrical and Computer Engineering

Rights

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