Millimeter-Wave Technology for Automotive Radar Sensors in the 77 GHz Frequency Band

TLDR

The market for driver assistance systems based on millimeter‑wave radar sensor technology is growing, with future car models expected to be equipped with radar, driving high‑volume production and cost reduction. The paper surveys millimeter‑wave technology for automotive radar, outlining the state of the art. The authors present two silicon‑based fully integrated radar chips and discuss advanced packaging concepts and antenna systems. Measurement results of the fully integrated radar front ends are shown.

Abstract

The market for driver assistance systems based on millimeter-wave radar sensor technology is gaining momentum. In the near future, the full range of newly introduced car models will be equipped with radar based systems which leads to high volume production with low cost potential. This paper provides background and an overview of the state of the art of millimeter-wave technology for automotive radar applications, including two actual silicon based fully integrated radar chips. Several advanced packaging concepts and antenna systems are presented and discussed in detail. Finally measurement results of the fully integrated radar front ends are shown.