Radar Technologies: Applications and Challenges in Robotics

This lecture covers the advancements in radar technologies and their applications in robotics and communications. It begins with an overview of radar systems, focusing on the detection capabilities such as range and direction. The discussion includes Ultra Wide Band (UWB) and Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar techniques, explaining how they transmit narrow pulses and utilize frequency changes for measurement. The instructor elaborates on the use of antenna arrays for measuring the angle of arrival (AOA) and the challenges faced in mmWave imaging, including low resolution and specularity issues. The lecture also highlights the state of the art in millimeter wave imaging, emphasizing its limitations and potential applications in various fields. Furthermore, it presents project ideas related to radar technologies, such as around-the-corner tracking and vital signs sensing. The lecture concludes with a discussion on the growing demand for wireless communications and the role of radar in the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem.