76–81 GHz LTCC antenna for an automotive miniature radar frontend. Issue 5 (13th June 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sickinger, Frank; Weissbrodt, Ernst; Vossiek, Martin
• Editors: Kallfass, Ingmar; Vossiek, Martin; A. Hein, Matthias
• Is Part Of: International journal of microwave and wireless technologies. Volume 10:Issue 5/6(2018)
• Page Start: 729
• Page End: 736
• Publication Date: 2018-06-13
• Subjects: Antenna design, -- modelling and measurements, -- radar; Wireless communication systems -- Periodicals; Microwave circuits -- Periodicals; Radio frequency -- Periodicals; 621.381305
• DOI: 10.1017/S1759078718000855
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1759-0787

Abstract

Abstract: For a fully 360° detection around a vehicle, novel automotive radar system concepts consist of up to eight radar sensors. The existing sensor-mounting areas, such as front grill or bumper corners would no longer be sufficient. Therefore, additional mounting positions such as B-pillars and side skirts have to be considered, where the radar can observe the side area of the vehicle. However, these new mounting positions usually offer significantly less space, than the established mounting areas. The solution is, to build separate miniature radar frontends that can be placed all over the vehicle and are connected to one central signal processing and power supply unit. Investigations for a miniature radar frontend have been done, based on RF360 low loss non-shrinkage low-temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) substrate. For the automotive radar band (76–81 GHz), an array antenna has been simulated, manufactured, and the radiation pattern has been measured. A first sensor with a miniature radar frontend based on an LTCC multilayer has been designed and manufactured.