A target imaging & detection system comprising a RADAR unit

Patent Number: US 10205457

ABSTRACT

A target detection and imaging system, comprising a RADAR unit and at least one ultra-low phase-noise frequency synthesizer, is provided.

RADAR unit configured for detecting the presence and characteristics of one or more objects in various directions.

The RADAR unit may include a transmitter for transmitting at least one radio signal and a receiver for receiving at least one radio signal returned from one or more objects. The ultra-low phase-noise frequency synthesizer may utilize a dual loop design comprising one main PLL and one sampling PLL. The main PLL might include a DDS or Fractional-N PLL plus a variable divider. The synthesizer may utilize a sampling PLL only to reduce phase noise from the returned radio signal. This system helps detect and classify human beings on the road clearly and in time to provide timely corrective input to the autonomous vehicle.

Provide disciplinary information to the autonomous vehicle timely

FIELD

Embodiments of the present disclosure are generally related to sensors for autonomous vehicles.

(for example, Self-Driving Cars) and in particular to systems that use ultra-low phase-noise frequency synthesizers for RADAR Sensor Applications for autonomous vehicles.

BACKGROUND

Autonomous vehicles are paving the way for a new mode of transportation. Autonomous cars require minimum or no intervention from the vehicle's driver.

Generally, some autonomous vehicles need only an initial input from the driver, whereas some other designs of autonomous cars are continuously under the driver's control. Some autonomous vehicles can be remotely controlled. For example, automatic parking in cars is an example of an autonomous vehicle in operation. Autonomous vehicles face a dynamic environment that keeps changing every time. Autonomous cars need to track lane markings, road edges, track road curves, and varying surfaces, including flat surfaces, winding roads, hilly roads, etc. Alongside, autonomous vehicles also need to check on stationary or mobile objects like trees, humans, or animals. Hence, autonomous cars must capture vast information that keeps changing every time.

An Inventor: Dr. Tal Lavian

Dr. Tal Lavian is a named inventor on this patent, which covers innovations in telecommunications and network communications technology.