Design and Field Feasibility Evaluation of Distributed-Type 96 GHz FMCW Millimeter-Wave Radar Based on Radio-Over-Fiber and Optical Frequency Multiplier

Foreign object debris (FOD) on airport runways must be removed immediately. To detect small debris, we proposed and developed an optically-connected distributed-type 96 GHz millimeter-wave radar system based on radio-over-fiber (RoF) technology and an optical fiber network. The proposed distributed-type radar system offers both improved FOD detection characteristics and cost performance. This paper details the design and field feasibility evaluation of the 96 GHz frequency-modulated continuous wave radar system that uses RoF and an optical frequency multiplier. Firstly, the problem of long distance RoF transmission, which limits the practical use of the RoF networked radar system in the airport environment, is discussed. Secondly, the concept and architecture of the millimeter-wave radar system are discussed and demonstrated focusing on its use in actual airports. Then, the results of a field experiment are shown to confirm the feasibility of the radar system. Finally, the effectiveness of the high-speed signal processing and generation circuits inside the central unit is evaluated at an actual airport based on the results of non-coherent and coherent signal integration.