Methods for Determining the Angular Resolution of Automotive Radar Systems Using a Radar Target Simulator

This work presents three methods for the angular resolution testing of radar systems in a compact test range (CTR) compatible with commercially available radar target generators. It is shown how two targets with a defi ned angular off set can be generated in a single CTR. All three methods are analyzed theoretically, through simulations, and via measurements, with a focus on the challenges and inaccuracies of each setup. The first setup, which uses two antennas off set from the focal point of the CTR, yields good results with reasonable eff ort. The second configuration, based on the Fresnel biprism, is infl exible and exhibits signifi cant inaccuracies. In the third configuration, based on the Fresnel mirror experiment, the refl ector is split and tilted inward. This configuration delivers the most accurate results down to an angular resolution test capability of approximately 1°.