Active Rotman Lens Retro-Reflector
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Abstract
A major challenge for automotive radar sensors is establishing a secure connection in inclement weather conditions. This study presents further progress in developing an active-loaded Rotman lens retro-reflector that is designed to alleviate this problem by enhancing the radar cross section (RCS). In this novel structure, a Rotman lens is outfitted with low-power reflection amplifiers to enable overall system gain amplification and modulation. The lens antenna has been equipped with an array of printed Yagi antennas, and its monostatic RCS pattern has been measured. The lens antenna exhibits a nearly uniform RCS pattern between ±35 degrees at 5.15 GHz in both active and passive modes. The active lens structure demonstrates a 7.5 dB increase in RCS while loaded with amplifiers with 8 dB gain. With its high gain, broad angular coverage, and low power consumption, this structure is ideal for low-power RCS enhancement applications, such as mm-wave automotive radar sensors.