Stabilizing motion in a radar detection system using ultrasonic radar range information

Abstract

One preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a system and method for suppressing motion artifacts introduced by movement of a radar detection system. Briefly described, in architecture, one embodiment of the system, among others, can be implemented as follows. The system includes a Doppler radar module configured to transmit a microwave signal directed towards an object and receive the reflected microwave signals from the object and a living subject positioned behind the object. Also, the system includes a reference module configured to transmit a reference signal towards the object and receive the reflected reference signal from the object. By comparing the two reflected signals from the Doppler radar module and the reference device, a signal processor suppresses motion artifacts generated by movement of the Doppler radar module to identify the presence of the living subject behind the object. Other systems and methods are also provided.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention is generally related to microwave radar systems and, more particularly, is related to systems and methods for detecting vital signs, through a non-conducting intervening wall with a microwave radar system. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] One recent use of homodyne radar system involves the detection of minute body movements which are associated with human respiratory activity. This approach is based on the principle that breathing produces measurable phase changes in electromagnetic waves as they reflect off of the skin surface of the moving thorax of a living person. When the skin surface is moving, as does the surface of the chest in conjunction with respiratory and cardiac activities, corresponding variations will be observed in the difference of the phase between the received and transmitted signal. The observed variations can be used to determine motion-related target parameters such as displacement and velocity. [0003] Given the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides systems and methods for detecting a person's breathing while filtering out other movements. This is accomplished by using a Doppler radar module and a reference module to compare the reflected signals from the person and a wall or other non-conducting object. The invention can be used to detect the presence of a person behind a wall or other obstacle. Additionally, the invention includes a method for suppressing motion artifacts caused by the movement of the radar detection device.

Problems solved by technology

Thus, when hand motion is present, the homodyne radar cannot effectively determine if the detected movement signature is from the subject or from the stationary wall.

Thus, a heretofore unaddressed need exists in the industry to address the aforementioned deficiencies and inadequacies.

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