Heterogeneous integration of a miniaturized W-band radar module

For radar applications, the W-band frequency range (75 – 110 GHz) is a good candidate for high-resolution distance measurement and remote detection of small or hidden objects in distances of 10 cm to ≫ 20 m. As electromagnetic waves in this frequency range can easily penetrate rough atmosphere like fog, smoke or dust, W-band radars are perfectly suited for automotive, aviation, industrial and security applications. Additional benefit is that atmosphere has an absorption minimum at 94 GHz, so relative small output power is sufficient to achieve long range coverage. By combining and enhancing knowledge from the disciplines of heterogeneous integration technology and compound semiconductor-technology, the Fraunhofer Institutes IAF, IPA and IZM developed a miniaturized and low cost 94 GHz radar module. Result of this approach is a highly miniaturized radar module built using a modular approach. The radar components are mounted on a dedicated RF-NF-hybrid PCB while the signal processing is done on a separate b...