Multi-target Doppler ambiguity identification for a PMCW automotive radar system

For the detection of weak and strong targets a high dynamic range in the range correlation processing of a phase-modulated continuous wave (PMCW) radar system is desired. However, the Doppler frequency shift can impair the received signal, resulting in a decreased peak-to-sidelobe ratio (PSR). The Doppler impact can be counteracted by utilizing the velocity information obtained in the current measurement cycle. However, this velocity information can be ambiguous. This paper presents a novel algorithm for addressing this velocity ambiguity issue in a multi-target scenario for a PMCW radar system. The main lobe power is used as a feature to resolve the velocity ambiguity, allowing for correct compensation of the phase progression in the range profile. The feasibility of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated in a simulated environment.