Handheld Target Simulator
Verification of Radar Sensor Performance
User-selectable speed and RCS values for virtual objects
enable simulation of real-world conditions
Whether in the field or in the lab, this portable device allows you to simulate close-to-real-world radar conditions, ensuring that your sensors are working at peak performance. Placing the device at a given range, azimuth and elevation angle, it simulates the speed of a moving object and hence generates a reference object for the user to verify range, speed and azimuth and elevation angle measurement performance of a radar sensor under test.
Why choose the
Handheld Target Simulator
Accurate simulation
Provides adjustable target speeds for more accurate radar sensor testing.
Versatility
Ideal for sensor alignment, end-of-line testing, engineering and in-field calibration.
Portability
Compact and rugged, perfect for both lab and outdoor use.
Ease of Use
Key features
of the Handheld Target Simulator
Flexible Operation
Whether you want to use it as a battery-powered, portable device for quick and easy testing in the field or as a USB remote controlled device in the laboratory or in production environments for more complex configurations – the Handheld Target Simulator is designed for flexibility. It adapts to your workflow, making it an indispensable tool for all your radar sensor testing needs.
Battery-Powered Mode for Field Testing
Powered by a rechargeable battery, this device is perfect for field testing. This gives you the opportunity to test radar sensors in places that were previously inaccessible to (laboratory rack based) target simulators.
Programmable Presets
Streamline your testing process with programmable presets. Customize and save specific test configurations, so you can quickly load them for future use, saving you time and effort. This feature enables the Handheld Target Simulator to easily integrate into automated test sequences.
Customizable Radar Cross Section (RCS)
Radar systems respond differently to objects depending on their size, shape, and composition. The Handheld Target Simulator allows you to adjust the Radar Cross Section (RCS) to simulate various target reflections, from small pedestrian-sized objects to large vehicles. This feature makes it a powerful tool for testing the full range of radar sensor capabilities.
Wide Speed Range
With the ability to adjust simulated object speeds from -320 km/h to +320 km/h, you can create test scenarios that mimic the wide variety of situations radar sensors encounter, from stationary targets to high-speed moving objects.
Multi-Target Scenarios
Multiple devices can be used at a time to simulate multiple targets at different ranges, speeds and angles.
Adjustable Center Frequency
The center frequency is adjustable between 76Ghz and 81GHz.
Remote API
A Python compatible library is also available to enable integration with automated test and validation solutions.
USB Remote Controlled Operation
The device can also be connected to end-of-line tests stands or other laboratory setups via USB. It can be remote controlled by Python scripts to automatically change measurement parameters. It is also charged via the USB port.
User-Friendly Interface
Adjusting parameters is easy with the intuitive display and user interface. Easily set the desired center frequency, speed and RCS. The Interface Design allows for precise adjustments, making it user-friendly for both beginners and experienced engineers.
Compact, Rugged, and Built for the Field
Designed to be durable and portable, the Handheld Target Simulator is rugged enough for in-field testing or by service technicians in automotive service bays. With its lightweight, compact build, you can easily take it to any location – whether in a workshop, lab, or out in the field. You are also able to mount it to tripods for hands-free operations.
Calibration of Doppler Frequency
The Handheld Target Simulator can be calibrated in an accredited laboratory to certify the accuracy of your speed measurements.
There are calibration signal outputs that provide direct access to the internal system clock and Doppler frequency for calibration at lower frequencies, avoiding complex measurements at radar frequencies directly in the 76GHz to 81GHz band.
Calibration Service
smartmicro optionally offers customers a NIST traceable calibration report for the Handheld Target Simulator. Recalibration can be done by smartmicro or by a certified calibration laboratory of your choice.
Impressive
Advantages
Where to use?
Applications of the Handheld Target Simulator
Field Testing and Functionality Validation
For radar sensors in real-world applications, it’s important to test their performance in the field. The Handheld Target Simulator provides an accurate and efficient way to perform these tests. Whether you’re testing for collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, blind spot sensing or any other application, this tool ensures your radar sensor is working correctly in close-to-real-world conditions.
Sensor Development and Testing
Developing new radar sensors? The Handheld Target Simulator is a perfect companion for sensor engineering and development, allowing you to test your sensors under a wide range of conditions, including varying speeds and RCS. Ensure that your sensors perform well not only in ideal conditions but also in the challenging scenarios they will face.
Sensor Alignment and Installation
When installing radar sensors on vehicles or other equipment, correct alignment is crucial for accurate performance. The Handheld Target Simulator allows you to easily align sensors by simulating an easily recognizable/visible target at a pre-defined position.
This ensures that your radar sensors are positioned correctly, improving overall sensor accuracy and performance.
Regular Sensor Inspections
Radar sensors, normally do not require regular maintenance. The Handheld Target Simulator is, however, an excellent tool for performing regular inspections, where regulations require this, to check if sensors are still functioning correctly.
What Is a Doppler Generator and Why Is It Important?
The Doppler frequency generation is an essential feature of the Handheld Target Simulator. It works by simulating the frequency shift that occurs when a radar sensor detects a moving object. This frequency shift, known as the Doppler effect, is key for radar sensors in applications such as pedestrian detection, collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, and traffic monitoring. The speed of an object can be determined via the frequency shift caused by the Doppler effect. Unlike static target simulators, which only provide reflections from stationary objects, the Doppler generator replicates the speed of moving targets, making it much more accurate for testing sensor performance.
Testing radar sensors simulating the speed of moving targets ensures that your system can properly identify and track objects in motion, a critical capability for applications like autonomous driving or passive/active safety solution for off road machines. The Doppler generator mimics how radar sensors react to dynamic changes in speed, allowing you to test a wider range of sensor responses. This can significantly improve the reliability and accuracy of the sensor in real-world situations.
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Downloads
- Handheld Target Simulator
