Author(s): Ahmed Amin
Mentor(s): Rajagopalan Thiruvengadathan
Institution SUU
This research introduces a comprehensive active radar system developed specifically for precise and efficient drone detection, addressing the growing need for real-time monitoring of aerial activity in sensitive areas. Designed with affordability and scalability in mind, the system uses Frequency-Modulated Continuous-Wave (FMCW) radar technology, which enables high-precision measurement of distance and velocity, ensuring accurate tracking of small, fast-moving drones across a variety of operational scenarios. Key objectives include creating a detection solution that is cost-effective, user-friendly, and suitable for locations with budget constraints, such as tourist destinations or remote sites that require enhanced surveillance capabilities. The system’s architecture incorporates several critical design components, including optimized antenna options to support reliable detection and enhance performance. Two antenna configurations were evaluated: horn antennas, favored for their simplicity and ease of in-lab fabrication, and phased array antennas, which enable advanced electronic beam steering and real-time multi-target tracking capabilities. These antenna options, combined with sophisticated signal processing algorithms, allow the system to improve target recognition accuracy and reduce environmental noise interference. The embedded system’s user interface is intuitive, facilitating seamless interaction and providing operators with real-time data visualization for monitoring and control. With extensive testing and optimization, the radar system achieves reliable performance within a specified operational range, meeting high standards for accuracy and robustness. A use case example, such as monitoring drone activity in places like the Grand Canyon, illustrates the system’s potential to deliver secure, accessible, and efficient monitoring for areas where traditional solutions may be cost-prohibitive. By offering an affordable alternative to high-end commercial radar systems, this research advances radar-based surveillance technology. The system establishes a new benchmark for accessible, low-cost, and effective drone detection solutions that enhance public safety and privacy while meeting the complex challenges of modern security needs.