3D Millimeterwave Landing Radar
We developed a novel approach to the real-time visualization of 3D imagery obtained from a millimeter wave (MMW) scanning
radar. The MMW radar system employs a spinning antenna to generate a fan-shaped scanning pattern of the entire scene.
The beams formed this way provide all weather 3D distance measurements (range/azimuth display) of objects as they appear on the ground.
Using these image slices we create a full 3D data set the fan-pattern is tilted up and down or rotated 360 degrees with the help of a
controlled stepper motor.
To achieve optimal performance we implemented several visualization techniques to construct geometrically correct volumetric representations
and update information in these volumes in real-time as data becomes available. The resulting 3D scenes can then be viewed from any angle and subsequently processed to integrate, fuse or match them
against real-life sensor imagery or 3D model data stored in a synthetic database.
The system was tested under field conditions in many different situations including test flights on a Gulfstream Jet.
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