Abstract: In one aspect, a method includes performing narrowband frequency domain sampling of a signal received at a sensor from a target to generate a broadband frequency response, generating a spectral signature from the broadband frequency response generated and performing an inverse Fourier Transform on the spectral signature to generate a temporal profile.

Abstract: In one aspect, a method includes generating a temporal discrete profile of a target, comparing the temporal discrete profile of the target with a database of temporal profiles of known targets and identifying the target based on the comparing. In another aspect, a sensor includes electronic hardware circuitry configured to generate a temporal discrete profile of a target, compare the temporal discrete profile of the target with a database of temporal profiles of known targets and identify the target based on the comparing. In a further aspect, an article includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium that stores computer-executable instructions. The instructions cause a machine to generate a temporal discrete profile of a target, compare the temporal discrete profile of the target with a database of temporal profiles of known targets and identify the target based on the comparing.

Abstract: A blockage detection system and method for use in a sensor such as a side object detection (SOD) sensor in an automotive radar system is described. The sensor emits signals and receives return signals (i.e. reflected signals) from a passing object. If the passing object is within a virtual detection zone, the sensor uses the information from the passing object to determine if a blockage condition exists in the sensor. The technique utilizes statistics related to the passing object to determine whether a blockage condition exists within the sensor. In one embodiment, a SOD sensor mounted in a first vehicle uses information from a second passing vehicle (e.g. radar return information) to determine whether a blockage condition exists within the SOD sensor itself.

Abstract: A blockage detection system and method for use in a sensor such as a side object detection (SOD) sensor in an automotive radar system is described. The sensor emits signals and receives return signals (i.e. reflected signals) from a passing object. If the passing object is within a virtual detection zone, the sensor uses the information from the passing object to determine if a blockage condition exists in the sensor. The technique utilizes statistics related to the passing object to determine whether a blockage condition exists within the sensor. In one embodiment, a SOD sensor mounted in a first vehicle uses information from a second passing vehicle (e.g. radar return information) to determine whether a blockage condition exists within the SOD sensor itself.