OFDM-based Dual Function Communications-Radar Utilizing the 4D Modified Matrix Pencil Method

Increased competition between wireless communications and radar systems motivates the use of dual-function communications-radar (DFRC) devices, which perform both functions simultaneously. Orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) waveforms that echo from targets can be compared with the transmitted waveform to isolate phase-shifts related to targets’ ranges, velocities, azimuth angles and elevation angles. Extending the modified matrix enhancement matrix pencil method (MMEMP) to four dimensions (4D), this paper estimates the target parameters, comparing estimates to the Cramér-Rao lower bound (CRLB). A Fifth Generation New Radio-compliant (5G NR) system is simulated, demonstrating superior precision to Fourier- and MUSIC-based parameter estimation.