Automotive Satellite Radar Sensor System based on an LTCC Miniature Frontend

An automotive radar sensor for cocoon functions or automated parking requires very small dimensions to access new mounting positions like B-pillar and side skirts. To minimize the dimensions of radar sensors, new concepts are necessary. A new system approach for radar sensors is presented. The new radar sensor system is divided in two major units. The sensor unit consists of a small serializer board and Low Temperature Cofired Ceramic (LTCC) miniature frontend. The external radar Electrical Control Unit (ECU) provides the signal processing performance and the power supply for the sensor unit. For the automotive radar band (76-81 GHz), RX- and TX antennas have been simulated, manufactured and the radiation pattern has been measured and a full prototype has been built.