Real-Time Implementation of an FMCW Backprojection Algorithm for 1D and 2D Apertures

This paper addresses the real-time implementation of an image reconstruction algorithm applicable to synthetic aperture radar systems. We utilize a simple backprojection method to calculate an image from the signals, measured with a frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) radar. For this reason, the contribution from the instantaneous measurement to every pixel in the image domain is evaluated immediately after the data set is available. As the backprojection algorithm requires an interpolation scheme, the nearest-neighbor interpolation method is investigated regarding the achievable accuracy. Finally, we describe the algorithm’s implementation in a field programmable gate array and verify the realized design with simulated and measured FMCW radar signals.