A range bin in radar refers to a discrete segment or cell within a range gate that represents a specific range interval. Range bins are used to digitize the radar’s detection capabilities, allowing it to measure and process radar yields of individual spatial increments along the range axis. Each range bin typically corresponds to a small distance increment, allowing radar systems to create detailed profiles of detected targets based on their distance from the radar transmitter.
Range Doppler in radar combines information from range trigger (measurement of distance) with Doppler shift (measurement of speed). This involves analyzing the radar yields of specific range gates to determine the Doppler frequency shift induced by target movement in these ranges. This technique allows radar systems not only to detect the presence of targets at different distances, but also to evaluate their relative speeds. Range Doppler is crucial for applications such as tracking moving objects and distinguishing between different types of targets based on their velocity signatures.
Range migration in radar refers to the phenomenon where the phase shift of radar signals varies with the range of a target due to its radial velocity. This effect becomes significant when targets move at speeds comparable to the radar’s pulse repetition frequency (PRF). As a result, the apparent position of the target shifts or migrates over consecutive radar pulses, complicating accurate range measurement and target localization. Range migration algorithms are used to mitigate these effects and improve the accuracy of radar measurements, particularly in scenarios where high speeds or long ranges are involved.
A range Doppler map in radar is a graphical representation that combines range information and Doppler measurements to represent the spatial and velocity distribution characteristics of detected targets. It plots the range on one axis (range from radar) and the Doppler frequency shift on the other axis (relative speed of targets). This representation allows radar operators to view and analyze the locations, movements and speeds of targets within the radar coverage area simultaneously. Range Doppler maps are essential tools for tracking and identifying targets in complex radar environments with multiple moving objects.