Foreign Object Debris (FOD) detection using mmWave FMCW radar for runway surveillance

Abstract

Foreign Object Debris (FOD) on airport runways is a serious threat to aviation safety, causing damage to aircraft during take off and landing. This report suggests a method of detecting FOD by utilizing a millimeter-wave (mmWave) Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar system for runway inspection. The method utilizes fundamental radar principles of transmission of the signal, reflection analysis, and beat frequency range estimation to detect small objects in the presence of environmental noise and clutter. Following the initial guidance of the project advisor, the system describes radar configuration, signal processing for range and angle detection, and simple noise filtering techniques.