OAM-Based Multitarget Detection: From Theory to Experiment

The vortex electromagnetic (EM) wave, which carries orbital angular momentum (OAM), is exploited to multitarget detection applications. The detection model in the squint mode is derived first. The elevation and azimuth angles of the targets are estimated by the fast Fourier transform method and validated by the simulation. Subsequently, proof-of-concept experiments are performed to validate the principle of the proposed OAM-based target detection technique. The signal processing method for the real-world data obtained from the experiments is proposed to identify the positions of the targets. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed detection method and indicate that the vortex EM wave can readily be applied to detect multiple targets simultaneously. The work and results show the new applications of the vortex EM wave as well as the development of the novel radar detection technology.