A shadow feature signal processing algorithm for radar systems

The authors describe an adaptive CFAR window signal processing algorithm for optimal detection using shadow feature. A good detection can be achieved by using a shadow feature algorithm in conjunction with an adaptive threshold and a correct CFAR window size. However, it is difficult to determine the correct CFAR size in practice. The authors describe an adaptive algorithm for identifying CFAR sizes of possible targets; then a signal processing algorithm for the determination of the correct CFAR window for optimal detection. Computer simulation was run under different environments to study the effectiveness of the signal processing algorithm. Results show that the false-alarm-rate can be reduced significantly when compared with that of the simple threshold technique if the signal processing algorithm with adaptive CFAR windowing as described in this paper is applied.<>