Detectability Estimation of Dropped Objects by Millimeter Wave Radar

More and more dropped objects from heights often cause serious harm to human body. In this paper, the detectability of the dropped objects by millimeter wave (MMW) radar is explored. With the analysis of radar's detection range and required RCS, an estimation is made that an object with a peak RCS above -20 dBsm can be detected within a 33-meter range with a low power and low-cost commercial radar. Field experiments are then executed at different heights. The positions and speeds trajectory of a target in Range-Doppler maps validates this detect ability of MMW radar. The RCS of the experimental target are extracted, indicating the potential of MMW radar to detect dropped objects.