WiFi-based Passive Radar Sensor in the ATOM Project: Experimental Results

In this paper, a new concept for increasing the airport security is proposed. The proposed innovative system is studied and developed in the ATOM (Airport detection and Tracking Of dangerous Materials by active and passive sensors arrays) project, funded by the European Commission. It foresees the definition of a multi-sensor approach that integrates active and passive radar sensors with currently used surveillance systems. The conceived system covers not only the access to the gate area but also the terminal area, actually monitored mainly by Closed Circuit Television (CCTV), aiming at increasing the security level in that area. The enhanced capability of detecting and tracking dangerous tools and materials without passengers collaboration is another key point of ATOM concept. This work is focused on the activities performed, within ATOM, by DIET Dept. of University of Rome “La Sapienza”, related to the development of an effective WiFi-based Passive Bistatic Radar (PBR). Specifically, the processing scheme, the prototypal receiver architecture, and dedicated tests performed in a real indoor environment are described.