LTCC Short Range Radar Sensor for Automotive Applications at 24 GHz

This paper presents the concept, design and measurement results of an FMCW radar module with an integrated planar antenna array, realised in LTCC (Low Temperature Cofired Ceramics) technology, for automotive applications operating at 24 GHz. A car manufacturer has specified the requirements for antenna and microwave module. The resulting design concept is discussed and subsequently, simulation and measurement results are presented to verify the feasibility of the concept. The high degree of integration enabled by LTCC leads to a very compact sensor module. Considerate material selection and hybrid integration of discrete semiconductor devices lead to very competitive production costs. The well-established screen-printing process used in LTCC is a further benefit in the mass production of this rugged design.