By Kalwinder KaurSep 17 2012
A major concern in fabrication technology is the accurate determination of distances. Glass scales, laser measurement systems, or inductive sensors are now increasingly being deployed for distance measurements.
The radar system in the measurement chamber: The hardware was developed by RUB, algorithmics by KIT.
The high precision glass scales, which achieve micrometer precision, are not versatile and affordable. Moreover, inductive sensors can measure distances in a non-contact manner but do not have proper measurement repetition rate. Also, with precise measurement efficiency, lasers are limited for use in complex weather environments. In contrast, radar signals are capable of penetrating dust and fog and can be adopted for air monitoring or distance measurement in vehicles.
Led by Prof. Thomas Zwick and of the Chair for Integrated Systems of Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) under Prof. Nils Pohl, the researchers at the Institut für Hochfrequenztechnik und Elektronik (IHE) of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have created and implemented a radar system for distance measurements. It is unique for its unprecedented precision. Following a joint test in 2012 July, the Karlsruhe and Bochum researchers were able to achieve a new record precision for radar distance measurements of 1µm.
The scientists employed a frequency-modulated continuous wave radar (FMCW radar) for measurements. The radar’s emitter is used consistently during measurement. The hardware was developed by RUB researchers, while the algorithmics were fabricated by KIT scientists. With special measurement setup, the radar system can measure distances of extended meters in free space with micrometer precision. This system is more affordable and capable of measuring more absolute positions than laser systems. This radar outperforms laser due to its quasi unlimited range of exception.
The radar system is being optimized in several research projects and its precision will be enhanced further. Potential application target includes affordable, precise and versatile measurements in production and plant technology.
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