Optimization of the automotive millimeter-wave radar data processing using the modified MFNN neural network

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Recognition and representation of the road scene is a relevant task in the field of autonomous driving. One of the ways to improve the characteristics of the existing sensory hardware is the use of neural networks for signal processing. AIM: To conduct an experimental study of the possibilities of using the modified MFNN neural network to increase the resolution of a radar with a small number of channels, to compare it with the classical algorithm based on the fast Fourier transform (FFT), and, in addition, to compare the results with the data obtained from other types of sensors (lidars). METHODS: The algorithm of the road scene representation, in particular, the detection of pedestrians and cars, is used with a millimeter-range automotive radar and a method for determining data components in relation to the DOA problem, based on the MFNN neural network, modified for the case of representing signals taking complex values in the form of excessive basis coefficients minimizing these coefficients according to the L1 norm. The algorithm based on the fast Fourier transform (FFT) is used for comparative analysis. RESULTS: As a result of the conducted research, confirmation of the practical feasibility of the developed modifications of the MFNN method was obtained, and the advantage of using a neural network, consisting in increasing the degree of detail of objects, the accuracy of determining their shape and position using a radar with a small number of channels, was demonstrated. CONCLUSION: The obtained results can be used to develop solutions to improve the efficiency of detecting obstacles on the way of transport, automatic vehicle control, continuous environmental monitoring, and so on, which helps to improve the safety and efficiency of highly automated and autonomous systems.