Enabling Technologies for Joint Communication and Sensing in Aviation

This work investigates different approaches to signal processing using compressive sensing to optimize the performance of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar systems. Additionally, electronic beamsteering is employed as a complementary technology to MIMO antenna arrays, with the objective of enhancing detection accuracy within the angular range. Finally, unconventional antenna array designs, including distributed arrays, are being investigated for their potential in optimizing evaluation using compressive sensing. This is illustrated by the analysis of measurement data from a special radar system with a high degree of randomness in the placement of its antenna element. Furthermore, the emerging field of urban air mobility as a potential application area for JCAS systems is examined. A conceptual basis for such a system is provided. Subsequently, the common waveform for this kind of system discrete Fourier transform (DFT)-spread orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM), is analyzed. A critical focus of this analysis lies on the influence of non-linearities introduced by the power amplifier at the transmitter. The analysis demonstrates that, under specific conditions, DFT-spread OFDM is more suitable for implementation in a JCAS system compared to conventional OFDM. Furthermore, a model for enabling the simultaneous development of flight platforms and required wireless systems installed on them is presented, which can be used to optimize the performance of these systems. Finally, the considerations for the JCAS system are analyzed in an application example employing remotely-piloted aircraft systems.