The Microwave Technology Working Group is engaged in applied research and development in the fields of communications technology, sensor technology, and radar.
The main areas of application are
In the field of security technology, we deal with the detection and location of mobile devices and the suppression of unwanted communication. Furthermore, we investigate location methods based on ultra-wideband (UWB) signals, which can be used, for example, for the precise localization of objects when GPS or similar systems are not available.
In the radar systems segment, our focus is on ground radar systems for applications such as the detection of pipes in the ground, but also in agricultural applications and archaeology. We investigate various radar system concepts (pulse radar, FMCW, PN) for their properties with regard to object detection and classification in conjunction with signal processing and signal analysis.
In communications technology, one focus is on future communications systems that operate at very high frequencies in the millimeter wave range and above (“THz communications technology”). In the frequency range around 60 GHz, we develop beamforming antennas for beam steering and high-frequency front ends, and we work on MIMO systems. At higher frequencies, we primarily investigate antennas and system concepts. We also deal with software-defined radio.
In microwave process technology, we deal with energy-efficient heating, e.g., for industrial melting processes. We also work on the generation of spatially extended or spatially controllable plasmas.
All these activities are based on extensive expertise in the field of microwave circuit technology and antenna development, also with the help of industrial design tools. In addition to research into fundamental issues, we also engage in highly applied research and development in the first two areas, including the development and construction of near-series prototypes, electronics development, and the creation of associated firmware/software.
In addition to measurement technology (e.g., network and spectrum analyzers up to a frequency range of 170 and 320 GHz, respectively), our equipment also includes prototype manufacturing (UV prototype lasers, prototype milling machines, reflow, rework workstations, microplacement, and wire/ribbon bonders) and an antenna measurement room (approx. 25 m²).