Examples of Technology Application ~Product Introduction~ Murata's Technology and mmWave Radar Sensor Modules

Murata’s mmWave radar sensor modules are compact modules that utilize millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies to detect objects with high precision. By integrating the necessary components and antenna into single packages, they achieve both high-density integration and ease of use.

High-precision detection is realized through optimized antenna design and proprietary signal processing software. The antenna is designed to balance miniaturization with detection performance, while the software algorithms accurately detect the distance, speed, and angle of objects.

Murata's mmWave Radar Sensor Modules leverage advanced high-frequency technology cultivated through years of product development. They integrate essential functions into a single module through hardware design expertise, combined with software technology that processes signals to maximize performance.

• Hardware Design Tailored to Applications and Environments: The integrated antenna is optimally designed for specific applications and purposes, achieving characteristics such as a wide detection area, narrow beam formation, high gain, and long-range propagation.
• Advanced Signal Processing Software: It implements filtering functions that eliminate signals from noise and stationary objects, extracting and digitizing only the reflected signals from the target detection objects.
  It also incorporates beamforming capabilities to appropriately radiate radio waves from the antenna and tracking functions to accurately follow moving detection targets.
• Compact Design via High-Density Packaging: We provide a single solution by densely packaging essential components—including the sensing chipset, power circuit, memory, and radar antenna—into a compact form.

The combination of these technologies enables a millimeter-wave radar module with high precision and reliability, delivering stable performance across diverse applications and environments.

Murata anticipates that radar technology will become indispensable for future in-vehicle and exterior detection, and has been advancing research and development on radar across various frequency bands, including the millimeter wave band, for many years. In recent years, as automotive safety testing has become increasingly stringent due to regulations, millimeter-wave radar is also being utilized in systems that enhance safety inside and outside the vehicle. Furthermore, the market for millimeter-wave radar in consumer applications, such as security and monitoring, is steadily growing and maturing, and its areas of application are expected to expand further.

Market needs include not only the diversification of detection targets but also the demand for higher performance that enables more accurate detection of position and movement. To meet these demands, we have developed technology enabling long-range detection of nearly 100 meters for position detection. This was achieved by optimizing the array antenna configuration to enhance directivity and extend beam reach, while simultaneously enabling wide-angle radio wave propagation through beamforming. As a result, the detection area has evolved to cover a broader range than before.

Furthermore, utilizing the millimeter wave band enables the detection and identification of subtle movements that are difficult for sensors operating in other frequency bands. Specifically, by combining an algorithm capable of extracting subject characteristics even in complex environments with a directional antenna design optimized for vehicle interiors, we have improved the performance of detecting people's positions inside vehicles, differentiating it from sensors operating in other frequency bands.

Murata's mmWave Radar Sensor Modules utilize high-frequency technology to accurately detect position and motion, enabling diverse applications and uses including:

Automotive sector (wide-angle detection inside/outside vehicles, high-precision detection)

• Child presence detection systems
• Occupant monitoring systems
• Parking assist systems

Smart Home & Security (Wide-area, long-range detection, human motion detection)

• Security systems
• Smart appliances

Building systems (Occupancy detection and tracking)

• Elevator passenger flow management systems
• Meeting room occupancy detection systems

Healthcare (Vital sign detection)

• Monitoring and life-logging systems
• Health management systems

Diverse applications and uses