Contactless sensing

Research question

Which motion features can be measured consistently using fixed FMCW radar in different rooms?

Proposed method

Characterise range and radial velocity with controlled targets before attempting activity classification. Test clutter removal, placement sensitivity and multi-person interference separately.

Limitations

Radial velocity depends on movement direction. Occlusion, multipath and limited angular resolution can alter features. A radar return does not directly identify intent or health status.

From a reflection to an observation

A radar measures reflected radio signals. A processing pipeline may estimate distance, movement towards or away from the sensor, and direction where the antenna configuration supports it. These quantities describe aspects of motion; they do not directly measure a person's health, intention or need for care.

Questions about the environment

The proposed evaluation would vary sensor height, orientation, distance and room arrangement. Furniture and reflective surfaces would be documented so that a change in the environment is not confused with a change in movement. Multiple occupants and movement outside the intended sensing area require explicit tests.

Proposed experimental outputs

• A placement and calibration record for each recording session.
• An account of usable observation time and excluded segments.
• Comparisons of candidate features across directions and distances.
• A catalogue of interference, occlusion and ambiguous observations.

What would count as progress?

Repeatable measurements under specified conditions would support further investigation. Reliable operation in one controlled room would not establish performance in homes, generalisation to other participants or readiness for clinical use. Each of those questions needs its own evaluation.