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Nanosecond-level time-domain coding metasurface for radar signal generation

Author

Listed:
  • Boyang Qian

    (Nanjing University of Science and Technology, School of Electronic and Optical Engineering)

  • Hanjun Zhao

    (Nanjing University of Science and Technology, School of Electronic and Optical Engineering)

  • Xiaohua Zhu

    (Nanjing University of Science and Technology, School of Electronic and Optical Engineering)

  • Peng Li

    (Nanjing University of Science and Technology, School of Electronic and Optical Engineering)

  • Hong Hong

    (Nanjing University of Science and Technology, School of Electronic and Optical Engineering)

  • Hui Chu

    (Nanjing University of Science and Technology, School of Electronic and Optical Engineering)

  • Yong-Xin Guo

    (City University of Hong Kong, Department of Electrical Engineering)

Abstract

The time-domain coding metasurface (TDCM) offers a rapid and efficient approach for manipulating frequency spectra of electromagnetic waves. To date, not only finite-order harmonics can be generated and coded discretely, frequency modulation of continuous waves has also been investigated. However, limited phase-tuning speed still constrains the modulation bandwidth and practical applications. Here, we report a TDCM capable of nanosecond-level phase tuning as fast as 20 ns within a full 360° tuning cycle. Unlike conventional varactor-based approaches, the proposed TDCM adopts a reconfigurable PIN-diode array, reducing transition time between adjacent states to only several nanoseconds. Furthermore, this approach can be extended to Ku- and even millimeter-wave bands, overcoming the frequency constraint of varactors. To validate its effectiveness, we built a C-band frequency-modulated continuous-wave radar prototype with the metasurface as the signal generator. A high-quality 10-MHz-bandwidth FMCW signal was generated, enabling accurate measurement of a flying drone’s range and speed.

Suggested Citation

  • Boyang Qian & Hanjun Zhao & Xiaohua Zhu & Peng Li & Hong Hong & Hui Chu & Yong-Xin Guo, 2025. "Nanosecond-level time-domain coding metasurface for radar signal generation," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-12, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-65657-4
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-65657-4
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