Noncontact Measurement of Sea Wave Dynamics and Velocity Estimation with a Low-Cost FMCW Radar Sensor

Effective Sea state monitoring in coastal zones is crucial for coastal safety and environmental management. This research introduces a methodology leveraging a low-cost Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar system to extract comprehensive wave parameter information. By analyzing the received radar signals through 2D FFT range-Doppler mapping, we obtain detailed insights into wave dynamics. The methodology also involves evaluating the normalized power spectrum in the frequency domain and analyzing time-domain IQ signals to accurately characterize sea wave properties. Experimental assessments conducted in coastal areas validate this approach, demonstrating the radar’s capability to provide reliable measurements of wave velocities and characteristics. These radar measurements are used to initialize models that estimate sea state parameters under various conditions. The results indicate that this low-cost FMCW radar system offers a practical and effective solution for real-time sea wave monitoring, comparable to more expensive commercial systems.