Modeling and Analysis of Short-Time Fourier Transform in MATLAB

Abstract

The presented study emphasizes the high relevance of analyzing signals of various origins and investigates the potential of the Fourier Transform in this context using the MATLAB environment. The paper demonstrates that, in a number of cases, the classical Fourier Transform is insufficient for comprehensive problem-solving, as it lacks the ability to capture local variations within the studied signal. To explore this limitation, two signals with different structures are generated using the Heaviside function, and their spectra are computed through the application of the Fourier Transform. It is highlighted that the structural differences between these signals, which are clearly observable in the time domain, are not reflected in their Fourier spectra. To address this issue, the potential of the Short-Time Fourier Transform (STFT) is examined within the MATLAB environment. By narrowing the window width, the method enables a more precise identification of local variations within the signal. The results of the investigation indicate that the STFT can serve as an effective tool for accurate analysis of the local characteristics of signals of diverse origins.