Imaging Polarimetry

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This invention presents a method and system for imaging polarimetry using a chipless, passive transponder that contains multiple surface regions with different polarimetric properties. By illuminating the transponder with fully polarimetric radar waves and analyzing the reflected waves, the unique polarimetric characteristics of each region are captured in polarization-encoded images. This enables reliable identification and differentiation of each region based on their polarimetric properties, allowing data to be stored and read without using chips or active components.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• High-temperature asset tracking and identification (e.g., in ovens, turbines, steelworks) where traditional electronic tags would fail.
• Barcode replacement for improved robustness against dirt, weather, or harsh environments.
• Passive sensor tags for remote measurement of environmental parameters (such as temperature, pressure, or humidity).
• Inventory, logistics, and supply chain tracking without the need for power sources or chips.
• Object localization or tracking in manufacturing and industrial environments.
• Secure identification or authentication applications where tamper-proof, chipless solutions are desired.
• Condition monitoring in aerospace or automotive components that undergo extreme temperatures or vibrations.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• No semiconductor chips or batteries required, enabling true passive operation and eliminating limitations related to power supply or chip reliability.
• Works effectively in extreme environments, including high temperatures, where standard electronic systems would fail.
• Lower cost and manufacturing complexity compared to chip-based RFID systems.
• High data capacity due to the ability to assign multiple informational states to each surface region via polarimetry.
• Minimal sensitivity to legal bandwidth restrictions, thereby overcoming data rate limitations of conventional chipless RFID.
• Enhanced flexibility in material and structural design, allowing robust and customized transponder manufacturing.
• Potential to integrate sensor functions (such as temperature measurement) directly into the tag, enabling dual-functionality as both an identifier and a sensor.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method which serves for imaging polarimetry, wherein a chipless, passive transponder (1) which has a plurality of surface regions (T1-T9) having different polarimetric properties is illuminated fully polarimetrically by radar radiation (R), at least one polarization-encoded image (B1-B3) of the transponder (1) is generated using the radar radiation (R) reflected thereby, and the different surface regions (T1-T9) of the transponder (1) in the polarization-encoded image (B1-B3) can be recognized by their at least one polarimetric property. A passive, chipless transponder (1) has at least two surface regions (T1-T9) having different polarimetric structures (2, α).