Method for Detection of a Concealed Dielectric Object

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a method for detecting concealed dielectric (non-metallic) objects, such as those hidden under clothing. It works by sending a variable-frequency microwave signal towards the target area and analyzing the reflected microwaves. By assessing the difference between the highest and second-highest signal amplitudes received from different grid points and comparing them to a threshold, the system can identify accumulations of data points indicative of hidden dielectric objects. This enables reliable detection and localization of non-metal objects, such as ceramics, plastics, or explosives, on or near the human body, even if they are concealed.

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

• Airport and border security screening to detect concealed weapons, explosives, or contraband made of non-metallic materials.
• Security checks at public venues (stadiums, government buildings, events) for hidden threats under clothing or in bags.
• Customs and logistics inspection to find illicit materials in luggage, parcels, or cargo that are not detectable by metal detectors.
• Industrial non-destructive testing to identify foreign objects embedded in non-metal materials or products.
• Medical applications for detecting hidden objects or abnormalities beneath the skin or within clothing.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables detection of non-metallic hidden objects, which are not discoverable with traditional metal detectors.
• Reduces false positives by discriminating between the human body and concealed dielectric objects based on microwave signal reflections.
• Provides spatial localization, allowing operators to see exactly where an object is concealed relative to the body or other items.
• Can handle objects of various shapes, sizes, and surface complexities, including liquids, solids, and gases.
• Non-ionizing and non-invasive approach, making it safer for routine human screening compared to x-rays.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for detecting a covered dielectric object, wherein a microwave signal that can be modified in frequency is generated at a particular bandwidth and transmitted in the direction of the covered dielectric object (11). The microwave signal reflected by the object (11) is then obtained from the three-dimensional measurement result in a lateral, two-dimensional pattern, a highest signal amplitude and a second-highest signal amplitude within a particular time period before or after the received microwave signal is identified in a plurality of pattern points of the pattern. The object (11) is detected if a accumulation of pattern points of the pattern is present, in which the difference in each case between the highest and the second highest signal amplitude of the received microwave signal is less than a defined threshold value.