Method and Apparatus for High-Resolution Imaging of Test Objects

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

This patent describes a method and apparatus for high-resolution imaging of objects, particularly for security screening, using electromagnetic waves such as millimeter waves combined with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology. The core innovation is moving the phase centers of the transmitting and receiving antennas in a circular path while also shifting them linearly, enabling large areas to be imaged quickly and with high clarity. The invention is especially useful for detecting concealed objects on people, like at airport security checkpoints.

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

• Security screening of people at airports to detect concealed objects such as weapons or explosives
• Non-destructive testing (NDT) of industrial materials or structures to identify internal defects without damaging the item
• Baggage or parcel inspection in secure environments (e.g., customs, transportation hubs)
• Quality control in manufacturing processes requiring detailed inspection of products
• Forensics and law enforcement to image hidden contraband or evidence in packages or on individuals

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables fast imaging of large areas with high resolution, increasing throughput in security or inspection settings
• Detects both metallic and non-metallic hidden objects due to the use of millimeter waves
• Reduces the need for physically moving heavy optical elements, making the system more efficient and reliable
• Digitally focuses and reconstructs images, allowing flexible and accurate inspection of different object geometries
• Improves detection reliability and safety for screening personnel and the public
• Can apply to a wide frequency range, enhancing versatility for different applications

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Patent Abstract

In order to image test objects by means of electromagnetic waves, in particular millimetric waves, the test object is illuminated with the electromagnetic waves, the scattered waves are received, and are evaluated for a representation of the test object in the form of an image based on the principle of "synthetic aperture radar" (SAR). In order to allow as large an area as possible to be imaged with high resolution in a short time, the phase centres of the transmitting and receiving antennas are, according to the invention, moved on a circular path 4 parallel to the respective digital focus planes 2 of the imaging system, and are at the same time shifted linearly in a further direction 3 parallel to the respective focus plane 2. The method is preferably used for monitoring people for suspicious objects, for example for monitoring airline passengers at an airport.