Circular Detector Arrangement for Millimeter-Wave Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional millimeter-wave cameras face challenges such as large detector size requirements, sub-optimal sampling density, and loss of information due to linear detector arrangements, which affect image quality and efficiency in scanning concealed objects.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus with a circular detector arrangement featuring a mix of detector sizes, where larger detectors are placed towards the inner periphery and smaller detectors towards the outer periphery, allowing for uniform image quality and maintaining detector position while the mirror arrangement rotates to scan objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a linear arrangement of detectors is used, then the detector area is reduced, but the sampling density in the middle portion of the field of view becomes sub-optimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a circular arrangement of detectors instead of a linear arrangement. The detectors are positioned along a circular path with the origin at the center of the field of view, which ensures uniform sampling density across the entire field of view including the middle portion, while maintaining a compact detector area.
2Area of stationary object
If the detector arrangement is made compact, then the space requirement is reduced, but the image resolution may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional linear arrangement to a two-dimensional circular arrangement of detectors. This dimensional change allows the detectors to be distributed uniformly around the circular path, achieving both compact area and high image resolution through optimal spatial distribution.
3Measurement precision
If a circular detector arrangement is used, then uniform sampling density is achieved, but the complexity of the detector arrangement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by assigning different detector sizes based on their position in the circular arrangement. Larger detectors are placed at certain angular positions while smaller detectors are placed at other positions, optimizing the detection capability at each location while maintaining overall uniform sampling density.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a scanning system capable of generating images of uniform quality without moving the detector arrangement, enhancing detection efficiency and reducing material and operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a mirror arrangement including a scanning mirror and an actuator, for directing electromagnetic radiations emitting from an object to be scanned
Implementation Method 2
a detector arrangement arranged to remain in a fixed position and comprising a plurality of detectors capable of detecting submillimeter/millimeter-range electromagnetic radiation
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Disclosed is an imaging apparatus. The imaging apparatus comprises a mirror arrangement, optics, and a detector arrangement comprising a plurality of detectors. The plurality of detectors is arranged within a region defined by an outer periphery and an inner periphery of the detector arrangement. The outer and inner peripheries are substantially circular in shape.