Handheld Submillimeter Radar Single-Chip Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current security measures for detecting impermissible objects, such as weapons, in public venues are often invasive, expensive, bulky, slow, and prone to error, posing risks to both individuals and security personnel.
Innovation Solution
A handheld, portable, and low-cost device that uses a single chip to implement high-resolution imaging and detection systems capable of scanning for objects hidden under clothing or in bags, operating at frequencies exceeding 300 GHz and employing a coherent mixer for enhanced sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional security screening equipment is used, then detection capability is improved, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates transmitter, receiver, signal processing, and control functions into a single handheld device, merging multiple security screening components into one portable unit that maintains high detection capability while reducing overall system size
Solution Approach 2:
The handheld device performs multiple functions including imaging, detection, and identification of impermissible objects within a single unit, eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment while maintaining comprehensive screening capability
2Measurement precision
If traditional security screening methods are used, then detection capability is improved, but operation speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs rapid signal processing and object identification in real-time as scanning occurs, eliminating delays between detection and results, thereby maintaining high detection accuracy while significantly improving screening throughput
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual physical inspection with automated electromagnetic scanning and digital image processing, eliminating the time-consuming nature of manual searches while maintaining or improving detection accuracy
3Measurement precision
If physical contact screening is used, then detection capability is improved, but safety risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical contact-based screening with contactless electromagnetic scanning, eliminating the need for officers to physically touch suspects while maintaining the ability to detect weapons and impermissible objects, thereby removing the safety risks associated with close physical proximity
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
Enables safe, contactless, and accurate detection of impermissible objects, reducing the risk of physical confrontation and improving the efficiency and accuracy of security screenings.
Implementation Method 1
transmits electromagnetic radiation with a center frequency exceeding 300 GHz
Implementation Method 2
The transmitted signal is combined, or mixed, with the returning signal to allow for recovery of phase and amplitude information
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprises a coherent radar system on a single chip configured to transmit high-frequency signals with a center frequency in a submillimeter wavelength range that corresponds to a frequency range of 0.3 THz and no greater than 0.4 THz. The radar system on the single chip (RSOC) comprises a phased array transmitter antenna configured to emit a radar beam with a center frequency of greater than 0.3 THz and no greater than 0.4 THz. The RSOC further includes a receiver configured to provide a voltage signal to a wide band receiver voltage controlled oscillator to form a phased array receiver antenna configured to receive reflected signals from the emitted radar beam.