Millimeter-Wave Security Scanner with Base Metal Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current millimeter-wave human body security inspection systems have a blind area that prevents detection of metallic objects under the feet or shoes, limiting the effectiveness of the security inspection.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a high-frequency oscillator and metal sensing detector within the inspection apparatus to detect changes in the electromagnetic field caused by metallic objects under the feet or shoes, combined with a control device to manage scanning operations and minimize interference, and using a non-metallic base to enhance detection accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If millimeter-wave transceiver array scans horizontally or vertically, then the scanning coverage is improved, but blind areas remain where metallic objects under feet or shoes cannot be detected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescanning coverageVSAvoiddetection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines millimeter-wave holographic imaging technology with metal sensing detector technology into a single integrated security inspection system. The metal sensing detector is embedded in the base to detect metallic objects under feet or shoes, while the millimeter-wave transceiver array scans the upper body, merging two different detection technologies to eliminate blind areas and achieve comprehensive coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a new detection dimension by placing the metal sensing detector in the base beneath the standing area. This adds a downward detection capability complementary to the horizontal and vertical scanning of the millimeter-wave transceiver array, creating three-dimensional detection coverage that eliminates the blind areas present in conventional two-dimensional scanning systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If high-frequency oscillator is used to detect metallic objects under shoes, then detection capability is improved, but electromagnetic interference with millimeter-wave transceiver may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemetal detection precisionVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The control device coordinates the operation timing of the high-frequency oscillator and millimeter-wave transceiver array, enabling them to operate in different time periods or cycles. This periodic operation reduces continuous electromagnetic interference while maintaining detection precision, as the high-frequency oscillator is activated only when metal detection is required rather than continuously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The control device acts as an intermediary that manages and coordinates the operation of both the high-frequency oscillator and millimeter-wave transceiver array. It monitors electromagnetic field conditions and regulates the activation of each component to minimize interference between them while ensuring both detection functions operate effectively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Eliminates the blind area by accurately detecting metallic objects under the feet or shoes, enhancing the security inspection process by providing comprehensive scanning coverage.

Implementation Method 1

a high frequency oscillator configured to detect the metallic foreign object in the underside of the shoe of the inspected human by sensing a change in an electromagnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field sensing: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a millimeter-wave transceiver configured to perform a millimeter-wave scanning operation on the body of an inspected human

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMillimeter-wave electromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP3029492B1Human body security inspection apparatus
Publication Date: 2020.07.01 NUCTECH CO LTD
  • EP3029492B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3029492B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a human body security inspection apparatus, comprising: a base on which an inspected human stands; a millimeter-wave transceiver configured to perform a millimeter-wave scanning operation on the body of the inspected human standing on the base so as to detect whether or not the inspected human carries contraband and output a first signal; and a metal sensing detector arranged within the base and configured to detect whether or not there is a metallic foreign object in underside of a shoe of the inspected human and output a second signal.