Range Imaging Scanner for Hidden Object Detection in Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security scanners struggle to efficiently detect hidden non-metal objects, such as those in shoe soles or under headgear, due to positioning challenges and material interference, requiring additional manual checks that reduce throughput and increase costs.
Innovation Solution
A scanner system using range imaging with transceivers, antenna arrays, and motion sensors to detect objects of interest while moving, combined with evaluation circuits and beam focusers to enhance resolution and accuracy, allowing for simultaneous detection of objects in multiple planes without mechanical parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual detectors are used to improve detection accuracy for hidden objects, then detection precision improves, but scanning throughput decreases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection with an automated radar-based detection system that uses electromagnetic waves to scan for hidden objects. The system automatically processes signals and generates images without requiring manual intervention, thereby maintaining high detection accuracy while improving scanning throughput and reducing operational costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The radar system performs self-analysis through automated signal processing and image generation algorithms. The evaluation circuit automatically detects objects of interest without requiring manual inspection, enabling the system to serve itself and achieve both high precision and high throughput simultaneously.
2Area of stationary object
If sensors are positioned to detect objects in shoe soles or headgear, then detection coverage improves, but detection accuracy deteriorates due to material interference and positioning challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D radar imaging to 3D range imaging by adding depth information through time-of-flight measurements. This dimensional enhancement allows the system to accurately locate objects within complex geometries like shoe soles and headgear by providing three-dimensional spatial coordinates, thereby maintaining high detection accuracy while achieving comprehensive coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a beam and range focuser as an intermediary component that enhances signal quality before processing. This focuser improves the resolution of obtained range images by concentrating electromagnetic energy and reducing material interference effects, thereby maintaining detection accuracy across diverse materials and positions.
3Measurement precision
If range imaging with beam focusers is used to improve resolution, then detection precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The beam and range focuser serves multiple functions simultaneously: it focuses electromagnetic beams to improve resolution, performs signal conditioning, and enables accurate range measurement. This multi-functionality allows a single component to achieve high resolution without proportionally increasing system complexity, as it consolidates several functions into one element.
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 high-resolution, efficient detection of hidden objects with reduced false alarms, improving throughput and reducing the need for additional manual checks.
Implementation Method 1
at least one transmitter and/or at least one receiver for transmitting and/or receiving a signal in a range imaging setup
Implementation Method 2
the scanner is capable of receiving a signal reflected by the object of interest
Implementation Method 3
a beam and/or range focuser for improving the resolution of an obtained range image
Implementation Method 4
the scanner comprises at least one antenna array comprising several antennas... The antennas or the several antennas comprise transmission antennas as well as reception antennas
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a scanner for detecting an object of interest. The scanner includes at least one transmitter and/or at least one receiver for transmitting and/or receiving a signal in a range imaging setup. Further, the scanner has a beam and/or range focuser for improving the resolution of an obtained range image. The scanner also includes an evaluation circuit that is configured to analyze the signal for creating a range image and to determine the object of interest based on the range image created. The scanner is an access control scanner for controlling access to a restricted area. The scanner is configured to detect the presence of the object of interest using range imaging while the object of interest is moving relative to the scanner.