Researchers at the Missouri University of Science and Technology have developed a real-time, portable and 3-D microwave video camera prototype. The camera can be used for industrial inspection applications, security screening and might even one day be used by first responders. Dr. Mohammad Tayeb Ghasr, assistant research professor at Missouri S&T, and Dr. Reza Zoughi, the Schlumberger Distinguished Professor of Electrical Engineering at Missouri S&T, are the lead researchers on this project.
This real-time 3-D microwave camera prototype operates in the 20-30 GHz frequency range. Unlike X-ray inspection systems that could be hazardous, it uses low-power non-ionizing electromagnetic waves, which are safe. Given the relatively high and wide range of operating frequencies, it can produce high-resolution 3-D images. This, combined with fast electronics, enables data collection at a rate equivalent to 30 image frames per second, rendering it a real-time imaging system.
“It’s like an airport scanner but much smaller,” Ghasr says. “It’s portable, so it can be used on-site wherever it is needed.”
It is ideal for inspection of composite structures that are increasingly used in the transportation, infrastructure, space, aerospace and other similar industries. Because microwave signals can penetrate non-metallic materials, this system is expected to find significant use in inspecting ceramics, fiberglass, plastics and high-density polyethylene pipes.
The combination of portability, 3-D and real-time image production capabilities and low power consumption make it an ideal tool for high-throughput screening environments such as stadiums for contraband detection.
In the future, researchers also sees its potential use by first responders, especially those dealing with burn victims. This microwave camera, when designed optimally, has the potential to diagnose the severity of a burn so medical personnel can apply the appropriate treatment quickly and safely.
This project was funded in part by the University of Missouri System Fast Track program that provides up to $50,000 for each accepted proposal. This program is intended to enhance the research discoveries by moving them down the commercial pipeline, toward patents and license agreements.
