Evaluation of Dielectric Resonator Sensor for Near-Field Breast Tumor Detection

An H-shape ultrawideband (UWB) dielectric resonator (DR) mounted on a vertical ground plane edge with broadside radiation patterns is evaluated for breast tumor detection. In order to scan the whole breast, the proposed DR sensor can be attached to the skin without a need for matching medium. The sensor has a wide half power beamwidth, therefore path loss is reduced. In addition, the DR sensor provides very good pulse-preserving performance such as low distortion and constant gain characteristics with high efficiency. The small footprints of the sensor over the skin allows for more sensors nearby or in contact with the breast skin. Suitability of the compact DR sensor for breast tumor detection can be seen from frequency domain analyses as well as time domain analyses. Accurate tumor response is obtained due to the compact size and very good sensor characteristics.