Submillimeter-Wave Frequency Scanning System for Imaging Applications

A new submillimeter-wave imaging system based on the frequency scanning concept is presented. Using significantly less information than beam-steering techniques, frequency scanning-based imaging systems are able to provide angular information in range-based radar systems which do not allow mechanical or electronic beam steering. Several strategies have been adopted to overcome the low dynamic range due to the propagation losses and non-specular reflection on the object-under-test. Moreover, the system is not only capable of detecting the placement of the objects, but also their profile. In this sense, an imaging application showing the system capabilities for the detection of objects concealed under clothes is presented. Results using 1-D FSAA allowing profile imaging are shown, proving the validity of the proposed system.