Contraband detection through clothing by means of millimeter-wave imaging

G. Richard Huguenin; C.- T. Hsieh; J. E. Kapitzky; Ellen L. Moore; Karl David Stephan; A. S. Vickery

doi:10.1117/12.160333

15 November 1993 Contraband detection through clothing by means of millimeter-wave imaging

G. Richard Huguenin, C.- T. Hsieh, J. E. Kapitzky, Ellen L. Moore, Karl David Stephan, A. S. Vickery

Proceedings Volume 1942, Underground and Obscured Object Imaging and Detection; (1993) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.160333
Event: Optical Engineering and Photonics in Aerospace Sensing, 1993, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

Plastic weapons and explosives concealed under clothing present unique challenges to conventional contraband detection technology. Nonmetallic, nonmagnetic objects cannot be detected by conventional systems that use low-frequency magnetic fields. Common techniques that can reveal these types of contraband involve X-rays or other ionizing radiation, which are inappropriate for use on the human body. We have found that millimeter-wavelength radiation is an excellent means for revealing objects hidden beneath clothing. Naturally occurring thermal radiation from the subject can be used in a process called passive imaging. An alternative process called active imaging uses one or more millimeter-wave sources to illuminate the subject. In this paper we describe the basic theory of millimeter-wave imaging. We present single-channel scanned images of both metal and plastic objects concealed beneath ordinary clothing. The clothing appears substantially transparent and the objects are distinguishable. The paper concludes with a discussion of prospective advances that should make multiple-channel real-time imaging systems practical.

Citation Download Citation

G. Richard Huguenin, C.- T. Hsieh, J. E. Kapitzky, Ellen L. Moore, Karl David Stephan, and A. S. Vickery "Contraband detection through clothing by means of millimeter-wave imaging", Proc. SPIE 1942, Underground and Obscured Object Imaging and Detection, (15 November 1993); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.160333

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