Not Available

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will investigate beam steered electromagnetic radar using differential synchronization signal path switching (DSSPS) to increase the operable frequency and target resolution. The research will also determine the effective imaging beam refraction as it exits opaque media, the feasibility of classifying human targets in the downrange profile, and the feasibility of implementing fractal geometries into bow-tie antennas to reduce ringing. Phase I will result in a compact system capable of penetrating thick opaque materials using high frequencies to locate targets in an arena that is otherwise reserved for low frequencies because of attenuation and the steering limitations of electronic delay methods. Potential commercial applications are expected in electromagnetic application for subsurface feature detection, including voids, contaminants, hazardous waste containers, hydrologic-lithologic interfaces, the location of buried utilities, and for locating human targets through opaque materials such as buildings, earth, rock, and snow. The smaller size of a high frequency array offers portability for the latter application.