Identification of Small Metallic Objects Using UWB Excitation

"SARA proposes to design a coherent, hybrid, UWB detector and analyzer (CHUDA) system that uses commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technology. SARA will use proven technologies and algorithms, developed during the conduct of 5 previous Phase II SBIR programs.CHUDA is comprised of multiple wideband conformal antennas, a hybrid radio frequency (RF) receiver, and a digital signal processor (DSP). This architecture has the combined benefits of spectrum analyzer and transient digitizer systems, while greatlyreducing the disadvantages of these systems. The system will detect, identify, and localize ground objects. This SBIR addresses the receive system. We expect "small, metallic object detection" to be the primary product of the proposed technology. Thissystem holds great promise as a commercial product and we envision the following commercial and military applications:The primary military application will be the a mobile and/or airborne system capable of detecting and identifying small (less than 6 ft.) metallic objects in a clutter environment.The system can be used to scan public places (airports, schools, sport stadiums, demonstrations, ...) to detect and pinpoint persons carrying metallic weapons.This system could augment search and rescue efforts. Sensors would be installed at various mountain peaks that are commonly used by hikers and cross country skiers. The system could locate lost individuals from their cell phone transmissions or