SBIR-STTR Award

This proposal is addressed to the technical problem of detecting and imaging subsurface anti-tank mines of either dielectric or metallic composition using microwave radiation. the innovative idea proposed is the use of a digital focused and scanned microwave array radar detection system. the system uses bistatic oblique forward scattering to form a high resolution three-dimensional image of the medium that allows a mine to be detected and identified. the technique has the potential to provide a unique method of high speed, high resolution mine detection and identification. the proposed method uses a focused rectangular synthetic array as a receiver. the synthetic array is formed by the forward motion of a horizontal line array. the frequency and dimensions of the system are chosen for high resolution, while forward scattering at the brewster angle will reduce ground reflections to zero. high depth resolution is obtained from the depth of field of the array focus.

This proposal is for the Phase II SBIR contract to experimentally verify a focused synthetic rectangular array technique for microwave detection and imaging of mines proposed by Graham Research Corporation. The results of the Phase I contract have conclusively demonstrated that surface reflections are significantly reduced, and subsurface target detection enhanced. The Phase I experiments have demonstrated feasibility of the concept of a focused rectangular synthetic array using a simplified crossed line array geometry . The goal of the Phase II program will be to design, fabricate, and test an experimental rectangular synthetic array for experimental verification and simulation of the proposed method. The Phase II experiments will determine the perforaance, capabilities and liaitations of the proposed system for various soil and target conditions. System parameters will be determined such as resolution, attenuation, reduction of surface reflections, and effects of refraction due to dielectric constant and conductivity of the soil. The results of the experimental program will allow an improved system design concept to be developed. This will provide the basis for an advanced development model of the system in Phase III.