Object detection method and apparatus

• US 20070052576A1
• Filed: 05/12/2006
• Published: 03/08/2007
• Est. Priority Date: 05/25/1999
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Peacock Myers PC
• Original Assignee: The MacAleese Companies, Inc.
• Inventors: Hausner, Jerry, West, Jonathan
• Granted Patent: US 7,450,052 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 342/22
• CPC Class Codes: G01S 13/04 Systems determining presence of a target based on relative movement of target G01S13/56
• CPC Class Codes: G01S 13/887 for detection of concealed objects, e.g. contraband or weapons
• CPC Class Codes: G01S 7/024 using polarisation effects in waveguides H01P1/165; for aerials H01Q, e.g. H01Q15/22, H01Q15/24, H01Q19/195
• CPC Class Codes: G01S 7/411 Identification of targets based on measurements of radar reflectivity G01S7/415 takes precedence

Abstract

Method and apparatus for detecting objects. In one embodiment, a person entering a secured zone is illuminated with low-power polarized radio waves. Differently polarized waves which are reflected back from the person are collected. Concealed weapons are detected by measuring various parameters of the reflected signals and then calculating various selected differences between them. These differences create patterns when plotted as a function of time. Preferably a trained neural network pattern recognition program is then used to evaluate these patterns and autonomously render a decision on the presence of a weapon. An interrupted continuous wave system may be employed. Multiple units may be used to detect various azimuthal angles and to improve accuracy.

Claims