What Are the Key Applications and Technical Aspects of Radio Frequency Imaging?

[Beer-monster]

Hi

I have to prepare a presentation on radio frequency imaging, applications and technical aspects etc.

Unfortunately the uni library has closed and my google searches appear to be coming up rather thin (more RF coils in imagers than RF imaging). Does anyone know where I could find some useful info?

Thanks

 

[Astronuc]

Well if Radar is considered RF, then one can look for articles on "Ground Penetrating Radar" (GPR), which is a common application.

Another possibile term is "remote sensing" used with "RF Imaging", or "radio frequency".

I think MRI's are considered RF imaging systems - See US Patent 6,885,191

U of British Columbia has announced a new antenna design -
http://www.publicaffairs.ubc.ca/ubcreports/2005/05sep07/antenna.html

Other applications being investigated include landmine detection, medical imaging -- with the potential to augment X-rays and CT scans -- and non-destructive environmental surveying, such as locating pipes and cable embedded in concrete.

“We’re also considering using the FDL antenna as an inexpensive alternative to radio frequency imaging, a technique that might have huge implications for forestry,” says Yedlin. The new radio frequency imaging technique employs a new mathematical algorithm, developed by PhD candidate Kim Lam, to process the reflected and transmitted waves from a target, such as a tree, to image its interiors. This imaging requires the utilization of the ultra-wideband of frequencies and uniform response provided by the FDL antenna.

“In a selective logging application, foresters could use the FDL antenna to image trees in the potential harvest area. The information from the images can contribute to better planning and ensuring that only the highest-quality lumber is harvested, reducing waste and maximizing foliage and regeneration.”

 

[imabug]

You will need to clarify what kind of imaging application you're interested in writing about. If it's medical imaging you're thinking about, Astronuc is correct. MRI is the only imaging modality that uses RF. Otherwise there's all sorts of other RADAR and remote sensing applications out there. The surface of Venus was mapped using RADAR. Radioastronomy could be another form of RF imaging.

 

[Beer-monster]

The spec was just uses of 'RF imaging in industry and medicine'

However I will be looking more into Radar and MRI. Do you think I could also count terrahertz imaging as that is right on the fringe of the RF/IR boundary?