Body scanner penetrates 30 layers of clothing

Scientists applied space radar technology to develop a compact scanner for sharp images.

Photographic capabilities are tested with different fabrics and thicknesses. Photo: Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics

The full-body scanner uses space radar technology tested in China and produces exceptionally clear images through clothing, SCMP reported on January 13. The machine's super high resolution can help identify hidden objects with greater accuracy at security checkpoints.

In the experiment, the research team of Professor Liu Jinsong at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, placed a thumb-sized piece of paper with the letter "S" under five common clothes made of different types of fabrics. natural and synthetic fabrics. As a result, the scanner obtains very clear images of the letter "S". It faded when the scientists increased the number of layers of clothing, but was still identifiable when the number of layers reached 30.

With a resolution at the millimeter level, the scanner can easily detect prohibited items such as weapons hidden under clothing, the team of experts said. The new study was published in the journal Optics and Optoelectronic Technology.

Some body scanners today take up a large area, making it difficult to install. However, Liu's scanner is about the size of a dressing mirror and uses 32 small antennas.

"With traditional radar, the higher the resolution, the larger the antenna. This is not practical in some situations," said Liu and colleagues. Many modern military platforms, including satellites, fighter aircraft, and warships, use composite aperture technology to reduce antenna size. Accordingly, the signals of small antennas are combined to produce images with higher resolution. Satellites equipped with advanced synthetic aperture radar can see bricks on sidewalks at night or in bad weather.

Liu and colleagues modified existing technology to achieve good results without harming the human body. However, image sharpness also depends on a person's distance from the radar. Experts have not announced whether the device will be tested in the airport.