Comparison of Microwave Imaging Algorithms for Short-Range Scenarios

Three dimensional(3-D)imaging algorithms with irregular planar multiple-input-multiple-output(MIMO)arrays are discussed and compared with each other.Based on the same MIMO array,a modified back projection algorithm(MBPA)is accordingly proposed and four imaging algorithms are used for comparison,back-projection method(BP),back-projection one in time domain(BP-TD),modified back-projection one and fast Fourier transform(FFT)-based MIMO range migration algorithm(FFT-based MIMO RMA).All of the algorithms have been implemented in practical application scenarios by use of the proposed imaging system.Back to the practical applications,MIMO array-based imaging system with wide-bandwidth properties provides an efficient tool to detect objects hidden behind a wall.An MIMO imaging radar system,composed of a vector network analyzer(VNA),a set of switches,and an array of Vivaldi antennas,have been designed,fabricated,and tested.Then,these algorithms have been applied to measured data collected in different scenarios constituted by five metallic spheres in the absence and in the presence of a wall between the antennas and the targets in simulation and pliers in free space for experimental test.Finally,the focusing properties and time consumption of the above algorithms are compared.