An Electronically-switched Sensor Array for Microwave Imaging

Abstract

An array of electronically-switched circular patch antennas is designed for breast tissue imaging for the purposes of cancer screening. Each array element is connected to a dedicated heterodyne radio, which performs amplification and downconversion to a single, low intermediate frequency for improved signal recovery. Data acquisition is accomplished with a VNA-based architecture. Details of the design are provided and are accompanied by simulated and experimental data. A receiver sensitivity of at least -120 dBm is expected, and an imaging sensor switching dynamic range between ON and OFF states of at least 127 dB is demonstrated based on experimental measurements.