Researchers have developed an integrated image sensor chip for mobile devices that uses high-frequency radio waves to “see through” objects.
To “see through” objects, the chip employs three units of image sensor pixels capable of emitting and receiving mmWave signals. When an object reflects these waves, the chip’s components amplify and process the signals to display the shape of the object on the screen. mmWave refers to frequencies with wavelengths ranging from 1 to 10 mm, situated between microwaves and infrared rays, and is considered safe for human health.
Close-up of the chip with ‘superpower’ inspired by the character Superman (Image: UT Dallas).
In trials, the chip has been able to detect objects behind cardboard at a distance of about 1 cm. The research was published on January 5 in the journal of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), an international organization specializing in high technology.
After 15 years of diligent research and improving the performance of sensor pixels (image sensor size), scientists have managed to miniaturize this type of chip for integration into mobile devices. In the future, phones equipped with this chip could “see through” the contents of letters, packages, locate picture frames, electrical wires, or broken water pipes hidden behind walls.
Wooyeol Choi, co-author of the study and an assistant professor of electrical engineering at Seoul National University, stated: “The key aspect of the chip is its compact size. We completely eliminated lenses and optical components during the design process.” Each pixel generates images by capturing feedback signals. Additionally, they are only 0.5 mm in size, comparable to a grain of sand.
Not only limited to seeing through objects, this groundbreaking imaging technology promises to offer numerous applications in healthcare and medical fields. Researchers compare this technology to airport security scanners, with the only difference being that it does not use microwave signals.
Kenneth O, an electrical engineering professor at the University of Texas at Dallas, likened this technology to the “superpower of seeing through” that Superman possesses, saying: “However, to ensure safety, we use frequency signals between 200-400 GHz instead of X-rays that could be harmful to health.” Furthermore, since the chip operates only at very close range—approximately 2.5 cm from the object being scanned—malicious individuals cannot use this technology to “spy” on others’ bags or backpacks.
Researchers are currently designing the next version of the chip, aiming to enhance its ability to scan objects from a greater distance—up to 12.7 cm, facilitating the “detection” of smaller items.
