A dynamically reconfigurable THz-TDS imaging system for industrial measurement applications

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Within the project we will work with our industrial partners to develop a novel concept of dynamically reconfigurable THz imaging system that uses a stand-alone THz imaging head (2D antenna array) that can be software reconfigured to explore the tradeoff between low noise operation and image acquisition time (number of simultaneously read-out pixels). The THz imaging head proposed in this proposal will be capable of near-field imaging, subwavelength resolution and fully vectorial field measurements with very high signal to noise ratio. Because of the inherently reconfigurable design of a stand-alone THz imaging head proposed in this proposal, the same system could be used, for example, as a high-acquisition-speed very-low-noise 1D linear detector array, or as a lower-acquisition-speed higher-noise 2D imager. As a result, the proposed system is inherently process tunable, and multifunctional, thus offering the better repeatability, process stability, cost effectiveness and quality control. Additionally, due to system near-field measurement capabilities and subwavelength resolution, measurement improvements presented in this proposal result directly in improved resolution and accuracy of data capture. Finally, the imaging system will be designed from the beginning as a stand-alone module to be used within third party THz-TDS systems, which is most suitable for deployment in manufacturing environments.