Portable and Accurate Material Characterization for RF/microwave Sensing and Imaging

由于对连续监测的需求，全球对新型传感设备开发的投资急剧增加。物联网（IoT）包括部署在多个位置并测量许多不同参数的传感器，将对高效设备的需求推向了一个完全不同的水平。需要新的传感方法，以便能够在偏远和恶劣环境中收集数据，以及对动物和人类健康进行无创和持续监测。同时，这些方法必须在技术和经济上可行。由于实时操作、高灵敏度以及非侵入性和无线传感的潜力，射频/微波传感在满足这些关键需求方面具有巨大的潜力。利用微波成像技术和传感器设计的创新，可以创建强大的低功耗传感平台。然而，射频/微波传感器的发展取决于被测材料的准确表征。对于通常可用的不均匀和小样本量以及难以运输到实验室的样品，这尤其具有挑战性。我们的目标是建立世界一流的材料表征测试和测量设施，以支持射频/微波传感和成像技术的发展。所要求的基础设施包括用于小样本的高精度测量系统，以及新一代易于使用，便携式和可靠的测量设备。SPEAG要求的高精度介电评估系统（达克- tl2）是唯一能够精确分析小样品，处理薄层和补偿样品缺陷的系统。该系统配有覆盖高达20 GHz的VNA。此外，我们需要一种低成本，便携式和易于使用的系统，以实现高度可靠的现场测量。这补充了DAK-TL2的实验室性能，提供了在受控和现实场景中测量广泛样品类型和大小的能力。这些工具取代了过时和损坏的设备，大大扩展了我们的测量能力，并缩短了学员进行实验研究的等待时间。利用这种便携式测量设备，我们期望开发新的高影响力的合作项目，显著促进正在进行的合作，与该领域的行业发展保持同步，并提高学员的实践经验。

Global investment in the development of novel sensing devices has increased dramatically due to the demand for continuous monitoring. The Internet of Things (IoT) includes sensors deployed in multiple locations and measuring many different parameters, driving the need for efficient devices to a completely different level. New sensing approaches are required to enable data collection in remote and harsh environments, as well as non-invasive and continuous monitoring of animal and human health. At the same time, these approaches must be technically and economically viable. RF/microwave sensing holds tremendous potential to meet these critical needs because of real-time operation, high sensitivity, and potential for non-invasive and wireless sensing. Leveraging technology developed for microwave imaging and innovations in sensor design, robust and low-power sensing platforms can be created. However, development of RF/microwave sensors hinges on accurate characterization of the materials under test. This is particularly challenging for non-uniform and small sample sizes that are often available, as well as samples that are difficult to transport to the lab. We aim is to establish a world-class test and measurement facility for material characterization to support development of RF/microwave sensing and imaging technology. The requested infrastructure includes a highly accurate measurement system for small samples, as well as the new generation of easy-to-use, portable, and reliable measurement devices. The requested high-precision dielectric assessment systems (DAK-TL2) from SPEAG is the only system capable of accurate analysis of small samples, handling thin layers and compensating for sample imperfections. This system is accompanied by a VNA that covers up to 20 GHz. Additionally, we request a low-cost, portable, and easy-to-use system to enable highly reliable on-site measurements. This complements the in-lab performance of the DAK-TL2, providing the ability to measure a broad range of sample types and sizes in controlled and realistic scenarios. These tools replace obsolete and damaged equipment, as well as expanding our measurement capacity significantly and removing the wait time of the trainees to perform experimental research. Leveraging this portable measurement facility, we expect to develop new high-impact collaborative projects, significantly facilitate ongoing collaborations, keep pace with the industry advancement in the field, and improve the hands-on experience of the trainees.