Multiple-Mode Selection of Walled-LTSA Array Elements for High-Resolution Imaging to Visualize Antipersonnel Plastic Landmines

We propose a resolution improvement technique for a high-density array of walled linearly tapered slot antennas (LTSAs) in ground-penetrating radar imaging. In the system, we use the walled-LTSA array in a near-field measurement configuration and select various pairs of transmitter and receiver antennas out of the array elements. We prepare four selection modes so that we can practically enhance the imaging resolution. We remove the direct-coupling effect and compensate the path-length fluctuation caused by element individuality and element selection. Experiments demonstrate that the technique realizes higher resolution image acquisition to yield a clearer segmentation of antipersonnel plastic landmines; in combination with adaptive image processing, based on complex-amplitude texture, even on a wet laterite soil condition.