New applications of millimeter-wave incoherent imaging

A compact wideband millimeter wave detection element for the 35 GHz band has been developed mainly for passive imaging technologies. Using this element, fruit, timber, and foods in cardboard boxes have been observed nondestructively. The thermal radiation emitted from fruit changes as it is ripening, timber with knots and/or damages by white ants, and food temperature in cardboard box can be detected through incoherent passive imaging.