Automated, non-metallic measurement facility for testing and development of electromagnetic induction sensors for landmine detection

摘要

For development of electromagnetic induction (EMI) sensors for landmine detection, a testing facility has been established for automated measurements of typical targets with both individual sensors and arrays of sensors. A six-degree of freedom positioner has been built with five automated axes (three translational stages and two rotational stages) and one manual axis for target characterizations with no metal within the measurement volume. Translational stages utilize commercially-available linear positioner hardware. Rotational stages have been customized using non-metallic components to position the targets within the measurement volume. EMI sensors are held fixed in one location while the positioner orients the targets and moves them along a prescribed path through the region surrounding the sensor. The automated movement is computer-controlled and data are acquired continuously. Data are presented from three-dimensional scans of targets at various orientations. Typical targets include shell casings, wire loops, ball bearings, and landmines.