Computer Processing of Images Captured with a Commercially Available THz Camera at Long Distances

Abstract

Passive THz imaging devices have big potential for solution of the security problem. Nevertheless, one of the main problems, which take place on the way of using these devices, consists in modest image quality, produced by the majority of passive THz cameras. To change this situation, it is necessary to improve the engineering characteristics (resolution, sensitivity and so on) of the THz camera or to use computer processing of the image. In our opinion, the last issue is more preferable because it is more inexpensive. We demonstrate the improvement of the quality of the images captured by TS4 – a commercially available THz passive camera manufactured by ThruVision Systems Ltd. Our approach bases on application of original spatial filters and algorithms, developed for computer processing of images produced by the passive THz camera. The presented examples show the big potential for the detection of small hidden objects at long distances (6–10 m) and observation the difference in temperature on the human body, which is caused by different temperatures inside the body. Developed algorithms are used also for computer processing of the images captured by THz passive camera manufactured by various Companies. In all cases, we increase the quality of the THz images.