Three-dimensional reconstruction method for layered structures based on a frequency modulated continuous wave terahertz radar

Abstract

The feasibility of employing a continuous-wave terahertz detection system for non-contact and non-destructive testing (NDT) in multi-layered bonding structures is assessed in this study. The paper introduces the detection principle of terahertz frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar and outlines the two-dimensional (2D) scanning platform, which integrates optical lenses, three linear actuators, a control platform, and data acquisition units. Experimental results on two types of insulation with prefabricated defects demonstrate the capability of terahertz waves for transparent inspection imaging. These results confirm the viability of terahertz FMCW detection technology as an advanced NDT tool for multi-layered bonding structures. However, the inherent limitations of terahertz wavelength and hardware systems pose challenges in discriminating reflection peaks on upper and lower surfaces. To address this issue, a local adaptive empirical wavelet coefficient modal decomposition (LAEWCMD) method is proposed to enhance the longitudinal discrimination ability of terahertz detection. The proposed method involves segmenting the 2D terahertz detection image into regions to differentiate between defective and non-defective areas. Continuous wavelet transforms (CWT) are then applied to the range signals of each region to derive continuous wavelet coefficients (CWCs). Subsequently, empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is performed on the CWCs to decompose them into intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) and residual signals. The 1st IMF is utilized for three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction, and the regions are fused to generate the final output. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated on aircraft thermal protection structures (TPS), achieving high-precision 3D reconstruction. This offers a novel approach for the application of terahertz computed tomography imaging and NDT.