Frequency Multiplexed 2-Dimensional Sensor Array Based on Split-Ring Resonators for Organic Tissue Analysis

A frequency multiplexed 2-dimensional sensor array was developed using microstrip-line-excited split-ring resonators (SRRs). With the proposed structures, it is possible to spatially resolve the relative changes of the dielectric properties of a Material Under Test (MUT) in one and two dimensions. The SRRs are designed to have different resonant frequencies and are decoupled from each other. With these design characteristics, it is possible to track changes on the resonant frequency of individual SRR that will indicate the dielectric properties of the MUT around the ring and therefore its location within the array. The number of pixels of the dielectric image corresponds to the number of SRRs within the sensor. Several prototype sensors have been realized and tested with different MUT such as dielectric bricks, animal tissue and phantoms of human tissue to prove the concept.