Objective: To study the basic principle and design method of a non-contact life detection system using 36 GHz millimeter wave.
Method: Continuous wave radar techniques and signal processing techniques including zero intermediate frequency, frequency domain accumulation and adaptive noise cancellation were used in the system.
Result: When the radiated power was about a milliwatt (mW) and detection range was up to 3 meters, the experimental results showed that this system can well detect the heartbeat and respiration signals from human subjects through common clothes and quilts.
Conclusion: The system is feasible and effective due to its high detection sensitivity, small antenna, simple structure, easy miniaturization and safety to the human subject. It can be used for long-term continuous monitoring, especially suitable for the astronauts.