This project will design an electromagnetic wave life-detection system for post earthquake rescue operations. This system will detect the heart beat, breathing or other movements of human victims trapped in collapsed masonry or reinforced concrete structures. The system will consist of a central unit of microwave components, a microprocessor- controlled clutter-cancellation unit and a specially designed antenna system. Preliminary experimental results indicate a high probability of success for constructing such a system. Realistic performance criteria for field application of the system will be developed by researchers at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. After the functioning system is constructed, it will be field tested in realistic earthquake environments constructed for urban search and rescue training and testing.
