Abstract: A new and comparatively small type of open-ended microwave applicators has been disclosed. They are for example suitable for transmission into and reception from contacting objects such as protruding human bodyparts for inhomogeneity detection by tomographic methods. The applicators according to the invention are of the dielectric-filled open-ended ridged rectangular TE10 type, with an insert filling the ridge and having a higher permittivity than the surrounding space. The shape of the insert can be as a frustrum pyramid towards the opening. The overall design promotes narrow beamwidths and minimizes nearfields and surface wave excitation.

Abstract: A system and method, as well as sub assemblies thereof, for detection of dielectric irregularities/inhomogeneities inside an object under study (OUS) be means of electromagnetic energy are disclosed. The system comprises a loop/cylinder emitter configured to be located close to the OUS with its axis of symmetry directed towards the OUS. A feeding line feeds the emitter with an alternating current at an operating frequency to cause a magnetic field therein, which in turn will induce a propagating electromagnetic field in the OUS. In order to reduce propagating fields outside of the OUS, the circumference of the emitter is smaller than the free-space wavelength corresponding to the operating frequency, and the feeding line has a characteristic impedance that is smaller than 20 Ohm.

Abstract: A new and comparatively small type of open-ended microwave applicators has been disclosed. They are for example suitable for transmission into and reception from contacting objects such as protruding human bodyparts for inhomogeneity detection by tomographic methods. The applicators according to the invention are of the dielectric-filled open-ended ridged rectangular TE10 type, with an insert filling the ridge and having a higher permittivity than the surrounding space. The shape of the insert can be as a frustrum pyramid towards the opening. The overall design promotes narrow beamwidths and minimises nearfields and surface wave excitation.