Effects of Facial Topography and Eyewear on the 94 GHz Beam
Abstract
Recently, a millimeter wave (MMW) hardware system, called Active Denial System (ADS) has been developed for use as a non-lethal weapon system. The ADS system is capable of generating high power MMWs and is to be used for, but not limited to, crowd management and denying access to restricted areas. ADS achieves this end by using a 94 GHz MMW beam to produce rapid skin heating to a temperature that causes intense discomfort in a very short period of time, normally in just a matter of seconds. The intensity of the discomforting sensation rapidly decreases when the power to the transmitter is turned off or the individual moves out of the MMW beam. The primary effect of the ADS is heating of skin and absorption of the 94GHz millimeter waves in the eye. Recently the effects that eyewear may have on the absorption of 94 GHz MMWs on the face have been questioned. To fully understand the effects of ADS through eyewear, exposure data must be collected while the targeted subject is wearing various types of eyewear, such as, eyeglasses, night vision goggles (NVG) and binoculars, that may be encountered when subjects are be exposed to the system. This investigation was conducted to evaluate the effects that various types of eyewear may have on absorption of the 94 GHz beam and especially the production of hotspots generated by reflections or focusing of the beam on the surface of the face.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA475216
Entities
People
- Charles Kuhnel
- Donald Hatcher
- Donald Marchello
- Duane Cox
- John D'andrea
- John Ziriax
- Leland Johnson
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center