MIT has developed a new technology using millimeter wave imaging to allow robots to see inside sealed cardboard boxes without opening them, by analyzing how signals bounce back from hidden surfaces.
The system, named mmNorm, captures reflections of millimeter waves to estimate the shape and direction of hidden objects, improving accuracy in 3D reconstruction by considering specularity and using multiple antennas.
This technology achieved 96% accuracy in reconstructing complex items during testing, offering potential for warehouse robots to inspect packages without unpacking them, as well as applications in factory production lines, assisted-living centers, and security screening.
The system could enhance warehouse efficiency, safety, and automation, revolutionizing how goods are shipped and inspected, while the research team aims to further enhance its resolution and versatility for future applications.