Can Smartphones Soon Grant Superman’s X-Ray Vision?
Imagine peeking through walls to ensure your unattended package is intact or using your smartphone to spot hidden obstacles in low-light situations. These scenarios could soon be a reality thanks to a groundbreaking technology inspired by Superman’s famous X-ray vision.
Chip Mimics Superhuman Sight
Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas and Seoul National University have developed a revolutionary imaging chip that mimics Superman’s ability to see through objects. However, unlike X-rays, this chip emits harmless 300 GHz signals that respect user privacy.
Privacy-Conscious Innovation
To ensure user privacy, the chip has a limited detection range of around an inch (2-3 centimeters). This distance may seem short, but it’s intentionally chosen to prevent its misuse for surveillance purposes. The researchers are exploring ways to extend the detection range to 5 inches (12.5 centimeters), allowing for the identification of smaller objects.
Seeing the Unseen
The chip detects signals reflected by objects to create images. Its ultra-small pixels (0.02 inches) capture intricate details. Unlike traditional imaging techniques that rely on lenses or optics, this chip requires none, making it compact and efficient.
Medical and Practical Applications
Beyond its potential for privacy-conscious wall-penetrating visuals, this technology holds promise for medical applications such as non-invasive medical examinations. Emergency room physicians could use it for preliminary on-site examinations.
Professionals could also benefit. For example, law enforcement officers could scan suspicious packages, while engineers could inspect pipes for cracks.
Vehicles with Enhanced Vision
The researchers also envision integrating their system into vehicles to enhance navigation in low-visibility conditions like fog or heavy rain. This idea, however, is still under investigation due to privacy concerns.
Integration into Smartphones
The next challenge for the researchers is to miniaturize the technology to fit into smartphones. This breakthrough would unlock countless applications for both consumers and professionals, offering the ability to see through walls or inspect packages without compromising privacy.
Priyanka 
Divya