Research Article

Deep learning algorithms for through-the-wall imaging

Volume: 28 Number: 2 July 31, 2026
TR EN

Deep learning algorithms for through-the-wall imaging

Abstract

Fast through-the-wall imaging (TWI) by inverse scattering is highly desirable for many security and civilian applications. TWI by inverse scattering requires the solution of an ill-posed and nonlinear set of equations whose solution is attained iteratively (e.g., via a distorted Born iterative method). The iterative solution requires long execution times and often does not converge, limiting the applicability of inverse scattering to real-world TWI scenarios. To address these issues, this study investigates deep learning-augmented inverse-scattering schemes that combine physics-based modeling with the learning capability of neural networks. Using images after a few distorted Born iterations as input, three neural networks, namely a traditional convolutional neural network (CNN), U-net, and mask region-based CNN (Mask R-CNN) are leveraged to obtain final high-quality images of the scatterers behind the walls and their performance is compared. Among these three techniques, the traditional CNN regresses scatterer positions and restores dielectric profiles, while U-net segments scatterers and Mask R-CNN detects scatterers. Numerical results show that U-net achieves the highest accuracy, while Mask R-CNN offers competitive accuracy and removes boundary defects, making it highly effective for TWI applications.

Keywords

Supporting Institution

Nanyang Technological University

Project Number

Nanyang Technological University, Start-Up Grant, Award No. 001096-00001

Ethical Statement

N/A

Thanks

This work was conducted during the PhD studies of Xiaofan Jia under the supervision of Prof. Abdulkadir C. Yucel (the main/primary author). The work was supported by Nanyang Technological University via a Start-Up Grant (Award No. 001096-00001) awarded to Prof Yucel. The authors are thankful to Dr. Luis J. Gomez for fruitful discussions during the implementation of the distorted Born iterative method.

References

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  6. Xiao, J., Li, J., Chen, Y., Han, F., and Liu, Q. H., Fast electromagnetic inversion of inhomogeneous scatterers embedded in layered media by Born approximation and 3-D U-Net. IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Letters, (2019).
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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Deep Learning, Engineering Electromagnetics

Journal Section

Research Article

Publication Date

July 31, 2026

Submission Date

May 12, 2026

Acceptance Date

June 22, 2026

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Volume: 28 Number: 2

APA
Jia, X., & Yucel, A. C. (2026). Deep learning algorithms for through-the-wall imaging. Balıkesir Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü Dergisi, 28(2), 921-936. https://doi.org/10.25092/baunfbed.1949121
AMA
1.Jia X, Yucel AC. Deep learning algorithms for through-the-wall imaging. Balıkesir Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü Dergisi. 2026;28(2):921-936. doi:10.25092/baunfbed.1949121
Chicago
Jia, Xiaofan, and Abdulkadir C. Yucel. 2026. “Deep Learning Algorithms for Through-the-Wall Imaging”. Balıkesir Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü Dergisi 28 (2): 921-36. https://doi.org/10.25092/baunfbed.1949121.
EndNote
Jia X, Yucel AC (July 1, 2026) Deep learning algorithms for through-the-wall imaging. Balıkesir Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü Dergisi 28 2 921–936.
IEEE
[1]X. Jia and A. C. Yucel, “Deep learning algorithms for through-the-wall imaging”, Balıkesir Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü Dergisi, vol. 28, no. 2, pp. 921–936, July 2026, doi: 10.25092/baunfbed.1949121.
ISNAD
Jia, Xiaofan - Yucel, Abdulkadir C. “Deep Learning Algorithms for Through-the-Wall Imaging”. Balıkesir Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü Dergisi 28/2 (July 1, 2026): 921-936. https://doi.org/10.25092/baunfbed.1949121.
JAMA
1.Jia X, Yucel AC. Deep learning algorithms for through-the-wall imaging. Balıkesir Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü Dergisi. 2026;28:921–936.
MLA
Jia, Xiaofan, and Abdulkadir C. Yucel. “Deep Learning Algorithms for Through-the-Wall Imaging”. Balıkesir Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü Dergisi, vol. 28, no. 2, July 2026, pp. 921-36, doi:10.25092/baunfbed.1949121.
Vancouver
1.Xiaofan Jia, Abdulkadir C. Yucel. Deep learning algorithms for through-the-wall imaging. Balıkesir Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü Dergisi. 2026 Jul. 1;28(2):921-36. doi:10.25092/baunfbed.1949121