Hybrid reconstruction techniques for microwave imaging systems

Microwave imaging systems require suitable reconstruction procedures in order to process the measured samples of the scattered electric field. Due to the ill-posedness of the related inverse problem, hybrid reconstruction techniques are considered in order to combine the main features of different inversion methods. Several different strategies can be followed. The present paper describes some of the most interesting approaches recently proposed in the scientific literature. In particular, the combination of stochastic algorithms (which are effective in addressing the ill-posedness of the inverse scattering problem) with fast deterministic methods is considered. Moreover, a hybrid strategy involving a qualitative reconstruction approach is also briefly discussed. Finally, a hybrid two-step focusing procedure is presented.