Scanning assembly and device

Abstract

There is provided an x-ray scanning machine having a chassis having a bottom panel, a scanning chamber and a displacement assembly for displacing an object in a direction of displacement into and through the scanning chamber. A detector assembly positioned about the scanning chamber has a frame inclined relative to the direction of displacement and detector cards spaced apart about the frame. An x-ray source assembly is mounted opposite the detector assembly and has a source for emitting x-rays, a first surface and a second surface both parallel with the direction of displacement. A collimator coupled with the source assembly extends toward the detector assembly. The collimator is inclined relative to the direction of displacement parallel with the frame of the detector assembly and shapes the x-rays into a fan beam and directs the beam toward the detector assembly.

Description

SCANNING ASSEMBLY AND DEVICE

[0001] The present invention relates to x-ray scanning machines. More particularly, the present invention relates to x-ray scanning machines for nondestructive inspection of an object.BACKGROUND

[0002] X-ray scanning machines, also known as x-ray inspection systems or x- ray scanners, have long been used for non-destructive testing and inspection of various objects in a wide range of industries. These machines utilize x-ray technology to generate detailed images of the internal structure of an object, facilitating the detection of defects, anomalies, or the presence of certain materials.

[0003] X-ray scanning machines typically include an x-ray source, an array of detector cards, and a processing unit. The x-ray source emits a controlled amount of x-ray radiation toward the object being scanned, while detector cards of the detector array capture and measure the x-rays that pass through the object. The generated x-rays traverse through the object being examined and are absorbed at different rates by different materials of the object due to variations in density and atomic composition. This differential absorption results in varying degrees of x-ray transmission through the object, creating a contrast that can be captured on a detector. The processing unit analyzes the captured measurement data to generate a visual representation of the physical structures of the object which may include the shape, density, and composition of its constituent materials. Typically, denser materials appear darker and less dense materials appear lighter.

[0004] X-ray scanning machines operate based on the principle that different materials exhibit varying levels of x-ray absorption. When an object is irradiated with x-ray radiation, the x-rays interact differently with different materials. This interaction can result in the attenuation, absorption, or scattering of the x-rays. Asa result, the x-rays transmitted through the object form a pattern that can be captured and processed by the detectors, allowing for the creation of an image.

[0005] X-ray scanning machines are widely utilized in various industries due to their non-destructive inspection capabilities. These machines find applications in fields such as security, healthcare, manufacturing, and aerospace. In the security domain, x-ray scanning machines are commonly used at airports, seaports, and other high-security locations to screen baggage, packages, and other objects for potential threats or contraband items. X-ray scanners are also used in industrial settings for quality control purposes, where they help identify defects or inconsistencies in manufactured products. Additionally, in the aerospace industry, x-ray scanning machines assist in the inspection of critical components, ensuring their structural integrity and adherence to the required safety standards.

[0006] Despite their wide range of applications, x-ray scanning machines with three-dimensional imaging capabilities can be prohibitively expensive. These advanced machines offer the advantage of capturing detailed internal structures of objects from multiple angles, providing valuable insights into complex geometries and volumetric data. However, the high cost associated with such equipment limits their accessibility to a broader user base. Due to this drawback, there is a growing desire within the industry to develop x-ray scanning machines that can provide an isometric perspective without compromising heavily on the cost-effectiveness. This would enable a wider range of users to leverage the benefits of comprehensive three-dimensional imaging in a more affordable manner.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0007] The present invention relates to x-ray scanning machines. More particularly, the present invention relates to x-ray scanning machines for nondestructive inspection of an object.

[0008] In one aspect, there is provided an x-ray scanning machine for scanning an object. The x-ray scanning machine includes a chassis having a bottom panel. A scanning chamber is within the chassis. The x-ray scanning machine further includes a displacement assembly for displacing the object in a direction of displacement into the chassis and into and through the scanning chamber. A detector assembly is positioned about the scanning chamber, the detector assembly having a frame inclined relative to the direction of displacement and a plurality of detector cards for receiving x-rays spaced apart about the frame. An x- ray source assembly is mounted within the chassis opposite the detector assembly, the displacement assembly intermediate to the detector assembly and x-ray source assembly, the x-ray source assembly having an x-ray tube for emitting x-rays positioned within a housing with a first surface and a second surface both parallel with the direction of displacement. A collimator is coupled with the top surface of the x-ray source assembly and extends toward the detector assembly inclined relative to the direction of displacement parallel with the frame of the detector assembly. The collimator is for shaping the emitted x-rays into a fan beam and for directing the fan beam toward the detector assembly. In one aspect, the first surface is a top surface of the housing and the second surface is a bottom surface of the housing, the first surface and the second surface being parallel with the bottom panel of the chassis.

[0009] In one aspect, the detector assembly is positioned about a scanning chamber first side panel, a scanning chamber second side panel and a scanning chamber ceiling panel extending between the scanning chamber first side panel and the scanning chamber second side panel. The frame of the detector assembly may include a first lateral frame member having a first top portion, a second lateral frame member having a second top portion and a transverse frame member extending between and coupled with the first top portion and the second top portion. The detector assembly may be inclined such that a base portion of thedetector assembly is downstream of a top portion of the detector assembly in the direction of displacement.

[0010] In one aspect, the detector cards may be spaced apart along the first lateral frame member, the second lateral frame member and the transverse frame member.

[0011] In one aspect, the detector assembly may be positioned about the scanning chamber above the displacement assembly and the x-ray source assembly may be mounted within the chassis below the displacement assembly. In another aspect, the detector cards are distributed symmetrically along the first lateral frame member, the second lateral frame member and the transverse frame member. The fan beam may extend outwardly from a focal point equally distant from the first lateral frame member and the second lateral frame member.

[0012] In one aspect, the collimator may include a short end portion couplable with the top surface of the x-ray source assembly, a long end portion opposite the short end portion and two side walls of equal length extending between the short end portion and the long end portion. The collimator may further include a front wall and a rear wall each extending between the short end portion and the long end portion and the two side walls. An aperture plate may be coupled with the long end portion. An aperture may extend through the aperture plate for shaping the x-rays emitted by the x-ray tube into the fan beam.

[0013] In one aspect, the x-ray scanning machine further includes an x-ray source assembly base mounted to the bottom panel of the chassis. The x-ray source assembly base may have an x-ray source assembly base top surface parallel with the bottom panel, wherein the bottom surface of the x-ray source assembly cooperates with the x-ray source assembly base top surface to mount the x-ray source assembly to the bottom panel of the chassis.

[0014] In another aspect, there is provided an x-ray scanning machine for scanning an object. The x-ray scanning machine includes a chassis having a bottom panel. A scanning chamber is within the chassis having a scanning chamber first side panel, a scanning chamber second side panel and a scanning chamber ceiling panel extending therebetween. The x-ray scanning machine further includes a displacement assembly for displacing the object in a direction of displacement into the chassis and into and through the scanning chamber. A detector assembly is positioned about the scanning chamber first side panel, the scanning chamber second side panel and the scanning chamber ceiling panel above the displacement assembly. The detector assembly has a frame inclined relative to the direction of displacement including a first lateral frame member having a first top portion, a second lateral frame member having a second top portion and a transverse frame member extending between and coupled with the first top portion and the second top portion, and a plurality of detector cards for receiving x-rays spaced apart and distributed symmetrically along the first lateral frame member, the second lateral frame member and the transverse frame member. An x-ray source assembly base is mounted to the bottom panel of the chassis, the x-ray source assembly base having an x-ray source assembly base top surface parallel with the bottom panel. An x-ray source assembly is mounted within the chassis below the displacement assembly wherein a bottom surface of the x-ray source assembly cooperates with the x-ray source assembly base top surface to mount the x-ray source assembly to the bottom panel of the chassis, the x-ray source assembly having a source for emitting x-rays positioned within a housing with a top surface and a bottom surface both parallel with the bottom panel of the chassis. A collimator is coupled with the top surface of the x-ray source assembly and extending toward the detector assembly inclined relative to the direction of displacement parallel with the frame of the detector assembly, the collimator for shaping the emitted x-rays into a fan beam extending outwardly from a focal point equally distant from the first lateral frame member and the second lateral frame member and directing the fan beam toward the detector assembly.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] To easily identify the discussion of any particular element or act, the most significant digit or digits in a reference number refer to the figure number in which that element is first introduced.

[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates an x-ray scanning machine in accordance with one aspect;

[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates the x-ray scanning machine of FIG. 1 with front panel removed;

[0018] FIG. 3 illustrates the x-ray scanning machine of FIG. 1 according to one aspect;

[0019] FIG. 4 illustrates the x-ray scanning machine of FIG. 1 according to one aspect;

[0020] FIG. 5 illustrates a detector card according to one aspect;

[0021] FIG. 6 illustrates the x-ray scanning machine of FIG. 1 according to one aspect; and,

[0022] FIG. 7 illustrates the x-ray scanning machine of FIG. 1 according to one aspect.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The present invention relates to x-ray scanning machines. More particularly, the present invention relates to x-ray scanning machines for nondestructive inspection of an object.

[0024] According to one aspect, shown in FIG. 1 , there is provided an x-ray scanning machine 102 for non-destructive inspection of an object 104. X-rayscanning machine 102 performs a non-destructive scanning operation or “scan” on object 104 to determine the materials of which it is composed, the properties of its materials and / or to provide image information on the materials or properties of object 104. “Scan”, “scanning” or “scanning operation”, when referring to an action, refers to the process by which x-ray scanning machine 102 captures and generates image data by displacing an object 104 relative to an x-ray tube and detector assembly to systematically collect data, which is then used to construct a detailed image of the structure of the object 104 being examined.

[0025] X-ray scanning machine 102 includes chassis 140 supported by chassis frame assembly 106. Chassis 140 includes first side panel 108, second side panel 110, top panel 112, bottom panel 114, front panel 116 and rear panel 118.

[0026] X-ray scanning machine 102 further includes displacement assembly 120 having a displacement support 122. In the aspect illustrated in FIG. 1 , displacement assembly 120 is a conveyor system and displacement support 122 is a conveyor belt. Displacement assembly 120 displaces the object 104 in a direction of displacement 146 into, through and out of scanning chamber 206 (FIG. 2), which is within chassis 140. Displacement assembly 120 passes through front panel 116 via a first opening 124 therein, through scanning chamber 206 and passes through rear panel 118 via second opening 132. Displacement assembly 120 can accelerate, decelerate, stop or otherwise dictate the displacement of object 104 through the scanning chamber 206.

[0027] Extending outwardly from the front panel 116 is shroud assembly 126 which cooperates with displacement assembly 120. Shroud assembly 126 has a shroud assembly opening 128 through which displacement assembly 120 extends. Extending across shroud assembly opening 128 is a shroud 130 which acts as a barrier to prevent x-rays which may escape from scanning chamber 206 from exiting x-ray scanning machine 102. A second shroud assembly 136 extends outwardly from the rear panel 118. Second shroud assembly 136 has a secondshroud assembly opening 138 through which displacement assembly 120 extends. Extending across second shroud assembly opening 138 is a second shroud (not shown) which acts as a barrier to prevent x-rays which may escape from scanning chamber 206 from exiting x-ray scanning machine 102 via the opening of rear panel 118.

[0028] In one aspect, x-ray scanning machine 102 includes a display 134 for displaying image information and other information and for conveying alerts related to the scanned object to an operator of x-ray scanning machine 102. Display 134 may be supported in relative position to the x-ray scanning machine 102 using a suitable support, which is preferably adjustable, such as display arm 142.

[0029] Extending from bottom panel 1 14 are a plurality of wheel assemblies 144 which are configured to roll on a surface, such as a floor, in order to move x-ray scanning machine 102 from one location or position to another. Wheel assemblies 144 are spaced apart about the bottom panel 114 to provide balance to x-ray scanning machine 102 as it is in transit between one location and another and when x-ray scanning machine 102 is stationary in one location. In one aspect, a plurality of height adjustment assemblies 148 extend from bottom panel 114. Height adjustment assemblies 148 are extendable away from bottom panel 114 to contact the surface or floor upon which x-ray scanning machine 102 rests when not in transit. Height adjustment assemblies 148 are extendable beyond a height of the wheel assemblies 144 such that x-ray scanning machine 102 rests partially or completely upon height adjustment assemblies 148 when x-ray scanning machine 102 is positioned for use in one location. Height adjustment assemblies 148 may be retracted or shortened in order to bring wheel assemblies 144 into greater contact with the surface or floor so that x-ray scanning machine 102 can be relocated or repositioned.

[0030] FIG. 2 illustrates x-ray scanning machine 102 with first side panel 108 removed. There is shown x-ray source assembly base 202 mounted to bottompanel 114 within chassis 140. X-ray source assembly base 202 is generally boxshaped, having a generally flat or planar x-ray source assembly base first surface or top surface 214 that is generally parallel to the bottom panel 114. X-ray source assembly base 202 has an x-ray source assembly base second surface or bottom portion 216 which rests atop bottom panel 114 within chassis 140. Therefore, the top surface 214 and the second surface 216 are parallel relative to the direction of displacement 146. Preferably, x-ray source assembly base 202 is secured to bottom panel 114 to prevent movement of x-ray source assembly base 202 relative to bottom panel 114. X-ray source assembly base bottom portion 216 may have flanges 218 extending outwardly therefrom through which fasteners 212 may pass to secure x-ray source assembly base 202 with bottom panel 114. Other means of securing x-ray source assembly base bottom portion 216 to bottom panel 114 may be used. X-ray source assembly base side walls 220 extend between the x- ray source assembly base bottom portion 216 and x-ray source assembly base top surface 214 of x-ray source assembly base 202. X-ray source assembly base side walls 220 may have openings 222 extending therethrough to allow for air exchange with the interior of chassis 140. This allows heat which may be generated to escape from beneath x-ray source assembly base 202 into the interior of chassis 140.

[0031] Removably mounted atop x-ray source assembly base 202 is x-ray source assembly 204. X-ray source assembly base 202 supports x-ray source assembly 204 over bottom panel 114 of chassis 140. X-ray source assembly 204 includes x-ray tube housing 208, which is generally box-shaped, having a generally flat bottom surface 224, a generally flat top surface 226 and generally flat side walls 228 extending therebetween. X-ray source assembly base top surface 214 of x- ray source assembly base 202 is generally parallel with the bottom panel 114 and is generally not inclined relative thereto. Accordingly, x-ray source assembly 204 is also not inclined relative to bottom panel 114. The flat cooperating surfaces between bottom panel 114, x-ray source assembly base 202 and x-ray sourceassembly 204 facilitate ease of installation, calibration, maintenance and repair of x-ray scanning machine 102. Further, the configuration of x-ray source assembly base 202 makes efficient use of limited space within chassis 140. In one aspect, x-ray source assembly 204 includes handles 328 which may be used to lift or move x-ray source assembly 204 off of x-ray source assembly base 202 when x-ray source assembly 204 and x-ray source assembly base 202 are not attached.

[0032] X-ray source assembly 204 includes an x-ray tube (not shown) for emitting x-ray radiation. X-ray tube is located within x-ray tube housing 208 which shields the interior of x-ray scanning machine 102 chassis 140 from uncontrolled exposure to x-rays from the x-ray source assembly 204.

[0033] Positioned within chassis 140 of x-ray scanning machine 102 is a controller 210 such as a computer or central processing unit (CPU) for controlling and monitoring operation of components of the x-ray scanning machine 102 such as the x-ray source assembly 204, the detector assembly 304 (FIG. 3), the displacement assembly 120 and display 134.

[0034] FIG. 3 illustrates x-ray scanning machine 102 with top panel 112, first side panel 108, second side panel 110, shroud assembly 126 and second shroud assembly 136 removed. There is shown scanning chamber ceiling panel 316, scanning chamber first side panel 318 and scanning chamber second side panel 320 which, together with displacement assembly 120 define scanning chamber 206 therewithin. Displacement assembly 120 extends into, through and out of scanning chamber 206.

[0035] In the aspect shown in FIG. 3, x-ray source assembly 204 is mounted within chassis 140 below displacement assembly 120 and hence below scanning chamber 206. X-ray scanning machine 102 further includes detector assembly 304 which is mounted within the chassis 140 about scanning chamber 206 on an opposite side of displacement assembly 120 to x-ray source assembly 204. Inoperation, x-rays emitted from the x-ray source assembly 204 pass through displacement assembly 120, through scanning chamber 206 and object 104 positioned therein and are received by the detector assembly 304. Accordingly, x- rays emitted from x-ray source assembly 204 are directed toward scanning chamber 206 and detector assembly 304. Image data resulting from passing the x-rays through displacement assembly 120 may be removed during image data processing.

[0036] Although it is shown in FIG. 3 that x-ray source assembly 204 is mounted within the chassis below displacement assembly 120, it should be understood that in other aspects, x-ray source assembly 204 may be mounted above displacement assembly 120 and hence above scanning chamber 206. For example, x-ray source assembly base 202 may be mounted to the ceiling panel 316. Thereby, the first surface 214 and the second surface 216 of x-ray source assembly housing are parallel with the direction of displacement 146. In this aspect, detector assembly 304 is mounted below the displacement assembly 120 opposite x-ray source assembly 204. In another aspect, the x-ray source assembly base 202 may be mounted to one of the first side panel 108 and the second side panel 110 beside the displacement assembly 120 with the detector assembly 304 positioned on an opposite side of the displacement assembly 120. Thereby, the first surface 214 and the second surface 216 of x-ray source assembly housing are parallel with the direction of displacement 146. In yet another aspect, the x-ray source assembly 204 may be mounted within the chassis below or above displacement assembly 120 and a second x-ray source assembly and detector assembly pair may be mounted within the chassis beside the displacement assembly 120, thereby providing a dual-view scanning system configuration.

[0037] Coupled with the x-ray source assembly 204 is collimator 302. An opening (not shown) in the top surface 226 of x-ray source assembly 204 allows x-rays to pass from the x-ray tube housing 208 into collimator 302. Collimator 302 directsthe x-rays from a focal point 604 (FIG. 6) in a fan-shaped beam or “fan beam” toward detector assembly 304. The focal point 604 is preferably centered relative to the detector assembly 304, as is described in further detail hereinafter. Preferably, the fan beam 602 (FIG. 6) is sufficiently wide as to allow for scanning of the entire relevant scanning area within scanning chamber 206.

[0038] In one aspect, collimator 302 is in the configuration of an isosceles trapezoid. Collimator 302 has a short end portion 306 which is couplable with top surface 226 of x-ray source assembly 204 to mount collimator 302 to x-ray source assembly 204. Collimator 302 front wall 310 and rear wall 312 diverge upwardly and away from the short end portion 306 toward a long end portion 308 opposite the short end portion 306. Extending between the front wall 310 and rear wall 312 of collimator 302 are side walls 314, which are preferably the same length. Aperture plate 402 (FIG. 4) extends across long end portion 308 between front wall 310, rear wall 312 and side walls 314. Aperture plate 402 has an aperture 404 (FIG. 4) passing therethrough which allows for focused passage of x-rays emitted from the x-ray tube toward the detector assembly 304. The aperture 404 is preferably long and narrow in order to produce a very thin fan beam of x-rays to be emitted toward the detector assembly 304. The focal point 604 of the x-ray tube is preferably aligned with a midpoint of the aperture 404.

[0039] Although it is shown that collimator 302 is in the configuration of an isosceles trapezoid, it should be understood that collimator 302 may have any configuration provided that the emitted fan beam is shaped by aperture 404 to be narrow in thickness and sufficiently wide as to emit x-rays which impact all detectors of the detector assembly 304.

[0040] Detector assembly 304 is mounted about the scanning chamber 206 tilted at an angle relative to the direction of displacement 146 such that base portion 322 of detector assembly 304 is downstream of top portion 324 of detector assembly 304 in the direction of displacement 146. Collimator 302 is tilted at a correspondingangle so that the fan beam impacts all detector cards of the detector assembly 304. Preferably, this means that collimator 302 is tilted in the direction of displacement 146 such that it is parallel relative to the detector assembly 304. In one aspect, support 326 extends between rear wall 312 of collimator 302 and top surface 226 of x-ray source assembly 204 to support collimator 302 at the desired angle.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 4, detector assembly 304 has includes frame 412 and a plurality of detector cards 408 mounted to frame 412. In one aspect, detector cards 408 are mounted to frame 412 by detector card brackets 410. Frame 412 is generally in the shape of an inverted letter “U”, having a first lateral frame member 414 spaced apart from a second lateral frame member 416 and having a transverse frame member 418 extending therebetween. The first lateral frame member 414 and the second lateral frame member 416 are configured to extend within scanning chamber 206 toward ceiling panel 316 when the frame 412 is mounted to displacement assembly 120. Transverse frame member 418 extends between a top portion 420 of first lateral frame member 414 and a top portion 422 of second lateral frame member 416. Bottom portion 424 of first lateral frame member 414 has a foot portion 428 extending therefrom. Likewise, bottom portion 426 of second lateral frame member 416 has a foot portion 430 extending therefrom. Foot portion 428 and foot portion 430 are for cooperation with a supporting portion of the displacement assembly 120. Foot portion 428 and foot portion 430 are both disposed at an angle, which allows for the detector assembly 304 to be tilted relative to direction of displacement 146.

[0042] The detector cards 408 are spaced apart along the first lateral frame member 414, second lateral frame member 416 and transverse frame member 418 to receive x-ray radiation transmitted to the detector cards 408 via the fan beam 602 (FIG. 6), which has passed through the object. Accordingly, the detector cards 408 are distributed about three sides of the scanning chamber 206 includingthe top and two sides of the scanning chamber 206. Each detector card 408 receives the x-ray and produces a digital signal. Each detector card 408 is connected with a processor (not shown) which processes and analyzes the signal to output information or data which may be used to generate one or more images of the scanned object. Therefore, the x-ray radiation received by detector cards 408 is received and analyzed in order to scan the object.

[0043] In the aspect shown in FIG. 4, collimator 302 and detector assembly 304 are aligned along central axis 406. The focal point 604 (FIG. 6) of the x-rays emitted from x-ray source assembly 204 is also aligned along central axis 406 and therefore, so is a central axis of the fan beam 602 shaped by collimator 302. Therefore, the fan beam 602 is symmetrical on both sides of the central axis 406. Since the fan beam 602 is symmetrical on both sides of central axis 406, the detector cards 408 are distributed symmetrically about the frame 412 of the detector assembly 304, or more specifically the detector cards 408 are distributed symmetrically on frame 412 on both sides of central axis 406. The detector card 408 which is intersected by central axis 406 is therefore normal to central axis 406 since it will receive an incident x-ray from the source in a direction which is parallel to central axis 406.

[0044] Detector cards 408 are positioned so that x-rays impact the detector cards 408 that receive x-rays at or near to a center 514 of the detector card surface 516 thereof, as shown in FIG. 5. The active area of detector cards 408 is rectangular in shape. The center 514 of the detector card 408 is generally located equidistant to or at a midpoint halfway between the top edge 518 and bottom edge 520 and equidistant to or halfway between a first side edge 522 and a second side edge 524 of the detector card 408. Each detector card 408 is oriented by its corresponding detector card bracket 410 at an angle so that the x-rays received by the detector card 408 impact the detector card 408 at or near to the center 514 and normal relative to the receiving detector card surface 516 of the detector card408. Although the active area of detector cards 408 is rectangular in shape, it should be understood that the aspect ratio of the card depicted in FIG. 5 may be different from that illustrated.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of scanning chamber 206 while object 104 is being scanned. Although central axis 406, fan beam 602 and focal point 604 are not visible features, these are shown in FIG. 6 for illustrative purposes only.

[0046] In FIG. 6, it can be seen that fan beam 602 extends away from focal point 604 toward the detector assembly 304 and that fan beam 602 is symmetrical on either side of central axis 406. Since the detector cards 408 on either side of central axis 406 are equally distant from focal point 604, the x-rays of fan beam 602 are generally equal in intensity on either side of central axis 406. This arrangement therefore facilitates collection of consistent image data on both sides of central axis 406. In other conventional x-ray scanning devices, the focal point may be located away from a central axis passing through the scanning chamber and instead may be located off to one side. Image information collected by the detector array on the side opposite to the focal point is either less clear or requires more intensive calculation and correction to address distortion issues and clarity issues since those detectors are more distant from the focal point. The arrangement shown in FIG. 6 brings the detector cards 408 and the focal point 604 closer together and therefore the image information is clearer and / or simpler to calculate since the requirement to correct for distortions introduced by the distance between the focal point 604 and the detector cards 408 is reduced.

[0047] In FIG. 7, there is shown an object 104 on displacement support 122 passing between the collimator 302 and the detector assembly 304. As object 104 is displaced through the scanning chamber 206, x-rays are emitted from x-ray source assembly 204 and are shaped into a fan beam 602 by collimator 302. The x-rays pass through displacement assembly 120, through the object as it passes between collimator 302 and detector assembly 304 and are received by detectorcards 408 of detector assembly 304. The detector cards 408 capture the received x-rays to produce an analog signal at a predetermined rate, which is then converted from the analog signal into a digital signal. The digital signals are measured and are then collected in order to generate an image capture of the object 104 during image processing.

[0048] Object 104 can be any item, of any shape or configuration and may include any combination of organic or inorganic material. As illustrated in the aspect of FIG. 7, object 104 may be a luggage item such as a travel bag or handbag containing other items, such as containers, clothing, toiletries or other small objects. Scanning of objects may be conducted for the purpose of identifying potentially dangerous or threatening object or materials or for the purpose of acquiring images of the object. The purpose of scanning may vary depending on the field of activity, such as security, loss prevention and detection and identification of precious metals.

[0049] The inclination of the fan beam 602 relative to direction of displacement 146 and its detection by the detector assembly 304, which is also at an incline relative to direction of displacement 146 facilitates the production of an isometric perspective view of object 104. This is advantageous because visualization of the side edges of the objects. Items which would normally appear as a single line in conventional systems now appear as surfaces in the isometric perspective view of the object. This can be exemplified using the example of object 104 in FIG. 7. In conventional conveyor-driven x-ray scanning machines, the x-rays are directed vertically and the detector array is not angled relative to the direction of displacement. Therefore, the x-rays must pass vertically through the entire thickness of the side wall of a piece of luggage. It can be difficult to discern the materials or their properties because the signal received by the detectors would be produced by several different materials across the entire thickness of the wall of the piece of luggage. Analysis of such signals can be challenging. However, ifscanned according to the aspects described herein, the resultant images would show objects and materials concealed within the side walls more clearly. This perspective view is very advantageous compared to the image information provided by conventional scanners.

[0050] While the invention has been described in terms of specific aspects, it is apparent that other forms could be adopted by one skilled in the art. For example, the methods described herein could be performed in a manner which differs from the aspects described herein. The steps of each method could be performed using similar steps or steps producing the same result but which are not necessarily equivalent to the steps described herein. Some steps may also be performed in different order to obtain the same result. Similarly, the apparatuses and systems described herein could differ in appearance and construction from the aspects described herein, the functions of each component of the apparatus could be performed by components of different construction but capable of a similar though not necessarily equivalent function, and appropriate materials could be substituted for those noted. Accordingly, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific aspects described herein. It should also be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed above are for the purpose of disclosing the illustrated aspects, and do not necessarily serve as limitations to the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:1 . An x-ray scanning machine for scanning an object, comprising: a chassis having a bottom panel; a scanning chamber within the chassis; a displacement assembly for displacing the object in a direction of displacement into the chassis and into and through the scanning chamber; a detector assembly positioned about the scanning chamber, the detector assembly having a frame inclined relative to the direction of displacement and a plurality of detector cards for receiving x-rays spaced apart about the frame; an x-ray source assembly mounted within the chassis opposite the detector assembly, the displacement assembly intermediate to the detector assembly and x-ray source assembly, the x-ray source assembly having an x-ray tube for emitting x-rays positioned within a housing with a first surface and a second surface both parallel with the direction of displacement; and, a collimator coupled with the first surface of the x-ray source assembly and extending toward the detector assembly inclined relative to the direction of displacement parallel with the frame of the detector assembly, the collimator for shaping the emitted x-rays into a fan beam and directing the fan beam toward the detector assembly.

2. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 1 , wherein the detector assembly is positioned about the scanning chamber above the displacement assembly and the x-ray source assembly is mounted within the chassis below the displacement assembly.

3. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 1 , wherein the first surface is a top surface of the housing and the second surface is a bottom surface of thehousing, the first surface and the second surface being parallel with the bottom panel of the chassis.

4. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 3, wherein the detector assembly is positioned about a scanning chamber first side panel, a scanning chamber second side panel and a scanning chamber ceiling panel extending between the scanning chamber first side panel and the scanning chamber second side panel.

5. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 1 , wherein the frame of the detector assembly includes a first lateral frame member having a first top portion, a second lateral frame member having a second top portion and a transverse frame member extending between and coupled with the first top portion and the second top portion.

6. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 5, wherein the detector cards are spaced apart along the first lateral frame member, the second lateral frame member and the transverse frame member.

7. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 6, wherein the detector cards are distributed symmetrically along the first lateral frame member, the second lateral frame member and the transverse frame member.

8. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 7, wherein the fan beam extends outwardly from a focal point equally distant from the first lateral frame member and the second lateral frame member.

9. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 5, wherein the first lateral frame member includes a first bottom portion opposite the first top portion and the second lateral frame member includes a second bottom portion opposite the second top portion and the first bottom portion and the second bottom portion areboth coupled with the displacement assembly for supporting the detector assembly about the scanning chamber relative to the displacement assembly.

10. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 9, wherein the first lateral frame member is coupled with the displacement assembly via a first foot portion extending from the first bottom portion of the first lateral frame member, the first foot portion inclined in the direction of displacement and wherein the second lateral frame member is coupled with the displacement assembly via a second foot portion extending from the second bottom portion of the second lateral frame member, the second foot portion inclined in the direction of displacement.11 . The x-ray scanning machine of claim 1 , further comprising: an x-ray source assembly base mounted to the bottom panel of the chassis, the x-ray source assembly base having an x-ray source assembly base top surface parallel with the bottom panel; and, wherein the bottom surface of the x-ray source assembly cooperates with the x-ray source assembly base top surface to mount the x-ray source assembly to the bottom panel of the chassis.

12. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 11 , wherein x-ray source assembly base side walls extend between the x-ray source assembly base top surface and the bottom panel of the chassis and the side walls each have at least one opening passing therethrough.

13. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 1 , wherein the collimator further comprises: a short end portion couplable with the top surface of the x-ray source assembly; a long end portion opposite the short end portion; and, two side walls of equal length extending between the short end portion and the long end portion.

14. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 13, wherein the collimator further includes a front wall and a rear wall each extending between the short end portion and the long end portion and the two side walls.

15. An x-ray scanning machine for scanning an object, comprising: a chassis having a bottom panel; a scanning chamber within the chassis having a scanning chamber first side panel, a scanning chamber second side panel and a scanning chamber ceiling panel extending therebetween; a displacement assembly for displacing the object in a direction of displacement into the chassis and into and through the scanning chamber; a detector assembly positioned about the scanning chamber first side panel, the scanning chamber second side panel and the scanning chamber ceiling panel above the displacement assembly, the detector assembly having a frame inclined relative to the direction of displacement including a first lateral frame member having a first top portion, a second lateral frame member having a second top portion and a transverse frame member extending between and coupled with the first top portion and the second top portion, and a plurality of detector cards for receiving x-rays spaced apart and distributed symmetrically along the first lateral frame member, the second lateral frame member and the transverse frame member; an x-ray source assembly base mounted to the bottom panel of the chassis, the x-ray source assembly base having an x-ray source assembly base top surface parallel with the bottom panel; an x-ray source assembly mounted within the chassis below the displacement assembly wherein a bottom surface of the x-ray source assembly cooperates with the x-ray source assembly base top surface to mount the x-ray source assembly to the bottom panel of the chassis, the x-ray source assembly having a source for emitting x-rays positioned within a housing with a top surface and a bottom surface both parallel with the bottom panel of the chassis; and,a collimator coupled with the top surface of the x-ray source assembly and extending toward the detector assembly inclined relative to the direction of displacement parallel with the frame of the detector assembly, the collimator for shaping the emitted x-rays into a fan beam extending outwardly from a focal point equally distant from the first lateral frame member and the second lateral frame member and directing the fan beam toward the detector assembly.

16. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 15, wherein the first lateral frame member includes a first bottom portion opposite the first top portion and the second lateral frame member includes a second bottom portion opposite the second top portion and the first bottom portion and the second bottom portion are both coupled with the displacement assembly for supporting the detector assembly about the scanning chamber above the displacement assembly.

17. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 16, wherein the first lateral frame member is coupled with the displacement assembly via a first foot portion extending from the first bottom portion of the first lateral frame member, the first foot portion inclined in the direction of displacement and wherein the second lateral frame member is coupled with the displacement assembly via a second foot portion extending from the second bottom portion of the second lateral frame member, the second foot portion inclined in the direction of displacement.

18. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 15, wherein x-ray source assembly base side walls extend between the x-ray source assembly base top surface and the bottom panel of the chassis and the side walls each have at least one opening passing therethrough.

19. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 15, wherein the collimator further comprises: a short end portion couplable with the top surface of the x-ray source assembly;a long end portion opposite the short end portion; and, two side walls of equal length extending between the short end portion and the long end portion.

20. The x-ray scanning machine of claim 19, wherein the collimator further includes a front wall and a rear wall each extending between the short end portion and the long end portion and the two side walls.