Flexible hole X-ray inspection

Abstract

This application relates to flexible aperture X-ray inspection. Disclosed herein is an apparatus for forming an X-ray beam. The apparatus includes a plurality of connecting members that are pivotally coupled together in an end-to-end manner to form a continuous loop. The plurality of connecting members includes two or more connecting members configured to block the transmission of X-ray emission. The plurality of connecting members further includes at least one connecting member that includes an aperture configured to allow only a portion of the X-ray emission to pass through the aperture.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to nondestructive inspection of parts, and more particularly to beamforming for inspecting parts using x-ray devices, systems, and methods. Background Art

[0002] When damage to the part to be inspected is not desirable or practical, some inspection techniques are used, such as non-destructive testing, foreign body detection, non-linear field inspection, etc. Certain x-ray inspection techniques provide penetrating scans or inspections of parts. Such x-ray inspection techniques are used in various applications, such as homeland security, oil and gas extraction and refining, pipeline inspection, transportation, automotive, aerospace, marine, mining, shipping and storage, etc.

[0003] Some x-ray inspection techniques utilize the detection of x-rays that pass through a part from one side of the part to the opposite side of the part. In other inspection techniques (such as x-ray backscatter techniques), x-rays reflected back from the part (e.g., backscattered x-rays) are detected and then used to generate an image or analysis of the part. The pattern and intensity of the x-rays depends on the material and organization of the part. Therefore, the pattern and intensity of the detected x-rays can be used to generate an image from which the quality, characteristics, or abnormalities of the part are determined.

[0004] Traditionally, x-ray beams used for inspection require the use of relatively large and heavy shields sufficient to block unwanted x-rays. The heavy shields include one or more holes. The shields are moved (e.g., rotated) to allow some x-rays to pass through the holes, thereby generating an x-ray beam shaped by the holes to inspect parts or other inspection targets. Due to the size and weight of the shields, applications are limited, and considerable effort is required to transport and position the equipment required for x-ray inspection trials. Summary of the invention

[0005] The subject matter of the present application has been developed in response to the prior art and in particular in response to the shortcomings of conventional x-ray inspection equipment that have not been fully addressed by currently available technology. Accordingly, the subject matter of the present application has been developed to provide x-ray inspection equipment with a flexible hole chain and associated devices, systems and methods that overcome at least some of the above-mentioned shortcomings of the prior art.

[0006] Disclosed herein is a device for forming an x-ray beam. The device includes a plurality of links pivotably coupled together in an end-to-end manner to form a continuous loop. The plurality of links include two or more links configured to block x-ray emission. The plurality of links also include one or more links including a hole configured to allow only a portion of the x-ray emission to pass through the hole. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 1 of the present disclosure.

[0007] The entire hole is formed in a connecting member. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 2 of the present disclosure, where Example 2 also includes the subject matter according to Example 1 above.

[0008] The hole is formed in two adjacent connecting members. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 3 of the present disclosure, where Example 3 also includes the subject matter according to any one of Examples 1 or 2 above.

[0009] A plurality of connecting members are pivotally coupled together at corresponding pivot axes, and the hole has a central axis perpendicular to the pivot axis. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 4 of the present disclosure, where Example 4 also includes the subject matter according to any one of Examples 1 to 3 above.

[0010] A plurality of connecting members are pivotally coupled together at corresponding pivot axes, and the hole has a central axis parallel to the pivot axis. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 5 of the present disclosure, where Example 5 also includes the subject matter according to any one of Examples 1 to 4 above.

[0011] One or more of the plurality of connecting members include an interface structure to facilitate interaction between one or more of the plurality of connecting members and drive or support features. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 6 of the present disclosure, where Example 6 also includes the subject matter according to any one of Examples 1 to 5 above.

[0012] One or more of the plurality of connecting members include an x-ray shielding layer. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 7 of the present disclosure, where Example 7 also includes the subject matter according to any one of Examples 1 to 6 above.

[0013] One or more of the plurality of connecting members include a wear layer. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 8 of the present disclosure, where Example 8 also includes the subject matter according to Example 7 above.

[0014] The device further includes a plurality of holes. One or more of the plurality of holes are separated from adjacent holes of the plurality of holes by at least two of the plurality of connecting members. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 9 of the present disclosure, where Example 9 also includes the subject matter according to any one of Examples 1 to 8 above.

[0015] The present disclosure also discloses a system for X-ray backscatter inspection. The system includes an X-ray emitter that includes an X-ray emission port and is configured to generate an X-ray emission that passes through the X-ray emission port. The system also includes a first flexible chain movably aligned with the X-ray emitter. The first flexible chain includes a plurality of connectors pivotally coupled together in a head-to-tail manner to form a continuous loop. The plurality of connectors includes two or more connectors configured to block the X-ray emission. The plurality of connectors also includes at least one connector that includes a hole configured to allow only a portion of the X-ray emission to pass through the hole. The system additionally includes a drive system coupled to the X-ray emitter in engagement with the first flexible chain. The drive system is operable to advance the hole of the first flexible chain along the X-ray emission port. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 10 of the present disclosure.

[0016] The system also includes a second flexible chain. The second flexible chain is aligned with the first flexible chain at the X-ray emission port to form a composite hole. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 11 of the present disclosure, where Example 11 also includes the subject matter according to Example 10 above.

[0017] The X-ray emission port extends in a longitudinal direction. The drive system advances the first flexible chain along the X-ray emission port in the longitudinal direction. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 12 of the present disclosure, where Example 12 also includes the subject matter according to any one of Examples 10 and 11 above.

[0018] The present disclosure additionally discloses an X-ray manipulation method for X-ray inspection. The method includes generating an X-ray emission; and receiving the X-ray emission at a flexible chain. The method also includes advancing the flexible chain along the X-ray emission to align the hole of the flexible chain with the X-ray emission. The method additionally includes allowing only a portion of the X-ray emission to pass through the hole to form an X-ray beam. The method also includes using the flexible chain to block the X-ray emission that does not pass through the hole. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 13 of the present disclosure.

[0019] Advancing the flexible chain includes driving the flexible chain in a continuous loop. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 14 of the present disclosure, where Example 14 also includes the subject matter according to Example 13 above.

[0020] Advancing the flexible chain further includes aligning the hole with the X-ray emission port of the X-ray emitter. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 15 of the present disclosure, where Example 15 also includes the subject matter according to any one of Examples 13 and 14 above.

[0021] The advancing flexible chain includes rasterizing the portion that emits x-rays along a scan path through the x-ray emission apertures. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 16 of the present disclosure, where Example 16 also includes the subject matter according to any one of Examples 13 to 15 above.

[0022] The advancing flexible chain includes guiding the flexible chain using one or more guiding structures. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 17 of the present disclosure, where Example 17 also includes the subject matter according to any one of Examples 13 to 16 above.

[0023] The method further includes directing an x-ray beam to an inspection target. The method further includes detecting a portion of the x-ray beam affected by the inspection target. The method additionally includes determining a characteristic of the inspection target based on the detected portion of the x-ray beam. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 18 of the present disclosure, where Example 18 also includes the subject matter according to any one of Examples 13 to 17 above.

[0024] The detected portion of the x-ray beam includes x-ray energy backscattered by the inspection target. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 19 of the present disclosure, where Example 19 also includes the subject matter according to Example 18 above.

[0025] The detected portion of the x-ray beam includes x-ray energy that passes through the inspection target. The foregoing subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 20 of the present disclosure, where Example 20 also includes the subject matter according to any one of Examples 18 and 19 above.

[0026] The features, structures, advantages, and / or characteristics of the subject matter of the present disclosure may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments and / or implementations. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to give a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the subject matter of the present disclosure may be practiced without one or more of the specific features, details, components, materials, and / or methods of a particular embodiment or implementation. In other instances, additional features and advantages that may not be present in all embodiments or implementations may be recognized in certain embodiments and / or implementations. Additionally, in some instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the subject matter of the present disclosure. The features and advantages of the subject matter of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the subject matter as described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] To more easily understand the advantages of the subject matter, a more particular description of the above briefly described subject matter will be presented by reference to specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the subject matter and are not to be considered limiting of its scope, and the subject matter will be described and explained with additional features and details by using the drawings, in which:

[0028] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a flexible chain device for forming an x-ray beam according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the device is positioned to surround an x-ray emitter;

[0029] Figure 2 is according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 of a system, wherein the flexible chain is positioned on one side of the x-ray emitter;

[0030] Figure 3 is according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 of a perspective view of a plurality of different connectors of a flexible chain, wherein each of the plurality of different connectors has a hole;

[0031] Figure 4 is according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 of a perspective view of a plurality of similar connectors of a flexible chain, wherein holes are formed in the plurality of similar connectors;

[0032] Figure 5 is according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 of a perspective view of a plurality of connectors of a flexible chain, wherein the hole is formed by two adjacent connectors;

[0033] Figure 6 is according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 2 of a perspective view of a plurality of connectors of a flexible chain, wherein vertical holes are formed in the connectors;

[0034] Figure 7 is according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 2 of a perspective view of a plurality of connectors of a flexible chain, wherein the vertical holes are formed by two adjacent connectors;

[0035] Figure 8 is according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3 and Figure 4 a cross-sectional view of a connector among a plurality of connectors; and

[0036] Figure 9 is a flowchart of a method for forming an x-ray beam for x-ray inspection according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation Modes

[0037] References in this specification to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", or similar language mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The phrases "one embodiment", "an embodiment", or similar language that appear in this specification may all refer to the same embodiment, but not necessarily all. Similarly, the use of the term "implementation mode" means an implementation mode having a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. However, without an explicit correlation to indicate otherwise, the implementation mode may be associated with one or more embodiments.

[0038] Reference Figure 1 shows a system 100 for X-ray backscatter inspection. In the illustrated embodiment, the system 100 includes an X-ray emitter 102. The X-ray emitter 102 includes an X-ray emission port 103. The system 100 also includes a power supply 101, a cathode 105, and an anode 107. The cathode 105 and the anode 107 are connected to the power supply 101. The cathode 105 is selectively operable to generate an electron emission 115 that is received at the anode 107. The anode 107 receives the electron emission 115 from the cathode 105 and generates an initial X-ray 117. In the illustrated representation, the anode 107 of the system 100 is a rotating anode. However, in other representations, the anode 107 of the system 100 does not rotate. The anode 107 may be a tungsten anode coupled to a rotor or other features to facilitate relative rotation between the anode 107 and the cathode 105.

[0039] The initial raw X-ray 117 is directed towards the emission port 103. The emission port 103 allows the X-ray emission 104 to separate from the initial raw X-ray 117 and exit the X-ray emitter 102, while a separate portion of the initial raw X-ray 117 is blocked by the X-ray emitter 102. A device in the form of a flexible chain 106 is aligned with the X-ray emitter 102 to at least partially block the X-ray emission 104 from the X-ray emission port 103. The flexible chain 106 includes holes 110 formed in the flexible chain 106. The holes 110 allow a portion of the X-ray emission 104 to pass through to form an X-ray beam 112.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the x-ray emission port 103 is a slit formed in one side of the x-ray emitter 102 (e.g., one side of the housing of the x-ray emitter 102). As shown, the x-ray emission port 103 may be elongated in the longitudinal direction. The length of the x-ray emission port 103 may correspond to the length of the scan path 113, and the flexible chain 106 may guide the x-ray beam 112 along the scan path 113. The length of the x-ray emission port 103 may be adjustable to reduce or increase the projection angle of the available x-ray emission 104. The flexible chain 106 is aligned to receive the x-ray emission 104 and blocks the x-ray emission 104 except for the x-ray emission 104 that forms and passes through the x-ray beam 112 from the through-hole 110.

[0041] The flexible chain 106 is aligned with the x-ray emission port 103 of the x-ray emitter 102 by the guiding structure 108. The flexible chain 106 is sized and positioned to receive substantially all of the x-ray emission 104 passing through the x-ray emission port 103. The width of the flexible chain 106 may depend on the size of the x-ray emission port 103, the angle (or spread) of the x-ray emission 104 leaving the x-ray emission port 103, the distance of the flexible chain 106 from the x-ray emission port 103, and so on.

[0042] The flexible chain 106 may be advanced by the drive system 109 to change the relative position of the hole 110 to rasterize the x-ray beam 112 along the scan path 113. The flexible chain 106 may be advanced in a single direction or in multiple directions to move the x-ray beam 112 along the scan path 113. In some embodiments, the movement of the flexible chain 106 is controlled based on a scan command or in response to another scan input received at the system 100.

[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, the scan path 113 corresponds to the inspection target 120. When the x-ray beam 112 impinges on the inspection target 120, the backscattered x-ray 122 is reflected by a portion (e.g., the surface or a certain internal region) of the inspection target 120. The backscattered x-ray 122 is detected at the backscatter detector 124 to determine the quality or characteristics of the inspection target 120. A portion of the x-ray beam 112 may also pass through the inspection target 120 to form a transmission x-ray 126. The transmission x-ray 126 may be detected by the transmission detector 128 to determine the characteristics of the inspection target 120. The backscatter inspection and the transmission inspection may be used together or be mutually exclusive.

[0044] As Figure 1As shown, the guiding structure 108 for the flexible chain 106 can be positioned near the corner or edge of the X-ray emitter 102. The guiding structure 108 can include wheels, slide rails, rollers, etc. The guiding structure 108 can be adjustable or apply a force to the flexible chain 106 to provide tension to the flexible chain 106 to adjust the position of the flexible chain 106, etc. The flexible chain 106 is held in alignment by the guiding structure 108 and is advanced by the drive system 109. The drive system 109 applies a driving force to the flexible chain 106 to advance the flexible chain 106 in one or two directions across the X-ray emission port 103. The drive system 109 can advance the flexible chain 106 at a specific rate based on the detection technology using the X-ray emitter 102 or in response to commands or inputs provided to the system 100.

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible chain 106 is positioned to surround the X-ray emitter 102. In some embodiments, the flexible chain 106 forms a continuous loop without ends. In other embodiments, the flexible chain 106 is a section of chain having a first end and a second end. The first end and the second end can be managed by a chain management system (such as one or more reels, containers, etc.). In some embodiments, the drive system 109 is incorporated into one or more components of the chain management system to advance the flexible chain 106.

[0046] Although the X-ray emitter 102 is shown as having a rectangular geometry, the flexible chain 106 can accommodate X-ray emitters 102 of a range of sizes and geometries. Additionally, the flexible chain 106 has a relatively small profile size and is lightweight, which facilitates reducing the size and weight of the system 100 to improve portability and reduce the cost of the system 100.

[0047] As shown, the flexible chain 106 can be entirely disposed outside the X-ray emitter 102. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the flexible chain 106 is disposed inside the X-ray emitter 102. In some embodiments, one or more of the drive system 109 and the guiding structure 108 can be disposed inside the X-ray emitter 102.

[0048] The holes 110 in the flexible chain 106 can form the X-ray beam 112 to have a specific cross-sectional geometry. The flexible chain 106 can have multiple holes 110. The holes 110 in the flexible chain 106 can be the same as each other. Alternatively, one or more of the holes 110 in the flexible chain 106 can be different from the other holes 110 in terms of one or more of size, shape, orientation, etc.

[0049] In some embodiments, multiple flexible chains 106 may overlap and synchronize to align multiple holes 110 at the x-ray emission port 103 to generate an x-ray beam 112. The x-ray beam 112 may have a specific cross-sectional geometry based on the alignment of the holes 110 of the multiple flexible chains 106.

[0050] Figure 2 Yes Figure 1 is a perspective view of the system 100, where the flexible chains 106 are all disposed on the same side of the x-ray emitter 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible chains 106 form a square path around the guide structure 108. In other embodiments, the flexible chains 106 surround fewer or more guide structures 108 to form a path with other geometries. For example, the flexible chains 106 may be assembled to three guide structures to form a triangular path. In another example, the flexible chains 106 may be assembled on two guide structures 108 to form a reciprocating path similar to a drive chain.

[0051] One or more of the guide structures 108 may be coupled to a drive system 109 to advance the flexible chains 106. Some or all of the guide structures 108 may be adjustable with respect to the distance between each other and / or the distance from the x-ray emitter 102. One or more of the guide structures 108 may be biased by springs or other force applicators to apply a tension force on the flexible chains 106. This may compensate for chain stretching, thermal expansion, wear, different chain lengths, etc. Additional functions may be incorporated into one or more of the guide structures 108, such as chain cleaning, cooling, lubrication, vibration damping, etc.

[0052] Figure 3 Yes Figure 1 is a perspective view of multiple connectors 300 of the flexible chain 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the multiple connectors 300 include a first connector 302 and a second connector 304 that are different from each other. Although the illustrated embodiment includes two different connector types, other embodiments may include more than two different connector types.

[0053] Each of the first connector 302 and the second connector 304 is pivotally coupled to each other in a head-to-tail manner. Each first connector 302 is pivotally coupled to two second connectors 304; one second connector 304 is located at one end of the first connector 302, and the other second connector 304 is located at the other end of the first connector 302. The first connector and the second connector are coupled together at a pivot axis 306. Each of the first connector 302 and the second connector 304 has a single degree of freedom about the corresponding pivot axis 306. The pivot axis 306 may correspond to a pin or other coupling component that pivotally couples the connectors 302 and 304 to each other.

[0054] Although each of the first connector 302 and the second connector 304 is shown as separated by a gap, the separation is for clarity only. Except for the holes 110, embodiments of the flexible chain 106 form a complete barrier relative to the x-ray emission 104 incident on the flexible chain 106. The flexible chain 106 is shaped to form a continuous barrier at the junction between the connectors 302 and 304 such that relatively no x-ray emission 104 is allowed to pass between the connectors 302 and 304 except at the formed holes 110. The junction between the connectors 302 and 304 may be shielded by an overlap or other protrusion. The junction may also include angles, bevels, curved regions, etc. to prevent or reduce any gaps or pass-throughs in the junction through which the x-ray emission 104 can pass.

[0055] Each of the first connector 302 and the second connector 304 includes a hole 110 formed in the corresponding top surface 305 of the first connector 302 and the second connector 304. The holes 110 may be similar or different from each other. The holes 110 may be formed in each of the connectors 302 and 304 as shown, or may be separated by a plurality of connectors 302 and 304 without holes 110. The holes 110 may be formed in the centers of the corresponding connectors 302 and 304, or may be formed eccentrically. When formed in the top surfaces 305 of the connectors 302 and 304, the central axis 111 of each hole 110 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis 306.

[0056] Regarding Figure 4 , a plurality of connectors 300 are shown. The plurality of connectors 300 shown includes similar connectors 308. In this embodiment, each of the similar connectors 308 is similar in at least one of shape and size. A hole 110 is formed in the front surface 305 of the connector 308. The hole 110 is disposed in the center of the front surface 305, but may be disposed eccentrically. In the embodiment shown, the hole 110 is circular. Alternatively, the hole 110 may be elliptical, rectangular, etc.

[0057] In some embodiments, the pivot axis 306 allows a full range of motion between corresponding connectors 308 among the plurality of connectors 300. The connectors 308 may also limit the range of movement about the pivot axis 306. For example, the connector 308 may be configured to allow relative pivoting of the connector 308 in a direction opposite to the front surface 305, but may limit relative pivoting of the connector 308 in a direction toward the front surface 305.

[0058] Regarding Figure 5, the hole 110 is formed jointly by a first contributing connector 308A and a second contributing connector 308B. The hole 110 includes a first hole portion 110A corresponding to the first contributing connector 308A and a second hole portion 110B corresponding to the second contributing connector 308B. In the illustrated embodiment, the first hole portion 110A is the same mirror image of the second hole portion 110B. Alternatively, one of the first hole portion 110A and the second hole portion 110B may be different from the other. In other words, the first hole portion 110A and the second hole portion 110B may have different sizes, shapes, or positions relative to the other.

[0059] In some embodiments, at least one of the first hole portion 110A and the second hole portion 110B of the hole 110 may coincide with the pivot axis 306, while in other embodiments, at least one of the first hole portion 110A and the second hole portion 110B may be offset from the pivot axis 306. The first contributing connector 308A may be similar to or different from the second contributing connector 308B. Additionally, one or more of the first contributing connector 308A and the second contributing connector 308B may include lips, bends, or other features to provide complete shielding of the x-ray emission 104 from the x-ray emitter 102 to prevent x-rays other than those passing through the hole 110 from passing through the connectors 308A and 308B.

[0060] Reference Figure 6 , the illustrated embodiment of the plurality of connectors 300 includes holes 110 formed in the side surfaces 312 of each connector 310 of the plurality of connectors 300. The holes 110 are aligned to have a central axis 111 of the holes 110 parallel to the pivot axis 306. This positioning of the holes 110 on the side surfaces 312 of the plurality of connectors 300 may facilitate Figure 2 the flexible chain arrangement shown.

[0061] Now refer to Figure 7 , holes 110 are formed in the side surfaces 312 of the plurality of connectors 300. The holes 110 are formed jointly by a first contributing connector 310A and a second contributing connector 310B. The holes 110 extend through both the first contributing connector 310A and the second contributing connector 310B. The holes 110 include a first hole portion 110A corresponding to the first contributing connector 310A and a second hole portion 110B corresponding to the second contributing connector 310B. In the illustrated embodiment, the first hole portion 110A is the same mirror image of the second hole portion 110B. Alternatively, one of the first hole portion 110A and the second hole portion 110B may be different from the other. In other words, the first hole portion 110A and the second hole portion 110B may have different sizes, shapes, or positions relative to the other. As with Figure 6 the embodiment shown in Figure 7The holes 110 are commonly formed in the first contributing connector 310A and the second contributing connector 310B to have a central axis 111 of the holes 110 parallel to the pivot axis 306.

[0062] Figure 8 shows Figure 3 and Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the connector 800 of the plurality of connectors 300. The connector 800 includes a wear layer 802 and an x-ray shielding layer 804. Since wear may be more present on one side of the connector 800, one of the wear layers 802 may be omitted or have a reduced thickness. As shown, the wear layer 802 can improve the wear characteristics of the connector 800. Additionally, the wear layer 802 can improve the strength of the connector 800. Although the wear layer 802 is shown laminated to the shielding layer 804, the wear layer 802 can also extend to at least partially encapsulate or surround the shielding layer 804.

[0063] The x-ray shielding layer 804 can include lead or another material, and its thickness is sufficient to shield or block x-rays from passing through the connector 800 except for x-rays passing through the holes 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the x-ray shielding layer 804 and the wear layer 802 are planar. Each of the wear layer 802 and the x-ray shielding layer 804 can also be non-planar. The holes 110 are openings extending through the x-ray shielding layer 804 and the wear layer 802. The holes 110 can also be formed only in the x-ray shielding layer 804.

[0064] The connector 800 also includes a pivot point 806. The pivot point 806 is shown at either end of the connector 800. The pivot point 806 allows the connector 800 to pivot relative to another connector (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the pivot point 806 is positioned within the x-ray shielding layer 804. Alternatively, the pivot point 806 can be positioned within one or both of the wear layers 802A and 802B.

[0065] The connector 800 further includes an engagement structure 807. The engagement structure 807 is provided on the side of the connector 800 where the drive system 109 or the guide structure 108 of the connector 800 abuts. The engagement structure 807 is shown protruding outward from the connector 800. However, the engagement structure 807 can be a notch, ridge, tooth, groove, texture, or other surface feature of the connector 800 to facilitate the interaction between the connector 800 and at least one of the drive system 109 and the guide structure 108.

[0066] Refer to Figure 9, which shows a method 900 for forming an x-ray beam for x-ray inspection. The method 900 includes, at 902, generating x-ray emissions. Additionally, the method 900 includes, at 904, receiving the x-ray emissions at a flexible chain. The method 900 further includes, at 906, advancing the flexible chain along the x-ray emissions to align the holes of the flexible chain with the x-ray emissions. The method 900 also includes, at 908, allowing a portion of the x-ray emissions to pass through at least one hole to form an x-ray beam. Additionally, the method 900 includes, at 910, using the flexible chain to block the x-ray emissions that do not pass through at least one hole.

[0067] In the above description, certain terms such as "upper", "lower", "upper part", "lower part", "horizontal", "vertical", "left", "right", "above", "below", etc. may be used. Where applicable, these terms are used to provide some clarity in dealing with relative relationships. However, these terms are not intended to imply absolute relationships, positions, and / or orientations. For example, for an object, just by turning the object over, the "upper" surface can become the "lower" surface. Nevertheless, it is still the same object. Additionally, unless otherwise explicitly specified, the terms "including", "comprising", "having" and their variants mean "including but not limited to". Unless otherwise explicitly specified, a list of enumerated items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and / or mutually inclusive. Unless otherwise explicitly specified, the terms "a", "an" and "the" also refer to "one or more". Additionally, the term "plurality" can be defined as "at least two".

[0068] Additionally, examples of one element "coupled" to another element in this specification may include direct coupling and indirect coupling. Direct coupling can be defined as one element being coupled to another element and in contact with the other element. Indirect coupling can be defined as a coupling between two elements where the two elements are not in direct contact with each other but there is one or more additional elements between the coupled elements. Additionally, as used herein, fixing one element to another element may include direct fixing and indirect fixing. Additionally, as used herein, "adjacent" does not necessarily mean in contact. For example, one element can be adjacent to another element without being in contact with that element.

[0069] As used herein, the phrase "at least one of" when used with a list of items means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items can be used and only one of the items in the list may be required. The items can be particular objects, things, or categories. In other words, "at least one of" means any combination or any number of items from the list can be used, but not all of the items in the list may be required. For example, "at least one of item A, item B, and item C" can mean item A; item A and item B; item B; item A, item B, and item C; or item B and item C. In some cases, "at least one of item A, item B, and item C" can mean, for example but not limited to, two of item A, one of item B, and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; or some other suitable combination.

[0070] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "first", "second", etc. are used herein only as labels and are not intended to impose an order, position, or hierarchical requirement on the items to which these terms refer. In addition, a reference to, for example, a "second" item does not require or preclude the presence of, for example, a "first" or lower-numbered item and / or a "third" or higher-numbered item.

[0071] As used herein, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware "configured to" perform a specified function is capable of performing the specified function without any change, rather than merely having the potential to perform the specified function after further modification. In other words, for the purpose of performing the specified function, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware "configured to" perform the specified function is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and / or designed. As used herein, "configured to" represents an existing characteristic of a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware that enables the system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware to perform the specified function without further modification. For the purposes of the present disclosure, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware described as "configured to" perform a particular function may alternatively or additionally be described as "adapted to" and / or "operable to" perform the function.

[0072] Additionally, the present disclosure includes embodiments in accordance with the following clauses:

[0073] Clause 1. An apparatus for forming an x-ray beam, the apparatus comprising:

[0074] A plurality of connectors pivotally coupled together end-to-end to form a continuous loop, wherein the plurality of connectors includes:

[0075] Two or more connectors configured to block x-ray emission; and

[0076] One or more connecting members including holes, the holes being configured to allow only a portion of the x-ray emission to pass through the holes.

[0077] Clause 2. The apparatus according to clause 1, wherein the entire hole is formed in one connecting member.

[0078] Clause 3. The apparatus according to clause 1, wherein the hole is formed in two adjacent connecting members.

[0079] Clause 4. The apparatus according to any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein a plurality of connecting members are pivotally coupled together at corresponding pivot axes, and the holes have central axes perpendicular to the pivot axes.

[0080] Clause 5. The apparatus according to any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein a plurality of connecting members are pivotally coupled together at corresponding pivot axes, and the holes have central axes parallel to the pivot axes.

[0081] Clause 6. The apparatus according to any one of clauses 1 to 5, wherein one or more of the plurality of connecting members include engagement structures to facilitate interaction between one or more of the plurality of connecting members and drive or support features.

[0082] Clause 7. The apparatus according to any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein one or more of the plurality of connecting members include an x-ray shielding layer.

[0083] Clause 8. The apparatus according to clause 7, wherein one or more of the plurality of connecting members include a wear layer.

[0084] Clause 9. The apparatus according to any one of clauses 1 to 8, the apparatus further including a plurality of holes, wherein one or more of the plurality of holes are separated from adjacent holes of the plurality of holes by at least two of the plurality of connecting members.

[0085] Clause 10. A system for x-ray backscatter inspection, the system including:

[0086] An x-ray emitter, including an x-ray emission port and configured to generate an x-ray emission passing through the x-ray emission port;

[0087] A first flexible chain, movably aligned with the x-ray emitter and including a plurality of connecting members pivotally coupled together end-to-end to form a continuous loop, wherein the plurality of connecting members include:

[0088] Two or more connecting members configured to block the x-ray emission; and

[0089] At least one connecting member including a hole, the hole being configured to allow only a part of the x-ray emission to pass through the hole; and

[0090] A drive system, operatively coupled to the x-ray emitter in engagement with the first flexible chain, wherein the drive system is operable to advance the hole of the first flexible chain along the x-ray emission port.

[0091] Clause 11. The system according to clause 10, further comprising a second flexible chain, wherein the second flexible chain is aligned with the first flexible chain at the x-ray emission port to form a composite hole.

[0092] Clause 12. The system according to any one of clauses 10 and 11, wherein the x-ray emission port is elongated in the longitudinal direction, and wherein the drive system advances the first flexible chain along the x-ray emission port in the longitudinal direction.

[0093] Clause 13. An x-ray manipulation method for x-ray inspection, the method comprising:

[0094] Generating x-ray emission;

[0095] Receiving the x-ray emission at the flexible chain;

[0096] Advancing the flexible chain along the x-ray emission to align the hole of the flexible chain with the x-ray emission;

[0097] Allowing only a part of the x-ray emission to pass through the hole to form an x-ray beam; and

[0098] Blocking the x-ray emission that does not pass through the hole by the flexible chain.

[0099] Clause 14. The method according to clause 13, wherein advancing the flexible chain includes driving the flexible chain in a continuous loop.

[0100] Clause 15. The method according to any one of clauses 13 and 14, wherein advancing the flexible chain further includes aligning the hole with the x-ray emission port of the x-ray emitter.

[0101] Clause 16. The method according to any one of clauses 13 - 15, wherein advancing the flexible chain includes advancing the hole through the x-ray emission to rasterize the portion of the x-ray emission along a scan path.

[0102] Clause 17. The method according to any one of clauses 13 - 16, wherein advancing the flexible chain includes guiding the flexible chain using one or more guiding structures.

[0103] Clause 18. The method according to any one of clauses 13 - 17, the method further comprising:

[0104] Direct an x-ray beam to an examination object;

[0105] Detect a portion of the x-ray beam affected by the examination object; and

[0106] Determine characteristics of the examination object based on the detected portion of the x-ray beam.

[0107] Clause 19. The method according to Clause 18, wherein the detected portion of the x-ray beam includes x-ray energy backscattered by the examination object.

[0108] Clause 20. The method according to any one of Clauses 18 and 19, wherein the detected portion of the x-ray beam includes x-ray energy passing through the examination object.

[0109] Without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the subject matter, the subject matter may be embodied in other specific forms. The embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. All changes falling within the meaning and scope of the equivalent of the claims are to be included within their scope.

Claims

1. A system (100) for X-ray backscatter inspection, the system (100) comprising: an X-ray emitter (102), the X-ray emitter including an X-ray emission port (103) and configured to generate an X-ray emission (104) passing through the X-ray emission port (103); a first flexible chain (106), the first flexible chain being movably aligned with the X-ray emitter (102) and including a plurality of connecting members (302, 304, 308, 310), the plurality of connecting members being pivotally coupled together end-to-end to form a continuous loop, wherein the plurality of connecting members (302, 304, 308, 310) include: two or more connecting members configured to block the X-ray emission (104); and one or more connecting members (302, 304, 308, 310) including a hole (110), the hole being configured to allow only a portion of the X-ray emission (104) to pass through the hole (110) to form an X-ray beam (112), wherein the hole (110) is formed in two adjacent connecting members (110A / 110B), the plurality of connecting members (302, 304, 308, 310) being pivotally coupled together at corresponding pivot axes (306), and the hole (110) having a central axis parallel to the pivot axis (306); and a drive system (109), the drive system being engaged with the first flexible chain (106) and coupled to the X-ray emitter (102), wherein the drive system (109) is operable to advance the hole (110) of the first flexible chain (106) along the X-ray emission port (103), thereby changing the relative position of the hole (110) to rasterize the X-ray beam (112) along a scan path (113).

2. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein one or more of the plurality of connecting members (302, 304, 308, 310) include engagement structures to facilitate interaction between the one or more of the plurality of connecting members (302, 304, 308, 310) and drive or support features.

3. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the system further includes a second flexible chain, wherein the second flexible chain is aligned with the first flexible chain (106) at the X-ray emission port (103) to form a composite hole.

4. An X-ray manipulation method for X-ray inspection, the method comprising: generating an X-ray emission (104); receiving the X-ray emission (104) at a flexible chain (106); advancing the flexible chain (106) along the X-ray emission (104) to align a hole (110) of the flexible chain (106) with the X-ray emission (104); allowing only a portion of the X-ray emission (104) to pass through the hole (110) to form an X-ray beam (112); and Use the flexible chain (106) to block the x-ray emission (104) that does not pass through the hole (110). The flexible chain (106) includes: A plurality of connecting members (302, 304, 308, 310) that are pivotally coupled together in a head-to-tail manner to form a continuous loop, wherein the plurality of connecting members (302, 304, 308, 310) includes: Two or more connecting members configured to block x-ray emission (104); and One or more connecting members (302, 304, 308, 310) including a hole (110) configured to allow only a portion of the x-ray emission (104) to pass through the hole (110), wherein the hole (110) is formed in two adjacent connecting members (110A / 110B), the plurality of connecting members (302, 304, 308, 310) are pivotally coupled together at corresponding pivot axes (306), and the hole (110) has a central axis parallel to the pivot axis (306). Advancing the flexible chain (106) includes advancing the hole (110) through the x-ray emission (104) to rasterize the x-ray beam (112) along a scan path (113).

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein advancing the flexible chain (106) includes driving the flexible chain (106) in a continuous loop.

6. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 5, wherein advancing the flexible chain (106) further includes aligning the hole (110) with the x-ray emission port (103) of the x-ray emitter (102).

7. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 5, further comprising: Directing the x-ray beam to an inspection target; Detecting a portion of the x-ray beam affected by the inspection target; And Determining characteristics of the inspection target based on the detected portion of the x-ray beam.

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