Radiation detector and radiation inspection apparatus comprising the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a radiation detector including a bendable radiation detection panel and a radiation inspection apparatus including the same. The radiation detector includes a radiation detection panel which is flexible, extends in a first direction, and detects radiation incident to a first surface, and a bend support unit which is plate-shaped, disposed on a second surface opposite to the first surface of the radiation detection panel to support the radiation detection panel, and has flexibility. The flexibility of the bend support unit is less than that of the radiation detection panel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a radiation detector and a radiation testing device including the radiation detector, and more specifically, to a radiation detector including a bendable radiation detection panel and a radiation testing device including the radiation detector. Background Technology

[0002] Non-destructive inspection refers to measurement techniques used as a means of quality control and quality assurance for materials, equipment, and structures. It allows for the testing of the presence and condition of surface and internal defects, as well as the characteristics and internal structure of an object, without damaging, separating, or destroying it, but rather maintaining its original shape.

[0003] In other words, nondestructive testing is a special method that uses physical phenomena such as ultrasound, radiation, and eddy currents to determine the presence, condition, or characteristics of defects, internal structure, etc., without destroying, separating, or damaging the object (such as a material or product).

[0004] The primary purpose of non-destructive testing is to improve reliability. In addition, non-destructive testing makes it possible to reduce defect rates during the manufacturing stage, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and improving manufacturing technology.

[0005] There are various types of nondestructive testing, but radiographic testing (RT) is the most commonly used.

[0006] The main applications of radiographic inspection (RT) include electrical and electronic, metal, aerospace, industrial equipment, and security. This type of inspection is also used in the quality control process of printed circuit board manufacturing, electrical and electronic inspection of solder joints, copper wires, bonding pads, etc., and metal inspection (e.g., cracks, porosity, and foreign matter in materials).

[0007] In addition, radiographic inspection is used to detect damage to the internal structures of aircraft, and turbine blades, composite materials, and similar materials are primarily subjected to this type of inspection. Furthermore, this inspection is widely used for pipe welding line inspection in nuclear and general power generation facilities, and is carried out using a crawler that delivers a radiation source along the inner surface of the pipe to image the weld condition.

[0008] Specifically, in radiation nondestructive testing, pipe weld inspection is used to check for defects such as porosity, slag mixing, cracks, poor fusion, incomplete penetration, root concavity, and undercut.

[0009] According to related technologies, a method is widely used in which radiation is passed through an object to form an image on a radiation detection panel (e.g., a film or glass-type thin-film transistor (TFT)) to inspect for defects inside the object. Here, when the object is irradiated, differences in the amount of transmitted radiation occur due to density differences that vary according to the object's shape and thickness. Therefore, the light sensitivity of the radiation detection panel (sensor panel) varies. This light sensitivity of the radiation detection panel generates a density difference, and thus, a specific image of the object (or a contrast difference for each part) is obtained. Therefore, since the contrast of the defective portion appears darker than that of the normal portion during image evaluation, the location and size of the defect can be confirmed.

[0010] As a method for inspecting pipe welds, analog radiography (AR) or computed radiography (CR) has been used. In AR or CR imaging, after acquiring the evaluation image, separate developer and other accessories are required for development. Therefore, additional imaging can only be performed after the image plate (IP) is read and erased following the initial imaging of the object, thus limiting cost, time, and efficiency. Furthermore, in AR or CR imaging, images can be acquired by deforming the image plate or flexible film according to the shape of a cylindrical object (e.g., a pipe). However, due to the inherent marks of the IP cassette and the thickness of the object, image correction is impossible, making it difficult for the operator (or user) to easily detect defects. Additionally, in CR-type radiation detection, the radiation energy emitted to the object is stored in the IP cassette and can be developed using a separate reader between image confirmations. Therefore, a separate developer must be provided, image acquisition time is delayed, and efficiency is degraded.

[0011] To address these limitations, digital radiography (DR) inspection techniques using flat panel detectors have recently been introduced. While digital imaging methods based on these techniques offer improvements in cost and efficiency, the materials and structure of the radiation detection panel (glass) and other components such as mechanisms and hardware lack flexibility outside of the area in contact with it. Consequently, when capturing images of objects with curvature, distorted images are obtained. This makes it difficult to properly evaluate the distorted portions, and multiple image captures are necessary for accurate evaluation.

[0012] (Patent Document 1) Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2002-0081074 Summary of the Invention

[0013] Technical issues

[0014] The present invention provides a radiation detector capable of maintaining the bent state of a radiation detection panel and a radiation testing device including the radiation detector.

[0015] Technical solutions

[0016] A radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a radiation detection panel that is flexible, extends in a first direction, and detects radiation incident on the first surface; and a bending support unit that is plate-shaped, disposed on a second surface of the radiation detection panel opposite to the first surface to support the radiation detection panel, and is flexible, wherein the flexibility of the bending support unit is less than the flexibility of the radiation detection panel.

[0017] The radiation detector may further include a bending adjustment unit connected to a bending support unit, which adjusts the bending of the radiation detection panel relative to a bending axis parallel to a second direction that intersects the first direction.

[0018] The radiation detector may further include a plurality of folded plates disposed on a second surface of the radiation detection panel, extending in a second direction and arranged in a first direction.

[0019] The radiation detector may further include a body unit, to which at least a portion of the plurality of folded panels is fixed, wherein the radiation detection panel is bent relative to the body unit.

[0020] The main body unit may include an electronic component box in which electronic circuitry for driving the radiation detection panel is installed.

[0021] The bending adjustment unit may include: a first connecting portion, one side of which is connected to one side of the bending support unit; and a second connecting portion, the other side of which is connected to the other side of the bending support unit.

[0022] The bending adjustment unit may further include a first hinge and a second hinge spaced apart from each other, and the other side of the first connecting portion and the said side of the second connecting portion are respectively connected to the first hinge and the second hinge, wherein the first connecting portion rotates about the first hinge as a rotation axis, and the second connecting portion rotates about the second hinge as a rotation axis.

[0023] Each of the first and second hinges may have a hinge disc.

[0024] The other side of the first connecting portion and the said side of the second connecting portion may be movable to adjust the distance between them.

[0025] The bending adjustment unit may further include: a first latch disposed on the other side of the first connecting portion; a second latch disposed on one side of the second connecting portion; and a plurality of latch grooves arranged in the movement direction of the other side of the first connecting portion and the one side of the second connecting portion.

[0026] The bending adjustment unit may further include a latch driver that adjusts the locking and releasing of the first latch and the second latch.

[0027] The latch driver may include: a connecting member connected to a first latch and a second latch, respectively; and a resilient member configured to provide a resilient force to the connecting member.

[0028] The bending adjustment unit may further include: a first moving gear connected to the other side of the first connecting portion; a second moving gear connected to one side of the second connecting portion; and a drive gear configured to mesh with the first moving gear and the second moving gear respectively to move the first moving gear and the second moving gear.

[0029] The radiation detector may further include a housing that accommodates the radiation detection panel and has a radiation-transmissive region on the surface facing the radiation detection panel.

[0030] The radiation transmission area of ​​the housing may include a curved surface, and the radiation detection panel may be bent along the curved surface of the radiation transmission area and may be fixed to the housing.

[0031] The housing may include an electronic component box on one side in the first direction, in which electronic circuitry for driving the radiation detection panel is mounted.

[0032] A radiation testing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention includes: a radiation generating unit configured to irradiate an object with radiation; and a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present invention for detecting radiation passing through the object.

[0033] An object may be positioned between the radiation generating unit and the radiation detector, and the bending adjustment unit may be configured to adjust the bending of the radiation detector panel according to the curvature of the surface of the object facing the radiation detector panel.

[0034] Beneficial effects

[0035] In the radiation detector according to embodiments of the present invention, a flexible bending support unit, smaller than that of a flexible radiation detection panel, supports the radiation detection panel, guides the bending of the radiation detection panel, and helps maintain the bent state of the radiation detection panel. Furthermore, a bending adjustment unit connected to the bending support unit can be used to adjust the bending of the radiation detection panel, allowing the radiation detection panel to bend to form a specific curved surface and maintain the bent state at a specific angle. Therefore, radiographic images of various objects with various curvatures can be acquired quickly. Thus, for objects with any curvature, distortion-free images can be acquired in real time, and the acquired high-quality images can be used to directly read test and diagnostic results on-site. In other words, during non-destructive testing of cracks that may appear in various types of structures or foreign objects that may be contained in mass-produced foods such as canned goods, images of superior quality can be obtained by utilizing the bendable characteristics of the radiation detection panel compared to images from a flat-panel radiation detector according to related technologies.

[0036] Furthermore, the radiation detection panel is formed based on flexible organic semiconductors and is easily scalable, thus simultaneously overcoming the limitations of high cost and low yield caused by complex processes (a long-standing limitation of planar radiation detectors based on related technologies). This enables the commercialization of high-performance, large-scale digital radiographic detectors. Additionally, by using organic material technology, radiation (e.g., X-rays) is converted into electrical signals within the radiation detection panel. Therefore, with the development of radiation detection panels with low drive voltages, production costs are reduced, and thin, lightweight radiation detectors can be manufactured through low-voltage circuit designs.

[0037] In addition, the multiple folding plates prevent the radiation detection panel from bending and being damaged sharply, and allow each pixel in the radiation detection panel to remain flat and as unbent as possible.

[0038] Therefore, the flexible bending support unit is bent by the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion respectively connected to both sides of the bending support unit, and thus, the radiation detection panel can be easily bent. Furthermore, the bending support unit and the radiation detection panel can maintain a specific angle in the bent state.

[0039] Furthermore, a housing with a curved surface can be used to secure the bending of the radiation detection panel. Additionally, various housings with curved surfaces determined according to different objects are available, and these housings can be replaced with housings having appropriate curved surfaces depending on the object. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a first modified example of a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 3 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a first modified example of a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a second modified example of a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 5 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a second modified example of a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing a housing having a curved radiation transmission zone according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 7 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the interior of a housing having a curved radiation transmission region according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing a radiation testing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0048] In the following description, embodiments of the invention will be set forth in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the invention may be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the description, like elements are denoted by like reference numerals. In the figures, dimensions are partially exaggerated for the purpose of accurately illustrating embodiments of the invention. Like reference numerals always refer to like elements.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 (a) is a perspective view of the radiation detector, while Figure 1 (b) is a plan view of the radiation detector.

[0050] Reference Figure 1 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the radiation detector 100 may include: a radiation detection panel 110, which is flexible, extends in a first direction, and detects radiation incident on the first surface; and a bending support unit 120, which is plate-shaped, disposed on a second surface of the radiation detection panel 110 opposite to the first surface to support the radiation detection panel 110, and is flexible.

[0051] The radiation detection panel 110 may be flexible, extend in a first direction, and detect radiation (e.g., X-rays) incident on the first surface. For example, the radiation detection panel 110 may be formed based on an organic semiconductor such as flexible polyimide (PI). Because it does not contain hard and brittle glass, its thickness can be reduced, and it provides flexibility to be bent. In this case, the radiation detection panel 110 may include thin-film transistors (TFTs).

[0052] Here, the radiation detection panel 110 may have a first surface and a second surface facing each other. Radiation incident on the first surface can be converted into an electrical signal that enables image signal processing, and multiple pixels (not shown) may be arranged in a matrix on the first and second surfaces. Here, the radiation may include X-rays, alpha rays, gamma rays, electron beams, ultraviolet (UV) rays (UV-rays) or similar rays, and the multiple pixels (not shown) may be made of multiple switching cells and photoelectric conversion elements.

[0053] In this case, the radiation detection panel 110 may have a thickness of 1.25 mm or less. When the thickness of the radiation detection panel 110 exceeds 1.25 mm, the flexibility of the radiation detection panel 110 may deteriorate, and it may be prone to breakage during bending. Generally, the radiation detection panel 110 based on organic semiconductors may have a thickness of 0.5 mm to 0.6 mm, and may have even smaller thicknesses when sufficient performance is required.

[0054] The flexible radiation detection panel 110 can be easily scaled up, while simultaneously overcoming the limitations of high cost and low yield caused by complex processes (a long-standing limitation of flat-panel radiation detectors according to related technologies). This enables the commercialization of high-performance, large-scale digital radiographic detectors. Furthermore, by using organic material technology to convert radiation (e.g., X-rays) into electrical signals, the radiation detection panel 110 can have a low driving voltage. Therefore, production costs are reduced, and a thin and lightweight radiation detector 100 can be manufactured through low-voltage circuit design.

[0055] The bending support unit 120 can be disposed on a second surface of the radiation detection panel 110 located on the side opposite to the first surface and supports the radiation detection panel 110. It can be flexible and have a laminar shape, such as a sheet or layer. In this document, the bending support unit 120 can extend along the radiation detection panel 110 in a first direction and can have an elasticity or stiffness greater than that of the radiation detection panel 110. In this case, the bending support unit 120 can be attached to and support the radiation detection panel 110, or it can be joined to and support the radiation detection panel 110. Therefore, bending of the radiation detection panel 110 can be guided so that the radiation detection panel 110 can be bent stably without being subjected to excessive force. Additionally, damage to the radiation detection panel 110 during bending can be prevented. For example, the bending support unit 120 is elastic and can be bent gradually rather than drastically by bending force, and the radiation detection panel 110 can also be rolled and bent along the bending support unit 120. When the bending force is removed, the bending support unit 120 unfolds again, and the radiation detection panel 110 can unfold and return to its original state (e.g., flat state).

[0056] Here, the flexibility of the bending support unit 120 can be less than that of the radiation detection panel 110. That is, the bending support unit 120 is flexible, but less flexible than the radiation detection panel 110, and therefore can be bent without fluttering while forming a continuous curvature (e.g., the entire bending support unit forms a curvature). Therefore, the entire radiation detection panel 110 can maintain a bent state with a specific curvature.

[0057] For example, the bending support unit 120 can use a less flexible material than the radiation detection panel 110 to maintain the bending of the radiation detection panel 110 at a specific curvature, and thus can guide and maintain the bending of the radiation detection panel 110. The bending support unit 120 is bent by the bending adjustment unit 130, and can maintain the bent state of the radiation detection panel 110 at a specific curvature, and can keep the radiation detection panel 110 at a specific curvature and fix it to the housing 150.

[0058] The radiation detector 100 according to the invention may further include a bending adjustment unit 130, which is connected to the bending support unit 120 and adjusts the bending of the radiation detection panel 110 relative to a bending axis that is parallel to a second direction that intersects with the first direction.

[0059] The bending adjustment unit 130 can be directly or indirectly connected to the bending support unit 120 to adjust the bending of the radiation detection panel 110 relative to a bending axis parallel to a second direction intersecting the first direction, and to bend and unfold the radiation detection panel 110. When a bending force is applied to the radiation detection panel 110 with the bending adjustment unit 130 directly connected to it, the radiation detection panel 110 may fold abruptly. Furthermore, a force that could cause the bending support unit 120, which has high rigidity, to bend may be transmitted, and therefore, excessive force may be applied to the radiation detection panel 110. Consequently, the radiation detection panel 110 may be damaged. Therefore, the bending adjustment unit 130 is connected to the bending support unit 120, and the bending support unit 120 is bent. When the bending support unit 120 bends, the radiation detection panel 110 can be bent stably.

[0060] Here, the bending adjustment unit 130 can adjust the distance between the two sides of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction, thereby bending the radiation detection panel 110. When the two sides of the bending support unit 120 are closer to each other in the first direction, a curved surface (or curvature) can be formed between the two sides of the radiation detection panel 110 in the first direction.

[0061] Therefore, the radiation detector 100 according to the present invention can use the bending adjustment unit 130 to adjust the bending of the radiation detection panel 110, and can bend the radiation detection panel 110 to form a specific curved surface, and can maintain the curved state at a specific angle. Therefore, radiographic images of various objects 10 with various curvatures can be acquired quickly. Therefore, for objects 10 with any curvature, distortion-free images can be acquired in real time, and the acquired high-quality images can be used to directly read test results and diagnostic results on site.

[0062] Furthermore, the radiation detector 100 according to the invention may further include a plurality of folded plates 121 disposed on a second surface of the radiation detection panel 110, the plurality of folded plates 121 extending in a second direction and arranged in a first direction. The plurality of folded plates 121 may extend in the second direction, be disposed on the second surface of the radiation detection panel 110 and arranged in the first direction, and may be directly or indirectly connected to each other. Here, the plurality of folded plates 121 may be separate components, or may be configured to be included in a bending support unit 120. In this case, the plurality of folded plates 121 may be disposed on the second surface of the bending support unit 120, the second surface being located on the side of the bending support unit 120 opposite to the first surface of the radiation detection panel 110. The radiation detection panel 110 may be supported by the first surface of the bending support unit 120, and the plurality of folded plates 121 may be supported by the second surface of the bending support unit 120. Furthermore, when the plurality of folded plates 121 are configured to be included in the bending support unit 120, the plurality of folded plates 121 may be supported by a reinforcing plate 122. For example, the plurality of folded plates 121 may be made of plastic resin or aluminum and may be individually connected (or attached) to (or attached to) a reinforcing plate 122 disposed between the radiation detection panel 110 and the folded plates, and indirectly connected to each other through the reinforcing plate 122, or directly connected to each other in the form of a chain through a separate connection means. The plurality of folded plates 121 can prevent the radiation detection panel 110 from bending and being damaged sharply, and can ensure that each pixel in the radiation detection panel 110 remains flat and as unbent as possible. Here, the plurality of folded plates 121 may be auxiliary materials for fixing the radiation transmission plate and / or the reinforcing plate 122, may be used to form a perfect arc shape when forming curvature, and may also be used as a stopper to prevent bending beyond a certain curvature.

[0063] When the radiation detection panel 110 is bent and each pixel is bent along with it, the planar area (or horizontal cross-sectional area) of each pixel may change, and there may be differences in the planar area between each pixel. Therefore, distortion of the radiographic image may occur due to the differences in planar area. Therefore, each of the plurality of folded plates 121 maintains the plane in each segment of the radiation detection panel 110 in a first direction, thereby maximally suppressing or preventing bending of each pixel. For example, each pixel may not be formed on two or more folded plates 121, or only a portion (e.g., half) of each pixel may not be formed on one folded plate 121. That is, a complete pixel may be located on any of the folded plates 121. In this way, all pixels may be located completely rather than partially on the corresponding folded plate 121. In this case, one or more pixels may be located on each folded plate 121, and the number of pixels located on each folded plate 121 may be a natural number. When spaced apart from each other, the plurality of folded plates 121 can be spaced apart according to the interval of the plurality of pixels, and can be spaced apart according to the interval of the plurality of pixels.

[0064] Here, the plurality of folding plates 121 may be configured to be folded by being spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval (or a specific interval). When the bending support unit 120 is bent in a curved shape, the two edges (or sides) of each of the folding plates 121 in a first direction contact each other to form a curved shape, and the radiation detection panel 110 may be bent according to the curved shape.

[0065] Additionally, the bending support unit 120 may include a reinforcing plate 122 disposed between the plurality of folded plates 121 and the radiation detection panel 110. The reinforcing plate 122 may have a first surface and a second surface facing each other, and is disposed between the plurality of folded plates 121 and the radiation detection panel 110. The radiation detection panel 110 may be supported by the first surface, and the plurality of folded plates 121 may be supported by (or attached to) the second surface. Here, the reinforcing plate 122 may be configured to be included in the bending support unit 120, or may be configured as a separate component. In this case, the reinforcing plate 122 can support and protect the radiation detection panel 110, and has greater rigidity than the radiation detection panel 110, and therefore can suppress or prevent the radiation detection panel 110 from suddenly bending or swaying due to wind, vibration, etc., and can be bent by bending forces due to its elasticity. For example, the reinforcing plate 122 may be made of stainless steel and bendable to form a curved surface when subjected to forces from both sides in a first direction, and unfoldable and return to its original state by restoring force (or elasticity) when the forces are removed. In this case, to maintain the bending of the radiation detection panel 110, the bending adjustment unit 130 may support both sides in the first direction so that the reinforcing plate 122 does not unfold again while the reinforcing plate is bent to form a curved surface. Here, the reinforcing plate 122 may be a flat plate with front / rear sides to which the radiation detection panel 110 and the plurality of folding plates 121 are attached and / or assembled. This reinforcing plate may be freely deformable during bending and may be made of an elastic material to return to its original flat shape during deformation, rather than maintaining the corresponding shape.

[0066] Simultaneously, the reinforcing plate 122 may have a material, thickness, or similar properties that allow it to fold together with the radiation detection panel 110 when the reinforcing plate is bent to cause the radiation detection panel 110 to bend. Furthermore, the reinforcing plate 122 can be used to protect or prop up the plurality of folded plates 121 supporting the radiation detection panel 110, and can allow the radiation detection panel 110 to maintain a bent state or its original flat state. For example, when receiving forces from both sides in a first direction, the reinforcing plate 122 can be bent to form a bent surface, and plastically deform and continuously maintain the formed bent surface. Then, when receiving forces in the opposite direction, the reinforcing plate can return to its original flat state and maintain that state. Therefore, the reinforcing plate 122 may have a material, shape, thickness, and similar properties for achieving the above objectives. That is, the radiation detection panel 110 can be maintained in a bent state by the reinforcing plate 122, and this bent state can be maintained according to the material, physical properties, thickness, and similar properties of the reinforcing plate 122. When pressure is applied in the opposite direction, the radiation detection panel 110 returns to its original state and is maintained in the returned state by the reinforcing plate 122.

[0067] Additionally, the bending support unit 120 may be a bonding layer or adhesive layer for attaching the radiation detection panel 110 to the plurality of folded plates 121, and may provide grounding to the radiation detection panel 110. Furthermore, the bending support unit 120 may be formed by laminating two or more layers (or components) selected from a metal layer, a reinforcing plate 122, and an adhesive layer for providing grounding to the radiation detection panel 110, but is not limited thereto. Any component can be used as the bending support unit, as long as it is disposed between the plurality of folded plates 121 and the radiation detection panel 110 to buffer the force applied to the radiation detection panel 110 to cause it to bend, thereby stably guiding the bending of the radiation detection panel 110.

[0068] The radiation detector 100 according to the invention may further include a body unit 140, to which at least a portion of the plurality of folding plates 121 are fixed.

[0069] At least a portion of the plurality of folding plates 121 can be fixed to the body unit 140, and the radiation detection panel 110 connected to the plurality of folding plates 121 can be stably supported.

[0070] In this configuration, the radiation detection panel 110 can be bent relative to the body unit 140. For example, the central portion of the radiation detection panel 110 is fixed to the body unit 140, and a force is applied to both sides of it in a first direction to reduce the distance between the two sides in the first direction. The radiation detection panel 110 can be bent through this process alone. Furthermore, while unfolding from the central portion of the radiation detection panel 110 to both sides in the first direction, a curvature (or a curved surface) can be stably formed on the radiation detection panel 110.

[0071] Here, the body unit 140 may include an electronic component box in which electronic circuitry for driving the radiation detection panel 110 is mounted. That is, the body unit 140 may include an electronic component box in which electronic circuitry for driving the radiation detection panel 110 is mounted, and the radiation detection system may be disposed within the electronic component box. For example, a power supply system (e.g., a battery) for supplying power to the radiation detection panel 110 may be mounted to the body unit 140, and this power supply system supplies power to the radiation detection panel 110 to drive the radiation detection panel 110. Additionally, components (e.g., electronic components) for driving the radiation detection panel 110 and / or bending the radiation detection panel 110 may be mounted to the body unit 140. Here, the body unit 140 may include a main circuit section and may be provided in the form of an aluminum case.

[0072] Furthermore, the body unit 140 may be located not only at the center (partial) of the second surface of the bending support unit 120 (or the second surface of the plurality of folded plates), but also, as needed, at the edge (partial) of at least one side of the two sides of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction. However, the body unit is not limited to this and may also be located in all other areas except the area identical to that of the radiation detection panel 110.

[0073] Furthermore, the bending adjustment unit 130 may include: a first connecting portion 131, one side of which is connected to one side of the bending support unit 120; and a second connecting portion 132, the other side of which is connected to the other side of the bending support unit 120. One side of the first connecting portion 131 may be directly or indirectly connected to one side of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction, and the other side of the first connecting portion 131 may be axially rotated about a fixed rotation axis or moved in the horizontal direction, thereby providing a bending force to one side of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction.

[0074] The other side of the second connecting portion 132 can be directly or indirectly connected to the other side of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction, and one side of the second connecting portion 132 can be axially rotated about a fixed rotation axis or moved in the horizontal direction, thereby providing bending force to the other side of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction.

[0075] For example, the first connecting portion 131 and the second connecting portion 132 may include connecting plates and may be symmetrically arranged with respect to each other. Additionally, the first connecting portion 131 and the second connecting portion 132 may include bent arms and may have a structure that is directly or indirectly connected to the body unit 140 and / or the bent support unit 120. Therefore, the bent support unit 120 is pushed upwards on both sides in the first direction. In this case, the first connecting portion 131 and the second connecting portion 132 may be made of plastic resin or aluminum.

[0076] The bending support unit 120 can be bent on one side in the first direction by axially rotating the first connecting portion 131 about the other side, or by horizontally moving the other side of the first connecting portion 131. The bending support unit 120 can be bent on the other side in the first direction by axially rotating the second connecting portion 132 about one side, or by horizontally moving the other side of the second connecting portion 132. Therefore, the radiation detection panel 110 can be easily bent. In this case, the first connecting portion 131 and / or the second connecting portion 132 can be axially rotated or gradually moved, and therefore, the radiation detection panel 110 can be bent stably rather than drastically.

[0077] Here, one side of the first connecting portion 131 is axially rotatable about the other side of the first connecting portion 131, while the other side of the second connecting portion 132 is axially rotatable about one side of the second connecting portion 132. That is, the first connecting portion 131 is axially rotatable about the other side of the first connecting portion 131, which serves as a rotation axis, while the second connecting portion 132 is axially rotatable about the side of the second connecting portion 132, which serves as a rotation axis. Here, the rotation axis can be a fixed rotation axis. In this case, one side of the first connecting portion 131 is connected to one side of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction, and the one side of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction can be bent by rotation of one side of the first connecting portion 131; similarly, the other side of the second connecting portion 132 is connected to the other side of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction, and the other side of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction can be bent by rotation of the other side of the second connecting portion 132. Therefore, the radiation detection panel 110 can be easily bent.

[0078] Furthermore, the bending adjustment unit 130 may further include a first hinge 133a and a second hinge 133b, the first hinge 133a and the second hinge 133b being spaced apart from each other and respectively connected to the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and one side of the second connecting portion 132. The first hinge 133a may be connected to the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and fixed to the body unit 140, and therefore, a fixed rotation axis may be provided on the other side of the first connecting portion 131.

[0079] The second hinge 133b can be connected to one side of the second connecting portion 132 and fixed to the body unit 140, and therefore, a fixed rotation axis can be provided on one side of the second connecting portion 132.

[0080] Here, the first hinge 133a and the second hinge 133b may be spaced apart from each other on the body unit 140, and when the bending support unit 120 is unfolded, the first hinge 133a and the second hinge 133b may be spaced apart from each other in a direction parallel to the two sides of the bending support unit 120. Here, the two sides of the bending support unit 120 may refer to the two sides in the first direction. For example, one side of the first connecting portion 131 and the other side of the second connecting portion 132 may be fixed to the folding plates 121 located at both ends (or both sides) in the first direction, and the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and the first side of the second connecting portion 132 may be fixed to the body unit 140 by the first hinge 133a and the second hinge 133b. During bending, the folding plates 121 located at both ends in the first direction may be pushed upward by the first connecting portion 131 and the second connecting portion 132, respectively, relative to the first hinge 133a and the second hinge 133b and / or the connecting portion of the body unit 140.

[0081] In other words, the first connecting portion 131 can rotate about a first hinge 133a, which serves as a rotation axis, while the second connecting portion 132 can rotate about a second hinge 133b, which serves as a rotation axis. The fixed rotation axis can be disposed on the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and one side of the second connecting portion 132, respectively, via the first hinge 133a and the second hinge 133b. Therefore, one side of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction can be bent by axial rotation of the first connecting portion 131 using the first hinge 133a as a rotation axis, while the other side of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction can be bent by axial rotation of the other side of the second connecting portion 132 using the second hinge 133b as a rotation axis. Therefore, the radiation detection panel 110 can be easily bent.

[0082] Furthermore, each of the first hinge 133a and the second hinge 133b may have a hinge disc (not shown), and when the bending force on both sides of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction is removed by the hinge disc (not shown), the first connecting portion 131 and the second connecting portion 132 can maintain an (axial) rotation angle in the bent state. For example, the first hinge 133a and the second hinge 133b may be torque hinges. When using the plurality of torque hinges, a specific curvature can be maintained by the friction between the hinge shaft and the hinge disc.

[0083] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a first modified example of a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Reference Figure 2The other side of the first connecting portion 131 and one side of the second connecting portion 132 can be movable to adjust the distance between them. In addition to using, for example... Figure 1 In addition to the hinge method shown, the bending support unit 120 can also be bent on both sides in the first direction by adjusting the distance between the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and one side of the second connecting portion 132. Therefore, the radiation detection panel 110 can be bent.

[0085] For example, when the bending support unit 120 is unfolded, the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and one side of the second connecting portion 132 can move in a direction parallel to the directions of the two sides of the bending support unit 120. One side of the first connecting portion 131 is connected to one side of the bending support unit 120. Therefore, when the other side of the first connecting portion 131 moves closer to one side of the bending support unit 120, one side of the first connecting portion 131 does not move in a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the other side of the first connecting portion 131, but instead pushes one side of the bending support unit 120 upwards. Therefore, one side of the bending support unit 120 can be bent. Furthermore, the other side of the second connecting portion 132 is connected to the other side of the bending support unit 120. Therefore, when one side of the second connecting portion 132 moves closer to the other side of the bending support unit 120, the other side of the second connecting portion 132 does not move in a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the first side of the second connecting portion 132, but instead pushes the other side of the bending support unit 120 upward. Therefore, the other side of the bending support unit 120 can be bent. Thus, both sides of the bending support unit 120 can be bent in the first direction, and the radiation detection panel 110 can be easily bent. The degree of bending (e.g., curvature) of the radiation detection panel 110 can be adjusted according to the distance between the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and one side of the second connecting portion 132.

[0086] Figure 3 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a first modified example of a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 (a) is along Figure 2 The sectional view shown is taken by line A-A', and Figure 3 (b) is along Figure 2 The sectional view shown is taken by line B-B'.

[0087] Reference Figure 3The bending adjustment unit 130 may further include: a first latch 134a disposed on the other side of the first connecting portion 131; a second latch 134b disposed on one side of the second connecting portion 132; and a plurality of latch grooves 135a arranged in the movement direction of the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and the one side of the second connecting portion 132. The first latch 134a may be disposed on the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and may be inserted into or removed from the latch groove 135a. When the first latch is inserted into the latch groove 135a, the position of the other side of the first connecting portion 131 may be fixed.

[0088] The second latch 134b may be disposed on said side of the second connecting portion 132 and may be inserted into or removed from the latch recess 135a. When the second latch is inserted into the latch recess 135a, the position of said side of the second connecting portion 132 may be fixed.

[0089] The plurality of latching grooves 135a can be arranged in the movement direction of the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and one side of the second connecting portion 132, and the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b can be inserted into the latching grooves and locked into the latching grooves. Furthermore, the position of the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and / or the position of one side of the second connecting portion 132 can be fixed by the latching grooves. For example, when the bending support unit 120 is deployed, the plurality of latching grooves 135a can be arranged in a direction parallel to the directions of the two sides of the bending support unit 120, and can be formed on the locking body 135 and spaced apart from each other in the extending direction of the locking body 135. When the bending support unit 120 is deployed, the locking body 135 extends in a direction parallel to the directions of the two sides of the bending support unit 120.

[0090] Because the bending support unit 120 is elastic, a restoring force may act on it when the bending force is removed from both sides of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction. Therefore, the radiation detection panel 110 may unfold instead of maintaining its bent state. Thus, it is necessary to bend the radiation detection panel 110 to a desired curvature (or a predetermined curvature) and maintain its bent state. The first latch 134a and the second latch 134b are inserted into and locked into the corresponding latch grooves 135a of the plurality of latch grooves 135a, thereby fixing the position of the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and the position of one side of the second connecting portion 132. Therefore, in the bent state of the radiation detection panel 110, the bent state of the radiation detection panel 110 can be maintained even when the bending force on both sides of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction is removed.

[0091] Here, the bending adjustment unit 130 may further include a latch actuator 136, which adjusts the locking and releasing of the first latch 134a and the second latch 134b. The latch actuator 136 can adjust the locking and releasing of the first latch 134a and the second latch 134b. The latch actuator can insert and lock the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b into the latch recess 135a, thereby fixing the position of the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and one side of the second connecting portion 132. Furthermore, the latch actuator can release the locking of the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b, thereby allowing movement of the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and / or one side of the second connecting portion 132. Therefore, during the release of the first latch 134a and the second latch 134b, the bending of the radiation detection panel 110 can be adjusted by moving the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and / or one side of the second connecting portion 132. Furthermore, the bent state of the radiation detection panel 110 can be maintained during the locking of the first latch 134a and the second latch 134b.

[0092] For example, the latch actuator 136 may include: a connecting member 136c connected to the first latch 134a and the second latch 134b, respectively; and a resilient member 136b for providing a spring force to the connecting member 136c. The connecting member 136c may include a plurality of wires, one end of which can be connected to each of the first latch 134a and the second latch 134b. The first latch 134a can be released by pulling the connecting member 136c connected to the first latch 134a, and the second latch 134b can be released by pulling the connecting member 136c connected to the second latch 134b.

[0093] The elastic member 136b provides elastic force to the connecting member 136c and includes a spring. Therefore, when the tension is removed from the connecting member 136c, the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b connected to the connecting member 136c where the tension has been removed can (again) be inserted into and locked into the latch recess 135a.

[0094] Here, the latch actuator 136 may further include a handle 136a connected to the connecting member 136c. The handle 136a may be connected to the other end of the connecting member 136c and used to pull the connecting member 136c; the connecting member 136c can be pulled by moving the handle 136a. Here, when the connecting member 136c includes a plurality of wires, the other end of each of the plurality of wires may be connected to the handle 136a. Each of the plurality of wires can be pulled by moving the handle 136a.

[0095] In this configuration, the elastic member 136b provides a spring force to the handle 136a, and this spring force can be transmitted to the connecting member 136c. For example, the elastic member 136b can provide a spring force to the handle 136a, causing the moved handle 136a to return to its original position. That is, when the connecting member 136c is pulled by moving the handle 136a while compressing the elastic member 136b, such as a spring, the locking of the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b can be released. Furthermore, when the moved handle 136a returns to its original position by removing the pressure applied to the elastic member 136b, the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b can (again) insert into and lock into the latch recess 135a.

[0096] Additionally, the latch actuator 136 may further include a roller 136d for guiding the movement of the connecting member 136c. The roller 136d may contact the surface of the connecting member 136c and guide its movement. Thus, the connecting member 136c is pulled and released by the movement of the handle 136a, and consequently, the first latch 134a and the second latch 134b can be smoothly locked and released. Here, the roller 136d can be used to change the direction of force and prevent excessive force from being applied to the connecting member 136c, thereby preventing damage to the connecting member 136c, such as breakage.

[0097] When pressure is applied to the elastic member 136b and the handle 136a moves in the direction in which the elastic member 136b is compressed, the connecting member 136c is pulled in the direction of movement of the handle 136a. Then, the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b connected to the connecting member 136c can be pulled, and the locking of the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b can be released. Therefore, the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and one side of the second connecting portion 132 are movable, the bending support unit 120 can be bent, and the radiation detection panel 110 can be bent. After the radiation detection panel 110 is bent to the desired curvature (or a predetermined curvature), the pressure applied to the elastic member 136b is released. Therefore, the bent state of the radiation detection panel 110 can be maintained when the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b is (re)locked.

[0098] Furthermore, after radiographic testing (RT) is completed, the handle 136a moves in the direction in which the elastic member 136b is compressed. Therefore, when pressure is applied to the elastic member 136b, the connecting member 136c can be pulled according to the movement of the handle 136a. Then, the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b connected to the connecting member 136c can be pulled, and the locking of the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b can be released. Therefore, the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and the first side of the second connecting portion 132 are movable, and the radiation detection panel 110 can return to its original state when the bending support unit 120 (again) unfolds. Subsequently, when the pressure applied to the elastic member 136b is removed, the handle 136a returns to its original position due to the elasticity of the elastic member 136b, and the tension can be released from the pulled connecting member 136c. Then, the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b connected to the connecting member 136c move in one direction to insert into the latch recess 135a, and the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b can be inserted into and locked into the latch recess 135a. Therefore, the positions of the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and the first side of the second connecting portion 132 are fixed, and thus, the radiation detection panel 110 can maintain its original state (or unfolded state).

[0099] Simultaneously, the latch actuator 136 can also adjust the locking positions of the first latch 134a and the second latch 134b relative to the plurality of latch recesses 135a. After the locking of the first latch 134a and / or the second latch 134b is released, the latch actuator 136 moves the released first latch 134a and / or the released second latch 134b. Therefore, the locking positions of the first latch 134a and the second latch 134b can be adjusted (automatically), and the first latch 134a and the second latch 134b can be inserted into and locked into the corresponding latch recesses 135a of the plurality of latch recesses 135a.

[0100] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a second modified example of a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 5 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a second modified example of a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The bending adjustment unit 130 may further include: a first moving gear 137a connected to the other side of the first connecting portion 131; a second moving gear 137b connected to one side of the second connecting portion 132; and a drive gear 138 meshing with the first moving gear 137a and the second moving gear 137b respectively, thereby moving the first moving gear 137a and the second moving gear 137b. The first moving gear 137a may be connected to the other side of the first connecting portion 131 and moved by the drive gear 138, so that the other side of the first connecting portion 131 moves.

[0102] The second moving gear 137b can be connected to one side of the second connecting portion 132 and moved by the drive gear 138 to move one side of the second connecting portion 132.

[0103] The drive gear 138 can mesh with each of the first moving gear 137a and the second moving gear 137b, and can move the first moving gear 137a and the second moving gear 137b. The first moving gear 137a can move while meshing with the drive gear 138, and the second moving gear 137b can move while meshing with the drive gear 138.

[0104] One side of the first connecting portion 131 is connected to one side of the bending support unit 120. Therefore, when the other side of the first connecting portion 131 moves closer to the other side of the bending support unit 120 via the movement of the first moving gear 137a, the other side of the first connecting portion 131 does not move in a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the other side of the first connecting portion 131, but instead pushes the other side of the bending support unit 120 upwards. Therefore, the other side of the bending support unit 120 can be bent. Furthermore, the other side of the second connecting portion 132 is connected to the other side of the bending support unit 120. Therefore, when one side of the second connecting portion 132 moves closer to the other side of the bending support unit 120 via the movement of the second moving gear 137b, the other side of the second connecting portion 132 does not move in a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the other side of the second connecting portion 132, but instead pushes the other side of the bending support unit 120 upwards. Therefore, the other side of the bending support unit 120 can be bent. Thus, both sides of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction can be bent by the movement of the first moving gear 137a and / or the second moving gear 137b, and therefore, the radiation detection panel 110 can be easily bent. The degree of bending of the radiation detection panel 110 can be adjusted according to the moving distance of the first moving gear 137a and / or the second moving gear 137b.

[0105] For example, the first moving gear 137a and the second moving gear 137b can be rack gears, while the drive gear 138 can be a pinion gear. Each of the first moving gear 137a and the second moving gear 137b can move in the direction of rotation of the drive gear 138 by rotating the drive gear 138. Here, the drive gear 138 can be rotated by an electric motor. The first moving gear 137a and the second moving gear 137b can move automatically by mechanical operation, and therefore, the bending of the radiation detection panel 110 can be adjusted. Here, the bending adjustment unit 130 can further include a pawl 139 for limiting (or preventing) the rotation of the drive gear 138. The pawl 139 can limit the rotation of the drive gear 138 and prevent the drive gear 138 from rotating in the opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise). Here, the reverse rotation of the drive gear 138 can be a rotation for (re)unfolding the bending support unit 120. Therefore, after the radiation detection panel 110 is bent to the desired curvature, the bent state of the radiation detection panel 110 can be maintained.

[0106] When the drive gear 138 rotates forward (e.g., clockwise), the first moving gear 137a and the second moving gear 137b move in directions closer to the bending support unit 120 on one side and the other side, respectively. Therefore, the radiation detection panel 110 can be bent to the desired curvature. Here, when the rotational force used to rotate the drive gear 138 forward is removed, the bending support unit 120 unfolds due to its elasticity. Therefore, the first moving gear 137a and the second moving gear 137b can move in directions away from the bending support unit 120 on the one side and the other side, respectively, and the drive gear 138 can rotate in the opposite direction. Therefore, after the radiation detection panel 110 is bent to the desired curvature, the pawl 139 prevents the drive gear 138 from rotating in the opposite direction. Therefore, the bent state of the radiation detection panel 110 at the desired curvature (or a specific curvature) can be maintained at that specific curvature. Furthermore, when the engagement of the pawl 139 with the drive gear 138 is released via a separate operating handle, external pin, or similar component, the drive gear 138 rotates in the opposite direction due to the elasticity of the bending support unit 120, and the bending support unit 120 can be deployed. Therefore, the radiation detection panel 110 can also be deployed and returned to its original state.

[0107] Meanwhile, a servo motor can be used as the motor to rotate the drive gear 138. Since the servo motor can control the mechanical load, the drive gear 138 is only allowed to rotate when a drive signal for rotation is input to the servo motor. In the stationary state where no drive signal is input to the servo motor, the drive gear 138 is prevented from rotating due to the load. Therefore, the bending support unit 120 is prevented from unfolding again due to its elasticity, and thus, the radiation detection panel 110 can maintain its bent state.

[0108] Additionally, a bending force can be manually applied to one and / or the other side of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction to cause the bending support unit 120 to bend. Even when the first moving gear 137a, the second moving gear 137b, and the drive gear 138 are connected to provide bending force to only one (or one or the other) of the two sides of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction, both sides of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction bend simultaneously to form a curvature with the same angle. Here, each of the first connecting portion 131 and the second connecting portion 132 may have a multi-link structure. This structure is satisfied if the bending force can be transmitted equally well to both sides of the bending support unit 120 in the first direction through the first moving gear 137a, the second moving gear 137b, and the drive gear 138.

[0109] Therefore, the flexible bending support unit 120 is bent by the first connecting portion 131 and the second connecting portion 132 respectively connected to both sides of the bending support unit 120, and thus, the radiation detection panel 110 can be easily bent. Furthermore, the bending support unit 120 and the radiation detection panel 110 can be maintained at a specific angle in the bent state. That is, when the radiation detection panel 110 is bent, the radiation detector 100 according to the present invention can maintain the bent state of the radiation detection panel 110 at a specific angle. Additionally, when the radiation detection panel 110 is bent (or deformed) due to external pressure, the radiation detection panel 110 is not damaged.

[0110] The radiation detector 100 according to the invention may further include a housing 150, which houses the radiation detection panel 110 and has a radiation transmission area on the surface facing the radiation detection panel 110.

[0111] The housing 150 can accommodate the radiation detection panel 110, protect the radiation detection panel 110 from external impacts and loads, and has a radiation transmission area on the surface facing the radiation detection panel 110 so that radiation can be incident (or transmitted) to the radiation detection panel 110.

[0112] For example, the housing 150 may include a frame and a radiation transmission plate supported by the frame and disposed on a first surface of the radiation detection panel 110. The frame is used to protect the radiation detection panel 110 and similar components housed in the housing 150, and may contain a thermally conductive metal with mechanical strength, such as copper, aluminum, stainless steel, or similar metals.

[0113] A radiation transmission plate can be located on the surface where radiation is incident and can mitigate impacts from the outside. Furthermore, the radiation transmission plate can comprise a material with very high radiation transmittance and / or a material with very low radiation absorptivity. For example, the radiation transmission plate can comprise a protective material such as carbon, which has high strength to protect the radiation detection panel 110 and a low radiation shielding rate. The radiation transmission plate can comprise carbon, carbon fiber, carbon compounds, glass fiber, composite materials including glass fiber, polycarbonate, polycarbonate compounds, or similar materials. Here, the radiation transmission plate can be flexible and / or elastic (i.e., resilient) and protect the radiation detection panel 110 from external impacts and loads, and can be a protective material with a low radiation energy shielding rate.

[0114] Furthermore, the housing 150 can be fixed in a bent state of the radiation detection panel 110, and thus the bent (state) of the radiation detection panel 110 bent by the bending adjustment unit 130 can be fixed at a specific curvature.

[0115] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing a housing having a curved radiation transmission zone according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 (a) shows a housing with an electronic component box on one side, while Figure 6 (b) shows a housing with electronic component boxes on both sides.

[0116] Reference Figure 6 The radiation transmission area of ​​the housing 150 may include a curved surface, and the radiation detection panel 110 may be bent along the curved radiation transmission area and fixed to the housing 150. The radiation transmission area of ​​the housing 150 may include a curved surface, and the radiation detection panel 110 may be bent and disposed along the curved surface. Here, the radiation detection panel 110 may be bent along the curved surface of the radiation transmission area and fixed to the housing 150 in a bent state. Furthermore, the bent state of the radiation detection panel 110 may be fixed at a specific curvature.

[0117] For example, the housing 150 may have a curved shape bent about a bending axis parallel to the second direction, and may be formed to correspond to the curved surface of an object 10 having a curved surface (shape) of various curvatures, such as pipes, ships, aircraft, facilities, and equipment. Here, the curved shape of the housing 150 may have various shapes, ranging from a slight curved shape to a curved shape sufficient to cover the entire outer diameter of a circular object 10, such as a pipe. Here, the housing 150 may be integrally formed, or may have an assembly type in which each part, such as a radiation transmission area, is assembled.

[0118] The housing 150 can be used as an outer shell and is configured to fix the radiation detection panel 110 in a bent state, and the housing can be installed or coupled while the radiation detection panel 110 is bent. Here, the radiation detection panel 110 can be installed and / or located inside the housing 150 in a bent state. That is, the housing 150 can be used to fix the bent radiation detection panel 110 in a bent state within the housing 150.

[0119] Simultaneously, the housing 150 may be formed with various curvatures such that the radiation detection panel 110 bends to correspond to or cover the curvature of the curved surface (partial) of the various objects 10 having various curvatures. Furthermore, the housing may be replaced with a housing 150 having an appropriate curvature according to the curved surface of the object 10 to be detected. Here, the housing 150 may be formed as an insertion type for easy replacement, and the radiation detection panel 110, supported by the bending support unit 120, may be inserted from one side of the housing 150 in the first direction and installed inside the housing 150. Here, the bending support unit 120 may guide the installation (or insertion) of the radiation detection panel 110 such that the radiation detection panel 110 to be inserted into the housing 150 is inserted along the curved radiation transmission area without wrinkling.

[0120] Figure 7 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the interior of a housing having a curved radiation transmission region according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 (a) shows a perspective view of the radiation detector, while Figure 7 (b) shows a cross-sectional view of the radiation detector.

[0121] Reference Figure 7 The housing 150 may include an electronic component box 141 on one side in the first direction, in which electronic circuitry for driving the radiation detection panel 110 is mounted. That is, the housing 150 may have the electronic component box 141 on at least one side in the first direction, and the electronic component box may protrude outside the housing 150, or it may be disposed inside the housing 150 and located on at least one side of the radiation detection panel 110 in the first direction. The electronic circuitry for driving the radiation detection panel 110 may be mounted in the electronic component box 141, and the electronic component box may be disposed on at least one side of the housing 150 in the first direction, or it may be disposed on both sides of the housing 150 in the first direction. Here, the electronic component box 141 disposed on one side of the housing 150 in the first direction may protrude outside the housing 150, or the electronic components disposed on the other side of the housing 150 in the first direction may be disposed inside the housing 150. It is sufficient if the electronic component box is connected to the radiation detection panel 110 on at least one side in the first direction.

[0122] Furthermore, the radiation detector 100 according to the present invention may further include: a finishing material to prevent light, foreign objects and similar substances from flowing into the components housed inside the housing 150 from the outside; and a signal transmission unit 161 for transmitting signals from the radiation detection panel 110.

[0123] The finishing material may be elastic and may include rubber materials such as silicone or polyurethane. For example, the finishing material may be a gasket-type finishing material that prevents the ingress of external light and foreign matter, and may have a shape and material that can freely deform under external pressure. Here, the finishing material may be a silicone or isophorone gasket.

[0124] Here, in the radiation detector 100 according to the invention, when testing the coupling structure of the radiation transmission plate, the radiation detection panel 110, the finishing material, the intermediate plate 120 (e.g., the reinforcing plate 122), and the plurality of folded plates 121, the radiation transmission plate and the plurality of folded plates 121 can be attached to each other with tape or coupled to each other with bolts (assembly). Furthermore, the radiation detection panel 110, the finishing material, and the intermediate plate 120 can be disposed between the radiation transmission plate and the plurality of folded plates 121. For example, the edges (partially) of the radiation transmission plate and the edges (partially) of the plurality of folded plates 121 can be coupled to each other, and the radiation detection panel 110, the finishing material, and the intermediate plate 120 can be disposed in the center (partially) between the radiation transmission plate and the plurality of folded plates 121. Here, the intermediate plate 120 can be disposed adjacent to the plurality of folded plates 121, and the radiation detection panel 110 and the finishing material can be supported therefrom. Finishing material can be disposed around the radiation detection panel 110, and the radiation detection panel 110 can be configured such that its first surface faces the radiation transmission plate. In this configuration, the radiation detection panel 110, the finishing material, and the intermediate plate 120 are not directly fixed to the radiation transmission plate and / or the plurality of folded plates 121. Therefore, during bending, each part can be bent freely with its own curvature, and tearing and damage due to friction will not occur.

[0125] The signal transmission unit 161 can transmit signals from the radiation detection panel 110 and transmit (or transfer) electrical signals transmitted (or extracted) from the radiation detection panel 110 to the radiation detection system provided to (or installed on) the body unit 140. Furthermore, the signal transmission unit can process the electrical signals. For example, the signal transmission unit 161 may include a housing in which a system (e.g., electronic circuitry) for transmitting and / or processing the electrical signals is mounted. Here, the signal transmission unit 161 is disposed on a second surface of the radiation detection panel 110 and may be located at each of the following locations: between the bending support unit 120 and the first connecting portion 131, and between the bending support unit 120 and the second connecting portion 132. One side of the first connecting portion 131 can be indirectly connected to one side of the bending support unit 120 via the signal transmission unit 161, and the other side of the second connecting portion 132 can be indirectly connected to the other side of the bending support unit 120 via the signal transmission unit 161.

[0126] Furthermore, the radiation detector 100 according to the present invention can be equipped with a battery and a wireless antenna. Therefore, the radiation detection panel 110 can be driven and radiographic images transmitted without a separate input cable, and wired / wireless types can be used depending on the purpose. Here, the battery can be charged in both wired and wireless modes.

[0127] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing a radiation testing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] Reference Figure 8 The radiation testing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail, but the description of the radiation detector described above with respect to the embodiment of the present invention will not be repeated.

[0129] A radiation testing apparatus 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention may include: a radiation generating unit 210 for irradiating an object 10 with radiation; and a radiation detector 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention for detecting radiation passing through the object 10.

[0130] The radiation generating unit 210 can irradiate the object 10 with radiation, and the radiation emitted to the object 10 can pass through the object 10 and be incident on the first surface of the radiation detection panel 110.

[0131] The radiation detector 100 may be a radiation detector 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and can acquire image information by detecting radiation that has passed through the object 10. Here, the radiation detector 100 may be a digital radiography (DR) detector, which acquires image information by electrically detecting radiation using a semiconductor sensor or similar element without film.

[0132] Object 10 can be positioned between radiation generating unit 210 and radiation detector 100. A bending adjustment unit 130 can be provided to adjust the bending of radiation detector panel 110 according to the curvature of the surface of object 10 facing radiation detector panel 110. That is, object 10 is located between radiation generating unit 210 and radiation detector 100, radiation generating unit 210 emits radiation toward object 10, and radiation detector 100 detects the radiation that has passed through object 10. Therefore, a radiographic image of object 10 can be obtained. Using this obtained radiographic image, the presence and condition of defects (e.g., porosity, slag inclusion, cracks, poor fusion, incomplete penetration, root depression, undercut, etc.) on the surface and / or inside of object 10, the characteristics and internal structure of object 10, and similar properties can be examined.

[0133] Here, the bending of the radiation detection panel 110 can be adjusted by the bending adjustment unit 130, and the bending of the radiation detection panel 110 can be adjusted to conform to the curvature of the surface of the object 10 facing the radiation detection panel 110. Therefore, even in an object 10 with a curved surface (e.g., a pipe), inspection may not result in image distortion.

[0134] In other words, during non-destructive testing of cracks that may appear in various types of structures (or objects) or foreign objects that may be contained in assembly line food (or objects) such as canned goods, images of superior quality can be obtained by utilizing the bendable characteristics of the radiation detection panel 110 compared to images from a flat-panel radiation detector according to related technologies.

[0135] Therefore, the inspection setup process using the radiation detector 100 can be simplified, and unnecessary equipment and accessories can be reduced. This improves the work efficiency of the user (or operator). Furthermore, by acquiring distortion-free and wide-area (radiographic) images, more accurate image acquisition and evaluation can be expected.

[0136] As described above, according to the present invention, a bending support unit with less flexibility than a flexible radiation detection panel can support the radiation detection panel, guide the bending of the radiation detection panel, and help maintain the bent state of the radiation detection panel. Furthermore, a bending adjustment unit connected to the bending support unit can be used to adjust the bending of the radiation detection panel, allowing the radiation detection panel to be bent to form a specific curved surface and maintain the bent state at a specific angle. Therefore, radiographic images of various objects with various curvatures can be acquired quickly. Thus, for objects with any curvature, distortion-free images can be acquired in real time, and the acquired high-quality images can be used to directly read test and diagnostic results on-site. That is, during non-destructive testing of cracks that may appear in various types of structures or foreign objects that may be contained in mass-produced foods such as canned goods, images of superior quality can be obtained by utilizing the bendability of the radiation detection panel compared to images from flat-panel radiation detectors according to related technologies. In addition, the radiation detection panel is formed based on flexible organic semiconductors and is easily scalable, thus simultaneously solving the limitations of high cost and low yield due to complex processes (a long-standing limitation of flat-panel radiation detectors according to related technologies). This enables the commercialization of high-performance, large-scale digital radiographic detectors. Furthermore, by using organic material technology, radiation is converted into electrical signals in the radiation detection panel. Therefore, with the development of radiation detection panels with low driving voltages, production costs are reduced, and thin, lightweight radiation detectors can be manufactured through low-voltage circuit design. In addition, the multiple folding plates prevent the radiation detection panel from being bent sharply and damaged, and allow each pixel in the radiation detection panel to remain flat and as unbent as possible. Therefore, the flexible bending support unit is bent by first and second connecting portions respectively connected to both sides of the bending support unit, thus allowing the radiation detection panel to be easily bent. Furthermore, the bending support unit and the radiation detection panel can be maintained at a specific angle in the bent state. Furthermore, a housing with a curved surface can be used to fix the bending of the radiation detection panel. Moreover, various housings with curved surfaces determined according to various objects are available, and these housings can be replaced with housings having appropriate curved surfaces depending on the object.

[0137] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Therefore, those skilled in the art will readily understand that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Thus, the scope of protection of this invention should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A radiation detector, comprising: A radiation detection panel, which is flexible, extends in a first direction and detects radiation incident on the first surface; as well as A bending support unit, which is plate-shaped, is disposed on the second surface of the radiation detection panel opposite to the first surface to support the radiation detection panel, and is flexible. The flexibility of the bending support unit is less than that of the radiation detection panel. The radiation detector further includes: A bending adjustment unit is connected to the bending support unit and adjusts the bending of the radiation detection panel relative to a bending axis that is parallel to a second direction that intersects the first direction; as well as Multiple folded plates are disposed on the second surface of the radiation detection panel, extend in the second direction, and are arranged in the first direction.

2. The radiation detector according to claim 1, further comprising a body unit, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of folded plates is fixed to the body unit. The radiation detection panel is bent relative to the body unit.

3. The radiation detector according to claim 2, wherein the body unit includes an electronic component box, and electronic circuitry for driving the radiation detection panel is installed in the electronic component box.

4. The radiation detector according to claim 1, wherein the bending adjustment unit comprises: The first connecting portion has one side connected to one side of the bending support unit; as well as The second connecting part is connected on the other side to the other side of the bending support unit.

5. The radiation detector of claim 4, wherein the bending adjustment unit further comprises a first hinge and a second hinge spaced apart from each other, and the other side of the first connecting portion and one side of the second connecting portion are respectively connected to the first hinge and the second hinge. The first connecting portion rotates about the first hinge, which serves as the axis of rotation, and The second connecting portion rotates about the second hinge, which serves as the axis of rotation.

6. The radiation detector of claim 5, wherein each of the first hinge and the second hinge has a hinge disk.

7. The radiation detector of claim 4, wherein the other side of the first connecting portion and the first side of the second connecting portion are movable to adjust the distance between them.

8. The radiation detector according to claim 7, wherein the bending adjustment unit further comprises: A first latch is provided on the other side of the first connecting portion; A second latch is provided on one side of the second connecting portion; as well as Multiple latching grooves are arranged in the direction of movement of the other side of the first connecting portion and the side of the second connecting portion.

9. The radiation detector of claim 8, wherein the bending adjustment unit further comprises a latch driver that adjusts the locking and releasing of the first latch and the second latch.

10. The radiation detector of claim 9, wherein the latch driver comprises: Connecting components are respectively connected to the first latch and the second latch; as well as An elastic member is configured to provide elastic force to the connecting member.

11. The radiation detector according to claim 7, wherein the bending adjustment unit further comprises: A first movable gear is connected to the other side of the first connecting portion; A second movable gear is connected to one side of the second connecting portion; as well as A drive gear is configured to mesh with the first moving gear and the second moving gear respectively, so as to move the first moving gear and the second moving gear.

12. The radiation detector of claim 1, further comprising a housing that accommodates the radiation detection panel and has a radiation transmission area on the surface facing the radiation detection panel.

13. The radiation detector of claim 12, wherein the radiation transmission region of the housing includes a curved surface, and The radiation detection panel is bent along the curved surface of the radiation transmission area and fixed to the housing.

14. The radiation detector of claim 13, wherein the housing includes an electronic component box on one side in the first direction, and electronic circuitry for driving the radiation detection panel is mounted in the electronic component box.

15. A radiation testing device, comprising: The radiation generating unit is configured to irradiate an object using radiation; as well as The radiation detector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14 detects the radiation passing through the object.

16. The radiation testing apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the object is disposed between the radiation generating unit and the radiation detector, and The bending adjustment unit is configured to adjust the bending of the radiation detection panel according to the curvature of the surface of the object facing the radiation detection panel.

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