Object inspection system and object inspection method

Abstract

This disclosure provides an object inspection system relating to the fields of object inspection, radiation scanning, security inspection, or other fields. The system includes: a transport device comprising a first transport mechanism and a third transport mechanism for transporting objects; a radiation scanning device comprising a second transport mechanism configured to transport objects from the first transport mechanism to a radiation scanning area and to the third transport mechanism; and a control device communicatively connected to the transport device and the radiation scanning device; wherein the transport device, the radiation scanning device, and the control device employ a unified communication protocol, and the transport device is configured to control the operation of the second transport mechanism via the control device. This disclosure also provides an object inspection method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the fields of object inspection, radiation scanning, security inspection, or other fields, and more specifically, to object inspection systems and object inspection methods. Background Technology

[0002] As the scale of logistics, security checks, and express delivery industries expands, higher demands are being placed on the speed of object inspection. For example, currently, most air logistics parcel scanning and inspection is purely manual. This involves manually placing the parcel onto the security scanner, pressing the forward button, scanning, and waiting for the image interpretation result. If the result indicates that inspection is required, the reverse button must be pressed to remove the entire parcel from the scanner. Some facilities have undergone automation upgrades, primarily using transport devices to move parcels to the security scanner for scanning.

[0003] In the process of realizing the inventive concept disclosed herein, the inventors discovered that the existing object inspection system includes devices from various manufacturers. For example, the transport device and the security inspection machine are from different manufacturers. This requires the addition of interconnection interfaces between different systems, which affects the project cycle and cost, indirectly affects user expenses, and makes maintenance and upgrades cumbersome. In addition, during the inspection process, the operation of the transport device and the security inspection machine may interfere with each other, resulting in the inability to accurately track and efficiently inspect objects. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above problems, this disclosure provides an object inspection system and an object inspection method.

[0005] In one aspect of this disclosure, an object inspection system is provided, comprising: a transport device including a first transport mechanism and a third transport mechanism for transporting objects; a radiographic scanning device including a second transport mechanism configured to transport objects from the first transport mechanism to a radiographic scanning area and to transport the objects to the third transport mechanism; and a control device communicatively connected to the transport device and the radiographic scanning device; wherein the transport device, the radiographic scanning device, and the control device employ a unified communication protocol, and the transport device is configured to control the operation of the second transport mechanism via the control device.

[0006] According to embodiments of this disclosure, it further includes: an image interpretation device, which is at least communicatively connected to the X-ray scanning device using the unified communication protocol, the image interpretation device being configured to acquire a scanned image obtained by the X-ray scanning device scanning the object, and to obtain an image interpretation conclusion of the scanned image.

[0007] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the transport device is configured to generate a first identifier for the object, and to send the first identifier to the ray scanning device when the object triggers a second triggering mechanism on the ray scanning device, wherein the second triggering mechanism is located between a first ray beam and a second ray beam of the ray scanning device; the ray scanning device is configured to send the first identifier of the object and a scanned image to the image processing device.

[0008] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, it further includes: an identification device placed on the path of the first transport mechanism transporting the object, and communicating with the transport mechanism at least using the unified communication protocol; the identification device is configured to scan the tags of the object passing through its identification area to generate a second identifier, and send the second identifier to the transport mechanism, the second identifier being used to record the object.

[0009] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the transport device is configured to send a first identifier and a second identifier of the object to the X-ray scanning device; the X-ray scanning device is configured to send the first identifier, the second identifier, and the scanned image of the object to the image processing device.

[0010] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the control device is communicatively connected to the identification device and the image judgment device. The control device is configured to receive status information of each device among the transport device, the X-ray scanning device and the identification device, and send the status information to the image judgment device for processing. The status information indicates the operating status of the corresponding device.

[0011] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the transport device further includes a sorting machine connected to the third transport mechanism, the transport device being configured to acquire a first identifier and a judgment conclusion of the object, and to control the sorting machine to sort the object based on the first identifier and the judgment conclusion of the object.

[0012] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the transport device further includes at least one sorting branch connected to the sorting machine, a sixth triggering mechanism is provided on the third transport mechanism, a seventh triggering mechanism is provided on each sorting branch, and the control device is configured to verify the sorting result based on the time difference between the object triggering the sixth triggering mechanism and the seventh triggering mechanism of the target sorting branch sequentially, wherein the target sorting branch is determined based on the object's first identifier and the judgment conclusion.

[0013] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the control device is configured to control the sorting machine to stop operating when the time difference exceeds a preset threshold.

[0014] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the sorting branch is configured to transport objects thereon to a designated location, and the control device is configured to control the non-target sorting branch to stop transporting when the object triggers a seventh triggering mechanism of the non-target sorting branch.

[0015] Another aspect of this disclosure provides an object inspection method for use in the object inspection system as described in any of the preceding claims. The method includes: transporting an object using a transport device, wherein the transport device includes a first transport mechanism and a third transport mechanism for transporting the object; transporting an object from the first transport mechanism to a radiographic scanning area using a second transport mechanism in a radiographic scanning device, and transporting the object to the third transport mechanism; and controlling the operation of the second transport mechanism via a control device using the transport device, wherein the control device is communicatively connected to the transport device and the radiographic scanning device, and the transport device, the radiographic scanning device, and the control device employ a unified communication protocol.

[0016] The above one or more embodiments have the following beneficial effects: They provide an integrated object inspection system that connects the transport device, X-ray scanning device, and control device using a unified communication protocol to achieve an integrated solution. Furthermore, the transport device is configured to control the operation of the second transport mechanism through the control device to achieve unified transport control of the object during the inspection process. This eliminates the need to add interconnection interfaces between different systems, improves the convenience of maintenance and upgrades, and avoids mutual interference between the transport device and the X-ray scanning device, thereby achieving accurate tracking and efficient inspection. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The foregoing contents, as well as other objects, features, and advantages of this disclosure, will become clearer from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0018] Figure 1 This diagram schematically illustrates an application scenario of an object inspection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a sorting area according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0020] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating an object inspection method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0021] Figure 4 This schematic diagram illustrates the overall structure of an object inspection system in the prior art;

[0022] Figure 5 A schematic diagram illustrating a rewind example of an object inspection system in the prior art;

[0023] Figure 6The schematic diagram illustrates a partial structural view of an object inspection system according to other embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 7 This schematic diagram illustrates the overall structure of an object inspection system according to other embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating an object tracking method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically; and

[0026] Figure 9 A logic path diagram illustrating an object tracking method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0027] The reference numerals used in the above figures are as follows:

[0028] 100. Object inspection system; 110. Transport device; 111. First transport mechanism; 1111. First triggering mechanism; 112. Third transport mechanism; 1121. Third triggering mechanism; 1122. Fourth triggering mechanism; 1123. Fifth triggering mechanism; 1124. Sixth triggering mechanism; 113. Sorting machine; 114. Release branch; 1141. Seventh triggering mechanism A; 115. Opening inspection branch; 1151. Seventh triggering mechanism B; 120. X-ray scanning device; 121. Second triggering mechanism; 130. Control device; 140. Identification device; 150. Image interpretation device; 200. Object; 201. Luggage.

[0029] It should be noted that, for clarity, the dimensions of the overall / partial structure or the overall / partial region in the drawings used to describe the embodiments of this disclosure may be enlarged or reduced, i.e., these drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that these descriptions are exemplary only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure for ease of explanation. However, it will be apparent that one or more embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known structures and techniques are omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concepts of the present disclosure.

[0031] To facilitate understanding of the technical solutions of this disclosure, the technical terms involved in some embodiments are explained as follows:

[0032] XIS: X-ray Inspection System;

[0033] BHS: Baggage Handling System;

[0034] ATR: Automatic Target Recognition;

[0035] BPH: Bags per Hour.

[0036] In related technologies, manual methods are no longer sufficient to meet the large-scale inspection needs in logistics, security checks, and express delivery. Although solutions exist for system upgrades using technologies such as automated barcode scanning, package tracking, automated sorting, and centralized image analysis, while the pass rate for object inspection has indeed increased significantly compared to manual methods, several problems remain. For example, security inspection machines, automated barcode scanning systems, package tracking and sorting systems, and centralized image analysis systems are provided by different manufacturers. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the interconnection interfaces between different systems, affecting project cycles and costs, and indirectly impacting user expenses; the impact on maintenance work leads to thorny issues regarding liability determination; and the impact on future system upgrades involves a wider range of responsible parties, requiring coordination among multiple related entities.

[0037] Furthermore, in situations such as insufficient image interpretation time, abnormal object conditions, or malfunctions in various devices, the transport equipment needs to be stopped. For example, due to space limitations at airport cargo terminals, in most locations, the distance between the security scanner and the sorting mechanism is not long enough, leaving insufficient image interpretation time for the interpreter. To extend the interpretation time, the transport equipment needs to be temporarily stopped, allowing packages to remain in front of the sorting machine awaiting image interpretation. The stoppage of the transport equipment will then affect the security scanner's ability to stop as well. If the security scanner is currently scanning and producing an image, it needs to rewind and stitch the image together to ensure its integrity. However, timely data transmission between the transport equipment and the security scanner is not possible to determine the object's status. In the entire production line and the security scanner's tracking system, the introduction of this rewinding disturbance from the security scanner will negatively impact the package tracking success rate of the transport equipment.

[0038] In some embodiments of this disclosure, an integrated object inspection system is provided, which connects the transport device, the X-ray scanning device, and the control device using a unified communication protocol to achieve an integrated solution. The transport device is configured to control the operation of the second transport mechanism through the control device to achieve unified transport control of the object during the inspection process, thereby eliminating the need to add interconnection interfaces between different systems, improving the convenience of maintenance and upgrades, and avoiding mutual interference between the transport device and the X-ray scanning device to achieve accurate tracking and efficient inspection.

[0039] For example, during the transportation and tracking of objects, the start and stop of the second transportation mechanism are controlled by the transportation device. By incorporating the second transportation mechanism as part of the line, when rewinding is required for the puzzle, the transportation device controls the rewinding to prevent mutual interference, thereby achieving precise tracking and improving inspection efficiency and accuracy.

[0040] Figure 1 The illustration schematically depicts an application scenario of an object inspection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be noted that... Figure 1 The examples shown are merely examples to illustrate the application of the embodiments of this disclosure, in order to help those skilled in the art understand the technical content of this disclosure. However, they do not imply that the embodiments of this disclosure cannot have other devices, systems, or other environments and scenarios.

[0041] like Figure 1 As shown, the object inspection system 100 according to this embodiment includes a transport device 110 and a security inspection machine. The security inspection machine includes a radiographic scanning device 120 and a control device 130. The transport device 110 includes a first transport mechanism 111 and a third transport mechanism 112 for transporting objects 200; the radiographic scanning device 120 includes a second transport mechanism (not shown) configured to transport objects 200 from the first transport mechanism 111 to a radiographic scanning area (not shown) and to transport objects 200 to the third transport mechanism 112; the control device 130 is communicatively connected to the transport device 110 and the radiographic scanning device 120; wherein the transport device 110, the radiographic scanning device 120 and the control device 130 adopt a unified communication protocol, and the transport device 110 is configured to control the operation of the second transport mechanism through the control device 130.

[0042] For example, any of the first transport mechanism 111, the second transport mechanism, and the third transport mechanism 112 can take the form of a conveyor belt, conveyor rollers, or a track. For instance, the conveyor rollers may include a single motorized roller and multiple driven rollers; the motorized roller may be driven by a servo motor, and the rollers may be connected to each other. The first transport mechanism 111, the second transport mechanism, and the third transport mechanism 112 can all transport the object 200 to be inspected and / or the pallet. Figure 1 As shown, object 200 can move along the dashed arrow from the entrance of the first transport mechanism 111, pass through the X-ray scanning device 120 to reach the sorting machine 113, and be sorted to each sorting branch.

[0043] Exemplarily, the security inspection machine may include a control device 130, a housing, an X-ray scanning device 120, and a second transport mechanism. The housing of the security inspection machine forms a receiving space for installing and protecting the various functional components therein. An inspection channel is provided within the housing, and a second transport mechanism, such as a belt conveyor, is provided within the inspection channel. Security inspection entrances and exits, connecting the two ends of the second transport mechanism, are respectively opened at both ends of the housing. The X-ray scanning device 120 is provided within the inspection channel, which images the object 200 to be inspected by emitting an X-ray beam in the X-ray scanning area.

[0044] For example, the X-ray scanning device 120 may include one or more X-ray sources suitable for generating X-ray beams. The X-ray scanning device 120 may also include detectors. The X-ray sources emit X-rays toward the object 200, and the detectors detect the X-rays after they interact with the object 200, thereby completing the inspection of the object 200. For example, an X-ray source emits X-rays toward the object 200 being transported in an inspection channel, and the detector detects the X-rays that have passed through the object 200 to obtain a scanned image. Alternatively, multiple X-ray sources emit X-rays toward the object 200 from multiple angles at different times, and detect the X-rays that pass through the object 200 each time, forming a scanned image of the object 200 by processing the detected signals.

[0045] In some embodiments, the control device 130 can be implemented using a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). The control device 130 communicates with the transport device 110 and the X-ray scanning device 120 via a network. The network serves as the medium for providing the communication link and can include various connection types, such as wired, wireless communication links, or fiber optic cables. PPI, MPI (Multipoint Interface), and Profinet communication protocols can be used as a unified communication protocol. The programmable controller consists of a CPU, instruction and data memory, input / output interfaces, power supply, digital-to-analog conversion, and other functional units, possessing powerful logic operation capabilities and well-suited for industrial control environments. In other embodiments, a microprocessor, computer, or server can also be used as the control device 130.

[0046] In some embodiments, the control device 130 can issue control commands to the transport device 110 and the X-ray scanning device 120, such as controlling the start and stop of each transport mechanism, transport speed, X-ray emission and reception, etc. For example, the transport device 110 and the X-ray scanning device 120 can be equipped with several triggering mechanisms, such as light barriers, to track the object 200. After the object 200 reaches the light barrier, the photoelectric beam sensor included in the light barrier is triggered and sends a trigger signal to the control device 130. After receiving the trigger signal corresponding to the light barrier, the control device 130 records the current position of the object 200. It should be noted that the trigger signal can be sent directly or indirectly to the control device 130. Indirect means that it is first collected by the control module on the transport device 110 and then sent to the control device 130 by the control module.

[0047] For example, object 200 may include vehicles, containers, luggage 201 or other items in a security inspection scenario, or various materials in a materials analysis scenario.

[0048] In related technologies, during actual cargo terminal automation upgrades, security inspection machine manufacturers and production line manufacturers often disagree on whether the security inspection machine should perform reverse tape stitching when the machine stops scanning images. Security inspection machine manufacturers prioritize the integrity of package scan images and require reverse tape stitching when the machine stops, while production line manufacturers prioritize package tracking stability and prefer that the machine avoid reverse tape altogether. This makes reconciliation difficult. Currently, the most common solution in most sites is to disable reverse tape stitching on the security inspection machine and process incomplete images caused by machine stops as if the machine were open for inspection. However, this is not a perfect solution. In sites with limited space and frequent machine stops, a certain percentage of packages may be scanned and sent to the open inspection side.

[0049] In some embodiments, for example, the transport device 110 can send a control request to the control device 130 to control the operation of the second transport mechanism, including starting, stopping, and accelerating / decelerating. This integrated design enables integrated control of the transport device 110 and the security inspection machine transport mechanism (i.e., the second transport mechanism), coordinating their transport operations of the object 200 and reducing pauses and delays during the handover of the object 200. Regarding tracking the object 200, the integrated design allows for continuous positioning of the object 200, precisely controlling its transport path and speed, and reducing position misjudgments.

[0050] According to embodiments of this disclosure, an integrated object inspection system 100 is provided, which connects the transport device 110, the X-ray scanning device 120, and the control device 130 using a unified communication protocol to achieve an integrated solution. The transport device 110 is configured to control the operation of the second transport mechanism through the control device 130 to achieve unified transport control of the object 200 during the inspection process, thereby eliminating the need to add interconnection interfaces between different systems, improving the convenience of maintenance and upgrades, and avoiding mutual interference between the transport device 110 and the X-ray scanning device 120 to achieve accurate tracking and efficient inspection.

[0051] In some embodiments, the object inspection system 100 further includes an image interpretation device 150, which is connected to the X-ray scanning device 120 at least via a unified communication protocol. The image interpretation device 150 is configured to acquire the scanned image of the object 200 obtained by the X-ray scanning device 120 and obtain the image interpretation conclusion of the scanned image.

[0052] For example, in security checks at public places such as highways, train stations, and airports, the X-ray scanning device 120 obtains a scanned image of baggage 201 in the X-ray scanning area. The X-ray scanning device 120 can then directly send the scanned image to the image interpretation device 150, or the scanned image can be obtained by the control device 130 and then sent to the image interpretation device 150. Next, the image interpretation device 150 can be assigned to security personnel for image interpretation. The interpreter interprets the X-ray image based on the image itself and their personal experience, and provides an interpretation conclusion. The image interpretation device 150 can also call an automatic image interpretation system to identify the scanned image and automatically derive an interpretation conclusion. The interpretation conclusion includes whether contraband is contained. The image interpretation device 150 can display the scanned image information and the interpretation conclusion.

[0053] According to the embodiments of this disclosure, the image judging device 150, control device 130, transport device 110 and X-ray scanning device 120 adopt a unified communication protocol, realize the unified interface and protocol standardization between the various devices, reduce the compatibility problems of communication between the various devices, and improve the speed and completeness of the information obtained by the image judging device 150.

[0054] In some embodiments, the object inspection system 100 further includes an identification device 140, which is placed on the path of the first transport mechanism 111 transporting the object 200 and is at least connected to the transport mechanism 110 using a unified communication protocol. The identification device 140 is configured to scan the tags of the object 200 passing through its identification area to generate a second identifier and send the second identifier to the transport mechanism 110. The second identifier is used to record the object 200.

[0055] For example, if an object 200 has a barcode or QR code label affixed to it, the identification device 140 can scan the label to generate a second identifier, which is then transmitted to the transport device 110 for tracking and recording of the identified object. The transport device 110 can transmit the data directly to the transport device 110, or it can transmit it to the control device 130, where the control device 130 records and processes the data based on the second identifier and generates corresponding control commands for the transport device 110.

[0056] In some embodiments, the transport device 110 is configured to generate a first identifier on the object 200 and send the first identifier to the X-ray scanning device 120 when the object 200 triggers a second triggering mechanism 121 on the X-ray scanning device 120, wherein the second triggering mechanism 121 is located between a first X-ray beam and a second X-ray beam of the X-ray scanning device 120; the X-ray scanning device 120 is configured to send the first identifier of the object 200 and the scanned image to the image processing device 150.

[0057] For example, the second triggering mechanism 121 includes a photoelectric beam sensor with a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter emits red light or infrared light, and the receiver receives the red light or infrared light. When an object 200 passes by, the red light or infrared light is cut off. In this embodiment, the X-ray scanning device 120 can directly send the first identifier and scanned image of the object 200 to the image judging device 150, or the control device 130 can replace the X-ray scanning device 120 to receive the first identifier and obtain the scanned image before sending them to the image judging device 150. The first identifier is used by the object inspection system 100 itself, such as the transport device 110 or the control device 130, to track the object 200, and the second identifier is used by the inspection site to record the tracking and transport status of the object 200.

[0058] According to embodiments of this disclosure, selecting the position of the second triggering mechanism 121 enables the transport device 110 and the X-ray scanning device 120 to exchange information, thus avoiding inaccurate tracking during rewinding.

[0059] In some embodiments, after receiving the second identifier sent by the identification device 140, the transport device 110 is configured to send the first and second identifiers of the object 200 to the X-ray scanning device 120; the X-ray scanning device 120 is configured to send the first identifier, the second identifier, and the scanned image of the object 200 to the image judging device 150. This enables the image judging device 150 to obtain complete information about the object 200 and display it.

[0060] In some embodiments, the transport device 110 further includes a sorting machine 113 connected to a third transport mechanism 112. The transport device 110 is configured to acquire a first identifier and a judgment conclusion of the object 200, and control the sorting machine 113 to sort the object 200 based on the first identifier and the judgment conclusion of the object 200.

[0061] For example, the third transport mechanism 112 is equipped with a triggering mechanism to track objects. When the object 200 arrives at the sorting machine 113, the image judgment device 150 sends a message to the control device 130. The control device 130 generates a sorting control command based on the first identifier of the object 200 and the image judgment conclusion and sends it to the transport device 110, thereby driving the sorting machine 113 to perform the corresponding sorting operation.

[0062] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of a sorting area according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0063] In some embodiments, the transport device 110 further includes at least one sorting branch connected to the sorter 113, a sixth triggering mechanism 1124 is provided on the third transport mechanism 112, a seventh triggering mechanism is provided on each sorting branch, and the control device 130 is configured to verify the sorting result based on the time difference between the object 200 triggering the sixth triggering mechanism 1124 and the seventh triggering mechanism of the target sorting branch in sequence, and the target sorting branch is determined based on the first identifier of the object 200 and the judgment conclusion.

[0064] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The object 200 is transported from the third transport mechanism 112 to the sorting machine 113. The sorting machine 113 performs sorting work according to the instructions of the control device 130. If it is a safe object 200, it directly enters the release branch 114. If it is a suspicious object 200, it will be transported to the inspection branch 115 after sorting to continue transport, so as to facilitate subsequent opening and inspection of the suspicious object 200.

[0065] For example, during the inspection of baggage 201, after baggage 201 triggers the light barrier in the sixth triggering mechanism 1124, the control device 130 starts the corresponding timing based on the first and second identifiers of baggage 201. If the target sorting branch is the release branch 114, the timing stops when baggage 201 triggers the seventh triggering mechanism A-1141 on it.

[0066] In some embodiments, the control device 130 is configured to control the sorting machine 113 to stop operating when the time difference exceeds a preset threshold.

[0067] For example, if the sorting machine 113 encounters problems such as the baggage 201 getting stuck, stopping operation, or making a sorting error while sorting baggage 201, the baggage 201 may not be able to reach the target sorting branch for a long time. If the time difference exceeds the preset threshold (e.g., 30 seconds, just an example), the sorting machine 113 will be stopped in time to check the cause.

[0068] In some embodiments, the sorting branch is configured to transport the object 200 thereon to a designated location, and the control device 130 is configured to control the non-target sorting branch to stop transporting when the object 200 triggers the seventh triggering mechanism of the non-target sorting branch.

[0069] For example, if baggage 201 is destined for release route 114 but is instead sorted onto inspection route 115, the seventh trigger mechanism B-1151 of inspection route 115 will be triggered. Regardless of whether the time difference is within a preset threshold, inspection route 115 will stop transporting baggage 201, thus correcting the error promptly. Additionally, sorting machine 113 can be stopped simultaneously to prevent accumulation.

[0070] Taking an airport as an example, when a package passes through sorting machine 113, sorting machine 113 will dispatch the package to inspection branch 115 according to the instructions. If sorting machine 113 has an abnormality in package dispatch, it may cause the inspection package to be mistakenly sent to release branch 114, which is a serious security problem in the airport cargo system.

[0071] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a two-stage verification process is provided before and after package sorting to ensure that packages enter the correct branch. (Refer to...) Figure 2 The system continuously tracks packages entering the sorting machine 113, using light barrier information from the release and inspection directions to determine whether a package has entered the corresponding inspection or release branch 114. If an inspection package enters the release branch 114, the system will immediately stop the conveyor belt and issue an alarm to alert security personnel for appropriate handling.

[0072] Combining the above embodiments and Figure 1 , Figure 2 The embodiments of each device in the object inspection system 100 and the object inspection process are further described.

[0073] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 The transport device 110 can be a BHS (Block Safe Harness), and the first transport mechanism 111 is the entrance BHS, which can include two 1-meter-long conveyor belts. These conveyor belts can perform a package-pulling function, pulling the package spacing to the required spacing of the packages, such as 0.5 meters. Specifically, after detecting the emission of an object 200 through a light barrier, the system waits for a certain period of time before emitting the next object 200, thus realizing package pulling.

[0074] The identification device 140 may include an ATR automatic barcode scanning system located at the front end of the XIS, using SICK's AliS system (five-sided scanning), straddling the entrance conveyor belt. It can acquire package barcode information (i.e., the second identifier) ​​and, in response to requests from the XIS (ray scanning device 120), transmit the barcode information via the BHS interface. The BHS receives the package barcode information from the ATR automatic barcode scanning system directly or indirectly (e.g., via control device 130), tracks the package, and transmits the barcode information to the XIS at a fixed position (position of the second trigger mechanism 121), facilitating the XIS's binding of the package image with the package barcode information.

[0075] XIS transmits and scans the package, transmitting the X-ray image and package barcode information to the remote image analysis system via the network, and feeding back the package barcode information and image analysis conclusions to the BHS interface.

[0076] The image interpretation device 150 may include a local image interpretation system or a remote image interpretation system, which is interconnected with XIS via a network to realize functions such as X-ray image distribution, storage, and remote image interpretation.

[0077] The third transport unit 112, acting as the export BHS, is located at the rear of the XIS and includes several conveyor belts (customized according to site requirements), a 1-meter sorting machine 113, a turning conveyor belt, and a return conveyor belt (for example only). It can receive packages from the XIS and release and sort them based on the map analysis results. Released and inspected packages are continuously tracked to ensure they follow the appropriate routes.

[0078] In some embodiments, the control device 130 is communicatively connected to the identification device 140 and the image interpretation device 150. The control device 130 is configured to receive status information of each device in the transport device 110, the X-ray scanning device 120 and the identification device 140, and send the status information to the image interpretation device 150 for processing. The status information indicates the operating status of the corresponding device.

[0079] For example, the production line (including the first transport mechanism 111, sorting machine 113, third transport mechanism 112, and sorting branches), security inspection machine, and image interpretation device 150 engage in deep data interaction. The display interface of the image interpretation device 150 can show information such as the security inspection machine status, package tracking status, package sorting status, and sorting machine 113 status. For instance, the display interface of the image interpretation device 150 allows for security inspection queries, equipment management, and displays information such as the waybill number, scanned image, current location, image interpretation conclusion, image interpretation time, sorting result, abnormal sorting handling result, and sorting status for each piece of luggage 201.

[0080] According to embodiments of this disclosure, by sharing information between the line, the security inspection machine and the image analysis device 150, the image analysis device 150 can obtain comprehensive information about the object inspection system 100 and the object 200, enabling more accurate image analysis and equipment management.

[0081] Based on the object inspection system 100 described above, some embodiments of this disclosure also provide an object inspection method. Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating an object inspection method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0082] In operation S310, the transport device 110 transports the object 200, wherein the transport device 110 includes a first transport mechanism 111 and a third transport mechanism 112 for transporting the object 200.

[0083] In operation S320, the second transport mechanism in the X-ray scanning device 120 transports the object 200 from the first transport mechanism 111 to the X-ray scanning area, and transports the object 200 to the third transport mechanism 112; and

[0084] In operation S320, the transport device 110 controls the operation of the second transport mechanism through the control device 130, wherein the control device 130 is communicatively connected to the transport device 110 and the X-ray scanning device 120, and the transport device 110, the X-ray scanning device 120 and the control device 130 adopt a unified communication protocol.

[0085] In some embodiments, the image interpretation device 150 acquires the scanned image of the object 200 obtained by the X-ray scanning device 120, and obtains the image interpretation conclusion of the scanned image. The image interpretation device 150 is at least communicatively connected with the X-ray scanning device 120 using a unified communication protocol.

[0086] In some embodiments, the transport device 110 generates a first identifier on the object 200, and when the object 200 triggers the second triggering mechanism 121 on the X-ray scanning device 120, the first identifier is sent to the X-ray scanning device 120, wherein the second triggering mechanism 121 is located between the first X-ray beam and the second X-ray beam of the X-ray scanning device 120; the X-ray scanning device 120 sends the first identifier and scanned image of the object 200 to the image judging device 150.

[0087] In some embodiments, the identification device 140 scans the tags of objects 200 passing through its identification area to generate a second identifier, and sends the second identifier to the transport device 110. The second identifier is used to record the object 200. The identification device 140 is placed on the path of the first transport mechanism 111 transporting the object 200, and communicates with the transport device 110 using a unified communication protocol.

[0088] In some embodiments, the transport device 110 sends the first and second identifiers of the object 200 to the X-ray scanning device 120; the X-ray scanning device 120 sends the first identifier, the second identifier, and the scanned image of the object 200 to the image processing device 150.

[0089] In some embodiments, the control device 130 is communicatively connected to the identification device 140 and the image interpretation device 150, so that the control device 130 receives the status information of each device in the transport device 110, the X-ray scanning device 120 and the identification device 140, and sends the status information to the image interpretation device 150 for processing. The status information indicates the operating status of the corresponding device.

[0090] In some embodiments, the transport device 110 further includes a sorting machine 113 connected to the third transport mechanism 112, which enables the transport device 110 to acquire the first identifier and image judgment conclusion of the object 200, and controls the sorting machine 113 to sort the object 200 based on the first identifier and image judgment conclusion of the object 200.

[0091] In some embodiments, the transport device 110 further includes at least one sorting branch connected to the sorting machine 113. A sixth triggering mechanism 1124 is provided on the third transport mechanism 112, and a seventh triggering mechanism is provided on each sorting branch. The control device 130 verifies the sorting result based on the time difference between the object 200 triggering the sixth triggering mechanism 1124 and the seventh triggering mechanism of the target sorting branch. The target sorting branch is determined based on the first identifier of the object 200 and the judgment conclusion.

[0092] In some embodiments, the control device 130 controls the sorting machine 113 to stop operating when the time difference exceeds a preset threshold.

[0093] In some embodiments, when a sorting branch transports an object 200 thereon to a designated location, the control device 130 controls the non-target sorting branch to stop transporting when the object 200 triggers the seventh triggering mechanism of the non-target sorting branch.

[0094] Combination Figures 1-3 The following describes some implementation methods to improve the accuracy of object tracking.

[0095] Figure 4 The diagram schematically illustrates the overall structure of an object inspection system in the prior art. Figure 5 The diagram illustrates a rewind example of an object inspection system in the prior art.

[0096] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, BHS tracks baggage 201 to the XIS entrance. At the XIS entrance light barrier, BHS transmits the ID information of baggage 201 to XIS. After baggage 201 is transmitted to XIS, XIS begins tracking baggage 201. Once a scanned image of baggage 201 is generated, XIS binds the ID of baggage 201 to the scanned image and transmits it to the image interpretation system. When baggage 201 leaves XIS, XIS sends the ID of baggage 201 back to BHS, and BHS continues tracking baggage 201 to the sorting gate, where it performs the appropriate opening inspection or release processing.

[0097] In practical applications, after the XIS stops, it reverses approximately 10-25cm (the reverse rotation distance varies depending on the XIS speed). In the entire BHS and XIS tracking system, the inversion of the XIS will affect the success rate of BHS tracking baggage 201.

[0098] If BHS and XIS are from two different manufacturers, they interact at the entrance and exit. While this interaction method meets system requirements under normal operation, disturbances caused by the XIS rewind puzzle increase the probability of baggage 201 tracking failure. This is because the rewind process of baggage 201 may accidentally trigger XIS entrance / exit light barriers and the light barriers of the track itself. Baggage 201 that has already passed the entrance light barrier may trigger the XIS entrance light barrier or the BHS exit light barrier again, and vice versa. These four light barriers are crucial factors in baggage 201 tracking; repeated false triggering will reduce the tracking success rate.

[0099] based on Figure 4 and Figure 5 To address the issues raised, this disclosure provides an object inspection system 100 and an object tracking method, which are described below in conjunction with... Figures 6-9 Further explanation.

[0100] Figure 6 A partial structural diagram of an object inspection system 100 according to other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown schematically. Figure 7 The schematic diagram illustrates the overall structure of an object inspection system 100 according to other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0101] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7The object inspection system 100 includes a transport device 110 (i.e., BHS) and a radiographic scanning device 120 (i.e., XIS). The transport device 110 includes a first transport mechanism 111 (e.g., a BHS entrance conveyor belt) for transporting objects 200 (e.g., luggage 201), wherein a first triggering mechanism 1111 (i.e., a BHS entrance light barrier) is provided in the first transport mechanism 111 for tracking the object 200; the radiographic scanning device 120 includes a second transport mechanism configured to transport the object 200 from the first transport mechanism 111 to the radiographic scanning area, and to reverse a certain distance after stopping the transport of the object 200; wherein the first triggering mechanism 1111 is at a first distance from the entrance of the radiographic scanning device 120, the first distance being greater than the distance that any object 200 on the second transport mechanism moves during the reverse operation.

[0102] When object 200 passes the first tracking point, BHS can generate a first identifier and bind the first identifier to object 200 to achieve subsequent tracking. The first tracking point is the tracking point closest to the XIS entrance. Because it has a first distance from the XIS entrance, if any object 200 is transported in the reverse direction during the rewind process, the first trigger mechanism 1111 will not be triggered again, thus eliminating duplicate tracking records of the object 200 generated due to false triggering.

[0103] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first triggering mechanism 1111 compared to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The existing technology shown is located further away from the XIS inlet. For example, if the reverse rotation is about 10-25cm, and the length of the largest baggage 201 is about 1 meter, for example, the first triggering mechanism 1111 is about 1 meter away from the edge of the XIS inlet, and the first tracking point is set at this location, the XIS rewind will not be falsely triggered.

[0104] It is understood that the second transport mechanism in this embodiment stops transporting object 200 and then reverses its direction for a certain distance, which corresponds to a temporary stop during the object inspection process, rather than the object inspection system 100 stopping completely and no longer inspecting object 200.

[0105] According to embodiments of this disclosure, an object inspection system 100 including a transport device 110 and a X-ray scanning device 120 is provided. The first triggering mechanism 1111, originally located in the first transport mechanism 111 in the transport device 110, is set at a position with a first distance from the entrance of the X-ray scanning device 120. Even during the reverse operation of the second transport mechanism during the reverse rotation of the puzzle, since the first distance is greater than the movement distance of any object 200 on the second transport mechanism during the reverse operation, accidental triggering of the first triggering mechanism 1111 can be avoided, thereby achieving the effect of accurate tracking and efficient inspection.

[0106] In some embodiments, the X-ray scanning device 120 is configured to have only a second trigger mechanism 121 (i.e., XIS beam surface intermediate light barrier), the second trigger mechanism 121 being located between the first X-ray beam surface (i.e. beam surface 1) and the second X-ray beam surface (i.e. beam surface 2) of the X-ray scanning device 120, and the second trigger mechanism 121 being used to track the object 200.

[0107] For example, XIS includes a first radiation source and a first radiation detector forming a first radiation beam surface, and also includes a second radiation source and a second radiation detector forming a second radiation beam surface, with beam surface 1 and beam surface 2 being parallel. This avoids mutual interference of radiation signals and enables the detection of the inspected object in more than 200 ways and from multiple angles.

[0108] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the XIS beamline tracking point is located at the position of the second triggering mechanism 121, while the XIS entrance light barrier is removed. This overcomes the problem of accidental triggering of the XIS entrance light barrier during reverse operation in the prior art. The BHS and XIS transmit the first identifier as the object 200 passes the XIS beamline tracking point. Tracking is then achieved by combining the first identifier and the scanned image, utilizing both light barrier information and scanned image information. Even if the second triggering mechanism 121 is triggered again after rewinding, the existing scanned image can filter out any accidental triggering disturbances during the tracking process.

[0109] In some embodiments, the transport device 110 includes a third transport mechanism 112 for transporting an object 200 from a second transport mechanism. The third transport mechanism 112 includes N transport sub-mechanisms, such as N conveyor belts. Each transport sub-mechanism is configured to transport the object 200 to the next transport sub-mechanism until the object 200 leaves the third transport mechanism 112. The first transport sub-mechanism closest to the X-ray scanning device 120 is configured to operate synchronously with the second transport mechanism.

[0110] Reference Figure 7 N transport sub-mechanisms can be N conveyor belts, such as the BHS exit conveyor belt and all the conveyor belts between it and the sorting machine 113. The first transport sub-mechanism is the BHS exit conveyor belt. Synchronous operation means that the XIS conveyor belt (i.e., the second transport mechanism) is included as part of the line, which facilitates BHS tracking of object 200 on each conveyor belt section.

[0111] In some embodiments, a third triggering mechanism 1121 is provided on the first transport submechanism. The third triggering mechanism 1121 is used to issue a start / stop signal when triggered by the object 200 and when a specific condition is met. The first transport submechanism is configured to stop or operate according to the start / stop signal. The specific condition mentioned in this disclosure, for example, is that the operation of the next transport submechanism will issue a start signal, and the cessation of operation will issue a stop signal.

[0112] In some embodiments, the third triggering mechanism 1121 is located at the end of the transport path provided by the first transport sub-mechanism.

[0113] Reference Figure 7 A start / stop judgment point is provided at the end of the third triggering mechanism 1121. When the first transport sub-mechanism stops or starts according to the start / stop signal, the second transport mechanism stops or starts synchronously. The third triggering mechanism 1121 is the triggering mechanism closest to the edge of the XIS exit on the BHS, with a second distance (e.g., about 1 meter). It is located at the end of the BHS exit conveyor belt, and the XIS rewind will not be accidentally triggered.

[0114] In some embodiments, the second transport sub-mechanism is the next transport sub-mechanism adjacent to the first transport sub-mechanism, and the second transport sub-mechanism is provided with a fourth triggering mechanism 1122, which is used to track the object 200.

[0115] In some embodiments, a fifth triggering mechanism 1123 is provided on the second transport sub-mechanism. The fifth triggering mechanism 1123 is further away from the first transport sub-mechanism than the fourth triggering mechanism 1122. The fifth triggering mechanism 1123 is used to track the object 200 and to issue a start / stop signal when triggered by the object 200 and when certain conditions are met. (Refer to...) Figure 7 The second tracking point is set at the fourth triggering mechanism 1122. The third tracking point is set at the fifth triggering mechanism 1123.

[0116] In some embodiments, the fourth triggering mechanism 1122 is located at the beginning of the transport path provided by the second transport sub-mechanism, and the fifth triggering mechanism 1123 is located at the end of the transport path provided by the second transport sub-mechanism. The transport path includes the path of the transported objects on each individual conveyor belt, such as... Figure 7 The rectangular area corresponding to each conveyor belt.

[0117] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the tracking point and start / stop point on the XIS exit side are reasonably selected, and the start / stop light barrier and tracking light barrier on the XIS exit side are selected separately. On the BHS exit conveyor belt closest to the XIS, the third triggering mechanism 1121 is selected only as the conveyor belt start / stop judgment point, not as a tracking point. This approach has the following advantages:

[0118] The BHS exit conveyor belt (i.e., the first transport sub-mechanism) and the XIS conveyor belt (i.e., the second transport mechanism) start and stop simultaneously. When baggage 201 triggers the light barrier at the end of this conveyor belt, the next section of the belt stops, and both that section and the XIS conveyor belt stop simultaneously. If the XIS needs to rewind the puzzle, that section of the belt also rewinds synchronously with the XIS conveyor belt. Since this light barrier is not used as a tracking point, even if the conveyor belt starts after rewinding, and baggage 201 triggers the light barrier a second time, it will not affect the tracking of baggage 201. The exit conveyor belt starts and stops synchronously with the XIS, which facilitates accurate calculation of the time window (see below). Figure 8 and Figure 9 This allows for more accurate tracking of luggage.

[0119] The light barrier at the entrance of the next section of the BHS exit conveyor belt (i.e., the second transport submechanism) is selected as the tracking point (see...). Figure 7 The second tracking point eliminates the impact of XIS rewinding. The system is designed to stop the conveyor belt step by step starting from the sorting port. Through logic processing, the BHS exit conveyor belt continuously transports baggage 201 to the next belt section, which in turn continues transporting until it enters the sorting machine 113. Therefore, when baggage 201 passes the second tracking point during its journey from the BHS exit conveyor belt to the next belt section, the system will not stop.

[0120] In some embodiments, each of the N transport sub-mechanisms other than the first transport sub-mechanism and the second transport sub-mechanism is provided with at least one sixth triggering mechanism 1124. The sixth triggering mechanism 1124 is used to track the object 200 and to issue a start / stop signal when triggered by the object 200 and when a specific condition is met.

[0121] In some embodiments, each of the N transport sub-mechanisms, excluding the first and second transport sub-mechanisms, is provided with a sixth triggering mechanism 1124 at least at the end of the provided transport path.

[0122] According to embodiments of this disclosure, referring to Figure 7 Behind the XIS are four 1-meter (for example only) conveyor belts. Except for the BHS exit conveyor belt closest to the XIS, which is only used as a start / stop judgment point and not as a tracking point, each of the other conveyor belts has a light barrier installed at the end as a trigger mechanism. This light barrier is usually used as a tracking point, and also as a start / stop judgment point for the conveyor belt (baggage 201 triggers this light barrier to check the status of the next belt section. If the next belt section stops, the conveyor belt containing baggage 201 will also stop immediately). This facilitates accurate calculation of the time window and allows for more precise tracking of baggage 201.

[0123] It should be noted that the parameters of four sections and 1 meter mentioned above are only for clarity of description. The object inspection system 100 can be modularly designed, and different module configurations can be selected according to different user budgets and usage requirements. For example, the ATR automatic barcode scanning system can use a high-cost three-sided barcode scanning camera: this system automatically scans barcodes, has a high throughput rate for baggage 201, and a BPH of approximately 800 pieces / hour. Alternatively, a low-cost barcode scanner can be used: this system uses manual barcode scanning, has a lower throughput rate, and a BPH of approximately 360 pieces / hour. For example, different configurations of BHS can be used, such as a multi-section conveyor belt BHS. This solution allows for flexible configuration of the number of conveyor belts according to different site conditions. This line achieves a high throughput rate for baggage 201 through intelligent queuing logic; the remote image judgment system can use either a pop-up image judgment mode or a remote scroll image judgment mode.

[0124] Referring to the above Figures 1 to 7 The description and embodiments of the present invention address the problems existing in the prior art by designing an integrated object inspection system to resolve the impact of XIS rewind puzzle on the success rate of baggage tracking. The main aspects involved are as follows: The XIS and BHS are integrated into a single design, with the XIS conveyor belt being part of the BHS, meaning the start and stop of the XIS conveyor belt are controlled by the BHS; the midpoint between the two beam surfaces of the XIS is selected as a tracking point, replacing the XIS entrance / exit point, to avoid false triggering of the light barrier by baggage 201 when the XIS rewinds; the tracking point light barrier and the start / stop light barrier on the XIS exit side are selected separately to avoid false triggering of the light barrier by baggage 201 when the XIS rewinds.

[0125] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating an object tracking method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically. Figure 9 A logic path diagram illustrating an object tracking method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0126] Reference Figures 3-7 The object inspection system 100 has a total of M1 triggering mechanisms in its transport device 110 and X-ray scanning device 120. These M1 triggering mechanisms serve as M1 tracking points for tracking the object 200. Figure 8 As shown, the object tracking method of this disclosure includes:

[0127] In operation S810, M2 tracking points are assigned to the object 200 to be inspected during the transportation process, wherein the transportation device 110 and the X-ray scanning device 120 are configured to transport the object 200, and M1 and M2 are both integers greater than or equal to 1, and M2 is less than or equal to M1.

[0128] In operation S820, M2 time windows are assigned to M2 tracking points for the arrival of object 200 at each tracking point. The time window indicates a time period with a specific duration.

[0129] In operation S830, if object 200 reaches the corresponding tracking point within each time window, it is determined that object 200 has been tracked.

[0130] In some embodiments, if object 200 fails to reach the corresponding tracking point within any time window, object 200 is transported to the baggage inspection channel. Therefore, anomalies can be quickly identified by whether or not the tracking point is reached within the corresponding time window, and when an abnormal baggage 201 is found, it is dispatched to the inspection channel.

[0131] For example, each tracking point corresponds to a triggering mechanism, and each triggering mechanism includes a photoelectric beam sensor. When luggage 201 is transported to the corresponding tracking point, the corresponding photoelectric beam sensor is triggered. After triggering, the photoelectric beam sensor sends a trigger signal to the control module or control device 130 of the transport device 110. In other embodiments, an encoder can be used to assist in timing. The control module or control device 130 of the transport device 110 can send a pulse signal to the encoder, and the encoder starts counting. When luggage 201 triggers the next photoelectric beam sensor, the transport controller controls the encoder to stop counting until the object 200 reaches the next tracking point within the time window or exceeds the time window.

[0132] For example, taking control device 130 as an example, its verification of whether baggage 201 arrives at the corresponding tracking point within each time window includes:

[0133] Step 1: The control device 130 stores the time windows for each tracking point. It can be understood that the time windows for each tracking point can be the same or different, determined flexibly based on distance and speed. When a tracking point is reached, the time window for the next tracking point begins timing.

[0134] Step 2: Store the encoder count values ​​corresponding to the time windows of each tracking point.

[0135] Step 3: For each tracking point, luggage 201 triggers the photoelectric through-beam sensor to emit a photoelectric signal, and the encoder starts counting.

[0136] Step 4: The control device 130 obtains the actual count value of the encoder based on the real-time count value and the start count value of the encoder, and compares the actual count value with the pre-designed value. If it does not exceed the value, the verification result is that the luggage 201 is in transit; if it exceeds the value, the luggage 201 has not accurately reached the corresponding tracking point.

[0137] Step 5: When the photoelectric sensor of the next tracking point is triggered by the luggage 201 to emit a photoelectric signal, the encoder stops counting in that time window, and the control device 130 controls the encoder to start counting in the next time window. It is understood that the above example uses a single encoder, but a corresponding encoder can also be set for each tracking point; this disclosure does not impose specific limitations.

[0138] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 9 Any triggering mechanism has an associated transport mechanism on the transport device 110 or the X-ray scanning device 120. For any time window, the mechanism further includes: when the transport mechanism associated with the tracking point corresponding to the time window is running in the forward direction, timing the consumed time in the forward direction within the time window (i.e., the conveyor belt is moving forward and timing is positive); when the transport mechanism associated with the tracking point corresponding to the time window is running in the reverse direction, timing the consumed time in the reverse direction within the time window (i.e., the conveyor belt is reversing and timing is negative); when the transport mechanism associated with the tracking point corresponding to the time window stops running, timing the consumed time stops within the time window (i.e., the conveyor belt stops timing).

[0139] Continue to refer to Figure 9 Each piece of luggage 201 is assigned a logical channel. The number of logical channels should exceed the maximum number of luggage 201s the line can accommodate. Logical channels can be used cyclically. Each logical channel is assigned several tracking points, for example, 6 tracking points. Once luggage 201 enters a logical channel, it is marked with a tracking ID (i.e., the first identifier), and a time window for each subsequent tracking point is pre-configured. If the luggage 201 arrives at a tracking point within the time window, the tracking error for that segment is corrected and eliminated before proceeding to the next tracking segment. Before luggage 201 arrives at the sorting gate, its corresponding judgment conclusion information is queried from the conclusion data queue, and it is then subjected to the appropriate opening inspection or release processing.

[0140] For example, when object 200 reaches the first tracking point, a tracking ID for object 200 is generated as the tracking start point. A timer begins, with a 5-minute time window for reaching the beamline tracking point. The time consumed is the forward timing period. If the object reaches the beamline tracking point within the specified range, the tracking ID is passed to XIS for image-ID binding. For any tracking point after the tracking start point, if it reaches the corresponding time window (specified time range), the tracking ID is passed to the next conveyor belt; otherwise, the logical channel is closed, tracking stops, and the object is transported to the unpacking and inspection channel.

[0141] According to embodiments of this disclosure, an object tracking method for an object inspection system 100 is provided. By assigning several tracking points to the object 200 to be inspected and pre-allocating time windows for arrival at each tracking point, a predictive effect for object tracking is achieved. Furthermore, the method tracks the object 200 in real time based on the triggering status of the tracking points during actual transportation, thereby improving the tracking accuracy of the object 200.

[0142] Referring to the above Figures 1-9The description and embodiments of the integrated object inspection system 100 are applicable to system integration solutions for airport cargo terminal security inspection scenarios, including the CXl00100DB-A type X-ray inspection system, ATR automatic barcode scanning system, BHS, and remote image interpretation system. The main aspects involved are as follows: Front end of the security inspection machine: adding an automatic baggage conveyor belt and a baggage 201 information collection system; Upgrading the security inspection machine: improving the baggage 201 throughput capacity through lightweight lead curtain modifications. Developing interconnected software to coordinate with the production line for baggage 201 tracking; Back end of the security inspection machine: designing a conveyor belt, automatic sorting machine 113, return mechanism, and release mechanism. Developing a PLC program to complete baggage 201 tracking and sorting, focusing on addressing the impact of the security inspection machine's rewinding mosaic on baggage 201 tracking. Developing the sorting machine 113, focusing on solving the problem of insufficient sorting capacity of ordinary swing wheel sorting machines 113 for irregular baggage 201. Remote image interpretation system: In addition to fulfilling the functions of image distribution and remote image interpretation, the remote image interpretation system can also integrate the information of the line body and security inspection machine in the system, making it convenient for security personnel to monitor the entire airport cargo terminal integrated object inspection system 100.

[0143] In some embodiments, the operation of the object inspection system 100 in airport cargo terminal security checks is as follows:

[0144] Identity verification: Before the security check of each piece of baggage in baggage 201, the freight forwarder must verify the identity of the person before starting the shipment. After successful verification, the belt of the security inspection machine will start to rotate forward. The belts of the automatic barcode scanner at the entrance and the exit of the security inspection machine will rotate forward in conjunction. The freight forwarder will then prepare to load each piece of baggage 201 with a label.

[0145] Bag handling at the entrance BHS: The entrance BHS receives baggage 201 and handles the baggage 201 by pulling it to ensure that the distance between bags is not less than 500mm (for example only).

[0146] Automatic scanning: After baggage 201 enters the ATR scanning area, ATR scans it. After successful scanning, ATR sends the baggage 201 barcode to the entrance BHS at the designated location (XIS entrance).

[0147] Baggage Security Check: At the entrance, BHS begins tracking baggage 201 at a designated location. The baggage barcode and tracking BID code (self-generated by BHS) of baggage 201 are sent to XIS at the center of the XIS array. XIS then packages the image of baggage 201, the corresponding barcode, and the BID code and sends it to the remote image processing system.

[0148] Security screening image interpretation: The exit BHS continuously transmits and tracks baggage 201. During this period, the remote image interpretation station interprets the received image information. After the image interpreter makes an interpretation decision for baggage 201, the remote image interpretation system sends the interpretation decision plus the tracking BID code to XIS. Upon receiving it, XIS forwards it to the exit BHS.

[0149] Baggage 201 sorting: When baggage 201 is conveyed to the fixed position at the front end of sorting machine 113, the exit BHS extracts the conclusion from the data queue based on the received conclusion + tracking BID code, and sorts or releases the corresponding baggage 201 according to the judgment conclusion.

[0150] Package inspection: The package inspector and the freight forwarder must inspect the returned suspicious baggage 201 in turn and perform other operations such as re-declaring the name of the goods; during the transportation and opening of suspicious baggage 201, other baggage 201 can continue to be inspected by the security screening machine.

[0151] Baggage Re-inspection: After the initial baggage inspection, baggage 201 without prohibited items needs to be re-inspected. The re-inspection process is the same as the initial inspection. If suspicious baggage 201 is encountered during the re-inspection, it needs to be sent back for another inspection. The entire baggage 201 security inspection process is completed after each baggage 201 has been processed.

[0152] The handling of interfering factors during baggage inspection is shown in Table 1 below.

[0153] Table 1 Anti-interference index

[0154] Serial Number Interference factors Handling interference 1 When a package passes through the bundle, two ID numbers are generated. Inspection will not affect subsequent packages. 2 While scanning the QR code, the package that was following behind was accidentally sent into the security scanner. Inspection will not affect subsequent packages. 3 When the package passed through the packaging area, the missing package did not generate an ID number. Inspection will not affect subsequent packages. 4 Add any package to the package queue. Inspection will not affect subsequent packages. 5 The package did not hit the sorting light barrier after sorting. An alarm was triggered, and the package ID number was displayed. 6 The package did not hit the release light barrier during release. An alarm was triggered, and the package ID number was displayed.

[0155] The object inspection system 100 and object tracking method provided in this disclosure integrate the BHS and XIS design, rationally select information interaction points between BHS and XIS, rationally design system tracking points and package start and stop points, and optimize the tracking algorithm, thereby improving the system tracking and sorting success rate.

[0156] Those skilled in the art will understand that the features described in the various embodiments and / or claims of this disclosure can be combined or combined in various ways, even if such combinations or combinations are not explicitly described in this disclosure. In particular, the features described in the various embodiments and / or claims of this disclosure can be combined or combined in various ways without departing from the spirit and teachings of this disclosure. All such combinations and / or combinations fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0157] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described above. However, these embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Although various embodiments have been described above, this does not mean that the measures in the various embodiments cannot be used advantageously in combination. The scope of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Various substitutions and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of this disclosure, and all such substitutions and modifications should fall within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. An object inspection system, comprising: The transport device includes a first transport mechanism and a third transport mechanism for transporting objects, a sorting machine connected to the third transport mechanism, at least one sorting branch connected to the sorting machine, a sixth triggering mechanism provided on the third transport mechanism, and a seventh triggering mechanism provided on each sorting branch. Security inspection machine, including X-ray scanning device and control device; The X-ray scanning device includes a second transport mechanism configured to transport an object from the first transport mechanism to the X-ray scanning area and to the third transport mechanism; The control device is communicatively connected to the transport device and the X-ray scanning device; The transport device, the X-ray scanning device, and the control device are connected by a unified communication protocol. The transport device is configured to send control requests to the control device based on the unified communication protocol to control the operation of the second transport mechanism, thereby achieving unified transport control of the object during the inspection process. The control device is configured to verify the sorting results based on the time difference between the object triggering the sixth triggering mechanism and the seventh triggering mechanism of the target sorting branch.

2. The object inspection system according to claim 1, wherein, Also includes: The image interpretation device, using the aforementioned unified communication protocol, is at least communicatively connected to the X-ray scanning device. The image interpretation device is configured to acquire a scanned image of the object obtained by the X-ray scanning device, and to obtain an image interpretation conclusion of the scanned image.

3. The object inspection system according to claim 2, wherein, The transport device is configured to generate a first identifier for the object and to send the first identifier to the ray scanning device when the object triggers a second triggering mechanism on the ray scanning device, wherein the second triggering mechanism is located between a first ray beam and a second ray beam of the ray scanning device; The ray scanning device is configured to send a first identifier of the object and a scanned image to the image processing device.

4. The object inspection system according to claim 3, wherein, Also includes: The identification device is placed on the path of the first transportation mechanism transporting the object, and communicates with the transportation mechanism at least using the unified communication protocol. The identification device is configured to scan the tags of the objects passing through its identification area to generate a second identifier, and send the second identifier to the transport device, wherein the second identifier is used to record the object.

5. The object inspection system according to claim 4, wherein, The transport device is configured to send a first and a second identifier of the object to the X-ray scanning device; The ray scanning device is configured to send the first identifier, the second identifier, and the scanned image of the object to the image interpretation device.

6. The object inspection system according to claim 4, wherein, The control device is communicatively connected to the identification device and the image judgment device, and the control device is configured to: The system receives status information from each of the transport device, the X-ray scanning device, and the identification device, and sends the status information to the image interpretation device for processing. The status information indicates the operating status of the corresponding device.

7. The object inspection system according to claim 3, wherein, The transport device is configured to acquire a first identifier and a judgment conclusion of the object, and control the sorting machine to sort the object based on the first identifier and the judgment conclusion of the object.

8. The object inspection system according to claim 7, wherein, The target sorting branch is determined based on the object's first identifier and the image judgment conclusion.

9. The object inspection system according to claim 8, wherein, The control device is configured to stop the sorting machine when the time difference exceeds a preset threshold.

10. The object inspection system according to claim 9, wherein, The sorting branch is configured to transport objects thereon to a designated location, and the control device is configured to: When the object triggers the seventh trigger mechanism of the non-target sorting branch, the non-target sorting branch is controlled to stop transportation.

11. An object inspection method, used in the object inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the method comprising: A transport device is used to transport an object, wherein the transport device includes a first transport mechanism and a third transport mechanism for transporting the object; The second transport mechanism in the X-ray scanning device transports an object from the first transport mechanism to the X-ray scanning area, and then transports the object to the third transport mechanism; and The transport device controls the operation of the second transport mechanism through a control device, wherein the control device is communicatively connected to the transport device and the X-ray scanning device, and the transport device, the X-ray scanning device, and the control device use a unified communication protocol.

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