X-ray inspection device

Abstract

An X-ray inspection device (1) is provided with: a transport unit (5) that transports an article (G); an X-ray irradiation unit (6) that irradiates X-rays on the article (G) conveyed by the conveyance unit (5) to the inspection area (4); an X-ray detection unit (7) that detects X-rays that have passed through the article (G); an inspection unit (10) that inspects the article (G) on the basis of the detection result of the X-ray detection unit (7); a flexible X-ray shielding member (60) that prevents leakage of X-rays from the transport path (4c) to the inspection region, the X-ray shielding member being suspended from the transport path (4c); and a front surface member (50) that is disposed upstream of the X-ray shielding member (60) so as to overlap the X-ray shielding member (60), and that has higher impact resistance or wear resistance than the X-ray shielding member (60).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One aspect of the present invention relates to an X-ray inspection apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] X-ray inspection apparatuses are known to include X-ray leakage prevention components (such as shielding curtains) to prevent X-ray leakage. These components are formed from flexible materials, including those containing tungsten. However, due to the high surface friction resistance, these components can cause problems when inspected items are lightweight or have a shape prone to jamming. Sometimes, the item may become stuck and stop during transport, or its orientation may change, preventing proper inspection. To address this issue, for example, in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-228601), a flexible slide plate made of a material with a low coefficient of friction is provided, which overlaps with the front surface of the X-ray leakage prevention component in the transport direction of the item. This prevents X-ray leakage while stabilizing the transport of the item. Summary of the Invention

[0003] However, even if the transport of items can be stabilized in the existing X-ray inspection equipment, the sliding plate may wear out and break due to contact with the items, creating a risk of foreign objects being mixed into the items.

[0004] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is to provide an X-ray inspection apparatus that can reduce the risk of foreign matter contaminating the article being inspected while preventing X-ray leakage.

[0005] (1) An X-ray inspection apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a conveying unit for conveying an article; an X-ray irradiation unit for irradiating the article conveyed by the conveying unit to an inspection area with X-rays; an X-ray detection unit for detecting X-rays that have passed through the article; an inspection unit for inspecting the article based on the detection result of the X-ray detection unit; a flexible X-ray shielding member for preventing X-ray leakage from a conveying path that moves the article into or out of the inspection area, the X-ray shielding member being suspended in the conveying path; and a front surface member disposed upstream of the X-ray shielding member in a manner overlapping the X-ray shielding member, having higher impact resistance or wear resistance than the X-ray shielding member.

[0006] In this X-ray inspection apparatus, a front surface component with impact-resistant or wear-resistant properties is provided upstream of the X-ray shielding component. Therefore, the frequency of direct contact between the article transported from the upstream side and the X-ray shielding component is reduced. This decreases the likelihood of damage to the X-ray shielding component. Consequently, X-ray leakage is prevented, and the risk of foreign matter contaminating the article being inspected is reduced.

[0007] (2) Alternatively, in the X-ray inspection apparatus of (1) above, at least the outer surface of the front surface component is formed of a metallic material. In this configuration, it is possible to easily form a front surface component that has impact resistance or wear resistance compared to an X-ray shielding component.

[0008] (3) Alternatively, in the X-ray inspection apparatus described in (1) above, the front surface component is a thin-plate leaf spring component made of a metal material. In this configuration, the front surface component is made of a thin plate, so that even if the article is deformed by a collision, it can recover its original shape. Furthermore, since the front surface component can be made of a thin plate, the impact when the front surface component collides with the article is reduced, and the transport of the article can be stabilized.

[0009] (4) Alternatively, in any of the X-ray inspection apparatuses described in (1) to (3) above, the coefficient of friction of the surface of the front surface component is less than the coefficient of friction of the X-ray shielding component. In this configuration, it is possible to easily form a front surface component that has impact resistance or wear resistance compared to the X-ray shielding component.

[0010] (5) Alternatively, in any of the X-ray inspection apparatuses described in (1) to (4) above, the front surface member is suspended in the transport path, and the length of the front surface member extending from the base end on the fixed side to the front end on the hanging side is shorter than the length of the X-ray shielding member extending from the base end to the front end. In this configuration, it is possible to configure the lower end of the front surface member to not contact the transport section while the lower end of the X-ray shielding member is in contact with the transport section. As a result, wear on the lower end of the front surface member can be reduced, and X-ray leakage can be prevented.

[0011] (6) Alternatively, the X-ray inspection apparatus of (5) above may further include: a rotating shaft that rotatably fixes the X-ray shielding component and the front surface component, the rotating shaft extending in a width direction orthogonal to both the conveying direction and the vertical direction of the conveying section in the conveying path; and a first limiting member disposed downstream of the rotating shaft, which, when viewed from the width direction, maintains an inclined state such that the base end of the front surface component is located upstream of the front end, and restricts rotation upstream. In this configuration, the front surface component is initially pushed by the first limiting member, thus further improving the passability of the article.

[0012] (7) Alternatively, the X-ray inspection apparatus of (6) above may further include: a second limiting member disposed further downstream than the first limiting member, which limits the front surface member from rotating downstream by a predetermined angle or more. In this configuration, the situation where the required degree of rotation of the front surface member is reduced or the X-ray leakage suppression effect decreases can be mitigated.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, leakage of X-rays can be prevented and the risk of foreign matter contaminating the items to be inspected can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a front view of an X-ray inspection apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A side view of an X-ray inspection device.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a front view showing the configuration around the conveyor section and the shielding unit.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the downstream section of the conveyor and shielding unit from a diagonal view of the downstream side.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional view of the downstream part of the conveyor section and shielding unit when viewed from the upstream oblique side.

[0019] Figure 6A This is a diagram showing the downstream end of the conveyor section and shielding unit viewed from the upstream front. Figure 6B This is a diagram showing the downstream end of the conveyor section and shielding unit viewed from the front of the downstream side.

[0020] Figure 7A This is a diagram showing the downstream end of the conveying section and shielding unit involved in the modified example, viewed from the upstream front. Figure 7B This is a diagram showing the downstream end of the conveying section and shielding unit involved in the modified example as viewed from the front of the downstream side. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the same reference numerals are used to denote the same elements in the description of the drawings, and repeated descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, "A or B" in this specification may include either A or B, but does not exclude the inclusion of both A and B. In this specification, upstream and downstream refer to upstream and downstream of the conveying direction A, respectively.

[0022] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 includes an apparatus body 2, support feet 3, and a transport unit (transport section) 5. The support feet 3 support the apparatus body 2. The apparatus body 2 has a frame 9, which is made of, for example, a material that can shield electromagnetic waves such as X-rays. The frame 9 includes, for example, an upper part 9a on the front surface where a display operation part 8 is provided, a back part 9b extending in the vertical direction, and a lower part 9c protruding forward from the back part 9b.

[0023] X-ray inspection apparatus 1 includes an inspection unit 15 assembled into the apparatus body 2. The inspection unit 15 has an inspection chamber (inspection area) 4 located approximately at the center of the apparatus body 2 in the height direction. For example, a shielding box (not shown) is provided in the inspection chamber 4. The inspection unit 15 has an X-ray irradiation unit 6 and an X-ray detection unit 7 housed within a frame 9 of the apparatus body 2. The X-ray irradiation unit 6 is disposed within the upper part 9a of the frame 9, and the X-ray detection unit 7 is disposed within the lower part 9c of the frame 9. The inspection unit 15 also includes, for example, a control unit 10 disposed within the upper part 9a of the frame 9.

[0024] When viewed from the upstream side of the conveying direction A, the first wall 91 of the upper part 9a, the second wall 92 of the back 9b, and the third wall 93 of the lower part 9c form a U-shape that opens forward. The front surface of the frame 9 on which the conveying unit 5 is disposed is covered, for example, by a shielding cover (not shown), which is opened and closed for maintenance, etc. The inspection chamber 4 is a generally cuboid space surrounded by these walls and the shielding cover. A rectangular inlet opening 4a is formed at the upstream end of the inspection chamber 4 in the conveying direction A. A rectangular outlet opening 4b is formed at the downstream end of the inspection chamber 4 in the conveying direction A. The shape and size of the inlet opening 4a are equal to the shape and size of the outlet opening 4b. An article G (see reference) is formed between the inlet opening 4a and the inspection chamber 4, and between the inspection chamber 4 and the outlet opening 4b. Figure 3 The transport path 4c.

[0025] The conveying unit 5 conveys item G in the conveying direction A. The conveying unit 5 is configured to pass through the inspection chamber 4 in the conveying direction A. In other words, the inspection unit 15 is configured to cover the conveying unit 5.

[0026] The X-ray inspection device 1 generates an X-ray transmission image of the item G while conveying it through the conveying unit 5. Based on this X-ray transmission image, the item G is inspected (e.g., quantity check, foreign object contamination check, shortage check, crack / gap check, etc.). The item G is, for example, food. The conveying unit 5 has an infeed section 20 located upstream of the conveying direction A and an outfeed section 30 located downstream of the conveying direction A. Before inspection, the item G is moved into the inspection chamber 4 via the infeed section 20. After inspection, the item G is moved out of the inspection chamber 4 via the outfeed section 30. Items G deemed defective by the X-ray inspection device 1 are distributed off the production line by a distribution device (not shown) located downstream of the outfeed section 30. Items G deemed acceptable by the X-ray inspection device 1 pass directly through this distribution device.

[0027] The X-ray irradiation unit 6 irradiates the article G transported by the transport unit 5 with X-rays (electromagnetic waves). The X-ray irradiation unit 6 includes, for example, an X-ray tube that emits X-rays, and a collimator that causes the X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube to fan out in a plane perpendicular to the transport direction A. The X-ray detection unit 7 detects the X-rays transmitted through the X-ray irradiation unit 6 to the article G. The X-ray detection unit 7 is configured, for example, as a line sensor. Specifically, the X-ray detection unit 7 includes: a plurality of photodiodes arranged one-dimensionally along a horizontal direction perpendicular to the transport direction A; and a scintillator disposed on the X-ray incident side relative to each photodiode. In this case, in the X-ray detection unit 7, the X-rays incident on the scintillator are converted into light, and the light incident on each photodiode is converted into an electrical signal.

[0028] The display operation unit 8 is located on the upper part 9a of the housing 9 and faces forward. The display operation unit 8 displays various information (i.e., notifies the operator of the operating status) and receives various input conditions. The display operation unit 8 is, for example, an LCD display showing an operation screen as a touch panel. In this case, the operator can input various conditions through the display operation unit 8. The display operation unit 8 notifies the X-ray inspection device 1 of various abnormalities. A notification light 11, which also functions as a notification unit, is erected on the upper part 9a of the housing 9.

[0029] The control unit 10 is disposed within the main body 2 of the device. The control unit 10 controls the operation of each component of the X-ray inspection apparatus 1. The control unit 10 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. Signals output from the X-ray detection unit 7 and converted by an A / D converter are input into the control unit 10. Based on the signals output from the X-ray detection unit 7, the control unit 10 generates an X-ray transmission image of the article G and functions as an inspection unit for inspecting the article G based on this X-ray transmission image.

[0030] The infeed section 20 and the outfeed section 30 each have a known configuration, including a motor, pulleys, a synchronous belt, a drive roller, and a driven roller (all figures omitted). The conveying unit 5 has a conveyor belt B that spans the entire infeed section 20 and the outfeed section 30, and the conveyor belt B travels at a predetermined speed. Thus, in the conveying unit 5, an item G is conveyed at this travel speed. The travel speed (conveyor speed) of the conveyor belt B is adjustable. The item G is conveyed on the conveyor surface Ba of the conveyor belt B.

[0031] like Figure 3 As shown, the infeed section 20 includes a frame 21 that supports the conveyor belt B via pulleys. Similarly, the outfeed section 30 includes a frame 31 that supports the conveyor belt B via pulleys. Frames 21 and 31 are made of metal, such as stainless steel. A small gap is formed between frames 21 and 31 in the conveying direction A. An X-ray passage region X is formed through this gap, allowing X-rays to pass from the X-ray irradiation section 6 to the X-ray detection section 7. This gap, i.e., the passage region X, extends along the width direction D (see reference φ). Figure 2 The width direction D extends from the conveying direction A in the conveying unit 5, and the opposing direction of the X-ray irradiation unit 6 and the X-ray detection unit 7. Figure 2 The directions in which the X-ray irradiation unit 6 and the X-ray detection unit 7 intersect are vertical. In this embodiment, the conveying direction A and the width direction D are horizontal, and the opposing directions of the X-ray irradiation unit 6 and the X-ray detection unit 7 are vertical.

[0032] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, as the item G enters through the inlet opening 4a and moves towards the outlet opening 4b, the inspection unit 15 inspects the item G by irradiating it with X-rays. Within the inspection unit 15, X-ray leakage is prevented from the outside by a shielding box and a shielding unit 40 (described later). Before inspection, the item G is moved into the inspection chamber 4 through the inlet opening 4a. After inspection, the item G is moved out of the inspection chamber 4 through the outlet opening 4b.

[0033] The X-ray inspection apparatus 1 includes a shielding unit 40, which is provided at least on both the inlet opening 4a and the outlet opening 4b to shield X-rays leaking to the outside from the inlet opening 4a and the outlet opening 4b. The shielding unit 40 will now be described in detail.

[0034] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the shielding unit 40 prevents X-rays irradiating the article G from leaking from the entrance opening 4a and the exit opening 4b of the inspection chamber 4. The shielding unit 40 has an upstream shielding unit 40A and a downstream shielding unit 40B. The upstream shielding unit 40A and the downstream shielding unit 40B have the same configuration; therefore, the downstream shielding unit 40B will be described below, and the description of the upstream shielding unit 40A will be omitted.

[0035] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the shielding unit 40B includes: three sets of support shafts 43 with identical structures, a shielding plate (front surface component) 50, a shielding sheet (X-ray shielding component) 60, a first limiting component 45 and a second limiting component 47; and a pair of partition walls 49. The three sets of support shafts 43, the shielding plate 50, the shielding sheet 60, the first limiting component 45 and the second limiting component 47 are supported by a support frame 41. The support frame 41 is detachably fixed to the device body 2. The vertical mounting position of the support frame 41 relative to the device body 2 is adjustable.

[0036] The support shaft 43 extends in the width direction D. The support shaft 43 is inserted into a hole formed in the support frame 41, which is separated in the width direction D, and is supported by the support frame 41. The shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 are rotatably suspended on the support shaft 43. The support shaft 43 is positioned above the conveyor path 4c for moving the item G into and out of the inspection chamber 4.

[0037] The shielding sheet 60 is a flexible component that prevents X-rays from leaking from the transport path 4c. The shielding sheet 60 is formed, for example, from a polyolefin or rubber resin component containing tungsten that shields X-rays. In this embodiment, the shielding sheet 60 has a thickness of, for example, 0.1 mm to 3.0 mm. The shielding sheets 60 are arranged along the support axis 43 in the width direction D. In this embodiment, an example of four shielding sheets 60 (shielding sheets 61, 62, 63, 64) is given; however, the number is not limited to four, and two, three, or five or more may be provided, or even a single shielding sheet 60 may be used.

[0038] The width of the shielding plate 60 in the width direction D can be appropriately set. Adjacent shielding plates 60 may have their end faces in contact with each other without overlapping in the width direction, or their end faces may slightly overlap in the width direction. The length of the shielding plate 60 (from the base end fixed to one side of the conveyor path 4c (the support shaft 43 side) to the front end of the side hanging down to the conveyor unit 5 side) is set such that its front end contacts the conveyor belt B of the conveyor unit 5, or the gap between its front end and the conveyor belt B is almost eliminated.

[0039] The overall shape of the shielding sheet 60, composed of shielding sheets 61, 62, 63, and 64, can also be such that the left and right ends 61a and 64a in the width direction D protrude downwards, and the central portion 60a is concave upwards. More specifically, the left and right ends 61a and 64a protrude downwards relative to the conveying surface Ba of the conveyor belt B in the conveying unit 5, and the central portion 60a is formed to be opposite to the conveying surface Ba of the conveyor belt B with a small gap.

[0040] The shielding plate 50 is disposed upstream of the shielding sheet 60, overlapping it. The shielding plate 50 is a component with higher impact resistance or wear resistance than the shielding sheet 60. The shielding plate 50 is formed, for example, of stainless steel, iron, or titanium. In this embodiment, the shielding plate 50 has a thickness of 0.1 mm to 3.0 mm. The shielding plate 50 is a leaf spring and is elastic. Furthermore, the coefficient of friction of the surface of the shielding plate 50 is lower than that of the surface of the shielding sheet 60.

[0041] The shielding plates 50 are arranged along the support axis 43 in the width direction D. In this embodiment, an example of four shielding plates 50 (shielding plates 51, 52, 53, 54) is given, but the number is not limited to four. Two, three, or more shielding plates may be provided, or there may be only one shielding plate 50.

[0042] The width of the shielding plate 50 in the width direction D can be appropriately set. Adjacent shielding plates 50 may have their end faces in contact with each other without overlapping in the width direction, or their end faces may slightly overlap in the width direction. The length of the shielding plate 50 (from the base end fixed to one side of the conveying path 4c (the support shaft 43 side) to the front end of the side hanging down to the conveying unit 5 side) is set such that its front end does not contact the conveyor belt B of the conveying unit 5, or the gap between its front end and the conveyor belt B is almost non-existent.

[0043] In this embodiment, the width of the shielding sheet 60 is the same as the width of the shielding plate 50, and the number of shielding sheets 60 arranged in the width direction D is the same as the number of shielding plates 50 arranged in the width direction D. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the shielding unit 40B is viewed from the upstream side of the conveying direction A, the shielding sheet 60 is positioned directly behind the shielding plate 50. That is, in the shielding unit 40B of this embodiment, when the shielding unit 40B is viewed from the upstream side of the conveying direction A, the shielding sheet 60 does not protrude from the shielding plate 50 in the width direction. Additionally, in this embodiment, when the shielding unit 40B is viewed from the downstream side of the conveying direction A, the shielding plate 50 is positioned directly behind the shielding sheet 60. That is, in the shielding unit 40B of this embodiment, when the shielding unit 40B is viewed from the downstream side of the conveying direction A, the shielding plate 50 does not protrude from the shielding sheet 60 in the width direction. Furthermore, in the shielding unit 40B of this embodiment, the length of the shielding sheet 60 is longer than the length of the shielding plate 50.

[0044] The shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 are rotatably (rockingly) supported on the support shaft 43 via the base ends of the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 through the first mounting member 43A and the second mounting member 43B. The first mounting member 43A is a plate-shaped member having a cylindrical portion that inserts into the support shaft 43. The second mounting member 43B is a plate-shaped member. The shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 are sandwiched between the two first mounting members 43A and the second mounting member 43B in an overlapping state, thereby being rotatably supported on the support shaft 43. The first mounting members 43A and the second mounting members 43B are clamped into an overlapping shielding sheet 60 (shielding sheets 61, 62, 63, 64) and a shielding plate 50 (shielding plates 51, 52, 53, 54) by fastening members 43C such as bolts and nuts. It should be noted that the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 are arranged in an overlapping state as described above. However, apart from the part where the upper ends of the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 are pressed and fixed to each other by the first mounting member 43A and the second mounting member 43B, there is no part that is fixed to each other.

[0045] The first limiting member 45 is disposed downstream of the support shaft 43. The first limiting member 45 is a rod-shaped member extending in the width direction D. When viewed from the width direction D, the first limiting member 45 is maintained in an inclined state with the base end of the shielding plate 50 located upstream of the front end, and shows the upstream rotation of the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50. The shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 are limited by the first limiting member 45, for example, in a state where they are inclined at 40 to 50 degrees (preferably 45 degrees) relative to the vertical plane. The angle α of the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 limited by the first limiting member 45 (see below) Figure 3This is referred to as the limiting angle based on the first limiting component 45.

[0046] The first limiting member 45 is inserted through an elongated hole formed in the support frame 41 in the width direction D and is supported by the support frame 41. Extending in the conveying direction through this elongated hole, the conveying direction position of the first limiting member 45 can be finely adjusted. By adjusting the conveying direction position of the first limiting member 45, the limiting angles of the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 can be adjusted.

[0047] The second limiting member 47 is disposed further downstream than the first limiting member 45. The second limiting member 47 is a rod-shaped member extending in the width direction D. The second limiting member 47 is inserted through a circular hole formed in the support frame 41 that is separated in the width direction D, and is supported by the support frame 41. The second limiting member 47 restricts the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 from rotating downstream by a predetermined angle α (e.g., 80 degrees or more). More specifically, the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 are supported on the support shaft 43 in such a way that their front ends can rotate freely within an angle α relative to the vertical direction of, for example, 45 degrees or more and 70 degrees or less, through the first limiting member 45 and the second limiting member 47.

[0048] The shielding plate 60 and shielding plate 50 are easily shaken (lifted and rotated counterclockwise (left-handed) as shown in the figure) by contacting the item G conveyed by the conveying unit 5 at their front ends. After the item G has passed, they return to their original reference posture (maintaining the restricted angle state) due to their own weight. In this state, the shielding plate 60 and shielding plate 50 are restricted from rotating by a predetermined angle α or more by the second limiting member 47. The shielding plate 60 and shielding plate 50 are pushed out and rotated by the item G conveyed by the conveying unit 5.

[0049] A pair of partition walls 49 are disposed at the left and right ends of the two sets of support shafts 43, shielding plates 50, shielding sheets 60, first limiting members 45, and second limiting members 47 on the downstream side in the width direction D. The pair of partition walls 49 are components to prevent X-ray leakage. The pair of partition walls 49 are formed of a metal material such as stainless steel. The pair of partition walls 49 are disposed in the same position as the shielding sheet 60 or slightly downstream in the transport direction A. The pair of partition walls 49 are disposed in the width direction D by a distance slightly shorter than the length of the shielding sheet 60 in the width direction D. In other words, the partition walls 49 and the shielding sheet 60 can also be disposed overlapping each other in the width direction D. It should be noted that the partition walls 49 and the shielding sheet 60 can also be disposed with a small gap in the width direction D.

[0050] The effects of the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 described in the above embodiment will be explained. In the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 of the above embodiment, a shielding plate 50 with impact resistance or abrasion resistance is provided on the upstream side of the shielding plate 60. Therefore, the frequency of direct contact between the article G transported from the upstream side and the shielding plate 60 is reduced. As a result, the possibility of damage to the shielding plate 60 can be reduced. Consequently, X-ray leakage can be prevented. Furthermore, the risk of a damaged shielding plate 60 becoming a foreign object mixed into the article G to be inspected can be reduced. That is, the risk of foreign objects being mixed into the article G to be inspected can be reduced. In particular, a greater effect can be obtained when inspecting articles G with corners.

[0051] The shielding plate 50 of the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 described above is a thin-plate leaf spring component made of a metal material. In this configuration, even if the shielding plate 50 is a thin plate and deformed by an impact from the article G, it can recover its original shape. Furthermore, since the shielding plate 50 can be made of a thin plate, the impact when the shielding plate 50 collides with the article G is reduced, and the transport of the article G can be stabilized.

[0052] In the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 of the above embodiment, the coefficient of friction of the surface of the shielding plate 50 is less than that of the shielding sheet 60. Therefore, it is easy to form a shielding plate 50 that has impact resistance or wear resistance compared to the shielding sheet 60.

[0053] In the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 described above, the shielding plate 50 is suspended from the transport path 4c. The length of the shielding plate 50 extending from its base end, which is fixed to one side of the transport path 4c, to its front end, which hangs down to the side of the transport unit 5, is shorter than the length of the shielding sheet 60 extending from its base end to its front end. This allows the shielding plate 50 to be configured such that, while the lower end of the shielding sheet 60 is in contact with the conveyor belt B of the transport unit 5, the lower end of the shielding plate 50 does not contact the conveyor belt B of the transport unit 5. As a result, wear on the lower end of the shielding plate 50 is reduced, and X-ray leakage is prevented.

[0054] In the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 of the above embodiment, a first limiting member 45 is provided, which, when viewed from the width direction (front of the apparatus), maintains a tilted state such that the base end of the shielding plate 50 is located further upstream than the front end, and restricts rotation towards the upstream side. That is, in the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 of the above embodiment, the shielding plate 50 and the shielding sheet 60 are maintained at a limiting angle. In the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 of the above embodiment, since the shielding plate 50 and the shielding sheet 60 are pushed by the first limiting member 45 from the beginning, the passability of the article G is further improved.

[0055] More specifically, in the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 of the above embodiment, the article G conveyed by the conveying unit 5 comes into contact with the shielding plate 60 from the very beginning. In conventional X-ray inspection apparatuses that only have a shielding plate 60 that hangs vertically, the article G conveyed by the conveying unit 5 comes into contact with the front end of the shielding plate 60. Therefore, a strong centrifugal force is exerted on the shielding plate 60. This can result in the shielding plate 60 being excessively lifted, resulting in a large impact on the article G, and thus increasing the risk of the article G tipping over. In contrast, in the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 of the above embodiment, with the shielding plate 60 and shielding plate 50 in an inclined state, the article G comes into contact with the portion near the center in the length direction. Therefore, the centrifugal force exerted by the shielding plate 60 and shielding plate 50 is small (i.e., the shielding plate 60 and shielding plate 50 do not excessively lift). Moreover, the impact when the article G comes into contact with the shielding plate 60 and shielding plate 50 is also reduced, thus lowering the risk of tipping over. Furthermore, in the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 of the above embodiment, since the front end of the shielding sheet 60 contacts the conveyor belt B, a frictional force is applied, which can reduce the excessive lifting of the front end of the shielding sheet 60.

[0056] In the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 of the above embodiment, the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 are restricted to rotating downstream by a predetermined angle or more by the second limiting member 47. This reduces the required degree of rotation of the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50, thus decreasing the X-ray leakage suppression effect. Furthermore, if the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 rotate due to the article G, the transport path becomes open to the outside, thereby reducing the X-ray leakage suppression effect. Therefore, in order to restore the rotation state of the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 to the reference posture, the transport interval of the article G needs to be lengthened. In the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 of the above embodiment, the required degree of rotation of the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 is specified; therefore, the time until the rotation state of the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 returns to the reference posture is shortened, and the transport interval of the article G can be shortened. As a result, the inspection capability of the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 can be improved.

[0057] The above description describes one embodiment; however, one aspect of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. Various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0058] In the above embodiments, examples have been given of shielding plate 50 having higher impact resistance or wear resistance than shielding sheet 60. However, shielding plate 50 may also have higher impact resistance and wear resistance than shielding sheet 60.

[0059] In the above embodiments and variations, examples of shielding plate 50 being entirely made of metal have been described; however, this is not a limitation. For example, at least the outer surface of shielding plate 50 may be made of metal. For instance, shielding plate 50 may also be formed from a substrate and a covering member, the substrate being made of polyolefin or rubber, and the covering member covering the entire outer surface of the substrate or a portion of the outer surface of the article G, and being made of a metal such as stainless steel, iron, or titanium. In this case, shielding plate 50 with impact resistance or abrasion resistance compared to shielding sheet 60 can be easily formed.

[0060] In the above embodiments and modifications, examples were given where the shielding plates 50 and shielding sheets 60 are formed in the same number and of the same size; however, this is not a limitation. For example, even if they are of the same size, they can be staggered in the width direction, and different numbers of sheets can be configured. For example... Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, it can also be that the shielding plate 60 is clamped between two first mounting components 43A and a second mounting component 43B, and the shielding plate 60 is suspended relative to the support shaft 43. The shielding plate 50 can also be pasted only to the approximate central portion of the shielding plate 60 along its length. The location where the shielding plate 50 is pasted can be appropriately changed depending on the location where the transported item G will initially come into contact with the shielding plate 60.

[0061] In the above embodiments and variations, the shielding unit 40 as a whole includes six sets of support shafts 43, shielding plates 50, shielding sheets 60, first limiting members 45 and second limiting members 47 having the same configuration. However, the shielding unit 40A may only include one set of support shafts 43, shielding plates 50, shielding sheets 60, first limiting members 45 and second limiting members 47 disposed in the inlet opening 4a, and the shielding unit 40B may only include one set of support shafts 43, shielding plates 50, shielding sheets 60, first limiting members 45 and second limiting members 47 disposed in the outlet opening 4b.

[0062] In the above embodiments and variations, the example described is a configuration in which six sets of support shafts 43, shielding plates 50, shielding sheets 60, first limiting members 45 and second limiting members 47 with the same configuration are detachably and freely disposed on the device body 2 via the support frame 41. The installation configuration is not limited, for example, it can be directly fixed to the device body 2.

[0063] In the above embodiments and variations, the example of providing the first limiting member 45 has been described; however, the arrangement of the first limiting member 45 may be omitted. That is, the shielding plate 50 and the shielding sheet 60 may not be arranged in a state of inclination relative to the vertical plane. Furthermore, in addition to the first limiting member 45, the arrangement of the second limiting member 47 may also be omitted. Furthermore, an elastic member such as a helical spring or a torsion spring may be provided between the base end of the shielding plate 50 and the support shaft 43. Similarly, an elastic member such as a helical spring or a torsion spring may be provided between the base end of the shielding sheet 60 and the support shaft 43.

[0064] In the above embodiments and variations, examples of shielding plate 50 being formed of a material capable of shielding X-rays have been described. However, if it has high impact resistance or wear resistance compared to shielding plate 60, it may also be formed of a material that cannot shield X-rays.

[0065] In the above embodiments and variations, examples with a conveying unit 5 have been described. However, the shielding unit 40 may not be used with the conveying unit 5. For example, it may be used in a device in which the operator manually introduces the item G into the inspection chamber 4.

[0066] In the above embodiments, although an example was given of the shielding sheet 60 and the shielding plate 50 being arranged in a state of overlapping each other without gaps (in a close-fitting state), they can also be arranged with a small gap between them in the conveying direction A.

Claims

1. An X-ray inspection device, comprising: The conveyor section is responsible for transporting goods. The X-ray irradiation unit irradiates the article conveyed to the inspection area by the conveying unit with X-rays; The X-ray detection unit detects the X-rays that have passed through the article; The inspection department inspects the item based on the detection results of the X-ray detection department; A flexible X-ray shielding component prevents X-ray leakage from the transport path in which the article is moved into or out of the inspection area, the X-ray shielding component being suspended from the transport path; as well as The front surface component is disposed on an upstream side of the X-ray shielding component in a manner that overlaps with the X-ray shielding component, and has higher impact resistance or wear resistance than the X-ray shielding component.

2. The X-ray inspection apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, At least the outer surface of the front surface component is formed of a metallic material.

3. The X-ray inspection apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The front surface component is a thin, plate-shaped leaf spring component made of a metallic material.

4. The X-ray inspection apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The coefficient of friction of the front surface component is less than that of the X-ray shielding component.

5. The X-ray inspection apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The front surface component is suspended in the conveying path. The length of the front surface component extending from the base end on the fixed side to the front end on the drooping side is shorter than the length of the X-ray shielding component extending from the base end to the front end.

6. The X-ray inspection apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising: A rotating shaft, capable of rotatably fixing the X-ray shielding component and the front surface component, extends along the transport path in a width direction orthogonal to both the transport direction and the vertical direction of the transport section; and The first limiting member is disposed further downstream than the rotation axis, and when viewed from the width direction, it maintains an inclined state in which the base end of the front surface member is located further upstream than the front end, and restricts rotation towards the upstream side.

7. The X-ray inspection apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising: The second limiting member is disposed further downstream than the first limiting member, and limits the front surface member from rotating more than a predetermined angle downstream.

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