Portable luggage inspection device

Abstract

The invention provides a portable luggage inspection device which can maintain and improve the inspection throughput in the inspection of luggage. A portable luggage inspection device (50) according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided with: a transport unit (52) that transports portable luggage (BA); an inspection unit (51) that inspects the handbag (BA); a curtain that is provided to the inspection unit (51) and shields X-rays, which are electromagnetic waves; and an anti-clogging unit that prevents clogging of the luggage conveyed by the conveying unit, the anti-clogging unit having: a displacement part (53) that has an entrance having a shape corresponding to a range that can be inspected by the inspection unit, and that displaces the luggage (BA) when the conveyed luggage (BA) exceeds a size that can be inspected by the inspection unit; a displacement portion that touches the luggage to prevent the luggage from entering the inspection unit and displaces by a force acting when the displacement portion contacts the luggage; and a sensor (54) for detecting the displacement when the conveyed luggage touches the displacement part and moves the displacement part.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application number 202180014476.9, application date January 5, 2021, and invention title "Handbag Inspection Device". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a hand luggage inspection device that performs inspection while transporting luggage. Background Technology

[0003] As a technology for inspecting luggage, it is known, for example, to prevent X-ray leakage, an X-ray foreign object detection device is provided in the shielding curtain with a flexible sliding piece to suppress the hooking of the inspected item, etc. (Patent Document 1).

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-228601 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] Even with a structure like the X-ray foreign object detection device disclosed in Patent Document 1, which has a sliding plate installed on the aforementioned shielding curtain, the shielding curtain installed at the entrance and exit of the inspection device may become clogged depending on the weight or shape of the object being inspected, thereby reducing the throughput of the inspection. In particular, this problem may become significant when hand luggage of various shapes, sizes, and weights is the object being inspected.

[0009] The present invention was made in view of the above, and its object is to provide a hand baggage inspection device that can maintain and improve the throughput of baggage inspection in, for example, at event venues, railways and other large-scale transportation agencies.

[0010] Methods for solving problems

[0011] As a first approach, the present invention proposes a carry-on baggage inspection device, which includes a conveying unit for conveying baggage; an inspection unit for inspecting the baggage conveyed by the conveying unit; a curtain for shielding electromagnetic waves emitted by the inspection unit for inspection; and an anti-blocking unit for preventing the baggage conveyed by the conveying unit from blocking the baggage. The anti-blocking unit includes: a displacement portion having an entrance with a shape corresponding to the inspection range of the inspection unit and movably disposed on the entrance side of the inspection unit; which, when the conveyed baggage exceeds the size that the inspection unit can inspect, contacts the baggage, preventing it from entering the inspection unit in front of it, and is displaced by the force acting upon contact with the baggage; and a sensor that detects the displacement when the conveyed baggage contacts the displacement portion, causing the displacement portion to displace.

[0012] According to the first method of the hand baggage inspection device, when the transported baggage encounters the displacement part, the displacement part is displaced, thereby enabling quick detection of whether the baggage can be inspected through a simple structure, thus improving the throughput of baggage inspection and saving manpower.

[0013] As a second approach, the following structure can also be adopted: In the carry-on baggage inspection device of the first approach, the displacement unit is displaced when the size of the baggage being transported exceeds the size that the inspection unit can inspect.

[0014] According to the second method of the carry-on baggage inspection device, the size of the baggage being transported exceeds the size that can be inspected by detecting the displacement of the displacement unit, thereby detecting whether it is a size that carry-on baggage can pass through.

[0015] As a third approach, the following structure can also be adopted: In the carry-on baggage inspection device of the first approach, the sensor has a magnet that is attached and detached along with the displacement of the displacement part.

[0016] According to the third method of the carry-on baggage inspection device, the displacement of the displacement part can be detected by loading and unloading the magnet part.

[0017] As a fourth approach, the following structure can also be adopted: In the carry-on baggage inspection device of the first approach, the sensor is an optical sensor that detects the displacement of the displacement part.

[0018] According to the fourth method of the carry-on baggage inspection device, the light reception state changes with the displacement of the displacement part, thereby enabling detection.

[0019] As a fifth approach, the following structure can also be adopted: In the hand luggage inspection device of the first approach, the displacement part has an inlet with a shape corresponding to the range that the inspection unit can inspect.

[0020] According to the fifth method of the hand baggage inspection device, it is possible to determine whether the baggage is of an inspectable size based on whether it can pass through the entrance of the displacement section.

[0021] As a sixth approach, the following structure can also be adopted: In the carry-on baggage inspection device of the first approach, a forced stop unit is provided, which stops the conveying of the conveying unit and the inspection of the inspection unit when the sensor detects the displacement of the displacement part.

[0022] According to the carry-on baggage inspection device of method 6, the inspection can be stopped quickly.

[0023] As a seventh approach, the following structure can also be adopted: In the carry-on baggage inspection device of the first approach, the displacement part has a transparent component that extends along the conveying direction of the baggage conveyed by the conveying unit.

[0024] According to the seventh method of the carry-on baggage inspection device, a displacement section can be formed along the conveyor for transporting baggage, and the displacement section is a transparent component, thereby allowing the internal condition of the displacement section to be observed from the outside. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a side sectional view conceptually illustrating the carry-on baggage inspection device of the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 2A This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the carry-on baggage inspection device according to the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2B This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the carry-on baggage inspection device according to the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 2C This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the carry-on baggage inspection device according to the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a side view used to explain the shielding curtain provided in the hand luggage inspection device of the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a perspective view conceptually illustrating the structure of the shielding curtain of the first embodiment.

[0031] Figure 5 This is a partially enlarged view of a shielding curtain for a transport auxiliary component, which includes a variation of the first embodiment.

[0032] Figure 6 This is a partially enlarged view of a shielding curtain for a transport auxiliary component, which includes a variation of the first embodiment.

[0033] Figure 7This is a side sectional view conceptually illustrating the hand luggage inspection device of the second embodiment.

[0034] Figure 8A This is a partial enlarged view of an example of a transport auxiliary component, etc., of the carry-on baggage inspection device of the third embodiment.

[0035] Figure 8B This is a partial enlarged view of an example of a transport auxiliary component, etc., of the carry-on baggage inspection device of the third embodiment.

[0036] Figure 9 This is a side sectional view of a carry-on baggage inspection device, conceptually illustrating a variation of the third embodiment.

[0037] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the carry-on baggage inspection device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0038] Figure 11 This is a diagram used to illustrate the space of the fourth embodiment.

[0039] Figure 12A This is a cross-sectional view showing the space of the fourth embodiment.

[0040] Figure 12B This is a cross-sectional view showing the space of the fourth embodiment.

[0041] Figure 12C This is a cross-sectional view showing the space of the fourth embodiment.

[0042] Figure 13 The diagram is obtained by orthographic projection of the cross-section of the space of the fourth embodiment along the conveying direction.

[0043] Figure 14A This is a diagram showing the situation observed from above when luggage is transported in the space of the fourth embodiment.

[0044] Figure 14B This is a diagram showing the situation observed from above when luggage is transported in the space of the fourth embodiment.

[0045] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a space having a continuously expanding section perpendicular to the conveying direction, representing a variation of the fourth embodiment.

[0046] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a modified embodiment of the fourth embodiment, showing a space without a portion whose cross-section gradually expands.

[0047] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the fourth embodiment, showing an example of a space consisting only of a portion with a continuously expanding cross-section.

[0048] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a guide component disposed at the entrance of a space, a variation of the fourth embodiment.

[0049] Figure 19 This is a perspective view conceptually illustrating the appearance of the carry-on baggage inspection device of the fifth embodiment.

[0050] Figure 20 This is a block diagram conceptually illustrating the construction of the carry-on baggage inspection device of the fifth embodiment.

[0051] Figure 21A This is a conceptual side view used to illustrate a structural example of the displacement section in the fifth embodiment.

[0052] Figure 21B This is a conceptual front view used to illustrate a structural example of the displacement section in the fifth embodiment.

[0053] Figure 22A This is a conceptual side view used to illustrate an example of transporting luggage within an inspectable size in the displacement section of the fifth embodiment.

[0054] Figure 22B This is a conceptual side view used to illustrate an example of transporting luggage within an inspectable size in the displacement section of the fifth embodiment.

[0055] Figure 23A This is a conceptual side view used to illustrate an example of transporting luggage exceeding the size that can be inspected in the displacement section of the fifth embodiment.

[0056] Figure 23B This is a conceptual side view used to illustrate an example of transporting luggage exceeding the size that can be inspected in the displacement section of the fifth embodiment.

[0057] Figure 24 This is a conceptual side view of the fifth embodiment, illustrating an example of the relationship between the placement of the object to be inspected and whether it can be inspected. Detailed Implementation

[0058] [First Embodiment]

[0059] Hereinafter, an example of the detailed features of the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0060] Figure 1This is a conceptual side sectional view of a carry-on baggage inspection device 100. The carry-on baggage inspection device 100, for example, installed at the entrance of an event venue, is an X-ray inspection device comprising an inspection section 10 (an example of an inspection unit) that irradiates X-rays (electromagnetic waves) for inspection, a conveyor 20 (an example of a conveyor unit), and a curtain assembly 30 that shields against X-rays (electromagnetic waves). The inspection section 10 of the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 inspects the carry-on baggage BA of the person being inspected. Hereinafter, as... Figure 1 As shown, the conveying direction D1 of the conveyor 20 of the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 for conveying carry-on baggage BA is set as the X direction, the left-right direction (horizontal direction) perpendicular to the X direction is set as the Y direction, and the up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to the X and Y directions is set as the Z direction.

[0061] In the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 described above, the conveyor 20 receives, for example, the carry-on baggage BA of a person entering an event venue and transports the carry-on baggage BA in a straight line. The inspection unit 10 inspects the carry-on baggage BA transported by the conveyor 20 along the path. That is, the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 uses the inspection unit 10 to see through the inside of the person's carry-on baggage BA, thereby checking for dangerous items, etc. Moreover, during the above inspection, the curtain assembly 30 is provided at the entrance EN and exit EX of the inspection unit 10. The carry-on baggage BA, which is inside the inspection unit 10 and passes through the curtain assembly 30 on the entrance EN side, becomes the object of inspection.

[0062] The inspection unit 10 includes: an X-ray source 11 that irradiates the carry-on baggage BA, which is the object of inspection, with X-rays RL as radiation; an X-ray sensor unit 12 that is a line sensor that receives the components of the X-rays RL from the X-ray source 11 that pass through the carry-on baggage BA; and a cuboid shielding box 15 that houses the X-ray source 11 and the X-ray sensor unit 12 inside.

[0063] X-ray source 11, as a radiation source emitting X-rays RL, is disposed on the lower side (-Z side) near the center of shielded box 15, irradiating X-rays RL towards X-ray sensor unit 12. X-ray sensor unit 12, as a radiation sensor unit receiving X-rays RL, is disposed on the upper side (+Z side) near the center of shielded box 15, opposite to X-ray source 11 across the conveyor path of conveyor 20. For example, the light-receiving elements are arranged in a linear configuration extending in the Y direction perpendicular to the conveying direction D1 (X direction), thereby enabling X-ray sensor unit 12 to perform linear scanning synchronously with the conveyor 20. That is, when carry-on baggage BA passes near the center of the internal space of shielded box 15, X-rays RL are irradiated onto carry-on baggage BA, and a two-dimensional inspection of the interior of carry-on baggage BA is performed along the XY plane based on the results received by X-ray sensor unit 12. Shielded box 15 is a cuboid box with rectangular openings forming the inlet EN and outlet EX. In addition, to suppress X-ray leakage to the outside, each inner wall of the shielding box 15 is formed of X-ray absorbing components such as lead. Moreover, as described above, the inlet EN and outlet EX of the shielding box 15 are provided with curtain assemblies 30 to prevent X-ray leakage to the outside of the shielding box 15.

[0064] The conveyor 20 extends in the X direction from the inlet EN of the shielded box 15 toward the outlet EX, and passes between the X-ray source 11 and the X-ray sensor unit 12. Thus, it is possible to inspect carry-on baggage BA inside the shielded box 15 by passing it between the X-ray source 11 and the X-ray sensor unit 12 via the conveyor 20.

[0065] The curtain assembly 30 includes a conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 (an example of an anti-blocking unit or conveying auxiliary unit) and a curtain 31 as the main body, preventing the components of X-ray RL from leaking to the outside of the shielding box 15 and assisting in conveying. Additionally, in Figure 1 In this document, the curtain assembly 30 installed at the inlet EN of the inspection section 10 is referred to as curtain assembly 30A, and the curtain assembly 30 installed at the outlet EX is referred to as curtain assembly 30B. As described above, the curtain assemblies 30 (30A, 30B) cover the inlet EN and outlet EX of the shielding box 15, preventing components such as X-rays RL that are not absorbed by the X-ray sensor section 12 from leaking out of the shielding box 15.

[0066] To suppress X-ray leakage, the curtain 31, which is the main component of the curtain assembly 30, is formed of an X-ray absorbing component, such as leaded rubber. In particular, in this embodiment, as... Figure 1 As shown, the curtain 31 is a strip and is suspended by the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 in a manner that allows it to rotate in the directions indicated by arrows A1 and A2.

[0067] The conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 has a shaft component 32a and a drive mechanism 32b, through which the shaft component 32a is driven to move... Figure 1 It rotates clockwise (axis rotation). As a result, the strip-shaped curtain 31 moves along... Figure 1 The rotational motion occurs in the directions indicated by arrows A1 and A2. That is, in the strip-shaped section, it moves downwards (towards the -Z side) as indicated by arrow A1 in the conveying direction D1, and upwards (towards the +Z side) as indicated by arrow A2 in the inwards (+X side). Therefore, the lowermost part of the curtain 31 rotates along the direction indicated by arrows A1 and A2. Figure 1 The curtain 31 moves in the direction of transport direction D1, as indicated by arrow X1. By causing the curtain 31 to perform the aforementioned action, the transport auxiliary mechanism 32 functions as follows: when transporting carry-on baggage BA along the transport direction D1, the curtain 31, which is in contact with the carry-on baggage BA, slides in the direction of transport direction D1 along the carry-on baggage BA to assist in transport. Furthermore, regarding the above-described action, refer to... Figures 2A to 2C Please provide a detailed explanation.

[0068] In addition to the above, although the illustrations are omitted, the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 includes a control device, which is composed of, for example, a CPU or various storage devices, and is connected to the above-mentioned parts to manage the operation control of these parts.

[0069] Therefore, the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 analyzes various data, including image data obtained during inspection by the inspection unit 10, to automatically determine the presence or absence of dangerous items inside the carry-on baggage BA. In the above case, the carry-on baggage inspection device 100, for example, can automatically determine the presence or absence of dangerous items based on the analysis of various data such as image data without relying on human vision, thereby enabling rapid and accurate determination processing during baggage inspection.

[0070] Here, when a shielding curtain is typically installed at the entrance / exit to transport and inspect the object using electromagnetic waves such as X-rays, blockages may occur at the curtain depending on the weight or shape of the object being inspected. In particular, if the carry-on luggage being inspected is lighter or taller than the curtain, it is assumed that the curtain will act like a wall upon contact with it, and the carry-on luggage may stop there.

[0071] In this embodiment, a conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 is provided in the curtain assembly 30 to allow the shielding curtain 31 to slide in the direction of conveying direction D1 of the carry-on baggage BA, thereby assisting in the conveying and preventing the carry-on baggage BA from getting stuck at the curtain 31, thus maintaining and improving the throughput of the inspection.

[0072] The following is for reference Figures 2A to 2C(Hereinafter, these figures will be collectively referred to as Figure 2) An example of the operation of the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 will be described. In addition, as a premise, in this example, regardless of the transport status of the carry-on baggage BA, the curtain 31 remains in a state subjected to the rotation caused by the transport auxiliary mechanism 32.

[0073] like Figure 2A As shown, in the conveying direction D1, carry-on baggage BA is conveyed from the upstream side (-X side), and as... Figure 2B As shown, when the carry-on baggage BA is in a state where it comes into contact with the upstream (-X side) surface of the curtain 31 of the strip curtain assembly 30A located on the entrance EN side of the shielded box 15, that is, when the curtain 31 is in contact with the carry-on baggage BA, the curtain 31 remains subjected to the rotational action brought about by the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32, which affects the carry-on baggage BA. As a result, even when it becomes, for example... Figure 2C As shown, curtain 31 also slides along the conveying direction D1, thereby enabling curtain assembly 30 to assist in the conveying of carry-on baggage BA. Thus, even if carry-on baggage BA is light or high, the conveying operation is maintained without obstruction at curtain assembly 30.

[0074] In addition, although detailed descriptions are omitted, in the curtain assembly 30B located on the downstream side (+X side) in the conveying direction D1, the curtain 31 is also maintained under the rotational action brought about by the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32, so that the carry-on baggage BA is discharged to the outside of the shielded box 15 without causing blockage inside the shielded box 15.

[0075] The following is for reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 A more specific example of the structure of the curtain assembly 30 will be described below. Additionally, Figure 3 This is a side view used to illustrate an example of the curtain assembly 30 installed in the carry-on baggage inspection device 100. Figure 4 This is a perspective view that conceptually illustrates the structure of the curtain assembly 30.

[0076] As described above, the curtain assembly 30 includes a curtain 31 and a conveying auxiliary mechanism 32. Furthermore, the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 includes: a shaft member 32a extending laterally (in the Y direction); and a drive mechanism 32b for rotating the drive shaft member 32a about a central axis AX. Additionally, as... Figure 3 As shown, the support member SU for supporting the shaft member 32a is installed and fixed to the shielding box 15.

[0077] The shaft member 32a is, for example, a cylindrical or cylindrical metal component that extends in the transverse (Y direction), i.e., the width direction, with a length equal to or greater than the width direction of the conveyor 20, and is supported by the support member SU in a manner that allows it to rotate about the central axis AX. Moreover, in the above manner, the shaft member 32a suspends and supports the strip-shaped curtain 31.

[0078] The drive mechanism 32b, for example, is a motor, which enables the shaft member 32a to rotate about the central axis AX via gears (not shown). Here, as described above, the shaft member 32a is rotated clockwise, resulting in the strip curtain 31 rotating in the directions indicated by arrows A1 and A2.

[0079] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown, the strip curtain 31 is configured with multiple belt members 31a arranged at intervals such that adjacent belt members 31a in the extending direction (Y direction) of the shaft member 32a can move independently. Each belt member 31a receives the rotational action from the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 via the shaft member 32a. In this case, one or more belt members 31a within the range through which the carry-on baggage BA passes perform the actions described with reference to FIG2, thereby achieving smooth conveying of the carry-on baggage BA.

[0080] As described above, the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 of this embodiment, which serves as a transport unit for carrying carry-on baggage BA, includes: a conveyor 20, which acts as a transport unit for carrying carry-on baggage BA; an inspection unit 10, which inspects carry-on baggage BA; a curtain 31, which is disposed in the inspection unit 10 and shields X-rays, which are electromagnetic waves; and a transport assist mechanism 32, which assists in transporting carry-on baggage BA by sliding the curtain 31, which is in contact with carry-on baggage BA, in the direction of transport direction D1 of carry-on baggage BA. Thus, in the carry-on baggage inspection device 100, when carrying carry-on baggage BA, the transport assist mechanism 32 slides the curtain 31, which is in contact with carry-on baggage BA, in the direction of transport direction D1 of carry-on baggage BA to assist in transport, thereby preventing the carry-on baggage BA from blocking at the curtain 31, thereby maintaining and improving the throughput of inspections.

[0081] Furthermore, the curtain assembly 30 of this embodiment includes: a curtain 31 disposed in the inspection section 10 of the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 and shielding X-rays as electromagnetic waves; and a conveying auxiliary mechanism 32, which assists in conveying carry-on baggage BA by sliding the curtain 31, which is in contact with the carry-on baggage BA, in the direction of conveying direction D1 of the carry-on baggage BA. Thus, in the curtain assembly 30, when the carry-on baggage BA is conveyed in the carry-on baggage inspection device 100, the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 assists in conveying the curtain 31, which is in contact with the carry-on baggage BA, by sliding it in the direction of conveying direction D1 of the carry-on baggage BA. This prevents the carry-on baggage BA from getting stuck at the curtain 31, thereby maintaining and improving the throughput of the carry-on baggage inspection device 100.

[0082] The following is for reference Figure 5 A modified example of the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32, etc., constituting the curtain assembly 30 will be described. Furthermore, Figure 5 It constitutes the hand baggage inspection device 100 (see reference). Figure 1 The figure shows a portion of the main enlarged conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 in the curtain assembly 30 (etc.). Except for the shape of the curtain 31 and the shaft component 32a, it is the same as in the above embodiment, so the overall figure and description are omitted.

[0083] like Figure 5 As shown, in this modified example, in the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32, the surface 32s of the shaft member 32a has a protruding or gear-like shape. On the other hand, in the curtain 31, the inner surface 31i that contacts the surface 32s has irregularities corresponding to the shape of the surface 32s. In the above case, the surface 32s of the shaft member 32a is ensured to be engaged with the inner surface 31i of the curtain 31, thereby reliably transmitting the rotational force brought about by the shaft member 32a to the curtain 31. Furthermore, the shape of the surface 32s or the inner surface 31i, as an example, can be various shapes.

[0084] The following is for reference Figure 6 Another variation of the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 will be described. Furthermore, Figure 6 Is with Figure 5 The corresponding figure shows that the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 has a swing mechanism SW that causes the shaft component 32a to swing, which is different from the above methods.

[0085] The swing mechanism SW is a hinge-like component. Relative to the conveying direction D1, its axis HX extends laterally (in the Y direction). One hinge piece H1 is mounted on the shielding box 15, and the other hinge piece H2 is mounted on the support component SU. Thus, as shown by the double-headed arrow S1, the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 can swing about the axis HX. In this case, the swing mechanism SW allows the shaft component 32a to be displaced along the conveying direction D1, further assisting the conveying process.

[0086] [Second Embodiment]

[0087] The following is for reference Figure 7 The second embodiment, obtained by modifying the first embodiment, will be described. Furthermore, the carry-on baggage inspection device 200 of this embodiment is a modification of the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 of the first embodiment. Except for the operation processing of the control device 250, it is the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts, and illustrations and descriptions of the overall structure are omitted. Refer as needed to the matters described in the first embodiment.

[0088] Figure 7 This is a conceptual side sectional view used to illustrate an example of the operation of the carry-on baggage inspection device 200 in this embodiment, and is related to... Figure 1 The corresponding figure. In this embodiment, for example, when the control device 250, composed of a CPU or various storage devices, controls the operation of each part, it causes the shaft component 32a of the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 to rotate in conjunction with the conveyor 20 for conveying the carry-on luggage BA, which differs from the case in the first embodiment. Since the operation of the shaft component 32a is linked to the operation of the conveyor 20, in the illustrated example, as a prerequisite, the conveyor 20 firstly has: a belt 21a on which the carry-on luggage BA is placed on its upper surface; and a pair of rollers 21b, which are rotatably fixed at both ends of the belt 21a and wound around the belt 21a. Furthermore, the conveyor 20 has a drive mechanism 22 that drives the rollers 21b to rotate. Furthermore, the drive mechanism 22 is connected to the control device 250. Moreover, the drive mechanism 32b of the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 is also connected to the control device 250.

[0089] On the other hand, in addition to the main control unit MP, which is connected to each part of the carry-on baggage inspection device 200 and controls the operation of each part, the control device 250 also includes: a shaft component control unit SC, which controls the operation of the shaft component 32a; a conveyor control unit CC, which controls the operation of the conveyor 20 via the drive mechanism 22; and an X-ray source control unit XC, which controls the operation of the X-ray source 11, etc. Furthermore, the main control unit MP is provided with a linkage control unit LS for linkage control between the shaft component control unit SC and the conveyor control unit CC.

[0090] In this case, for example, the main control unit MP performs the following processing in the linkage control unit LS: via the shaft component control unit SC and the conveyor control unit CC, the control timing of the rotation movement and the stopping of the rotation of the shaft component 32a is synchronized with the control timing of the conveying movement and the stopping of the conveyor 20. That is, in the carry-on baggage inspection device 200, the start and stop of the rotation movement of the curtain 31 can be performed in accordance with the start and stop of the conveyor 20's transport of carry-on baggage BA.

[0091] In this embodiment, it is also possible to prevent carry-on baggage BA from getting stuck at curtain 31, thereby maintaining and improving the throughput of inspection. Moreover, as described above, in this embodiment, the shaft component 32a rotates in conjunction with the conveyor 20 to transport the carry-on baggage BA, thereby enabling the curtain 31 to be activated at the required time according to the transport status.

[0092] [Third Embodiment]

[0093] The following is for reference Figure 8A and Figure 8B The third embodiment, obtained by modifying the first embodiment, will now be described. Furthermore, the inspection device of this embodiment is a modification of the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 of the first embodiment. Except that when assisting with transport using the transport auxiliary mechanism 32, the curtain 31 is allowed to rotate freely without a drive mechanism, it is the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts, and illustrations and descriptions of the overall structure are omitted. The matters described in the first embodiment will be referred to as appropriate as needed.

[0094] Figure 8A This is a partially enlarged view showing an example of the transport auxiliary mechanism 32 of the carry-on baggage inspection device of this embodiment, and is related to... Figure 5 The corresponding figures are shown. As shown, in this embodiment, the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 is configured to have a fixed shaft FX as a shaft member 32a and a bearing member (bearing component) BP mounted around the fixed shaft FX. Furthermore, the bearing component BP is, for example, a ball bearing configured to have multiple rotating bodies RE. Additionally, the curtain 31 is suspended outside the bearing component BP. That is, the bearing component BP rotates smoothly relative to the fixed shaft FX, thereby allowing the curtain 31 to rotate freely. In this case, the curtain 31 begins to rotate when it comes into contact with the carry-on baggage BA and is subjected to an external force from the carry-on baggage BA.

[0095] Furthermore, in the case of this embodiment, as... Figure 8B As shown in one of the variant examples, with Figure 5 As illustrated, protruding or gear-shaped components can be provided. Specifically, such as... Figure 8BAs shown, the outer surface (outer surface) BPs of the bearing component BP is shaped like a protrusion or a gear. On the other hand, in the curtain 31, the inner surface 31i that contacts the surface BPs has irregularities corresponding to the shape of the surface BPs. In the above case, the surface BPs of the bearing component BP is ensured to be engaged with the inner surface 31i of the curtain 31, thereby reliably transmitting the rotational force brought by the bearing component BP to the curtain 31.

[0096] Furthermore, in the case of this embodiment, it can also be, for example... Figure 6 The example also includes a structure with a swing mechanism SW.

[0097] In this embodiment, it is also possible to prevent carry-on baggage BA from blocking the curtain 31, thereby maintaining and improving the throughput of inspections. Moreover, as described above, in this embodiment, the conveying auxiliary mechanism 32 allows the curtain 31 to rotate freely, thereby assisting in conveying.

[0098] [Other variations of the first, second, or third embodiment]

[0099] The embodiments described above, from 1 to 3, can also be modified in various ways within the scope of the inventive concept. Examples of these modifications are shown below. Two or more of the modifications shown below can also be appropriately combined.

[0100] (1) In the above embodiment, one curtain assembly 30 is provided at the inlet EN and the outlet EX of the inspection section 10, but the number of curtain assemblies 30 is not limited to two. For example, it can also be as follows: Figure 9 As shown in the carry-on baggage inspection device 400, two (or more) curtain assemblies 30 (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D) are provided at both the entrance EN and the exit EX along the conveying direction D1. Furthermore, in each curtain assembly 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D, the belt member 31a (see reference) of the curtain 31 of the curtain assembly 30A and curtain assembly 30C respectively located on the entrance EN side is provided. Figure 4 By varying the widths in the transverse (Y direction) of the curtain assembly 30A and curtain assembly 30B, the positions of the boundaries of one belt member 31a and its adjacent belt member 31a in the Y direction can also differ. This further suppresses X-ray leakage.

[0101] (2) In the above embodiment, the curtain 31 is composed of multiple belt components 31a, but it is also possible for a single component to constitute a curtain 31. Moreover, in the above embodiment, multiple belt components 31a are rotated by a single shaft component 32a, but it is also possible for multiple shaft components to rotate the belt components 31a respectively.

[0102] (3) Regarding the timing of rotating the shaft component 32a, various sensors can be provided to activate the drive mechanism 32b when necessary. For example, it is also considered to install a sensor inside the drive mechanism 32b to detect the force applied to the shaft component 32a, and activate the drive mechanism 32b when the sensor detects that the hook of the curtain 31 is reached by reaching a threshold.

[0103] (4) Regarding the shape, size, material, etc. of the curtain 31 constituting the curtain assembly 30, various methods are considered. In the above, it is made of lead-added rubber, but it is not limited to this. Various materials can be used, such as resin with X-ray shielding properties.

[0104] (5) Regarding the conveying unit exemplified as conveyor 20, for example in Figure 7 In addition to the example of a conveyor belt, various other methods are considered. Furthermore, for the entire conveyor 20 or a part thereof, a conveyor unit using a conveying method other than a conveyor is also considered.

[0105] (6) For example, in an event venue, multiple entrances and exits may be considered. To accommodate such a situation, multiple carry-on baggage inspection devices may be installed at each entrance and exit of the venue, and these devices may be managed uniformly in the management department. In addition, regarding personnel allocation, for example, a structure may be established in which one inspector is assigned to each inspection unit (single-person operation), and on the other hand, multiple managers may be assigned to the management department.

[0106] (7) In the above embodiments, only the case of inspecting carry-on baggage BA by the carry-on baggage inspection device 100 is described. For example, it is also considered that in addition to the carry-on baggage inspection device 100, a body monitoring device for the holder of carry-on baggage BA, i.e. the person to be admitted, also exists.

[0107] (8) In the above embodiment, the inspection unit 10 is an inspection device that uses X-rays, but various inspection devices that use radiation other than X-rays RL can also be used as the inspection unit 10. Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to inspection devices that use methods other than radiation.

[0108] [Fourth Embodiment]

[0109] (Inspect the system's structure)

[0110] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the carry-on baggage inspection device 4 according to the fourth embodiment. The carry-on baggage inspection device 4 is a system used in places such as transportation facilities, concert halls, and public halls to inspect the baggage J of guests P2 upon their entry.

[0111] exist Figure 10 The image shows an overview of the carry-on baggage inspection device 4 from a top-down view. The carry-on baggage inspection device 4 is for inspecting items that need to be inspected along... Figure 10 The arrow shown indicates that the luggage J of guest P2 entering from outside the venue (L) is transported and inspected towards inside the venue (H). The carry-on luggage inspection device 4 includes an inspection device 41 (an example of an inspection unit), a conveyor 42 (an example of a transport unit), and a platform 43.

[0112] Inspection device 41 is, for example, a device that continuously inspects luggage J transported by conveyor 42 by irradiating it with X-rays. Figure 10 In the diagram, the entrance of the baggage J being moved into the inspection device 41 is shown as the downward direction, and the exit of the baggage J being moved out of the inspection device 41 is shown as the upward direction.

[0113] The cover of the inspection device 41 covers the area inside the baggage J in the transport path of the baggage J, which is used for receiving and inspecting the baggage J. The results of the inspection of the baggage J by the inspection device 41 are displayed, for example, by a display screen (not shown), and confirmed by the supervisor P1.

[0114] Conveyor 42 is a device for conveying luggage J to inspection device 41. The continuously operating conveyor 42 carries luggage J, placed by passenger P2 on the upstream side of the conveyor path, into the entrance of inspection device 41, allowing luggage J to be conveyed inside inspection device 41 and through a position where it is inspected. After inspection, luggage J is removed from the exit of inspection device 41. Conveyor 42 is, for example, a belt conveyor. Figure 10 In the middle, conveyor 42 transports luggage J from the lower side outside the yard L to the upper side inside the yard H. Conveyor 42 operates or stops according to the operation of the supervisor P1 received by the control panel (not shown).

[0115] The conveyor 42 can be composed of an integral belt conveyor mechanism, or it can be composed of multiple belt conveyor mechanisms. The conveyor 42 can also be configured as a belt conveyor that is respectively divided into a region upstream of the inspection device 41, a region inside the inspection device 41, and a region downstream of the inspection device 41, etc.

[0116] The loading platform 43 is a platform for loading luggage J before it is conveyed to the conveyor 42. The loading platform 43 is arranged, for example, adjacent to the upstream end of the conveyor 42. The luggage J loaded on the upper part of the loading platform 43 is moved by the passenger P2 in a certain direction towards the conveyor 42 at a predetermined time, and is thus conveyed by the conveyor 42 along the conveyor path.

[0117] Cover 44 is provided to cover the upstream area of ​​the conveyor path of conveyor 42 from the inlet of inspection device 41 toward the conveyor path of baggage J. Cover 45 is provided to cover the downstream area of ​​the conveyor path of conveyor 42 from the outlet of inspection device 41 toward the conveyor path of baggage J. In other words, cover 44, the cover of inspection device 41, and cover 45 (these covers are examples of anti-clogging units; hereinafter, these covers will be referred to as "cover group") all cover at least a portion of the conveyor path of baggage J from above. This cover group forms a space W between itself and conveyor 42. Both cover 44 and cover 45 are made of transparent components, allowing for visual confirmation from the outside to the inside.

[0118] Figure 11 This is a diagram used to illustrate space W, showing a general overview of the space W formed between the shroud assembly and the conveyor 42, viewed from above. Additionally, Figure 11 The space W shown is emphasized for illustrative purposes; the size of each part is relative to... Figure 10 The parts shown are different.

[0119] Lines IIIa-IIIa show a plane perpendicular to the transport direction of baggage J, that is, a plane in space W that intersects with cover 44. Lines IIIb-IIIb show a plane perpendicular to the transport direction of baggage J, that is, a plane in space W that intersects with the cover of inspection device 41. Lines IIIc-IIIc show a plane perpendicular to the transport direction of baggage J, that is, a plane in space W that intersects with cover 45.

[0120] Figures 12A-12C (Hereinafter referred to collectively as Figure 12) is a diagram showing a cross section of space W.

[0121] Figure 12A The observation along the transport direction of baggage J is shown. Figure 11 The case of section F1 of space W on line IIIa-IIIa is shown. Figure 12B The observation along the transport direction of baggage J is shown. Figure 11 The case of section F2 of space W on line IIIb-IIIb is shown. Figure 12C The observation along the transport direction of baggage J is shown. Figure 11 The case of section F3 of space W on line IIIc-IIIc is shown.

[0122] like Figure 11 As shown in Figure 12, section F2 is located downstream of section F1 in the transport direction of baggage J, and section F2 is larger than section F1. Furthermore, as... Figure 11 As shown in Figure 12, section F3 is located downstream of section F2 in the direction of luggage J. Section F3 is larger than section F2.

[0123] In other words, the cross sections F1, F2, and F3 of the space W formed between the cover assembly and the conveyor 42, which are perpendicular to the conveying direction of the luggage J, expand downstream in the conveying direction.

[0124] Figure 11 The portion R1 shown is the boundary between the cover 44 and the inspection device 41, and it is the part where the cross-section F1 gradually expands into the cross-section F2. Furthermore, Figure 11 The portion R2 shown is the boundary between the inspection device 41 and the cover 45, and it is the part where section F2 gradually expands into section F3. That is, Figure 11 The space W shown has sections whose cross-sections expand in stages.

[0125] Figure 13 This diagram is obtained by orthographically projecting sections F1, F2, and F3 along the conveying direction. For example... Figure 13 As shown, section F1, obtained by orthographic projection along the transport direction, is contained within section F2, and both sections F1 and F2 are contained within section F3. That is, when orthographically projected along the transport direction of luggage J, the sections of the aforementioned space W are all contained within sections downstream of that section in the transport direction.

[0126] (Check the system's actions)

[0127] The following example illustrates the operation of the carry-on baggage inspection device 4. Figure 10 The monitor P1 shown needs to respond to the inspection results of the baggage J of the guest P2 who enters the venue from outside L into the venue H, and therefore stands on the exit side of the inspection device 41.

[0128] After placing luggage J on the loading platform 43 outside the area, guest P2 pushes luggage J in a roughly horizontal direction to slide it toward the conveyor 42. Then, guest P2, having released luggage J, enters the area and retrieves the checked and confirmed safe luggage J from supervisor P1.

[0129] The continuously operating conveyor 42 will transport the luggage J, which is pushed by the guest P2 from the platform 43, to the entrance of the inspection device 41.

[0130] Figure 14A and Figure 14B (Hereinafter referred to collectively as FIG14) is a top-down view of the luggage J being transported in space W. Furthermore, the covers of inspection devices 41 and 90 (described later) do not allow for visual confirmation of the interior from the outside; however, for illustrative purposes, FIG14 shows the luggage J being transported inside each of inspection devices 41 and 90.

[0131] For comparison, Figure 14AAn example of the dynamics of baggage J in an inspection system with a cover of a different shape than the carry-on baggage inspection device 4 is shown. Figure 14A The inspection system shown includes a conveyor (not shown) for transporting baggage J, an inspection device 90 for inspecting the transported baggage J, and covers 91 and 92.

[0132] Cover 91 is provided to cover the upstream area of ​​the conveyor path from the inlet of inspection device 90 toward the conveyor direction of baggage J from above. Furthermore, cover 92 is provided to cover the downstream area of ​​the conveyor path from the outlet of inspection device 90 toward the conveyor direction of baggage J from above.

[0133] Both cover 91 and cover 92 are made of transparent components, allowing for visual confirmation of the inside from the outside. Cover 91, the cover of the inspection device 90, and cover 92 form a space W7 between themselves and the aforementioned conveyor.

[0134] Regardless of which plane is used to cut through space W7 along the transport direction of baggage J, the shape and area of ​​the cross-section of space W7 remain the same. That is, space W7 is a shape in which the cross-section perpendicular to the transport direction of baggage J does not expand downstream in the transport direction.

[0135] Because of its shape, even if luggage J only comes into contact with the inner wall of any one of the covers 91, 90, or 92 once while passing through space W7, it will easily remain in contact with the inner wall and be transported along the transport direction until it finishes passing through space W7. Therefore, luggage J transported in space W7 is prone to being subjected to a force opposite to the transport direction due to friction from the temporarily contacted inner wall, and is also prone to getting caught on the inner wall and causing blockage of the transport path.

[0136] on the other hand, Figure 14B As shown above, the space W of the carry-on baggage inspection device 4 expands downstream of the transport direction in the cross section perpendicular to the transport direction of the baggage J.

[0137] Therefore, for example, such as Figure 14B As shown, even if luggage J contacts the inner wall of cover 44, when it is conveyed and passes through part R1, the cross section perpendicular to the conveying direction expands, so luggage J is difficult to contact the cover of inspection device 41.

[0138] In addition, even if baggage J comes into contact with the inner wall of the cover of inspection device 41, as it is conveyed and passes through part R2, the cross section perpendicular to the conveying direction expands, making it difficult for baggage J to come into contact with cover 45.

[0139] That is, in the carry-on baggage inspection device 4, the cross section of the space W perpendicular to the transport direction of baggage J expands downstream in that transport direction, so baggage J is less likely to get blocked.

[0140] [Modifications of the 4th Embodiment]

[0141] The fourth embodiment described above can also be modified in various ways within the scope of the inventive concept. Examples of these modifications are shown below. Two or more of the modifications shown below can also be appropriately combined.

[0142] (1) The structure, shape, size and configuration relationship shown in the above embodiment are just one example and various changes can be made.

[0143] (2) In the above embodiment, the carry-on baggage inspection device 4 includes a platform 43, but it may also not include a platform 43. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the platform 43 is arranged adjacent to each other at the upstream end of the conveyor 42, but it may also be arranged adjacent to each other in the width direction of the conveyor 42. Moreover, in the platform 43, multiple rotating rollers for moving the baggage J may be provided to facilitate its movement towards the conveyor 42. Furthermore, the platform 43 may also be arranged to cover the upstream end of the conveyor 42 in the conveying direction.

[0144] (3) In the above embodiment, when a guest P2 is to enter from outside L to inside H, the hand luggage inspection device 4 does not determine whether the guest P2 can enter, but it can also determine whether the guest P2 can enter.

[0145] In this scenario, the carry-on baggage inspection device 4 can be, for example, equipped with a ticket checking device. This ticket checking device has proximity wireless communication capabilities compliant with the ISO / IEC 18092 standard and a door that can be opened and closed. Guest P2 holds an IC card with a built-in integrated circuit (IC). This IC card stores identification information for guest P2, the amount of electronic currency held by guest P2, and other information related to guest P2. When the IC card held by guest P2 approaches within a specified distance, the ticket checking device exchanges information with the IC card through proximity wireless communication. Furthermore, based on the information received from the IC card, the ticket checking device determines whether guest P2 can enter from outside L to inside H, and closes the door to prevent guest P2 from entering if entry is not permitted.

[0146] (4) In the above embodiment, the space W has a section R1 and a section R2 that expands in stages toward the downstream of the transport direction of the luggage J, which are perpendicular to the transport direction of the luggage J, but it may also have a section whose cross-section expands continuously.

[0147] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing an example of a continuously expanding section in space W perpendicular to the transport direction of baggage J. Figure 15The portion R3 in the space W shown, formed by the cover 45 and the conveyor 42, is a continuously expanding section perpendicular to the transport direction of the luggage J.

[0148] exist Figure 15 In the space W shown, even if the luggage J comes into contact with the inner wall of the cover 45, the cross section of the portion R3 formed by the cover 45 and the conveyor 42, which is perpendicular to the conveying direction, is enlarged. Therefore, by conveying along the conveying direction, it is difficult for the luggage J to come into contact with the cover 45.

[0149] (5) The space W mentioned above may also have a continuously expanding section perpendicular to the transport direction of luggage J, instead of a section that expands in stages.

[0150] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a space W that does not have a section that expands in stages perpendicular to the conveying direction. Figure 16 The portions R3 formed by the cover 45 and the conveyor 42, and R11 formed by the cover 44 and the conveyor 42 in the space W shown are both sections with continuously expanding cross sections perpendicular to the transport direction of the luggage J.

[0151] in addition, Figure 16 The portion R21 in the space W shown, formed by the cover of the inspection device 41 and the conveyor 42, is the portion of the aforementioned cross-section that neither expands nor shrinks downstream in the conveying direction. That is, Figure 16 The space W shown is formed only by the portion of the cross section that continuously expands and the portion of the cross section that neither expands nor shrinks.

[0152] In this case, even if the luggage J comes into contact with the inner wall of the cover 44, the cross section of the portion R11 formed by the cover 44 and the conveyor 42, which is perpendicular to the conveying direction, is a continuously expanding shape. Therefore, by conveying along the conveying direction, the luggage J is unlikely to come into contact with the cover 44.

[0153] Furthermore, even if baggage J comes into contact with the inner wall of the cover of inspection device 41, if it is transported and reaches part R3, the cross section perpendicular to the transport direction continuously expands, making it difficult for baggage J to come into contact with cover 45.

[0154] Therefore, the space W formed between the cover assembly and the conveyor 42 only needs to have at least one of the continuously expanding portion and the phased expanding portion of the cross section.

[0155] (6) The space W mentioned above can also be formed by continuously expanding the section perpendicular to the transport direction of luggage J.

[0156] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing an example of a space W consisting only of a portion whose cross-section continuously expands perpendicular to the conveying direction. Figure 17The cover 44 shown is continuous with the inlet of the inspection device 41 at the downstream end of the baggage J in the transport direction. Furthermore, Figure 17 The cover 45 shown is continuous with the outlet of the inspection device 41 at the upstream end of the baggage J in the transport direction.

[0157] and, Figure 17 The cross-section of space W shown, perpendicular to the conveying direction, is a continuously expanding shape. Therefore, even if luggage J comes into contact with the inner wall at some point in space W, it is difficult to make contact due to its movement along the conveying direction.

[0158] (7) Figure 18 This diagram shows an example of a guide member E1 installed at the entrance of space W. Alternatively, a guide member E1, which guides luggage J towards the entrance along the conveying direction, may be installed on the upstream side of the entrance of the space W formed between the enclosure and the conveyor 42.

[0159] The guide component E1 is located at the entrance of space W, that is, at the upstream end of the cover 44 on the upstream side of the transport direction of luggage J, covering the transport path of the conveyor 42 for luggage J from above.

[0160] For example Figure 18 As shown, the cross-section of the space V formed between the guide member E1 and the conveyor 42, which is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the luggage J, can also be reduced downstream in its conveying direction. Furthermore, as... Figure 18 As shown, the downstream end of the guide component E1 can also be continuous with the upstream end of the cover 44.

[0161] In this situation, when luggage J is conveyed along the conveying direction and comes into contact with the guide member E1, it enters space V along the inner wall of the guide member E1 and is guided towards the upstream end of the cover 44. Thus, luggage J can easily enter the aforementioned space W.

[0162] Furthermore, the cross section of the space W formed between the cover assembly and the conveyor 42, which is perpendicular to the transport direction of the luggage J, can be expanded downstream in the transport direction. Therefore, for example, the cross section of the inspection device 41 in the cross section of the space W, which is perpendicular to the transport direction of the luggage J, can be larger than the cross section of the cover 44 and smaller than the cross section of the cover 45.

[0163] (8) In the above embodiments, both cover 44 and cover 45 are made of transparent components, which can be visually confirmed from the outside to the inside. However, they can also be formed by combining metal wires in a grid pattern, which can be visually confirmed from the outside to a part of the inside.

[0164] [Version 5]

[0165] Hereinafter, the hand luggage inspection device 50 of the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0166] Figure 19 and Figure 20 The carry-on baggage inspection device 50 shown is installed, for example, at the entrance of an event venue, and includes an X-ray inspection device 51, a conveyor 52, a displacement unit 53 (an example of which, together with a sensor 54, forms an anti-blocking unit), a sensor 54 (an example of which, together with the displacement unit 53, forms an anti-blocking unit), and a control device 55. The X-ray inspection device 51 and the control device 55 function as an inspection unit DT for inspecting baggage, that is, they determine the security of the inspected item. Furthermore, as follows... Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, the conveying direction D1 of the hand baggage inspection device 50 conveying the hand baggage BA is taken as the X direction, the left and right direction (horizontal direction) perpendicular to the X direction is taken as the Y direction, and the up and down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to the X and Y directions is taken as the Z direction.

[0167] In the carry-on baggage inspection device 50 described above, a conveyor 52 receives carry-on baggage BA from the person to be inspected and transports it in a straight line. An X-ray inspection device 51 inspects the carry-on baggage BA transported by the conveyor 52 along the path. That is, the carry-on baggage inspection device 50 uses the X-ray inspection device 51 to scan the interior of the carry-on baggage BA, thereby collecting information related to the presence or absence of dangerous items. Furthermore, during the inspection, a rectangular (U-shaped) displacement section 53 is provided at the entrance side of the inspection section DT, i.e., the entrance side of the X-ray inspection device 51, ensuring that only carry-on baggage BA that is within the size of the displacement section 53 is inspected. In this embodiment, if a larger baggage cannot be hooked onto the displacement section 53, the displacement section 53 shifts, and the sensor 54 detects this shift. Thus, at an early stage before reaching the X-ray inspection device 51, sizes exceeding the inspection section DT can be quickly identified using a simple structure.

[0168] The X-ray inspection device 51 in the carry-on baggage inspection device 50 includes: an X-ray source 511 that irradiates the carry-on baggage BA, which is the object of inspection, with X-rays RL as radiation; an X-ray sensor unit 512 that is a line sensor that receives the component of the X-rays RL from the X-ray source 511 that has passed through the carry-on baggage BA; and a cuboid shielding box 513 that houses the X-ray source 511 and the X-ray sensor unit 512 inside. Furthermore, a detailed structural example of the X-ray inspection device 51 will be referred to... Figure 20 To be described later.

[0169] For example, Figure 20As shown, the conveyor 52 extends in the X direction from the inlet EN of the shielded box 513 toward the outlet EX, and passes between the X-ray source 511 and the X-ray sensor unit 512. Thus, carry-on baggage BA can be inspected by passing it between the X-ray source 511 and the X-ray sensor unit 512 within the shielded box 513 via the conveyor 52.

[0170] The displacement section 53 is a cover provided on the entrance EN side of the X-ray inspection apparatus 51. More specifically, the displacement section 53 is formed of, for example, a transparent material such as acrylic, and... Figure 20 In this example, the main component is a transparent shield with a U-shaped (ko-shaped) cross-section composed of three plate-like parts. The displacement section 53 is transparent, allowing monitoring of the status of the carry-on baggage BA as it passes through it from the outside. Furthermore, the displacement section 53 has a length of approximately 30 cm in the conveying direction D1 (X-direction). This prevents, for example, situations where users unfamiliar with the carry-on baggage inspection device 50, such as attendees at events, might mistakenly insert their hands into the X-ray inspection device 51 when placing their carry-on baggage BA on the conveyor 52. For a detailed example, please refer to... Figure 21A As will be described later, the displacement unit 53 has a structure that causes the transported carry-on baggage BA to shift upon contact with the baggage BA when the size exceeds the size that the inspection unit DT, i.e., the X-ray inspection device 51, can inspect. By detecting this shift, it is determined that the size of the carry-on baggage BA is too large before it reaches the X-ray inspection device 51.

[0171] Sensor 54 is attached to or located near displacement part 53 to capture displacement of displacement part 53. See details below. Figure 21A As will be described later, in one example of this embodiment, the sensor 54 has a magnet MG that is mounted and dismounted along with the displacement of the displacement unit 53. The sensor 54 is connected to the control device 55 and outputs a signal according to the mounting and dismounting of the magnet MG.

[0172] The control device 55, comprised of a CPU or various storage devices, is connected to various parts of the sensor 54, including the X-ray inspection device 51 and the conveyor 52. It manages the operation of these parts and analyzes various data, including image data obtained during the X-ray inspection by the X-ray inspection device 51, to automatically determine the presence or absence of dangerous items inside the carry-on baggage BA. In this case, for example, the presence or absence of dangerous items can be automatically determined based on the analysis of various data, such as image data, without relying on human vision, thus enabling rapid and accurate determination during baggage inspection. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control device 55 detects the presence or absence of displacement of the displacement unit 53 based on information from the sensor 54, thereby preventing excessively large carry-on baggage BA from entering the X-ray inspection device 51 during inspection. In particular, here, the control device 55 functions as a forced stop unit FS that stops the conveying of the carry-on baggage BA and the inspection performed by the inspection unit DT when displacement of the displacement unit 53 is detected by the sensor 54. Furthermore, the control device 55 includes a safety device that functions as a forced stop unit FS for the displacement of the displacement unit 53, and functions as an interlocking mechanism to stop the operation of the control device as a whole.

[0173] The following is for reference Figure 20 As the main component for the function of the carry-on baggage inspection device 50, a detailed description will be given of a structural example of an X-ray inspection device 51 or a conveyor 52 for obtaining various data including image data as described above.

[0174] First, the X-ray source 511 in the X-ray inspection apparatus 51 is a radiation source that emits X-rays RL. The X-ray source 511 is disposed on the lower side near the center of the shielded box 513, irradiating the X-rays RL as radiation toward the X-ray sensor unit 512. The X-ray sensor unit 512 is a radiation sensor unit that receives the X-rays RL. The X-ray sensor unit 512 is disposed on the upper side near the center of the shielded box 513, opposite the X-ray source 511 across the transport path of the conveyor 52. For example, the light-receiving elements are arranged in a linear configuration extending in the Y direction perpendicular to the transport direction D1 (X direction), so that the X-ray sensor unit 512 can perform linear scanning synchronously with the transport of the conveyor 52. That is, when the carry-on baggage BA passes near the center of the internal space of the shielded box 513, X-rays RL are irradiated onto the carry-on baggage BA, and a two-dimensional inspection of the interior of the carry-on baggage BA is performed along the XY plane based on the result received by the X-ray sensor unit 512. The shielding box 513 is a cuboid-shaped cover with rectangular openings forming the inlet EN and outlet EX. Furthermore, to suppress X-ray leakage to the outside, the inner walls of the shielding box 513 are formed of X-ray absorbing components such as lead. Shielding curtains (not shown) covering the inlet EN and outlet EX and their surroundings are provided at the shielding box 513 to prevent X-ray leakage to the outside of the shielding box 513.

[0175] Furthermore, when the X-ray inspection apparatus 51 acquires images, various methods can be considered. For example, in addition to acquiring X-ray image data based on a single high-energy irradiation, both high-energy and low-energy image data can be acquired using a dual-energy sensor. That is, the carry-on baggage BA can be irradiated with different amounts of X-ray energy. In this case, for example, by utilizing the difference in the fluoroscopic image based on the difference in X-ray amount, image data with varying shades, i.e., grayscale data, can be obtained as image data.

[0176] Next, as illustrated, the conveyor 52 includes a belt portion 521 on which carry-on luggage BA is placed on its upper surface, a pair of roller portions 522 rotatably fixed at both ends of the belt portion 521 for the belt portion 521 to be wound around, and further includes a belt support body 523 supporting the belt portion 521 and the carry-on luggage BA placed on the belt portion 521, thereby allowing the carry-on luggage BA to move from the right end (-X end) to the left end (+X end) of the conveyor 52 at a desired speed. The belt portion 521 is transmissible to X-rays as it passes through the X-ray inspection device 51. Luggage detection units 524 and 525 are provided at positions corresponding to the inlet EN and outlet EX of the shielded box 513, respectively, to detect the distance and movement of the carry-on luggage BA. The luggage detection units 524 and 525 detect the presence of carry-on luggage BA at the inlet and outlet of the belt portion 521. The control device 55 controls the start or stop of the operation of the conveyor 52, for example, based on the output or conveying status of the baggage detection units 524 and 525.

[0177] By adopting the structure described above, it is possible to obtain image data of carry-on baggage (BA) based on X-ray irradiation.

[0178] Furthermore, the carry-on baggage inspection device 50 includes a light LP for clearly indicating the safety determination result of the control device 55. The light LP can be red, blue, or yellow, clearly indicating the hazard level as red (high risk), blue (no risk), and yellow (medium risk). The illumination of the light LP is used not only in determining the safety (hazard level) of the contents of the carry-on baggage BA based on the analysis results of the image data obtained by the X-ray inspection device 51, but also in determining the safety level using various other actions. Here, when the displacement of the displacement unit 53 is detected by the sensor 54, the control device 55 functions as a forced stop unit FS, stopping the main actions of various parts, such as the image acquisition action of the X-ray inspection device 51, and illuminating the light LP in red, indicating a higher hazard level. In other words, the light LP functions as a notification unit for the detection results of the sensor 54, based on the instructions from the control device 55.

[0179] The following is for reference Figure 21A An example of the structure of the displacement unit 53 and the sensor 54 will be described below. Figure 21A and Figure 21B In the conceptual example shown, the displacement part 53 has a transparent shield 531 as the main body and a hinge 532 as a tool for mounting the transparent shield 531 to the X-ray inspection device 51 in a rotatable state.

[0180] The transparent shield 531 consists of three transparent, plate-like sections and is a transparent component extending along the conveying direction D1 of the conveyor 52. More specifically, for example, as shown in... Figure 21B As shown, the transparent shield 531 is constructed by extending three transparent plate-like portions—a pair of opposing side portions 531a and 531b, and a top portion 531c connecting the side portions 531a and 531b and covering the upper side—along the conveying direction D1. This results in a U-shaped and rectangular integrally molded component in cross-sectional view, allowing observation of the interior of the displacement section 53, i.e., the transparent shield 531, from the outside along the conveyor 52 that transports the carry-on baggage BA. Here, the inlet EN1 of the displacement section 53 formed by the transparent shield 531 is rectangular, and this shape remains constant in the X direction. Furthermore, this shape corresponds to the range that can be inspected by the inspection section DT (X-ray inspection device 51). Thus, based on whether the carry-on baggage BA can pass through the inlet EN1, it can be determined whether the carry-on baggage BA is of an inspectable size.

[0181] like Figure 21A As shown, hinge 532 is provided to connect one end of the plate-shaped top surface portion 531c constituting the transparent shield 531 to the X-ray inspection device 51, thereby allowing the transparent shield 531 to rotate relative to the X-ray inspection device 51. Specifically, as shown by solid and dashed lines in the figure, the transparent shield 531 can rotate in a plane parallel to the XZ plane about the hinge 532 extending in the Y direction as an axis. However, when the transparent shield 531 is in the normal position shown by solid lines in the figure, with the X-ray inspection device 51 and the conveyor 52 present, the transparent shield 531 does not move further in the clockwise direction shown in the figure. On the other hand, in the counterclockwise direction shown in the figure, the transparent shield 531 can rotate, or displace, from the normal position to the position shown by dashed lines in the figure. That is, when subjected to a torque of a force acting in the counterclockwise rotation direction, the transparent shield 531, i.e., the displacement portion 53, displaces in that direction.

[0182] Additionally, as in Figure 21AAs shown in the enlarged view surrounded by dashed line X1, sensor 54 is composed of a magnet part MG consisting of a pair of magnets MGa and MGb, and a wiring part WR connected to the magnet MGb. As shown, one of the magnets MGa and MGb, MGa, is mounted on the transparent shield 531, i.e., the displacement part 53, while the other magnet MGb is mounted on the frame on the side of the conveyor 52. When the transparent shield 531 is in its normal position as shown by solid lines in the illustration, the pair of magnets MGa and MGb are fixed in a state where they are attracted to each other by magnetic force. Furthermore, in this case, as shown by dashed line X1, in sensor 54, the magnet part MG is kept energized and sends current or a corresponding signal flowing through the wiring part WR to the control device 55. On the other hand, when the torque acting as a force in the counterclockwise rotational direction acting on the transparent shield 531 in the illustration is greater than the magnetic force acting between the pair of magnets MGa and MGb and the torque required to rotate the transparent shield 531, the transparent shield 531 rotates from its normal position, for example, displaces to the position shown by the dashed line. Thus, when the pair of magnets MGa and MGb are separated, the maintained energized state is released, resulting in a state where the current flowing through the wiring section WR or its corresponding signal is not sent to the control device 55. By detecting this change, the control device 55 detects the displacement of the displacement section 53.

[0183] Furthermore, regarding the transparent shield 531 in the above-described case, the inner surfaces of the side portions 531a and 531b, the inner surface of the top portion 531c, and the upper surface of the strap portion 521 form a structure that allows the carry-on bag BA (see reference) to be placed within the transparent shield 531. Figure 20 The internal space through which it passes. When this internal space is shown in two dimensions, as... Figure 21B As shown, the rectangular area DD1 formed by the inlet EN1 of the displacement section 53 corresponds to this internal space. That is, the carry-on baggage BA (refer to...) Figure 20Whether a piece of carry-on luggage BA can pass through the transparent shield 531 depends on whether it can pass through the region DD1. To further simplify, carry-on luggage BA exceeding the height H1 in the longitudinal (Z direction) or the width W1 in the transverse (Y direction) of the rectangular region DD1 cannot pass through the displacement section 53. Here, in this embodiment, the region DD1 is defined by its size and shape corresponding to the inspectable range of the X-ray inspection device 51. Therefore, when carry-on luggage BA exceeding the inspectable size reaches the displacement section 53, carry-on luggage BA cannot first enter through the displacement section 53. Instead, the displacement section 53 is rotated (displaced) by the force acting upon contact with it, thereby automatically detecting and removing carry-on luggage BA from the displacement section 53, which is positioned closer to the X-ray inspection device 51.

[0184] For example, such as Figure 22A and Figure 22B And then in Figure 22A As illustrated by the dashed line X2 and as a diagram viewed from different directions, when the carry-on baggage BA within the inspectable size is transported in the displacement section 53, no torque is generated that would cause the displacement section 53 to move. The displacement section 53 remains in its normal position, allowing the carry-on baggage BA to pass through the internal space, i.e., area DD1.

[0185] On the other hand, such as Figure 23A and Figure 23B Furthermore, as shown in these figures, enclosed by dashed lines X3 and X4 and interpreted as views from different directions, when a carry-on baggage BA exceeding the inspectable size is conveyed in the displacement section 53, the carry-on baggage BA contacts the end face EF formed at the end of the entrance side (-X side) of the side portions 531a, 531b and the top portion 531c. Figure 23A and Figure 23B In the example, the carry-on baggage BA contacts the portion formed by the top surface portion 531c in the end face EF. In this case, as the carry-on baggage BA moves forward in the transport direction D1, the top surface portion 531c, i.e., the transparent shield 531, experiences a force from the carry-on baggage BA at the contact point in the direction indicated by arrow AR1. This force generates a torque that causes the transparent shield 531 to rotate counterclockwise in the XZ plane about the hinge 532 extending in the Y direction. That is, as... Figure 23B As shown, the transparent shield 531 is displaced (rotated) from its normal position to a position after being rotated counterclockwise. As described above, the displacement part 53 is configured to displace (rotate) upon contact with the carry-on bag BA. As described above, the control device 55 can detect the rotation of the displacement part 53 by means of the sensor 54.

[0186] As described above, the carry-on baggage inspection device 50 of this embodiment includes: an inspection unit DT that inspects baggage; a displacement unit 53 provided at the entrance EN side of the inspection unit DT, which displaces the carry-on baggage BA when it is larger than the size that the inspection unit DT can inspect; and a sensor 54 that detects the displacement of the displacement unit 53. In this case, the displacement of the displacement unit 53 detects that the size of the carry-on baggage BA exceeds the size that can be inspected. That is, by making the displacement unit 53 movable, it is possible to quickly detect or detect the carry-on baggage BA with a simple structure, thereby preventing the blockage of carry-on baggage by removing such baggage BA. As a result, the throughput of baggage inspection can be increased and manpower can be saved. In particular, in this case, there is no need for monitoring of baggage inspection near the entrance, thereby reducing the number of personnel.

[0187] [Modifications of Embodiment 5]

[0188] The fifth embodiment described above can also be modified in various ways within the scope of the inventive concept. Examples of these modifications are shown below. Two or more of the modifications shown below can also be appropriately combined.

[0189] (1) In the above embodiment, the sensor 54 uses a magnet to detect the displacement of the displacement part 53. The sensor 54 is not limited to using a magnet; any sensor capable of detecting the displacement of the displacement part 53 can be used as the sensor 54. For example, the sensor 54 can use a microswitch to detect the displacement of the displacement part 53, or it can use a photoelectric sensor or a light sensor to detect the displacement of the displacement part 53. Moreover, for example, when the sensor 54 uses a photoelectric sensor and a light sensor to detect the displacement of the displacement part 53, a structure in which the light-emitting part and the light-receiving part are arranged opposite each other through a transparent shield 531 can be adopted, or a structure in which the light-emitting part and the light-receiving part are provided on the outside of one side of the transparent shield 531, and a reflective mirror is arranged at a position opposite the light-emitting part and the light-receiving part through the transparent shield 531. Alternatively, a diffuse reflective type photoelectric sensor can be used as the sensor 54.

[0190] (2) The displacement method of the displacement part 53 shown in the above embodiment is an example. As long as the displacement part 53 is a mechanism that moves along with the size of the transported carry-on baggage BA to check whether it can be checked in the inspection part DT, various methods can be considered in addition to rotation using the tool (hinge 532) as described above. Moreover, for example, the displacement of the displacement part 53 is not limited to rotation, but also includes various movement methods such as parallel offset. Furthermore, it can also be configured to detect deformations such as expansion and contraction of the displacement part 53.

[0191] (3) Regarding the shape, size, material, etc. of the displacement part 53, various shapes, sizes, materials, etc. are also considered. For example, in the above embodiment, it is transparent, but an opaque material can also be used. Moreover, in the above embodiment, the shape of the end face EF side of the displacement part 53, that is, the region DD1 that forms the entrance of the displacement part 53, determines whether it can pass through. However, it is also possible that, for example, the shape that determines whether it can pass through is in the middle of the displacement part 53 that forms the passage area inside.

[0192] (4) For example, in FIG23, a portion of the shape of the displacement portion 53 (transparent shield 531) may be deformed so that the force in the direction indicated by arrow AR1 can easily generate a torque that rotates in the counterclockwise direction. For example, it is also considered to make the shape of the end face EF conical, or to make the shape of the side portions 531a, 531b or the top portion 531c other than flat.

[0193] (5) In the above embodiment, regarding the displacement part 53, considering the length of a human hand, the length of the conveying direction D1 (X direction) is about 30cm, but it is not limited to this. Various changes can be made according to the displacement of the displacement part 53 (transparent shield 531) or the method of its detection.

[0194] (6) Regarding the installation location of the sensor 54, etc., it is not limited to the vicinity of the inlet EN1 of the displacement part 53, and various changes can be made according to the usage method, etc.

[0195] (7) In the above embodiments, for the sake of simplicity, only the case where the height H1 of the carry-on baggage BA is oversized is mentioned. However, even if the width W1 is oversized, displacement detection can still be performed using the displacement part 53.

[0196] (8) Regarding the degree of displacement of the displacement unit 53 or the accuracy of the detection of the displacement, for example, it can be appropriately adjusted to a degree that can be distinguished from the degree of displacement that may occur in daily life.

[0197] (9) In the above-described example fifth embodiment, the displacement unit 53, the sensor 54, and the control device 55 that determines the displacement of the displacement unit 53 based on the detection of the sensor 54 in each part of the carry-on baggage inspection device 50 can also be regarded as a determination device (discrimination device) for determining the size of the baggage in the stage before inspection.

[0198] (10) For example, in the case of an event venue, multiple entrances and exits may be set up. In order to deal with such a situation, multiple inspection devices may be set up at the entrances and exits of the venue, and these inspection devices may be managed uniformly by the management department. In addition, regarding the allocation of personnel, for example, a structure may be formed in which one inspector is assigned to each inspection unit (single-person operation), and on the other hand, multiple managers may be assigned to the management department.

[0199] (11) In the carry-on baggage inspection device 50, a forced stop button, which serves as a forced stop unit, can be provided at multiple locations to stop the transport of baggage or the inspection of the inspection unit. In particular, when operating by a single person, the inspector can quickly perform a forced stop by pressing the forced stop button located closest to their current position. In this case, the control device 55, which serves as the forced stop unit FS, can be configured to treat the stopping action of the forced stop button as the same as the forced stop detected by the aforementioned sensor 54, etc.

[0200] (12) In the above embodiments, only the case of inspecting carry-on baggage BA by the carry-on baggage inspection device 50 is described, but it is also considered that, for example, in addition to the carry-on baggage inspection device 50, a body monitoring device for the holder of carry-on baggage BA, i.e. the person to be admitted, may coexist.

[0201] (13) In the above embodiments, the X-ray inspection apparatus 51 is an inspection apparatus that utilizes X-rays, but it can also be various other inspection apparatuses that utilize radiation other than X-rays RL. Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to inspection apparatuses that utilize methods other than radiation.

[0202] (14) such as Figure 24 As illustrated, depending on how carry-on baggage is placed, there may be situations where it cannot be transported or inspected. Firstly, as in... Figure 24The example shown in the section enclosed by dashed line R1 illustrates the case where a carry-on bag BA, in a shape that conforms to the entrance EN1 of the displacement unit 53 (in the illustrated example, a cuboid shape), passes through. In this case, the surface of the carry-on bag BA, shown as surface Q in the figure, converges within the range that does not touch the entrance EN1. In this case, the carry-on bag BA can enter the interior of the X-ray inspection device 51 without displacing the displacement unit 53. However, even in this case, as illustrated in the section enclosed by dashed line R2, if the carry-on bag BA tilts during transport and falls into the range shown by the solid line, it will deviate from the inspectable range. Alternatively, consider the case where the carry-on bag BA is poorly positioned from the beginning, resulting in the state shown by dashed line R2. In this case, surface Q touches the entrance EN1, causing the displacement unit 53 to displace, thus determining that it cannot be inspected.

[0203] Label Explanation

[0204] 10: Inspection section; 11: X-ray source; 12: X-ray sensor section; 15: Shielding box; 20: Conveyor; 22: Drive mechanism; 30: Curtain assembly; 31: Curtain; 32: Conveying auxiliary mechanism; 100: Hand baggage inspection device; 200: Hand baggage inspection device; 250: Control device; 400: Hand baggage inspection device; 4: Hand baggage inspection device; 41: Inspection device; 42: Conveyor; 43: Platform; 44: Cover ; 45: Cover; 90: Inspection device; 91: Cover; 92: Cover; 50: Hand baggage inspection device; 51: X-ray inspection device; 52: Conveyor; 53: Displacement unit; 54: Sensor; 55: Control device; 511: X-ray source; 512: X-ray sensor unit; 513: Shielding box; 521: Belt unit; 522: Roller unit; 523: Belt support body; 524: Baggage detection unit; 531: Transparent shield; 532: Hinge.

Claims

1. A hand luggage inspection device, comprising: The transport unit is used to transport luggage; An inspection unit that inspects the luggage transported by the conveying unit; A curtain that shields the electromagnetic waves emitted by the inspection unit for inspection purposes; and An anti-blocking unit is included to prevent luggage being transported by the conveying unit from becoming blocked. in, The anti-clogging unit has: The displacement part has an inlet with a shape corresponding to the range that the inspection unit can inspect, and is movably disposed on the inlet side of the inspection unit. When the transported baggage exceeds the size that the inspection unit can inspect, the displacement part touches the baggage and prevents the baggage from entering the inspection unit located in front of it, and is displaced by the force acting when it contacts the baggage. as well as The sensor detects the displacement when the transported luggage comes into contact with the displacement part, causing the displacement part to shift.

2. The hand luggage inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, The displacement unit moves when the size of the transported luggage exceeds the size that the inspection unit can inspect.

3. The hand luggage inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, The sensor has a magnet that is mounted and dismounted along with the displacement of the displacement portion.

4. The hand luggage inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, The sensor is an optical sensor that detects the displacement of the displacement part.

5. The hand luggage inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, The displacement section has an inlet with a shape corresponding to the range that the inspection unit can inspect.

6. The hand luggage inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, The carry-on baggage inspection device includes a forced stop unit that stops the conveying unit and the inspection unit when the sensor detects the displacement of the displacement part.

7. The hand luggage inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, The displacement section has a transparent component that extends along the conveying direction of the luggage conveying unit.

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