System and method for simulating a level of exposure to ionizing radiation
Patent Information
- Application Number
- EP2023824924
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2022-12-19
- Filing Date
- 2023-12-13
- Publication Date
- 2025-10-29
AI Technical Summary
Current systems for simulating exposure to ionizing radiation in hazardous environments do not account for obstacles and directional radiation sources, limiting their effectiveness in training scenarios.
A system using ultra-wideband electromagnetic wave transmitters and receivers, with optional beacons, to simulate ionizing radiation sources, allowing for precise distance measurement and adaptation of exposure levels, and incorporating attenuation coefficients and directional radiation simulation.
Enables realistic simulation of ionizing radiation exposure in various environments, including those with obstacles and directional sources, enhancing training effectiveness and safety protocols.
Smart Images
Figure 1.1
Abstract
Description
[0001] DESCRIPTION
[0002] SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SIMULATING A LEVEL OF EXPOSURE TO IONIZING RADIATION
[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD
[0004] The present invention relates to the technical field of dosimeters and radiation meters used in work environments made dangerous by the presence of ionizing radiation, and more particularly that of a system for simulating sources of ionizing radiation and devices for measuring the radiation from these sources.
[0005] STATE OF PRIOR ART
[0006] Special protective measures are necessary for workers working in environments where substances emitting ionizing radiation that are hazardous to health, typically radioactive substances, are present. Training these workers, who must manage complex tasks in these hazardous environments, is a fundamental aspect of protective measures. It is therefore essential to be able to set up simulations of these work environments so that workers can train in conditions that are as close to reality as possible. In particular, since these workers are equipped with radiation meters or dosimeters, devices for measuring a level of exposure to ionizing radiation, it is necessary to have systems that can simulate the operation of radiation meters or dosimeters in the presence of fictitious sources of ionizing radiation.Patent EP 17704278 discloses an omnidirectional electromagnetic wave transmitter that periodically emits a predefined signal simulating ionizing radiation. The electromagnetic wave transmitter also emits messages including information on the emission power of said predefined signal, for example expressed in Watts or in dBm, and information on the power of the ionizing radiation that is simulated by the emission of said predefined signal, for example expressed in units of exposure at one meter from the fictitious source, i.e. the transmitter. This information, once received by a suitable receiver, allows two things: firstly, to determine a distance between the transmitter and the receiver, thanks to the information on the emitted power of the predefined signal, and, secondly, to determine a simulated level of exposure to the ionizing source simulated by the transmitter, thanks to the information on the simulated emission power of the ionizing radiation from the transmitter.
[0007] This technology allows for a very effective simulation of a level of exposure to ionizing radiation but does not allow for taking into account certain situations that are likely to occur in work environments made dangerous by the presence of ionizing radiation. In particular, there may be obstacles between the source of ionizing radiation and the worker. Obstacles are, for example, linked to the work environment. The shape and composition of the obstacle can attenuate ionizing radiation. Also, in certain cases, the use of a protective screen, dedicated to attenuating ionizing radiation, is necessary to protect a worker.
[0008] In addition, some ionizing radiation is directional, which is the case, for example, when a radioactive product conduit is damaged, in environments where radiotherapy treatments are carried out, in circular accelerators, etc.
[0009] STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention aims to provide a system for simulating sources of ionizing radiation and devices for measuring the radiation from these sources which are capable of simulating the majority of situations where a worker operates in environments in the presence of substances emitting ionizing radiation which is dangerous to health.
[0011] To this end, the invention relates to a method for simulating a source of emission of ionizing radiation in a system comprising a first electromagnetic wave transmitter simulating a source of emission of ionizing radiation and a first electromagnetic wave receiver making it possible to receive a signal corresponding to a simulation of emission of ionizing radiation, characterized in that the method comprises the steps of:
[0012] - transmission by the first transmitter of at least one first predefined signal, the first predefined signal being transmitted by an antenna and being an ultra wideband signal,
[0013] - transmission by the first transmitter of a first message comprising a value of a parameter corresponding to a simulated emission power of the source of ionizing radiation,
[0014] - determination by the first receiver of a first distance (di) separating the first transmitter making it possible to simulate the source of emission of ionizing radiation and the first receiver from the arrival time of the first signal,
[0015] - determination by the first receiver of a simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the first distance determined and the value of the parameter.
[0016] The invention also relates to a system comprising a first electromagnetic wave transmitter making it possible to simulate a source of emission of ionizing radiation and a first electromagnetic wave receiver making it possible to receive a signal corresponding to a simulation of emission of ionizing radiation, characterized in that the system comprises:
[0017] - means, included in the first transmitter, for transmitting at least one first predefined signal, the first predefined signal being transmitted by an antenna and being an ultra wideband signal,
[0018] - means, included in the first transmitter, for transmitting a first message comprising a value of a parameter corresponding to a simulated emission power of the source of ionizing radiation,
[0019] - means, included in the first receiver, for determining a first distance (di) separating the first transmitter and the first receiver from the arrival time of the first signal,
[0020] - means, included in the first receiver, for determining a simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the first determined distance and the value of the parameter. Thus, the present invention makes it possible, for example during training, to simulate ionizing rays showing the impact of the latter on people and the basic actions for protecting themselves during mandatory training.
[0021] The ionizing source can be located anywhere in the training environment. The system is thus adaptive because it is capable of periodically measuring the distance between the transmitter and the receiver to adjust the level of ionizing radiation. Thanks to the ultra-wideband technology, the present invention allows very precise distance measurements with measurement errors of the order of ten centimeters. According to a particular embodiment, the system further comprises at least a first and a second beacon, each beacon being capable of receiving the first signal emitted by the first transmitter, the first beacon being capable of emitting a second predefined signal emitted by an antenna and being an ultra-wideband signal, the second beacon being capable of emitting a third predefined signal emitted by an antenna and being an ultra-wideband signal, and the system further comprises:
[0022] - means, included in the first receiver, for determining a second distance (ds) separating the first beacon and the first receiver from the arrival time of the second signal,
[0023] - means, included in the first receiver, for determining a third (ds) distance separating the second beacon and the first receiver from the arrival time of the third signal,
[0024] - means, included in the first beacon, for determining a fourth distance (cU) separating the first beacon and the first transmitter from the arrival time of the first signal,
[0025] - means, included in the second beacon, for determining a fifth distance (ds) separating the second beacon and the first transmitter from the arrival time of the first signal,
[0026] - means included in the second beacon, for transmitting a second message comprising at least the fifth determined distance, - means, included in the first beacon, for determining a sixth distance (de) separating the first beacon and the second beacon from the arrival time of the third signal,
[0027] - means included in the first beacon, for transmitting a third message comprising at least the fourth and sixth determined distances,
[0028] - means, included in the first receiver, for determining the simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth distances determined and the value of the emission and attenuation parameter.
[0029] Thus, the addition of two beacons allows the system to create environments including obstacles such as a wall between the radiation source and the worker. In addition, the addition of this functionality allows the creation of new types of scenarios using protective screens. These screens are transportable protective equipment commonly used to protect against ionizing rays during interventions in hazardous areas. For example: during an X-ray examination, the operator protects himself behind a screen to avoid exposure to X-rays. According to a particular mode, the first message also includes an attenuation coefficient to be applied for the determination of the simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation, the application of the attenuation coefficient being conditional on the determined distances.
[0030] Thus, when the beacons are located between the transmitter and the receiver, an attenuation coefficient is applied to the amplitude of the ionizing radiation.
[0031] According to a particular mode, the attenuation coefficient is applied if a quadrilateral formed by the first transmitter, the two beacons and the receiver is convex, the quadrilateral being decomposed into four triangles: a triangle A formed by the transmitter 100 and the two beacons (110a, 110b), a triangle B formed by the receiver 150 and the two beacons, a triangle C formed by the transmitter, the first beacon and the receiver and a triangle D formed by the transmitter, the second beacon and the receiver, and the quadrilateral being convex if S + S B where S A is the surface area of triangle A, S B is the surface area of triangle B, S c is the surface area of triangle C and S Dis the surface area of triangle D. Thus, when the above conditions are met, the attenuation of the screen following a predetermined mathematical law, is applied to the level of the ionizing radiation of the receiver located behind the screen.
[0032] According to a particular mode, the system includes:
[0033] - means, included in the first transmitter, for transmitting the first predefined signal on a second antenna,
[0034] - means included in the first transmitter, for receiving another predefined signal emitted by the first receiver, the other predefined signal being emitted by an antenna and being an ultra wideband signal,
[0035] - means, included in the first transmitter, for determining an angular position of the first receiver relative to the first transmitter,
[0036] - means, included in the first transmitter, for transmitting in the first message information representing the angle and the angular position of the first receiver relative to the first transmitter,
[0037] - means, included in the first receiver, for determining a simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the angle representative information included in the first message and the determined angular position.
[0038] Thus, using the angle at the emitter allows the creation of scenarios in which the ionizing source is directive. In this context, the radiation level can be considered high in the axis of the source and zero if the receiver is outside a cone predefined during training. This will make it possible to simulate the radiation emitted by the end of a pipe, or to simulate a ray gun used in research or in the medical sector.
[0039] According to a particular mode, the system includes:
[0040] - means, included in the first transmitter, for transmitting in the first message information representative of a type of ionizing radiation,
[0041] - means, included in the first receiver, for determining the simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the type of ionizing radiation. The invention also relates to a computer program, which can be stored on a medium and / or downloaded from a communication network, in order to be read by a processor. This computer program comprises instructions for implementing all or part of the steps mentioned below, when said program is executed by the processor. The invention also relates to an information storage medium comprising such a computer program.
[0042] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] The above-mentioned and other features of the invention will become more clearly apparent from the following description of an exemplary embodiment, said description being made in relation to the accompanying drawings, among which:
[0044] [Fig. 1] schematically illustrates a system comprising an electromagnetic wave transmitter for simulating a source of ionizing radiation, an electromagnetic wave receiver for simulating a measurement of the ionizing radiation of said simulated source;
[0045] [Fig. 2] schematically illustrates a system comprising an electromagnetic wave transmitter for simulating a source of ionizing radiation, two beacons for simulating a protective screen and an electromagnetic wave receiver for simulating a measurement of the ionizing radiation of said simulated source;
[0046] [Fig. 3] schematically illustrates an area in which the simulated screen provides attenuation to a measurement of the ionizing radiation from said simulated source;
[0047] [Fig. 4] schematically illustrates an area in which an electromagnetic wave transmitter can simulate a source of directive ionizing radiation;
[0048] [Fig. 5] schematically illustrates an example of a hardware architecture of a transmitter for simulating a source of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 1, 2 or 4;
[0049] [Fig. 6] schematically illustrates an example of a hardware architecture of a beacon that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 2;
[0050] [Fig. 7] schematically illustrates an example of a hardware architecture of a receiver for simulating the measurement of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 1 or 2; [Fig. 8a] schematically illustrates a method of operation of a transmitter for simulating a source of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 1;
[0051] [Fig.8b] schematically illustrates a first method of operation of a receiver for simulating the measurement of ionizing radiation which can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 1, ;
[0052] [Fig. 9a] schematically illustrates a method of operating a transmitter for simulating a source of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 2;
[0053] [Fig. 9b] schematically illustrates a method of operation of a first beacon in the system as illustrated in Fig. 2;
[0054] [Fig. 9c] schematically illustrates a method of operation of a second beacon in the system as illustrated in Fig. 2;
[0055] [Fig. 9d] schematically illustrates a first method of operation of a receiver for simulating the measurement of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 2;
[0056] [Fig. 10a] schematically illustrates a method of operating a transmitter for simulating a source of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 4;
[0057] [Fig. 10b] schematically illustrates a first method of operation of a receiver for simulating the measurement of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 4.
[0058] DETAILED PRESENTATION OF IMPLEMENTATION METHODS
[0059] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a system comprising an electromagnetic wave transmitter for simulating a source of ionizing radiation, an electromagnetic wave receiver for simulating a measurement of the ionizing radiation of said simulated source.
[0060] The system comprises an electromagnetic wave transmitter (or "transmitter") 100, making it possible to simulate a source of ionizing radiation, at least one electromagnetic wave receiver (or "receiver") 150, making it possible to simulate a measurement of the ionizing radiation of said simulated source and an electronic control device 120 of said simulation system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The transmitter 100 simulates a source of ionizing radiation, and can be located anywhere in a training work environment. The receiver 150 simulates the operation of an ionizing radiation receiver or radioactivity detector, i.e. a radiation meter or a dosimeter making it possible to measure exposure to ionizing radiation. The receiver 150 can take the form of a dedicated electronic device, as described for example in Fig. 7.The receiver 150 may also be a known electronic device, for example a tablet or a “smartphone” (so-called “smart” mobile phone), running a computer program implementing a method as described below, for example in Fig. 8b or Fig. 9d. In this case, the smartphone must comprise an electromagnetic wave receiver of the ultra-wideband UWB type (Ultra Wide Band in English) adapted to receive at least one signal from the transmitter 100 and receive or transmit messages and possibly a communication module adapted to receive or transmit at least one message. The communication module is for example of the “Bluetooth” or “WiFi” (Wireless Fidelity in English) type. The receiver 150 can determine an instantaneous simulated received power (dose rate) such as: / i. 150 = ^IOO x “^7 ou > ffiso = ^100 x a where, H 100 represents the set dose rate of the source, H150 represents the dose rate of the receiver as a function of the measured distance d x . Finally, the distance d 100 represents the distance at which the dose rate is set (at contact or at 1m). This dose rate integrated over a period of the simulated power received determines a simulated dose of ionizing radiation received from the UWB signals emitted by the transmitter 100, such that: H 150 = J o H 150 dt.
[0061] In the first case, the receiver 150 simulates a “radiation meter” type device, in the second case, a “dosimeter” type device. The system makes it possible to simulate the operation of a radioactivity detector, simulated by the receiver 150, in the presence of a source of ionizing radiation, simulated by the transmitter 100.
[0062] The system may comprise several transmitters similar to the transmitter 100, each transmitter simulating a different source of ionizing radiation. The dose rate and the dose thus received by the receiver will then be the sum of the different dose rates received by the transmitter and their time integration, such that: / î 150 = 2o ^ioo- According to the embodiment of the invention, the electronic control device 120 makes it possible to monitor, in real time or in delayed time, the simulated power of ionizing radiation received by each receiver and to subsequently carry out a synthesis. According to a complementary embodiment of the invention, the electronic control device 120 makes it possible to remotely control the simulated power of ionizing radiation emitted by the transmitter 100.
[0063] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a system comprising an electromagnetic wave transmitter for simulating a source of ionizing radiation, two beacons for simulating a protective screen and an electromagnetic wave receiver for simulating a measurement of the ionizing radiation of said simulated source.
[0064] The system comprises the electromagnetic wave transmitter 100, making it possible to simulate a source of ionizing radiation, at least the electromagnetic wave receiver 150, making it possible to simulate a measurement of the ionizing radiation of said simulated source, the electronic control device 120 and at least two beacons 110a and 110b which emit and / or receive UWB signals. The beacons are for example arranged on a panel simulating a screen attenuating the ionizing radiation. The beacons 110a and 110b emit UWB signals which allow the receiver to determine the distance separating it from the beacons 110a and 110b and to determine whether the receiver is in an area in which the simulated screen attenuates the ionizing radiation or not.
[0065] The distance di is the distance between the transmitter 100 and the receiver 150, the distance d2 is the distance between the receiver 150 and the first beacon 110a, the distance ds is the distance between the receiver 150 and the second beacon 110b, the distance d4 is the distance between the transmitter 100 and the first beacon 110a, the distance ds is the distance between the transmitter 100 and the second beacon 110b, the distance dô is the distance between the beacons 110a and 110b.
[0066] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates an area in which the simulated screen provides attenuation to a measurement of the ionizing radiation from said simulated source.
[0067] In Fig. 3, area 300 is the area in which the simulated screen provides attenuation to a measurement of the ionizing radiation from said simulated source.
[0068] Considering a measurement in the plane, or quasi-plane, Heron's formula makes it possible to determine Make of a triangle formed by the transmitter 100 and the two beacons 110a and 110b, noted S. The perimeter P is equal to d4+ d5+ d6, the square of the area of the triangle thus formed, S 2 , is equal to: S 2 = — d4— d è ) (2 “ d5 )'
[0069] By adding a point of measure 150, the resulting figure becomes a convex, concave or crossed quadrilateral.
[0070] For attenuation to occur, the quadrilateral must be convex.
[0071] The quadrilateral is divided into four triangles: a triangle A formed by the transmitter 100 and the two beacons 110a and 110b, a triangle B formed by the receiver 150 and the two beacons 110a and 110b, a triangle C formed by the transmitter 100, the first beacon 110a and the receiver 150 and a triangle D formed by the transmitter 100, the second beacon 110b and the receiver 150.
[0072] If S + S = S 2 + Sp, then the geometry is convex and the receiver 150 applies an attenuation defined by a coefficient K ecran , with K ecran which can vary from 0 to 1. The higher the value of the coefficient K ecran is close to 0, the stronger the attenuation of the simulated screen will be and vice versa.
[0073] In the case of a three-dimensional measurement, the present invention uses the NLOS (non light of sight) technique. In this case, the distance between the transmitter 100 and the receiver 150 comes from the reflection and diffraction of the signal.
[0074] Finally, the dose rate thus measured by the receiver 100 will be: H 150 =
[0075] Fig. 4 schematically illustrates an area in which an electromagnetic wave transmitter can simulate a source of directive ionizing radiation. In this case, the source simulates ionizing radiation only within a cone and which is zero outside the cone or strongly attenuated.
[0076] In Fig. 4, area 400 is the simulated area of ionizing radiation from the directional antenna of transmitter 100.
[0077] According to a first embodiment, the measurement of the radiation direction of the source is carried out using two antennas Antu and Ant42 included in the transmitter 100 from the phase difference between the signals arriving at the two antennas, commonly called PDOA (phase difference of arrival).
[0078] The phase difference between the signals arriving at the two antennas is obtained from a UWB signal emitted by the receiver 150. In the case where the measured angle, (p, is less than a limit angle, p seu u, corresponding to a directivity of the simulated unidirectional ionizing source, the receiver 150 will be considered to be in the area in which the source emits directional ionizing radiation. The receiver 150 will then be subjected to the dose rate of the simulated source as a function of distance.
[0079] If not, the receiver 150 is not considered to be in the area in which the source emits directive ionizing radiation. The receiver 150 then considers a zero or attenuated dose rate, following a predetermined mathematical attenuation rule, with respect to the dose rate of the simulated source.
[0080] The measured angle, (p, as well as the limiting angle, (p seun, are transmitted by the transmitter 100 to the receiver 150.
[0081] According to a second embodiment, the transmitter 100 comprises two UWB radio systems and the receiver 150 comprises an antenna. The two UWB radio systems are represented in a simplified manner by the antennas Antu and Ant42.
[0082] Considering a distance measurement only, using Heron's formula allows us to determine the area of the triangle, S, formed by the first UWB radio system (A), the second radio system (B) and the receiver (C), denoted ABC.
[0083] The perimeter is P ABC = d 41 + d 42 + d 43 where cUi is the distance between the antennas of the two UWB radio systems of the transmitter 100, d42 is the distance between the receiver 150 and the antenna Antu of the first UWB radio system of the transmitter 100 and d43 is the distance between the receiver 150 and the antenna Ant42 of the second UWB radio system of the transmitter 100. ~
[0084] However, the area of the triangle is also equal to S ABC = l / 2d 42 h where h = d 41 sin (p is the height of the triangle. By showing the angle of the vertex A, in the area, S ABC =
[0085] The determined angle, (p, as well as the limiting angle, (p seu u, are transmitted by the transmitter to the receiver.
[0086] This diagram can be done in 3D by simple revolution of the plane sketch around the main emission axis.
[0087] Fig. 5 schematically illustrates an example of hardware architecture of a transmitter 100 for simulating a source of ionizing radiation. The transmitter 100 comprises, connected by a communication bus (not shown): a processor or CPU (“Central Processing Unit” in English) 501; a memory MEM 502 of RAM (“Random Access Memory” in English) and / or ROM (“Read Only Memory” in English); a storage unit STCK 503 of internal storage type; a battery B ATT 504; a UWB radio module 510a, comprising one or at least two antennas AnUi Ant42 or two UWB radio modules 510a and 510b connected respectively to the antennas Ant 41 and Ant42. The transmitter 100 may further comprise a communication interface 505 comprising an input device, such as a switch, a slider or an adjustment button.The storage unit STCK 503 may be of the HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid-State Drive) type, or of the external storage media reader type, such as an SD (Secure Digital) card reader. The processor CPU 501 may record data on the storage unit STCK 503 or read data recorded on the storage unit STCK 503. This data may correspond to configuration parameters or to information received, for example, in a message. The battery BATT 504 makes it possible to electrically power the transmitter 100, the battery BATT 504 possibly being of the rechargeable type, for example via a micro-USB (Universal Serial Bus) type interface, not shown. According to a complementary embodiment of the invention, the transmitter 100 may also be powered via an external electrical source.The RADIO 510a, 510b radio module(s) are of the UWB type to which a low energy consumption wireless communication interface can also be added (for example a technology of the type: “Bluetooth”, “BLE - Bluetooth Low Energy” or “Zigbee” - in English).
[0088] The processor 501 is capable of executing instructions loaded into the memory MEM 502, for example from the storage unit STCK 503 or from a communication network via the communication interface RADIO 510. When the transmitter 100 is powered on, the processor 501 is capable of reading instructions from the memory MEM 502 and executing them. These instructions form a computer program causing the implementation, by the processor 501, of all or part of the algorithms and steps described here in relation to Fig. 8a or 9a or 10a. Thus, all or part of the algorithms and steps described here can be implemented in software form by executing a set of instructions by a programmable machine, such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) or a microcontroller.All or part of the algorithms and steps described here can also be implemented in hardware form by a machine or a dedicated component, such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit).
[0089] Fig. 6 schematically illustrates an example of a hardware architecture of a beacon that can be used in the system as shown in Fig. 2.
[0090] The tag 110, for 110a and 110b, comprises, connected by a communication bus (not shown): a processor or CPU (“Central Processing Unit” in English) 601; a memory MEM 602 of RAM (“Random Access Memory” in English) or ROM (“Read Only Memory” in English); a storage unit STCK 603 of internal storage type; a battery BATT 604; possibly an information presentation device DISP 605 and a communication interface RADIO 610, comprising an antenna ANTI 620. The tag 110 may further comprise an input device IN 606, such as a switch, a slider or an adjustment button. The storage unit STCK 603 may be of the hard disk type HDD (“Hard Disk Drive” in English) or SSD (“Solid-State Drive” in English), or of the external storage media reader type, such as an SD (“Secure Digital” in English) card reader.The CPU 301 processor can record data on the storage unit STCK 603 or read data recorded on the storage unit STCK 603. This data can correspond to configuration parameters or to information received for example in a message or determined by the CPU 601 processor. The BATT 604 battery makes it possible to electrically power the beacon 110.
[0091] The communication interface, or radio module, RADIO 610 is a UWB type communication interface and may also include a wireless communication module of the type: "Bluetooth", "BLE - Bluetooth Low Energy" or "Zigbee" - in English). The technology used in the communication interface RADIO 510 of the transmitter 100 and the communication interface RADIO 610 of the beacon 110 is possibly the same, or at least allows compatibility so that the transmitter 100, the receiver 300 and the beacon 110 can exchange messages. The CPU 601 processor is capable of executing instructions loaded into the MEM 602 memory, for example from the STCK 603 storage unit or from a communication network via the RADIO 610 communication interface. When the beacon 110 is powered on, the processor 601 is capable of reading instructions from the MEM 302 memory and executing them.These instructions form a computer program causing the implementation, by the processor 601, of all or part of the algorithms and steps described here in relation to Figs. 9b or 9c. Thus, all or part of the methods, algorithms and steps described here can be implemented in software form by executing a set of instructions by a programmable machine, such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) or a microcontroller. All or part of the algorithms and steps described here can also be implemented in hardware form by a machine or a dedicated component, such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit).
[0092] Fig. 7 schematically illustrates an example of a hardware architecture of a receiver for simulating the measurement of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 1 or 2 or 4.
[0093] The receiver 150 comprises, connected by a communication bus (not shown): a processor or CPU (“Central Processing Unit” in English) 701; a memory MEM 702 of RAM (“Random Access Memory” in English) or ROM (“Read Only Memory” in English); a storage unit STCK 703 of internal storage type; a battery BATT 704; an information presentation device DISP 705 and a communication interface RADIO 710, comprising an antenna ANTI 720. The receiver 150 may further comprise an input device IN 706, such as a switch, a slider or an adjustment button.
[0094] The storage unit STCK 703 may be of the HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid-State Drive) type, or of the external storage media reader type, such as an SD (Secure Digital) card reader. The processor CPU 701 may record data on the storage unit STCK 703 or read data recorded on the storage unit STCK 703. This data may correspond to configuration parameters or to information received, for example, in a message or determined by the processor CPU 701. The battery BATT 704 makes it possible to electrically power the receiver 150, the battery BATT 704 possibly being of the rechargeable type, for example via a micro-USB (Universal Serial Bus) type interface, not shown. The information presentation device DISP 705 is typically a screen for displaying data.The information presentation device DISP 705 may also include a gauge or a display of the VU meter (volume unit - VU - meter in English). The information presentation device DISP 705 may include a loudspeaker and a vibrator allowing the emission of an audible signal determined for example from a value determined by the processor CPU 701 of simulated exposure level to ionizing radiation (for example, the emission of audible clicks whose frequency is proportional to the simulated exposure level). The communication interface, or radio module, RADIO 710 is a UWB type interface and may include a low energy consumption wireless communication module (for example a technology of the type: "Bluetooth", "BLE - Bluetooth Low Energy" or "Zigbee" - in English).The technology used in the RADIO communication interface 510 of the transmitter 100, the beacons 110a and 110b and the RADIO communication interface 710 of the receiver 150 is possibly the same, or at least allows compatibility so that the receiver 150 can receive messages transmitted by the transmitter 100 or the beacons 110a and 110b. The CPU processor 701 is capable of executing instructions loaded into the MEM memory 702, for example from the STCK storage unit 703 or from a communication network via the RADIO communication interface 710. When the receiver 150 is powered on, the processor 701 is capable of reading instructions from the MEM memory 702 and executing them. These instructions form a computer program causing the processor 701 to implement all or part of the algorithms and steps described here in relation to Figs 8b, 9d or 10b.Thus, all or part of the methods, algorithms and steps described herein may be implemented in software form by executing a set of instructions by a programmable machine, such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) or a microcontroller. All or part of the algorithms and steps described herein may also be implemented in hardware form by a machine or a dedicated component, such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit).
[0095] Fig. 8a schematically illustrates a method of operating a transmitter for simulating a source of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 1.
[0096] In step E800, the transmitter 100 controls the transmission of a first predefined ultra-wideband signal.
[0097] In step E801, the transmitter 100 commands the transmission of a first message comprising a value of a parameter corresponding to a simulated emission power of the source of the simulated ionizing radiation. The first message may further comprise an angle <p seu u corresponding to a directivity of a simulated unidirectional ionizing source.
[0098] The first message may further include an identifier of the radiation type of the source of the simulated ionizing radiation.
[0099] Fig. 8b schematically illustrates a first method of operation of a receiver for simulating the measurement of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 1.
[0100] In step E810, the receiver 150 receives the first predefined ultra-wideband signal transmitted by the transmitter 100.
[0101] In step E811, the receiver 150 receives the first message sent by the transmitter 150.
[0102] In step E812, the receiver 150 determines a first distance separating the first transmitter making it possible to simulate the source of emission of ionizing radiation and the receiver from the arrival time of the first signal.
[0103] The first distance is, for example, calculated from the propagation time of the first signal. UWB technology is less sensitive to multipath than a conventional modulation mode because the emissions are of very short duration (pulse). This reduces errors when determining propagation times. UWB is a very efficient technology in terms of high-precision geolocation in an indoor infrastructure.
[0104] In step E813, the receiver determines a simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the first determined distance and the value of the parameter included in the first message.
[0105] The value of the parameter is for example representative of a simulated power at one meter of emission from the source of ionizing radiation simulated at one meter.
[0106] The exposure level can also be determined based on an angle corresponding to a directivity of the simulated unidirectional ionizing source included in the first message.
[0107] The receiver 150 determines whether it is in the area in which the source emits directional ionizing radiation as described with reference to Fig. 4.
[0108] The exposure level may also be determined from an identifier of the type of radiation of the simulated source of ionizing radiation included in the first message. If the identifier of the type of radiation of the simulated source of ionizing radiation included in the first message is identical to an identifier stored by the receiver, the simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation is determined based on the first distance determined and the value of the parameter included in the first message.
[0109] If not, the simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation is considered to be zero.
[0110] Fig. 9a schematically illustrates a method of operating a transmitter for simulating a source of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 2.
[0111] In step E900, the transmitter 100 controls the transmission of a first predefined ultra-wideband signal.
[0112] In step E901, the transmitter 100 commands the transmission of a first message comprising a value of a parameter corresponding to a simulated transmission power supposed to be measured at a certain distance from the source of the simulated ionizing radiation.
[0113] The first message may further include an angle p seu u corresponding to a directivity of a simulated unidirectional ionizing source.
[0114] The first message may further include an attenuation coefficient.
[0115] The first message may further include an identifier of the radiation type of the source of the simulated ionizing radiation.
[0116] Fig. 9c schematically illustrates a method of operation of a first beacon in the system as illustrated in Fig. 2.
[0117] The algorithm of Fig. 9c is executed by the first tag 110a in parallel with the algorithm of Fig. 9b executed by the second tag 110b.
[0118] In step E920, the first beacon 110a controls the transmission of a second predefined ultra-wideband signal.
[0119] In step E921, the first beacon 110a receives the first predefined ultra-wideband signal transmitted by the transmitter 100 and a third predefined ultra-wideband signal transmitted by the second beacon 110b as will be described with reference to Fig. 9c.
[0120] In step E922, the first beacon 110a determines a fourth distance d4 and a sixth distance dô. The fourth distance d4 is the distance separating the first transmitter making it possible to simulate the source of emission of ionizing radiation and the first beacon 110a. The sixth distance dô is the distance separating the first and second beacons 110a and 110b.
[0121] The distances are calculated from the arrival time of the first signal. In step E933, the first beacon 110a commands the transmission of a third message comprising the measurement of the fourth and sixth distances.
[0122] Fig. 9b schematically illustrates a method of operation of a second beacon in the system as illustrated in Fig. 2.
[0123] At step E910, the second beacon 110b commands the transmission of a third predefined ultra-wideband signal.
[0124] In step E911, the second beacon 110b receives the first predefined ultra-wideband signal transmitted by the transmitter 100.
[0125] In step E912, the second beacon 110b determines a fifth distance ds separating the first transmitter making it possible to simulate the source of emission of ionizing radiation and the second beacon 110b from the arrival time of the first signal.
[0126] In step E913, the first beacon 110a commands the transmission of a second message comprising the measurement of the fifth distance ds.
[0127] Fig. 9d schematically illustrates a first method of operating a receiver for simulating the measurement of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 2.
[0128] In step E930, the receiver 150 receives the first predefined ultra-wideband signal transmitted by the transmitter 100 and the second and third signals transmitted by the beacons 110a and 110b.
[0129] In step E931, the receiver 150 determines a first distance di, a second distance d2 and a third distance ds.
[0130] The first distance di is the distance between the first transmitter used to simulate the source of ionizing radiation and the receiver. The first distance di is determined from the arrival time of the first signal.
[0131] The second distance d2 is the distance separating the first beacon 110a and the receiver 150. The second distance d2 is determined from the arrival time of the third signal.
[0132] The third distance ds is the distance separating the second beacon 110b and the receiver 150. The second distance d2 is determined from the arrival time of the second signal.
[0133] In step E932, the receiver 150 receives the first message transmitted by the transmitter 150 and the second and third messages transmitted by the beacons.
[0134] In step E933, the receiver determines a simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the first determined distance, the presence or absence of the receiver in zone 300 of Fig. 3 and the value of the parameter included in the first message.
[0135] The value of the parameter is for example representative of a simulated power at one meter of emission from the source of ionizing radiation simulated at one meter.
[0136] The coefficient K ecran is included in the first message and is strictly less than one.
[0137] The exposure level can also be determined based on an angle (p seu u and an angular position of the receiver relative to the transmitter and an angle corresponding to a directivity of the simulated unidirectional ionizing source included in the first message.
[0138] The receiver determines whether it is in the area in which the source emits directional ionizing radiation as described with reference to Fig. 4.
[0139] The exposure level may also be determined from an identifier of the type of radiation of the simulated source of ionizing radiation included in the first message. If the identifier of the type of radiation of the simulated source of ionizing radiation included in the first message is identical to an identifier stored by the receiver, the simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation is determined based on the first distance determined and the value of the parameter included in the first message.
[0140] Fig. 10a schematically illustrates a method of operating a transmitter for simulating a source of ionizing radiation suitable for use in the system as illustrated in Fig. 4.
[0141] In step E1000, the transmitter controls the transmission of the first predefined signal on a first and a second antenna,
[0142] In step E1001, the transmitter receives another UWB signal transmitted by the receiver 150.
[0143] In step E1002, the transmitter determines an angular position of the first receiver relative to the first transmitter,
[0144] In step E1003, the transmitter controls the transmission of the first message comprising a value of a parameter corresponding to a simulated transmission power of the source of the simulated ionizing radiation of information representative of angle and of the angular position of the first receiver relative to the first transmitter.
[0145] Fig. 10b schematically illustrates a first method of operation of a receiver for simulating the measurement of ionizing radiation that can be used in the system as illustrated in Fig. 4. In step E1050, the receiver 150 receives the first predefined ultra-wideband signal emitted by the transmitter 100.
[0146] In step E1051, the receiver 150 controls the transmission of another predefined ultra-wideband signal.
[0147] In step E1052, the receiver 150 receives the first message transmitted by the transmitter 150. The first message comprises a value of a parameter corresponding to a simulated emission power of the source of the simulated ionizing radiation, information representative of an angle corresponding to a directivity of the simulated radiation source and of the angular position of the first receiver relative to the first transmitter.
[0148] In step E1053, the receiver 150 determines the first distance separating the first transmitter making it possible to simulate the source of emission of ionizing radiation and the receiver from the arrival time of the first signal.
[0149] The first distance is, for example, calculated from the propagation time of the first signal. UWB technology is less sensitive to multipath than a conventional modulation mode because the emissions are of very short duration (pulse). This reduces errors when determining propagation times. UWB is a very efficient technology in terms of high-precision geolocation in an indoor infrastructure.
[0150] In step E1054, the receiver determines a simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the first determined distance, the value of the parameter, the information representative of an angle corresponding to a directivity of the simulated radiation source and the angular position of the first receiver relative to the first transmitter included in the first message.
[0151] The value of the parameter is for example representative of a simulated power at one meter of emission from the source of ionizing radiation simulated at one meter.
[0152] The receiver 150 determines whether it is in the area in which the source emits directional ionizing radiation as described with reference to Fig. 4.
[0153] The exposure level may also be determined from an identifier of the type of radiation of the simulated source of ionizing radiation included in the first message. If the identifier of the type of radiation of the simulated source of ionizing radiation included in the first message is identical to an identifier stored by the receiver, the simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation is determined based on the first distance determined and the value of the parameter included in the first message.
[0154] If not, the simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation is considered to be zero.
Claims
CLAIMS 1. Method for simulating a source of emission of ionizing radiation in a system comprising a first electromagnetic wave transmitter simulating a source of emission of ionizing radiation and a first electromagnetic wave receiver for receiving a signal corresponding to a simulation of emission of ionizing radiation, characterized in that the method comprises the steps of: - transmission by the first transmitter of at least one first predefined signal, the first predefined signal being transmitted by an antenna and being an ultra wideband signal, - transmission by the first transmitter of a first message comprising a value of a parameter corresponding to a simulated emission power of the source of ionizing radiation, - determination (E812) by the first receiver of a first distance (di) separating the first transmitter making it possible to simulate the source of emission of ionizing radiation and the first receiver from the arrival time of the first signal, - determination (E813) by the first receiver of a simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the first determined distance and the value of the parameter, the method further comprising either the steps of: - transmission, by the first transmitter, of the first predefined signal on a second antenna, - reception, by the first transmitter, of another predefined signal emitted by the first receiver, the other predefined signal being emitted by an antenna and being an ultra wideband signal, - determination, by the first transmitter, of an angular position of the first receiver relative to the first transmitter, - transmission, by the first transmitter, in the first message of information representing the angle and the angular position of the first receiver relative to the first transmitter, - determination, by the first receiver, of a simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the angle representative information included in the first message and of the determined angular position, i.e., when at least one first and one second beacon are present, each beacon being capable of receiving the first signal emitted by the first transmitter, the first beacon being capable of emitting a second predefined signal emitted by an antenna and being an ultra wideband signal, the second beacon being capable of emitting a third predefined signal emitted by an antenna and being an ultra wideband signal, the steps of: - determination, by the first receiver, of a second distance (d2) separating the first beacon and the first receiver from the arrival time of the second signal, - determination, by the first receiver, of a third (ds) distance separating the second beacon and the first receiver from the arrival time of the third signal, - determination, by the first beacon, of a fourth distance (d4) separating the first beacon and the first transmitter from the arrival time of the first signal, - determination, by the second beacon, of a fifth distance (ds) separating the second beacon and the first transmitter from the arrival time of the first signal, - transmission, by the second beacon, of a second message comprising at least the fifth determined distance, - determination, by the first beacon, of a sixth distance (dô) separating the first beacon and the second beacon from the arrival time of the third signal, - transmission, by the first beacon, of a third message comprising at least the fourth and sixth determined distances, - determination, by the first receiver, of the simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth distances determined and the value of the parameter.
2. System comprising a first electromagnetic wave transmitter making it possible to simulate a source of emission of ionizing radiation and a first electromagnetic wave receiver making it possible to receive a signal corresponding to a simulation of emission of ionizing radiation, characterized in that the system comprises: - means, included in the first transmitter, for transmitting at least one first predefined signal, the first predefined signal being transmitted by an antenna and being an ultra wideband signal, - means, included in the first transmitter, for transmitting a first message comprising a value of a parameter corresponding to a simulated emission power of the source of ionizing radiation, - means, included in the first receiver, for determining a first distance (di) separating the first transmitter and the first receiver from the arrival time of the first signal, - means, included in the first receiver, for determining a simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the first determined distance and the value of the parameter, the system further comprising either: at least a first and a second beacon, each beacon being capable of receiving the first signal emitted by the first transmitter, the first beacon being capable of emitting a second predefined signal emitted by an antenna and being an ultra wide band signal, the second beacon being capable of emitting a third predefined signal emitted by an antenna and being an ultra wide band signal, and: - means, included in the first receiver, for determining a second distance (d2) separating the first beacon and the first receiver from the arrival time of the second signal, - means, included in the first receiver, for determining a third (ds) distance separating the second beacon and the first receiver from the arrival time of the third signal, - means, included in the first beacon, for determining a fourth distance (cU) separating the first beacon and the first transmitter from the arrival time of the first signal, - means, included in the second beacon, for determining a fifth distance (ds) separating the second beacon and the first transmitter from the arrival time of the first signal, - means, included in the second beacon, for transmitting a second message comprising at least the fifth determined distance, - means, included in the first beacon, for determining a sixth distance (dô) separating the first beacon and the second beacon from the arrival time of the third signal, - means, included in the first beacon, for transmitting a third message comprising at least the fourth and sixth determined distances, - means, included in the first receiver, for determining the simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth distances determined and the value of the parameter, either : - means, included in the first transmitter, for transmitting the first predefined signal on a second antenna, - means, included in the first transmitter, for receiving another predefined signal emitted by the first receiver, the other predefined signal being emitted by an antenna and being an ultra wideband signal, - means, included in the first transmitter, for determining an angular position of the first receiver relative to the first transmitter, - means, included in the first transmitter, for transmitting in the first message information representing the angle and the angular position of the first receiver relative to the first transmitter, - means, included in the first receiver, for determining a simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the angle representative information included in the first message and the determined angular position.
3. System according to claim 2, characterized in that the first message further comprises an attenuation coefficient to be applied for determining the simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation, the application of the attenuation coefficient being conditional on the determined distances.
4. System according to claim 3, characterized in that the attenuation coefficient is applied if a quadrilateral formed by the first transmitter, the two beacons and the receiver is convex, the quadrilateral being broken down into four triangles: a triangle A formed by the transmitter and the two beacons, a triangle B formed by the receiver 150 and the two beacons, a triangle C formed by the transmitter, the first beacon and the receiver and a triangle D formed by the transmitter, the second beacon 110b and the receiver 150, and the quadrilateral being convex s where SA is the area of triangle A, SB is the area of triangle B, Sc is the area of triangle C and SD is the area of triangle D.
5. System according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the system comprises: - means, included in the first transmitter, for transmitting in the first message information representative of a type of ionizing radiation, - means, included in the first receiver, for determining the simulated level of exposure to ionizing radiation as a function of the type of ionizing radiation.
6. A computer program product characterized in that it comprises instructions for implementing the method according to claim 1, when said program is executed by at least one processor.
7. A storage medium characterized in that it stores a computer program comprising instructions for implementing the method according to claim 1, when said program is executed by at least one processor.