X-ray inspection device, article inspection system, and x-ray image forming device

Abstract

To provide an X-ray inspection device and system, and an X-ray image forming device, capable of generating an X-ray image suitable for the purpose such as article inspection on the basis of X-ray transmission image data in a plurality of energy regions.SOLUTION: An X-ray inspection device includes: an X-ray inspection unit 20 and an inspection processing unit 30 that execute predetermined image processing on the basis of X-ray transmission image data Xza, Xzb in a plurality of energy regions to generate a determining image Xsc to inspect an inspection object W; and display means 41 that displays the inspection result. The device further includes: displaying image generation means 34 that execute predetermined displaying image processing on the basis of the X-ray transmission image data Xza, Xzb in the plurality of energy regions to generate candidate images Xte, Xs1, Xs2, Xs3 of a displaying image, which is at least different in image concentration of the inspection object W from the determining image Xsc; and display control means 35 that allows the display means 41 to display an inspection result OK / NG and the displaying image Xip on the basis of a preset display aspect.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an X-ray inspection apparatus, an article inspection system, and an X-ray image forming apparatus, and in particular to an X-ray inspection apparatus, an article inspection system, and an X-ray image forming apparatus that are capable of generating X-ray images suitable for purposes such as article inspection based on transmission image data of X-rays in multiple different energy ranges. [Background technology]

[0002] An X-ray inspection device is known that irradiates an object with X-rays in multiple different energy ranges, obtains transmission image data having a shade corresponding to the transmission amount distribution, and performs specified image processing to add contrast to areas where foreign matter is present or packaging is defective, thereby accurately inspecting the quality of the object.

[0003] For example, in the X-ray inspection device disclosed in Patent Document 1 listed below, a transmission image in which foreign objects are emphasized is generated by subtraction processing, and the presence or absence of foreign objects is inspected and displayed on a display unit, allowing an operator to grasp the inspection status.

[0004] Also, as in Patent Document 2, a display unit can be provided in a work area for post-processing the inspected articles, and work instructions including a transmission image can be displayed to the worker. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-141736 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2017-138193 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, in conventional X-ray inspection devices and systems such as those described above, as image processing techniques for improving the accuracy of detecting foreign bodies mixed into articles become more sophisticated, areas that are likely to be foreign bodies tend to be emphasized and have more pronounced shading, thereby improving the inspection performance for foreign bodies, but areas that are unlikely to be foreign bodies tend to have less pronounced shading.

[0007] In other words, the X-ray image of the item itself obtained as a result of image processing for accurately detecting foreign objects makes it difficult for workers performing additional inspection, processing, etc. to obtain information that is useful for visually understanding the condition of the target object for the purpose of that additional inspection, processing, etc.

[0008] For example, when the location of bones or other residues remaining in an item is confirmed by viewing a transmitted image and additional processing is performed to remove the residues, it may not be easy to determine in which area the residues remain using only an image in which the bones or the like are emphasized, and the efficiency of the removal process is significantly reduced.

[0009] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems in the conventional art, and aims to provide an X-ray inspection device, an object inspection system, and an X-ray image forming device that improve inspection performance, such as foreign object detection, while allowing operators to easily and accurately grasp the condition of the objects being inspected during inspection or work. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the X-ray inspection apparatus of the present invention is characterized in that it comprises (1) an inspection unit that detects X-rays that have passed through an object to be inspected in a plurality of energy regions and inspects the object to be inspected using an image for determination generated by performing a predetermined image processing based on at least two pieces of transmission image data of X-rays corresponding to at least two energy regions, and a display means that displays the inspection results of the inspection unit, further comprising a display image generation means that performs the predetermined image processing based on the transmission image data of the X-rays and generates an image for display by performing image processing for display that is different from the image processing for generating the image for determination, and a display control means that causes the display means to display the results of the inspection and the image for display based on a preset display mode.

[0011] With this configuration, in the X-ray inspection apparatus of the present invention, the display image generating means generates the display image so that the image density of the inspection object is different from that of the judgment image, and the display image is displayed on the display means together with the inspection result in a preset display mode. Therefore, while ensuring the required inspection performance using the judgment image, the operator can easily and accurately grasp the condition of the inspection object corresponding to the inspection result of the inspection object, and grasp the condition of particularly important inspection parts, or target parts for which additional inspection or work may be required depending on the inspection result, from the display image.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the X-ray inspection apparatus of the present invention, (2) the image for judgment is a difference image obtained by differential processing of transmission image data of X-rays in the multiple energy regions that have passed through the object to be inspected, and the image for display can be configured as a difference image in which the image density of the object to be inspected in the image for judgment is higher than the image density of the object to be inspected in the image for judgment.

[0013] In this way, for the judgment image, which is a difference image, by adjusting the X-rays in multiple energy regions, foreign bodies, residues, defective parts, etc. that have a different X-ray transmittance from the object to be inspected can be displayed with a high density difference relative to the object to be inspected, and in addition, for the display image of the object to be inspected that is generated separately from the judgment image, the image of the object itself becomes a high density difference image relative to the object to be inspected in the judgment image, so that it is possible to easily and accurately grasp the situation of particularly important inspection parts, or target parts that may require additional inspection or work depending on the inspection results, from the display image. Note that the density difference referred to here is the difference in brightness or luminance, and it is also possible to use a display form that allows the display image and the judgment image to be compared and referenced.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the X-ray inspection apparatus of the present invention, (3) the apparatus further comprises an operation input means for inputting request information in response to a user's operation input, and the display image generating means may be configured to execute a plurality of preset types of image processing based on the request information from the operation input means and on X-ray transmission image data of a specific energy region among the plurality of energy regions, thereby generating the display image as a plurality of different images showing the same object.

[0015] In this case, the display images are generated as multiple different images showing the same inspection object, so that the operator can select a display image that allows him or her to easily and accurately grasp the status of the inspection object, particularly important inspection areas, or target areas for which additional inspection or work may be required depending on the inspection results, through one or more of the multiple different display images.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the X-ray inspection apparatus of the present invention, (4) the display image generating means executes multiple types of image processing stored in advance as the specified image processing to generate a total X-ray image corresponding to the X-ray transmission image data including the multiple energy ranges, and generates multiple heterogeneous differential images by differential processing the X-ray transmission image data of the multiple energy ranges under multiple different processing conditions, and the operation input means may be configured to be capable of operation input requesting display output of one or multiple images of the total X-ray image and the multiple heterogeneous differential images, and operation input requesting change settings of the display output.

[0017] In this configuration, the total image clearly shows the thickness and shape of the entire object being inspected or the part of interest, and the difference image clearly shows foreign matter, residues, defects, and other defective parts in the object being inspected. By generating multiple different difference images, it becomes possible to easily identify difference images that make it easy to grasp specific parts of the object being inspected, including defective parts.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment of the X-ray inspection apparatus of the present invention, (5) the plurality of different differential images may be differential images in which the article influence concentrations of the inspected object in the images differ from one another according to a plurality of different image processing conditions.

[0019] In this case, since the article influence concentrations of the object to be inspected in the multiple heterogeneous difference images are different from one another, it becomes even easier to identify a difference image that makes it easier to grasp specific parts of interest (e.g., thick or thin parts) of the object to be inspected, including defective areas.

[0020] The item inspection system of the present invention is (6) an item inspection system comprising the X-ray inspection device described in (1) above, a conveying device for conveying an item along a predetermined conveying path, and a post-processing booth arranged downstream of the conveying path, characterized in that the inspection section of the X-ray inspection device has an X-ray detector for detecting X-rays that have passed through the item on the conveying path and outputting a detection signal, and the display image generating means of the X-ray inspection device outputs the display image to a post-processing display means installed in the post-processing booth.

[0021] With this configuration, in the item inspection system of the present invention, a display image is output to the post-processing display means of the post-processing booth, so that based on the display image, it is possible to easily and accurately grasp the areas to be subjected to additional inspection or work in the post-processing booth, thereby improving the processing efficiency in the post-processing booth.

[0022] The X-ray image forming device of the present invention is (7) an X-ray image forming device comprising a transmission image data generation unit that inputs a detection signal of X-rays that have passed through an object and generates transmission image data of X-rays in a plurality of different energy regions, an image processing unit that performs predetermined image processing based on the transmission image data of X-rays in the plurality of energy regions to generate at least a difference image of the transmission image data of the X-rays, and an image output unit that outputs the image generated by the image processing unit to a display means, wherein the image processing unit generates a total X-ray image corresponding to the transmission image data of X-rays including the plurality of energy regions, and has a display image generation means that performs the predetermined image processing under a plurality of different image processing conditions based on the transmission image data of X-rays in the plurality of energy regions to generate a plurality of different difference images as the difference image, and the image output unit has a selection operation means that switchably selects and sets at least one of the total X-ray image and the plurality of different difference images generated by the display image generation means as an image to be displayed and output.

[0023] With this configuration, in the X-ray image forming apparatus of the present invention, a total X-ray image corresponding to the X-ray transmission image data including a plurality of energy regions is generated by the display image generating means of the image processing unit, and a predetermined image processing is performed under a plurality of different image processing conditions based on the X-ray transmission image data of the plurality of energy regions to generate a plurality of different subtraction images. Then, at least one of the total X-ray image and the plurality of different subtraction images is switchably selected and set as an image to be displayed and output by the selection operation means of the image output unit. Therefore, while ensuring the required inspection performance by the judgment image, the operator can easily and accurately grasp the situation of the object to be inspected corresponding to the inspection result of the object to be inspected, and grasp the situation of particularly important inspection parts, or target parts for which additional inspection or work may be required depending on the inspection result, from the display image.

[0024] The item processing system of the present invention is (8) an item processing system comprising the X-ray image forming device described in (7) above, a conveying device for conveying the item along a predetermined conveying path, and a post-processing booth arranged downstream of the conveying path, characterized in that the transmission image data generating unit of the X-ray image forming device has an X-ray detector for detecting X-rays that have passed through the item on the conveying path and outputting the detection signal, and the post-processing booth has a post-processing display means for displaying and outputting at least one image of the total X-ray image and the multiple heterogeneous difference images generated by the image processing unit and selected and set by the selection operation means.

[0025] With this configuration, in the article processing system of the present invention, at least one of the total X-ray image and the multiple different types of subtraction images generated by the image processing unit and selected and set by the selection operation means is displayed and output by the post-processing display means of the post-processing booth. Therefore, a user operating the selection operation means can easily and accurately grasp the target areas for additional inspection or work in the post-processing booth based on the display image, thereby improving the processing efficiency in the post-processing booth.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment of the item processing system of the present invention, (9) the post-processing display means is configured to include a plurality of displays spaced apart at least in the transport direction of the items, and the post-processing booth is provided with a distribution means for distributing the items transported along the transport path into an additional processing space corresponding to one of the plurality of displays in the order of transport.

[0027] In this article processing system, the multiple displays of the post-processing display means are spaced apart at least in the article transport direction of the transport path, so that articles transported downstream of the transport path can be allocated by the allocation means to an additional processing space corresponding to one of the multiple displays in the order of their transport. Note that the multiple displays may be arranged alternately on both sides of the transport path width direction while being spaced apart in the article transport direction. Effect of the Invention

[0028] The present invention makes it possible to provide an X-ray inspection device, an object inspection system, and an X-ray image forming device that improve inspection performance such as foreign object detection while allowing workers to easily and accurately grasp the condition of the objects being inspected during inspection or work. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an article inspection system equipped with an X-ray inspection device as an X-ray image forming device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is an explanatory diagram of a sensor configuration of an X-ray detector and a circuit configuration of a transmission image data generating means in an object inspection system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] This is a graph explaining peak value divisions, which displays the signal levels of pulsed X-ray detection signals output from multiple sensors of an X-ray detector in an item inspection system according to a first embodiment of the present invention in multiple divided X-ray energy regions, with the vertical axis representing the pulse signal level and the horizontal axis representing the scan time. [Figure 4]This is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the display image selection function is selected from the inspection screen when inspection is stopped on a touch panel serving as an operation display unit in the item inspection system of the first embodiment of the present invention, and the display image setting menu is expanded and displayed, and the display image selection screen can be displayed in the display image setting menu. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a display image selection screen having a preview image display area for multiple display images displayed on a touch panel as an operation and display unit in the object inspection system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of an operation screen on a touch panel as an operation display unit in an item inspection system according to a first embodiment of the present invention, which displays a comparison of a number of predetermined display images that can be selected and set by scrolling (moving) them left and right within a display screen setting frame, which is a preview image display area of ​​a display image selection screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a display image setting operation screen that displays a display screen setting frame, which is a preview image display area of ​​a display image selection screen, as a pop-up within a display image setting menu screen on a touch panel as an operation and display unit in an item inspection system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram of an article processing system including an X-ray inspection apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0030] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0031] (First embodiment) 1 to 7 show an article inspection system including an X-ray image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] First, the configuration will be described.

[0033] The X-ray inspection device 1 shown in Figure 1 has an item conveying unit 10, an X-ray inspection unit 20, an inspection processing unit 30 and an operation display unit 40, and forms part of an item inspection system that has a sorting device, etc. (not shown) attached downstream of the item conveying unit 10.

[0034] 1 (predetermined conveying direction; hereinafter also simply referred to as the Db direction), for example, a loop-shaped conveying belt 11 is stretched between parallel rollers 12 and 13, and the inspection object W on a conveying path 11a which is the upper running section of the conveying belt 11 is conveyed at a constant speed while passing through an inspection area Zx by the X-ray inspection unit 20. Here, the article conveying unit 10 is a belt conveyor in which one of the rollers 12 or 13 is driven by a motor, and the conveying path 11a is flat, but the inspection object W may be pressure-fed through a tubular conveying path, or the inspection object W may pass through the inspection area Zx by its own weight.

[0035] The X-ray inspection section 20 has an X-ray generator 21 and an X-ray detector 22 arranged on either side of the transport path 11a of the article transport section 10. The X-ray generator 21 and the X-ray detector 22 are arranged here, for example, to face each other and spaced apart above and below in the vertical direction, but they may also be arranged to be spaced apart both vertically and horizontally.

[0036] The X-ray generator 21 emits X-rays toward the transport path 11a of the inspection object W by the article transport unit 10, and in this embodiment, irradiates the inspection object W with X-rays from vertically above downward. However, the direction of irradiation of X-rays from the X-ray generator 21 is not limited to the downward direction and may be other directions.

[0037] The X-ray source of the X-ray generator 21 is, for example, a built-in hot cathode X-ray tube, but may also be a grid-controlled hot cathode X-ray tube in which the amount of X-rays is controlled by controlling the grid voltage applied to a control grid (for example, reducing the amount of X-rays by applying a negative grid voltage).

[0038] This X-ray generating unit 21 applies a negative DC potential to the cathode of an X-ray tube (not shown), for example, to emit electrons from a filament lit at a high temperature, and focuses the electrons emitted from the filament using a focusing electrode to which a negative DC potential has been applied, while applying a positive DC potential to the target, accelerating the electrons emitted from the filament with a high voltage and causing them to collide with the target, thereby generating X-rays from the target.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 2, the X-ray detector 22 includes a plurality of sensors 221 to 222 that receive X-rays and convert them into electrical signals. N These sensors 221 to 22 N The sensors 221 to 22 output X-ray detection information as an electrical signal. N are positioned to receive the X-rays emitted from the X-ray generator 21 and transmitted through the object to be inspected W, and are lined up in a row with almost no gaps in the direction of arrow Da (the width direction of the transport path; hereinafter simply referred to as the Da direction), which is perpendicular to the transport direction of the object to be inspected W.

[0040] Specifically, the X-ray detector 22 includes a plurality of sensors 221 to 222. N The sensor 221 is configured as a single line sensor in which the sensors 221 to 222 are integrally connected, and is disposed below the conveying path 11a on the inside of the loop-shaped conveying belt 11 of the article conveying section 10. N If the width of each sensor in the Da direction is 1 mm, the gap between the sensors is small enough to be ignored compared to the sensor width, and the width of the transport path 11a for transporting the object W in the Da direction is 200 mm, then a line sensor having approximately 200 sensors will be used. The X-ray detector 22 is capable of outputting detection information for each of X-rays in a plurality of different energy ranges. Details of this configuration will be described later.

[0041] 1, the inspection processing unit 30 is composed of an image processing block 30A which generates X-ray transmission image data, and a control block 30B which executes predetermined inspection control and display output control based on the X-ray transmission image data from the image processing block 30A. The image processing block 30A has a transmission image data generating means 31, a transmission image data storage means 32, and a display image generating means 34, and the control block 30B has a determination means 33, a display control means 35, and a condition setting means 36.

[0042] Although the detailed configuration of the inspection processing unit 30 is not shown, it is realized by a combination of hardware such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and RAM (Random Access Memory) and software such as a program that performs various functions on the hardware, but the hardware may include an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), etc. The various functions referred to here are the functions of each means for generating the above-mentioned X-ray transmission image data, controlling the predetermined inspection, and controlling the display output, etc.

[0043] The transmission image data generating means 31 performs predetermined signal processing on the electrical signals (detection information) output from the multiple sensors of the X-ray detector 22 while the inspection object W is passing between the X-ray generator 21 and the X-ray detector 22, dividing the electrical signals (detection information) into predetermined scan time units, and performs predetermined signal processing on the electrical signals (detection information) output from the multiple sensors of the X-ray detector 22, dividing the electrical signals ... N The image density value corresponding to the signal processing result for each position is detected, and transmission image data of the object W to be inspected is generated.

[0044] In addition, in response to the X-ray detector 22 outputting detection information in each of a plurality of different energy regions, the transmission image data generating means 31 is configured to generate transmission image data of the inspection object W corresponding to each of the plurality of energy regions.

[0045] Specifically, the X-ray detector 22 outputs X-ray detection information in a certain energy region, for example, a first energy region, and the transmission image data generating means 31 generates first X-ray transmission image data (Xza in FIG. 1) based on the X-ray detection information in this first energy region. The first energy region here is, for example, an energy region in which the X-ray energy is 20 keV to 40 keV. The X-ray detector 22 also outputs X-ray detection information in an energy region different from the first energy region, for example, a second energy region, and the transmission image data generating means 31 generates second X-ray transmission image data (Xzb in FIG. 1) based on the X-ray detection information in this second energy region. The second energy region here is, for example, an energy region in which the X-ray energy is 50 keV to 70 keV.

[0046] That is, in this embodiment, the energy of X-rays corresponding to the detection signal level of the X-ray detector 22 has a magnitude relationship of "first energy region" < "second energy region". In the above example, the first energy region is 20 keV to 40 keV, the second energy region is 50 keV to 70 keV, and these two energy regions are separated from each other, but this is not limited to the above. The relationship between these two energy regions may be separated, adjacent, or partially overlapping, as long as the medians of the respective energy regions satisfy the above magnitude relationship. In addition, the number of energy regions is not limited to two, and there may be three or more energy regions with different medians.

[0047] The transmission image data storage means 32 has an image memory function for sequentially capturing the transmission image data Xza and Xzb of the inspection object W generated by the transmission image data generation means 31 corresponding to each of the multiple energy regions, that is, the transmission image data Xza and Xzb of the inspection object W generated based on the two-dimensional position information of the inspection object W and the signal processing result for each position, as line image data for each scan time over a predetermined inspection time. In addition, the transmission image data storage means 32 is configured to readably store the transmission image data Xia and Xib that show the entire inspection object W as an X-ray transmission image of different first and second energy regions (different multiple energy regions) each time a predetermined inspection time elapses. Note that the predetermined inspection time is, for example, an X-ray inspection time of each inspection object W that is set according to the length in the conveying direction and the conveying speed of each inspection object W based on the timing of carrying the inspection object W into the article conveying section 10, and is set as a time sufficient for each inspection object W to complete passing over the X-ray detector 22.

[0048] The determination means 33 performs image processing for determination using a predetermined image processing algorithm using at least two transmission image data Xia, Xib corresponding to the same inspection object W among the transmission image data of X-rays in a plurality of energy regions stored in the transmission image data storage means 32, according to the previously set and stored determination processing conditions and the conditions additionally set by the condition setting means 36, and executes a difference processing known as an energy subtraction processing between the processed transmission image data Xia, Xib, and determines the presence or absence of defective parts such as foreign bodies and bones in the inspection object W based on the transmission image data (hereinafter simply referred to as a difference image) Xsc obtained as a result of this difference processing. Note that the predetermined image processing algorithm here is, for example, a combination of a plurality of image processing filters and image processing for feature extraction.

[0049] When performing the above-mentioned differential processing, for example, by setting each energy region so that X-rays in a low energy region among the X-rays in a plurality of energy regions are unlikely to penetrate defective parts such as foreign bodies and bones, while X-rays in a high energy region are relatively likely to penetrate defective parts such as foreign bodies and bones, the differential image obtains transmission image data in which defective parts such as foreign bodies and bones are emphasized compared to the image of the product effect which shows the inspection object W itself, thereby improving the judgment accuracy of the judgment means 33 which judges whether the inspection object W has defective parts due to the inclusion of foreign bodies or residual bones.

[0050] The judgment result of the judgment means 33 (a signal indicating the presence or absence of the aforementioned defective parts) is used as a sorting command signal to control a downstream sorting device not shown, and when an inspection object W judged to have a defective part reaches the sorting device, the defective inspection object W is removed to the outside from the conveying path for good products that extends downstream from the sorting device responding to the sorting command signal.

[0051] The display image generating means 34 executes a predetermined image processing for display based on the transmission image data Xia, Xib of the X-rays in the first and second energy regions stored in the transmission image data storage means 32, to generate a display image having at least an image density of the object W different from the determination image Xsc obtained by the above-mentioned difference processing. Here, the predetermined image processing for display refers to image processing in which a predetermined image processing algorithm or the like is applied to the transmission image data Xia, Xib of each energy region read out from the transmission image data storage means 32, and the predetermined image processing algorithm is, for example, a combination of a plurality of image processing filters and image processing for feature extraction.

[0052] Specifically, the image for judgment obtained by the judgment means 33 is differential image data Xsc obtained by differentially processing the transmission image data Xia and Xib of X-rays in a plurality of energy regions, and as described above, this is transmission image data in which defective parts such as foreign bodies and bones are emphasized compared to an X-ray photographic image in which the object to be inspected W itself is the imaging subject, whereas the image for display generation means 34 generates image data of the image for display Xip in which the image density of the object to be inspected W is higher than that of the object to be inspected W in the image for judgment Xsc, as a plurality of different types of candidate images. Note that the density difference referred to here is a difference in brightness or luminance.

[0053] For example, the display image generating means 34 generates a total X-ray image Xte (X-ray transmission image data of a total energy region including X-rays of a plurality of energy regions) by adding up the density values ​​of the X-ray transmission image data Xia and Xib of a plurality of energy regions as one candidate for the display image Xip. Note that the total X-ray image Xte is obtained by adding up the density values ​​of each pixel of the high energy image and the low energy image, but the density values ​​of each pixel may be averaged instead of being added.

[0054] Furthermore, the display image generating means 34 performs a plurality of types of subtraction processing in which the processing conditions are different from those of the predetermined image processing (filter processing, feature extraction processing, etc.) and subtraction processing for judgment in the judgment means 33, and which are also different from each other, to generate a plurality of different subtraction images Xs1, Xs2, and Xs3 having a higher image density difference of the inspection object W than the judgment image Xsc, as a plurality of candidate images other than the display image Xip. The subtraction images referred to here are subtraction images using a high-energy image and a low-energy image, and an image in which a low-density portion or a high-density portion is emphasized for at least one of the high-energy image and the low-energy image is used. When the plurality of different subtraction images Xs1, Xs2, and Xs3 are used as candidate images for the display image Xip, it is also possible to display the judgment image Xsc in a display form that allows comparison and reference.

[0055] The multiple types of differential processing are, for example, to select X-ray detection signals of any two of the multiple energy regions R1, R2, R3, and R4 shown in Fig. 3, perform the above-mentioned predetermined image processing for display, and perform differential processing on the X-ray transmission image data of the two regions. In this case, the pulse signal levels L1, L2, and L3 of the X-ray detector 22 that divide the multiple energy regions R1, R2, R3, and R4 can be set so that the second energy region, which is higher in energy than the above-mentioned first energy region, includes a part of the high-energy energy region R1 and R2 of the multiple energy regions R1, R2, R3, and R4 in Fig. 3, and the first energy region includes a part of the low-energy energy region R3 and R4. The multiple pulse-shaped X-ray detection signals P1, P2, P3, and P4 during the scan time shown in Fig. 3 will be described later.

[0056] The operation display unit 40 is a touch panel type display device constituted by, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or the like, and has both the function of a display means 41 and the function of an operation means 42 (operation input means).

[0057] The function of the display means 41 is to display on the display screen various information required in relation to X-ray inspection, such as the operating state and setting information of the X-ray inspection apparatus 1. The function of the operation means 42 is to perform various touch panel operations, such as selecting a display screen, switching the operation mode between the inspection mode, the setting mode, or another mode, and inputting the setting of various parameters in the setting mode, and is a function to input required information according to the user's operation input.

[0058] This operation display unit 40 is not limited to a touch panel integrated into the X-ray inspection apparatus 1, but may be provided in the form of a portable tablet-type information terminal, or may be additionally installed in the form of a display and operation panel separate from the touch panel integrated into the X-ray inspection apparatus 1.

[0059] The display control means 35 executes a predetermined display control process by taking in an OK / NG signal which is the judgment result from the judgment means 33 (and further a judgment image Xsc in response to a display request), candidate image data for the display image Xip which is generated by the display image generation means 34, such as the total X-ray image Xte and multiple different type differential images Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, and a required operation input from the operation means 42, such as display control conditions set by the condition setting means 36 in response to an operation for selecting the type of the inspection object W. Then, the display control means 35 causes the display means 41 to display the results of the X-ray inspection and the display image Xip of the inspection object W which is the subject of the inspection, in a display form set by the condition setting means 36 in response to the type and other inspection conditions.

[0060] For example, when the type of the object W to be inspected is set, the display control means 35 generates a total X-ray image Xte and multiple different type difference images Xs1, Xs2, and Xs3 of a sample of the object W for type setting as candidates for a display image Xip to be displayed on the display means 41. Then, in a pre-inspection state in which the type setting is completed, in an inspection stop state in which an operation input requesting switching of the display image Xip is made from the operation means 42, or in other non-inspection states, the display control means 35 can generate multiple candidate image data Xte, Xs1, Xs2, and Xs3 of the display image Xip in a scrollable and selectable manner on the display means 41 as candidates for the display image Xip suitable for each user who uses the operation display unit 40, and output the generated candidate image data to be displayed on the screen. Note that, when displays are installed at multiple locations as the display means 41, the display image Xip may be selectable and set for each display.

[0061] The display control means 35 also stores a display control program and display screen information for causing the display means 41 to display and expand one of a group of display screens stored so as to be able to be expanded in stages from the main menu screen in response to an operation input to the operation means 42, and when the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 is operating in the inspection mode, the display means 41 can display, for example, a first operation display screen 60 shown in Figure 4 in response to an operation input to the operation display unit 40.

[0062] As shown in Figure 4, the first operation display screen 60 includes an inspection status display area 61 that displays the current inspection status of the X-ray inspection apparatus 1, a common information display area 62 that displays information common to all inspections regardless of inspection conditions such as type, an image display area 63 that displays the object W to be inspected, an inspection information display area 64 that displays main inspection information corresponding to the currently set type, and an operation button display area 65 that displays an array of operation unit images such as a plurality of operation buttons and functions as part of the operation display unit 40.

[0063] When a touch operation is performed on the setting / adjustment button 65a in the operation button display area 65 of this first operation display screen 60, the condition setting means 36 of the inspection control unit 30 transitions the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 to an inspection stop state, and can display a function selection / setting operation window 66 above the operation unit image of the setting / adjustment button 65a, which allows the selection and setting of functions such as inspection settings, sorting settings, transport settings, communication settings, operation confirmation requests, and display screen settings.

[0064] The display control means 35 can further transition the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 from an inspection stop state to a setting mode when a display screen setting is selected in the function selection / setting operation window 66, and can cause a second operation display screen 70 as shown in FIG. 5 to be displayed and output by the display means 41.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 5, the second operation display screen 70 is a selection and setting operation screen for the display image Xip, which includes an inspection status display area 71 that displays that the inspection is stopped, a common information display area 72 that displays information common to all inspections regardless of the inspection conditions, a preview image display area 73 that displays multiple candidate images 73a, 73b for identifying the type of display image Xip of the inspection object W to be inspected, a selection input display area 74 for the display image type having a radio button 74a and a scroll button 74b for selection operation, an update button 75a for the selected image type based on selection input in the selection input display area 74, a cancel button 75b for the selected image type based on selection input in the selection input display area 74, and a back operation button 75c for returning to the state before the operation after the operation.

[0066] In this case, the second operation display screen 70 is displayed by the display image selection function of the function selection / setting operation window 66. However, once the supply of the object to be inspected W is stopped, for example, to transition to an inspection stop state, the display image setting menu in the function selection / setting operation window 66 can be selected to cause the second operation display screen 70 to be displayed by the display means 41.

[0067] When the display image setting menu is selected, multiple selection candidates of the display image Xip that can be displayed on the operation display screen 70 are read from the memory of the condition setting means 36, and the number of images to be displayed is narrowed down according to the selection input in the selection input display area 74, and displayed as preview images (images 1 and 3 in FIG. 5). By entering a passcode from the operation means 42 to enter an access-restricted management mode, the update button 75a and the cancel button 75b in the operation display screen 70 can be operated, and the display candidates can be changed or added. Furthermore, when an image to be displayed is selected from the selection candidates, a preview of the candidate image of the display image Xip that has been subjected to the corresponding highlighting process or the like based on the latest stored translucent image data is displayed. The setting items are switched on and off by operating the touch panel, and the preview display can be switched by pressing the update button 75a. Furthermore, the selection can be changed until the back operation button 75c is pressed, and when the setting in the non-inspection state is completed and inspection in the inspection mode is started, X-ray inspection is resumed for the objects W to be inspected that are successively brought in, and the inspection results and a display image Xip of the newly set image type are displayed by the display means 41.

[0068] Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 6, when the display screen setting in the function selection / setting operation window 66 is selected, the display control means 35 may pop up a display screen selection setting window 83 instead of the preview image display area 73 of the display image selection screen 70 on the touch panel constituting the display means 41 of the operation display unit 40. Then, in the display screen selection setting window 83, a plurality of candidate images 83a, 83b, 83c, etc. for specifying the type of the display image Xip of the inspection object W to be inspected may be aligned and displayed so as to be scrollable (moving display) and selectable in a predetermined direction, for example, left and right, and an operation for selecting and setting a display image of a specific type may be performed. In this case, the plurality of candidate images 83a, 83b, 83c, etc. can be previewed and scrollable as thumbnail images without being displayed in an image display area dedicated to preview. In addition, when the display screen selection setting window 83 is displayed as a pop-up, if some of the previewed candidate images 83a to 83f, for example, candidate images 83c and 83d of a specific image type in Fig. 6, are selected by appropriately scrolling through the touch panel, the candidate images 83c and 83d are highlighted with a thicker frame than the other candidate images, resulting in a pre-confirmation selection state. Then, when the display image setting button is pressed again in the pre-confirmation selection state, the selection setting is confirmed and reflected in the condition setting means 36.

[0069] Of course, when an operation for selecting a display screen setting function is performed with the function selection / setting operation window 66 displayed on the first operation display screen 60, the display control condition for displaying the display image selection screen 70 or popping up the display screen selection setting window 83 can be selectively selected and switched as necessary by the condition setting means 36. Alternatively, it is also conceivable to switch between transitioning from the function selection / setting operation window 66 to the display output of the display image selection screen 70 or transitioning to the pop-up display of the display screen selection setting window 83 by performing a touch operation input with different operation conditions.

[0070] Even when displaying either the preview image display area 73 of the display image selection screen 70 or the display screen selection setting window 83 popped up in the first operation display screen 60, the display image generation means 34 executes multiple types of image processing (display image processing) that are set in advance based on the X-ray transmission image data of a specific energy region among the multiple energy regions, based on request information from the operation means 42, to generate the display image Xip as multiple different candidate images showing the same object, for example, multiple candidate images partially illustrated as candidate images 83c to 83e in a specific scroll region in the display screen selection setting window 83 in Figure 7 (including candidate images 83b, 83f, etc. that are outside the display screen selection setting window 83 in the same figure).

[0071] For example, the display image generating means 34 executes a plurality of types of image processing stored in advance in a memory as a predetermined image processing for generating an image for display, thereby generating a total X-ray image Xte corresponding to the X-ray transmission image data including a plurality of energy regions as a part of a plurality of candidate images 83a, 83b, 83c, 83d, 83e, 83f, and generating a plurality of different differential images Xs1, Xs2, Xs3 obtained by differential processing the X-ray transmission image data of the plurality of energy regions under a plurality of different processing conditions. As described above, the plurality of types of differential processing refers to selecting the X-ray detection signals of any two regions among a plurality of energy regions R1, R2, R3, R4, etc., applying the above-mentioned image processing filter or feature extraction processing to each of them, and then performing differential processing on the X-ray transmission image data of each set of two regions, and may include the judgment image Xsc.

[0072] The image types of the display image Xip may be, for example, a simple difference image equivalent to the total X-ray image Xte and the judgment image Xsc described above, as well as a difference image that emphasizes light parts of the X-ray transmission image on the high-energy region side (e.g., thick parts of the object W to be inspected), a difference image that emphasizes dark parts of the X-ray transmission image on the low-energy region side (e.g., parts of foreign matter or residue), a difference image that emphasizes dark parts of the X-ray transmission image on the high-energy region side (e.g., parts of foreign matter or residue), a difference image that emphasizes light parts of the X-ray transmission image on the low-energy region side (e.g., thin parts of the object W to be inspected), etc. However, the candidates for display images are not necessarily limited to these, and the selection list of the display image Xip can be changed or displayed so as to be scrollable so that the X-ray transmission image on the high-energy region side, the X-ray transmission image on the low-energy region side, and the X-ray transmission images on the high-energy region side and those before subtraction processing that have been subjected to emphasis processing can be selected.

[0073] In the preview image display area 73 of the display image selection screen 70 and in the display screen selection setting window 83 popped up in the first operation display screen 60, the switchable display forms are, for example, three or more types, but needless to say, two or four or more types may be used. Also, if a grayscale display is possible, a grayscale display may be used, but options that are candidates for the display image Xip may be displayed simply by matching with the screen frame. Only the selected image may be previewed as the display image selected in the thick display frame.

[0074] In the display screen selection setting window 83 shown in Fig. 7, the dotted lines indicate that the candidate images 83b and 83f are outside the selectable area, and the candidate images 83b and 83f can be made selectable by moving them into the selectable area by operating the touch panel. In addition, when the display image setting button is pressed again in the pop-up display state, the setting is reflected. This corresponds to the back operation button 75c in the display image selection screen 70, and the difference with the display in the preview image display area 73 in the display image selection screen 70 is that the preview is displayed as a thumbnail image even without previewing.

[0075] The operation means 42 (operation input means) is thus capable of operation input requesting the display output of one or more images selected from the total X-ray image Xte and the multiple heterogeneous difference images Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, etc., and operation input requesting a change in the setting of such display output. In FIG. 7, in response to a touch operation which serves as a selection operation being performed on candidate images 83c, 83d, both candidate images 83c, 83d are highlighted with a thick frame compared to the other candidate images, thereby displaying the selected image type.

[0076] 7, a plurality of candidate images 83a-83f corresponding to a plurality of different differential images Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, etc., for example, candidate images 83c, 83d, 83e, are differential images in which the article influence concentration of the inspection object W in each image differs according to a plurality of different image processing conditions, and the candidate image 83d in which the article influence concentration of the inspection object W (a fish fillet in the illustrated example) is low does not display a portion below a predetermined concentration value, and displays an image in which the image region of interest of the inspection object W is focused on a portion of a certain thickness or more. Conversely, the candidate image 83e in which the article influence concentration of the inspection object W is high is an image equivalent to a total X-ray image Xte corresponding to the X-ray transmission image data including a plurality of energy regions.

[0077] Next, a detailed configuration of the X-ray inspection unit 20 shown in FIG. 2 and a plurality of pulse-like X-ray detection signals P1, P2, P3, and P4 during a scan time shown in FIG. 3 will be described.

[0078] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of images generated during a specified scan time by the transmission image data generating means 31 corresponding to the photon detection sensors when the X-ray inspection section 20 uses, for example, photon detection sensors as the multiple sensors of the X-ray detector 22.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 2, the transmission image data generating means 31 includes a plurality of sensors 221 to 222 of the X-ray detector 22. N A / D conversion units 511 to 51 to which X-ray detection signals within the respective detection width regions in the directions from Nand the A / D conversion units 511 to 51 output at a predetermined calculation period. N Peak value detectors 521-52 detect the peak values ​​(details will be described later) of the X-ray detection signal based on the output signal from N and peak value detection units 521-52 N Region determination units 531 to 53 determine the X-ray energy regions detected based on the pulse height values ​​detected by the N and the area determination units 531 to 53 at a predetermined calculation cycle. N The region-specific accumulating units 541 to 54 execute a process of accumulating the signal level values ​​during the scan time while taking in the result of the judgment as a signal level value of the X-ray detection signal. N and a plurality of sensors 221 to 22 N The transmission image data output unit 55 generates and outputs transmission image data of a line image corresponding to the scan time based on the position of the detection width region in the Da direction and the elapsed time during the scan time.

[0080] 2 are views of the article conveying section 10 and the X-ray inspection section 20 shown in FIG. 1, viewed from the direction Db in FIG. 1, which is the article conveying direction.

[0081] The X-ray detector 22 will be described in more detail. The X-ray detector 22 includes a plurality of photon detection sensors 221 to 222, which output a pulse signal having a peak value corresponding to the energy of an X-ray photon transmitted through the object W as detection information each time the photon is input. N Therefore, the transmission image data generated by the transmission image data generating means 31 is input to the sensors 221 to 22. N represents the density of a transmitted image corresponding to the number of pulses output per unit time.

[0082] Sensor 221~22 N In response to an input of one photon, the X-ray generator 21 outputs one pulse signal having a peak value corresponding to the energy of the photon. NThe pulse signal output from the output terminal varies in peak value.

[0083] Within the scan time, each sensor 221-22 N By determining in advance which of multiple different signal level sections that make up the entire output range of peak values, for example, multiple energy regions R1, R2, R3, and R4 shown in Figure 3, the peak value of the pulse signal output from falls within, and accumulating the number of pulse signal inputs within that scan time for each detection width region of each sensor, it is possible to generate multiple transmission image data with different X-ray transmission energy ranges, for example, X-ray transmission image data Xza and Xzb in the first and second energy regions, for the passing portion of the inspected object W corresponding to that scan time.

[0084] In order to generate a plurality of transmission image data with different ranges of X-ray transmission energy, the transmission image data generating means 31 detects the positions of the sensors 221 to 222 in the conveyance width direction Da. N The output signals of the A / D converters 511 to 51 N The signal is converted into a digital data string by the wave height detectors 521 to 52 N Enter in.

[0085] Each wave height detection unit 521 to 52 N are for detecting the peak value of a pulse signal from an input data string. For example, they perform a differentiation process on the input data string, detect the zero-cross timing when the differential value (signal slope) switches from a positive value of a predetermined value or more to a negative value of a predetermined value or less, and detect the data value at the zero-cross timing as the peak value of the pulse signal. N Output to.

[0086] Area determination section 531~53 N The output range of the peak value is divided into M (multiple) regions R1 to R M The boundary value region L1~L M-1 and peak value detection units 521-52 NThe area accumulators 541 to 544 compare the peak value detected by the area accumulator 541 with the peak value detected by the area accumulator 542 and determine which area the peak value falls into. N Output to.

[0087] Cumulative section for each area 541~54 N The area determination units 531 to 53 N The system receives area classification signals output from each of the sensors, accumulates the number of input area classification signals indicating the same area, and calculates and outputs the accumulated number for each area within the scan time. This accumulated number of area classification signals is the accumulated number of pulse signals that have the same area peak value among the pulse signals output from one sensor during the scan time.

[0088] The transmission image data output unit 55 includes the accumulation units 541 to 54 for each region. N The accumulated number of area classification signals output from for each scan time is converted into data arranged in parallel and in time series, and this data is output as transmission image data for the object W to be inspected for each area.

[0089] The above-mentioned range of pulse height values ​​may be divided in any manner, and as one example, the range may be divided equally into a plurality of ranges between the pulse height value of the pulse signal output by the sensor in response to the maximum value of the energy of the X-ray photons emitted from the X-ray generator 21 (in the case of an X-ray tube, a theoretical value depending on the electron acceleration voltage) and a predetermined reference value (for example, 0). The number of ranges may be any number of 2 or more, and transmission image data may be generated in many ranges at first, and transmission image data suitable for foreign object detection and mass measurement may be selected and used from the transmission image data.

[0090] For example, the initial number of regions may be set to 10, transmission image data may be generated for each region, and the first region counting from the highest energy may be assigned to the aforementioned region R1, the third region may be assigned to the aforementioned region R2, and so on, and the transmission image data of the initial regions may be selectively assigned to the final region and used.Furthermore, the transmission image data of the initial multiple regions may be synthesized to generate the transmission image data of one final region, and the synthesized transmission image data may be used, such as synthesizing the transmission image data of the first and second regions counting from the highest energy to generate the transmission image data of the aforementioned region R1, and synthesizing the transmission image data of the third and fourth regions to generate the transmission image data of the aforementioned region R2.

[0091] In the specific example shown here, transmission image data is generated for the number of initial regions, and regions are assigned and transmission image data are synthesized according to the combination of transmission image data that is optimal for detecting foreign matter, etc., but when the combination of transmission image data that is optimal for detecting foreign matter, etc. for the inspection object W is known, it is sufficient to generate only the transmission image data for the assigned region, and instead of synthesizing a plurality of transmission image data, the cumulative number of region classification signals for a plurality of regions may be added to generate one transmission image data (total X-ray image). This makes it possible to save storage area in the transmission image data storage means 32.

[0092] Multiple pulse signal level regions R1 to R M can be said to be a plurality of different X-ray energy regions. That is, by using a photon detection sensor, X-ray transmission image data of a plurality of different energy regions including the above-mentioned first X-ray transmission image data Xza and second X-ray transmission image data Xzb can be obtained. For example, the transmission image data of the energy region R4 may be set as the first X-ray transmission image data Xza, and the transmission image data of the region R2 having a higher X-ray energy than the energy region R4 may be set as the second X-ray transmission image data Xzb, and the determination means 33 and the display image generating means 34 may perform the necessary image processing.

[0093] In this way, in a configuration using a photon detection sensor and a transmission image data generating means 31 corresponding thereto, it is possible to easily obtain transmission image data of X-rays in a desired energy region, and an X-ray inspection device having a good X-ray inspection function can be obtained based on transmission image data of X-rays in an energy region suitable for detecting foreign bodies and residues such as bones. In such a device configuration, as described above, the display switching on the operation display unit 40 is performed after the X-ray inspection is temporarily stopped, and the operation display unit 40 displays options of display images that the user can select. In addition, one or more of the options can be selected, and when selected, previews are displayed as candidate images and / or selected images. In this case, when multiple images are selected, they are displayed side by side. In addition, the transmission image data can be read out, and different image processing can be performed on one transmission image data to generate multiple types of display images Xip.

[0094] Next, the operation will be described.

[0095] In the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 of this embodiment configured as described above, the operating mode is switched by the condition setting means 36 between an X-ray inspection mode in which X-ray inspection can be performed and other modes, such as a setting mode in which various settings can be made, in response to an operation input for selecting a mode into the operation means 42 of the operation display unit 40.

[0096] When X-ray inspection is performed in the inspection mode of the X-ray inspection apparatus 1, X-rays are irradiated from the X-ray generator 21 to the inspection object W, which is being transported in the transport direction Db by the item transport section 10, in the X-ray inspection section 20, and the X-rays that pass through the inspection object W are detected by the X-ray detector 22 and input to the transmission image data generating means 31, and transmission image data of the inspection object W corresponding to each of the multiple energy regions, for example, X-ray transmission image data Xza and Xzb of the first and second energy regions, are generated.

[0097] Furthermore, the X-ray transmission image data Xza, Xzb of the inspection object W from the transmission image data generating means 31 are sequentially captured by the transmission image data storage means 32 as line image data for each scan time over a predetermined inspection time, and are stored in a readable manner as transmission image data Xia, Xib representing the entire inspection object W, respectively.

[0098] Then, the judgment means 33 uses the transmission image data read out from the transmission image data storage means 32, for example, two transmission image data Xia, Xib corresponding to the same inspection object W, to generate a judgment image Xsc, which is a difference image, by image processing and difference processing using a predetermined image processing algorithm, and judges the presence or absence of defective parts such as foreign bodies and bones in the inspection object W based on the judgment image Xsc.

[0099] On the other hand, when X-ray inspection is performed in such an inspection mode, the display control means 35 takes in the OK / NG signal and judgment image Xsc, which are the judgment results from the judgment means 33, the total X-ray image Xte and heterogeneous difference images Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, etc., which are image data generated by the display image generation means 34, and required operation inputs, etc. from the operation means 42, and displays the results of the X-ray inspection and the display image Xip of the inspection target in the image display area 63 and the inspection information display area 64 of the first operation display screen 60 in a display format set by the condition setting means 36 according to the type and other inspection conditions.

[0100] The image display area 63 of the first operation display screen 60 displays an X-ray transmission image of the inspection target W, which is generated by image processing similar to one of the types of images selected in advance. When selecting the type of image to be displayed, a function selection / setting operation window 66 is displayed in the first operation display screen 60. When the display image setting function is selected, a second operation display screen 70 is displayed, and selection candidates for the display image Xip, such as a total X-ray image Xte and multiple heterogeneous difference images Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, etc., are displayed as selectable candidate images.

[0101] Then, when an image type to be displayed is selected from a plurality of candidate images displayed in the preview image display area 73 of the second operation display screen 70, a display image Xip is generated by performing the same image processing as that of the image of the selected type based on the latest transparent image data, and the display frame is highlighted and displayed as a preview. Furthermore, by entering a passcode from the operation means 42 to switch to an access-restricted management mode, the display candidates are changed or added.

[0102] Alternatively, depending on the setting conditions of the condition setting means 36, a display screen selection setting window 83 is popped up in place of the preview image display area 73 of the display image selection screen 70, and a plurality of candidate images 83a, 83b, 83c, etc. for specifying the type of display image Xip are aligned and displayed so as to be scrollable and selectable, and an operation for selecting and setting a particular type of display image Xip is performed.

[0103] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described.

[0104] In this embodiment, the display image generating means 34 generates a display image Xip having a different image density of the inspection object W from the judgment image Xsc, and displays the display image Xip together with the inspection result in a preset display mode on the display means 41. Therefore, the required inspection performance is ensured by the judgment image Xsc, and an operator monitoring the inspection status by the display means 41 can easily and accurately grasp the status of the inspection object W corresponding to the inspection result of the inspection object W, particularly important inspection parts, or target parts for which additional inspection or work may be required depending on the inspection result, from the display image Xip displayed in the preview image display area 73 of the display image selection screen 70.

[0105] In this embodiment, for the determination image Xsc, which is a difference image, the X-rays in a plurality of energy regions are adjusted so that the object W to be inspected has a low density difference, so that foreign matter, residues, defective parts, etc., which have a different X-ray transmittance from the object W to be inspected, are displayed with a high density difference relative to the object W to be inspected, thereby ensuring the required inspection accuracy. On the other hand, for the candidate images Xte, Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, etc. of the display image of the object W to be inspected, which are generated separately from the determination image Xsc, the image density of the object W itself becomes an image with a high density difference relative to the image density of the object W in the determination image Xsc, so that when additional inspection or work is performed at a later stage or downstream of the X-ray inspection apparatus 1, the target part for the additional inspection or processing can be easily and accurately grasped from the display image Xip.

[0106] In this embodiment, a display image Xip is generated as multiple different candidate images Xte, Xsc, Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, etc., showing the same inspection object W, based on X-ray transmission image data in a specific energy region among multiple energy regions, so that an operator can easily and accurately grasp the status of the inspection object W, particularly important inspection areas, or target areas for which additional examination or work may be required depending on the inspection results, by using one or more of the multiple different display images Xip.

[0107] In addition, in this embodiment, the display output of one or more images of the total X-ray image Xte of X-rays including a plurality of energy regions and the different heterogeneous differential images Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, etc. can be easily changed and set to a required display output form in response to a required operation input from the operation means 42. Moreover, since the total X-ray image Xte displays the overall thickness and shape of the inspection object W in an easily viewable manner and the multiple heterogeneous differential image data Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, etc. are displayed, foreign matter, residues, defective parts such as defective parts in the inspection object W are displayed relatively easily, and it is possible to select a differential image in which specific parts of the inspection object W including defective parts can be easily grasped.

[0108] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the multiple heterogeneous differential images Xs1, Xs2, and Xs3 are differential images having mutually different article influence concentrations of the inspection object W, which makes it even easier to identify differential images that make it easier to grasp specific parts of the inspection object W, including defective areas.

[0109] In this embodiment, the transmission image generating means 31 and the transmission image storing means 32 of the image processing block 30A of the inspection processing unit 30 generate a total X-ray image corresponding to the X-ray transmission image data Xia and Xib including a plurality of energy regions, and a predetermined image processing is performed under a plurality of different image processing conditions based on the X-ray transmission image data Xia and Xib of the plurality of energy regions to generate a plurality of different subtraction images Xs1, Xs2, and Xs3. The operation means 42 of the inspection processing unit 30 selects and sets at least one image of the total X-ray image Xte and the plurality of different subtraction images Xs1, Xs2, and Xs3 as an image to be displayed and output. Therefore, while ensuring the required inspection performance by the judgment image Xsc, the operator can easily and accurately grasp the situation of the inspection object W corresponding to the inspection result of the inspection object W, and grasp the situation of a particularly important inspection part, or a target part for which additional inspection or work may be required depending on the inspection result, from the display image Xip.

[0110] As a result, it is possible to provide an X-ray inspection device 1, an article inspection system, and an X-ray image forming device that are excellent in inspection performance and operability.

[0111] Second embodiment FIG. 8 shows a schematic configuration of an article inspection and processing system equipped with an X-ray inspection apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] The item inspection and processing system 100 of this embodiment has an upstream conveyor 91 and a downstream conveyor 92 provided upstream and downstream of the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 of the first embodiment described above, which is an X-ray image forming device, and multiple work booths 93A, 93B, 93C, and 93D provided along the downstream conveyor 92.The item inspection and processing system 100 is not only an item inspection system, but also an item processing system capable of post-processing such as additional inspection and processing.

[0113] That is, as shown in FIG. 8, the article inspection and processing system 100 includes an article transport unit 10 that transports an inspection object W (article) on a predetermined transport path, an X-ray inspection unit 20 that irradiates the inspection object W with X-rays and outputs multiple types of X-ray transmission image data Xza, Xzb that are X-ray line sensor images, and an X-ray inspection unit 21 that generates X-ray transmission image data Xia, Xib that reflect the inspection object W based on the X-ray transmission image data Xza, Xzb from the X-ray inspection unit 20 and generates a judgment image Xsc that is a difference image between them to perform X-ray inspection. The system is equipped with an inspection processing unit 30 that outputs the inspection result OK / NG and a total X-ray image Xte, which are candidate images for the display image Xip of the object to be inspected W, and different differential images Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, etc., an operation display unit 40, and a number of post-processing booths 93A, 93B, 93C, 93D that are arranged in a roughly staggered pattern along a rear-stage conveyor 92 on the downstream side of the transport path, spaced apart from each other in the article transport direction (Db direction in the same figure), and also spaced apart from each other on both sides of the width direction of the rear conveyor 92 (Da direction in the same figure).

[0114] This item inspection and processing system 100 includes an inspection processing unit 30 of an X-ray inspection device 1, which is an X-ray image forming device, which includes an image processing block 30A that generates X-ray transmission image data, and a control block 30B that executes predetermined inspection control, display output control, etc. based on the X-ray transmission image data from the image processing block 30A.

[0115] Although not shown in FIG. 8, similarly to the first embodiment described above, the image processing block 30A has a transparent image data generating means 31, a transparent image data storage means 32 and a judgment means 33, and the control block 30B has the judgment means 33, a display control means 35 and a condition setting means 36 shown in the same figure (see FIG. 1).

[0116] The post-processing booths 93A, 93B, 93C, and 93D have post-processing display means 94A, 94B, 94C, and 94D including a plurality of displays capable of displaying and outputting at least one image of the total X-ray image Xte and the plurality of different differential images Xs1, Xs2, and Xs3, etc., which are generated in the image processing block 30A and selected and set by the operation means 42 of the operation display unit 40. In addition, near each of the post-processing booths 93A, 93B, 93C, and 93D, there is provided a sorting means, for example, a plurality of flipper-type sorting devices 95A, 95B, 95C, and 95D (only the main parts are shown) capable of sorting and discharging the inspection object W on the rear conveyor 92 to the corresponding one of the post-processing booths 93A, 93B, 93C, and 93D at the respective sorting positions b1, b2, b3, and b4.

[0117] In this embodiment, in addition to a control block 30B that outputs the inspection result OK / NG of the X-ray inspection unit 20 and a display image Xip of the inspection object W to be inspected, which is at least one image of the total X-ray image Xte, the judgment image Xsc, and the multiple heterogeneous difference images Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, etc., the inspection processing unit 30 of the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 also includes a sorting control block 30C that selects and sets the output destination of the display image Xip of the inspection object W depending on the progress of additional inspection and / or additional processing (e.g., removal of remaining bones) in the post-processing booths 93A-93D, and selectively causes one of the multiple sorting devices 95A-95D to perform a sorting and discharge operation.

[0118] For example, when an inspection object W is sorted by one of the sorting devices 95A-95D to a corresponding post-processing booth 93A, 93B, 93C or 93D, the sorting control block 30C measures the processing time until it detects that the inspection object W, which has been subjected to additional inspection and / or processing, etc., there and has been manually returned to the original sorting position b1, b2, b3 or b4, by a work completion detection sensor or switch (not shown) provided in each post-processing booth 93A, 93B, 93C or 93D. Then, for example, depending on the start time and duration of the processing time, the sorting control block 30C selectively sets the output destination of the display image Xip of the inspection object W, and selectively causes one of the sorting devices 95A-95D to execute the sorting and discharging operation.

[0119] In the article processing system of this embodiment, at least one of the total X-ray image Xte and the multiple different differential images Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, etc., which are generated in the image processing block 30A of the inspection control unit 30 and selected and set by the operation means 42, is selectively displayed and output by the post-processing display means 94A-94D of the post-processing booths 93A-93D. Therefore, the user operating the operation means 42 can easily and accurately grasp the target area for additional inspection or work in one of the corresponding post-processing booths 93A-93D based on the display image Xip, thereby improving the processing efficiency there.

[0120] Further, the inspection object W transported by the transport path of the article transport section 10 and the rear-stage conveyor 92 is sorted by one of the sorting devices 95A-95D into a space (additional processing space) on one of the work tables of the multiple displays of the post-processing booths 93A-93D in the order of transport to the post-processing display means 94A-94D including multiple displays spaced apart at least in the transport direction of the inspection object W. Therefore, in the article inspection system of this embodiment, the total X-ray image Xte and multiple different differential images Xs1, Xs2, Xs3, etc. are output as display images Xip to the post-processing display means 94A-94D of the post-processing booths 93A-93D, so that the target areas for additional inspections and work in the post-processing booths 93A-93D can be easily and accurately grasped based on the display images Xip, and the processing efficiency in the post-processing booths 93A-93D can be improved.

[0121] Furthermore, in the item processing system, the multiple displays of the post-processing display means 94A-94D are spaced apart at least in the item transport direction, so that an inspected item W that is determined by the determination means 33 to require further inspection or processing (for example, a dedicated inspector visually inspects for any small bones remaining, and if any are found, removes the bones) on the transport path from the item transport section 10 through the rear conveyor 92 is assigned and transported to one of the post-processing booths 93A-93D, ensuring that there is sufficient processing time for further inspection or processing, and allowing for stable further inspection or processing to be carried out.

[0122] In this manner, in this embodiment, in the X-ray inspection device 1 having the functions of an X-ray image forming device, inspection performance such as foreign object detection can be improved while also enabling workers to easily and accurately grasp the status of the inspection object related to the inspection or work, thereby realizing an item processing system with high processing efficiency.

[0123] In the above-mentioned first embodiment, the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 is an X-ray image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and an article inspection system including a sorting apparatus downstream of the X-ray inspection apparatus 1 is described. In the second embodiment, an article processing system is described in which a plurality of work booths 93A-93D are provided downstream of the X-ray inspection apparatus 1, with a plurality of sorting apparatuses 95A-95D as sorting means. However, the shape and arrangement of the post-processing work booths are arbitrary.

[0124] In addition, the conditions for controlling the display output of the display image Xip to the multiple work booths 93A to 93D and the allocation and discharge of the inspection objects W are also arbitrary, but such control conditions can be, for example, as described in JP 2017-138193 A, where allocation rules including the user's work code, work time, number of works, etc. are managed, maintained, and updated in memory table format.

[0125] As described above, the X-ray inspection device, article inspection system, and X-ray image forming device of the present invention can provide an X-ray inspection device, article inspection system, and X-ray image forming device that improves inspection performance such as foreign object detection while allowing an operator to easily and accurately grasp the status of an inspection target related to an inspection or work. The present invention is useful for X-ray inspection devices, article inspection systems, and X-ray image forming devices in general that make it possible to generate X-ray images suited to purposes such as article inspection based on transmission image data of X-rays in a plurality of different energy ranges. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 1 X-ray inspection equipment (X-ray image forming equipment) 10. Item transport section 11 Belt (Conveyor belt) 11a Transport path (part of the transport path) 12, 13 Laura 20 X-ray Inspection Department (Inspection Department) 21 X-ray generator (X-ray generating means) 22 X-ray detector (X-ray detection means, transmission image data generation unit) 221~22 NSensor (photon detection sensor) 30 Inspection processing unit (inspection unit, predetermined image processing unit, predetermined image processing unit for display) 30A Image Processing Block 30B Control Block 30C Selection Control Block 31 Transmissive image data generating means (transmissive image data generating unit) 32 Transmissive image data storage means (display image generating means) 33 Judgment means 34 Display image generation means 35 Display control means (means for executing image processing for display, means for executing multiple types of difference processing) 36 Condition Setting Means 40 Operation display section 41 Display means 42 Operation means (operation input means, selection operation means) 511~51 N A / D conversion section 521~52 N Wave height detector 531~53 N Area determination section 541~54 N Cumulative section by area 55 Transparent image data output section 60 First operation display screen 61 Inspection status display area 62 Common information display area 63 Inspection target image display area (graphic display area) 64 Examination information display area 65 Operation button display area 65a Setting / adjustment button 66 Function selection / setting operation window 70 Second operation display screen (display image selection screen) 71 Inspection status display area 72 Common information display area 73 Preview image display area Candidate images 73a and 73b 74 Selective input display area 74a Radio Button 74b Scroll button 75a Update button 75b Cancel button 75c Operation button 83 Display screen selection setting window Candidate images 83a and 83b 83c, 83d Candidate images (highlighted selected images) Candidate images for 83e and 83f 91 Front conveyor (upstream part of the conveying path) 92 Rear conveyor (downstream part of the conveying path) 93A, 93B, 93C, 93D Post-processing booth (Post-processing work booth, work table) 94A, 94B, 94C, 94D Display means for post-processing (display) 95A, 95B, 95C, 95D Sorting device (sorting means) 100 Article inspection and processing system (article inspection system, article processing system) b1, b2, b3, b4 distribution position L1, L2, L3 Pulse signal level boundary region R1, R2 Energy region (high energy side division, pulse signal level division) R3, R4 Energy region (low energy side division, pulse signal level division) Xia X-ray transmission image (X-ray transmission image data of the first energy range) Xib X-ray transmission image (X-ray transmission image data of the second energy range) Xip display image (display image data) Xs1, Xs2, Xs3 Differential images (image data for display) Xsc Judgment image (Differential image data for judgment; data for display) Xte total image data (image data for display) Xza First X-ray transmission image data (X-ray line image data) Xzb Second X-ray transmission image data (X-ray line image data)

Claims

1. An X-ray inspection device comprising: an inspection unit (20, 30) that detects X-rays transmitted through an object (W) in a plurality of energy regions, and inspects the object using a judgment image (Xsc) generated by performing predetermined image processing on at least two X-ray transmission image data (Xia, Xib) corresponding to at least two energy regions; and a display means (41) that displays an inspection result of the inspection unit, a display image generating means (34) for performing the predetermined image processing based on the X-ray transmission image data, and performing an image processing for display different from the image processing for generating the judgment image to generate a display image (Xte, Xs1, Xs2 and / or Xs3); an X-ray inspection apparatus further comprising a display control means (35) for causing the display means to display the result of the inspection (OK / NG) and the display image based on a preset display mode.

2. the image for determination is a difference image obtained by differentially processing transmission image data of the X-rays in the plurality of energy regions transmitted through the inspection object, 2. The X-ray inspection apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display image is an image having a higher image density difference than the image density of the object to be inspected in the judgment image.

3. The device further includes an operation input means (42) for inputting request information in response to a user's operation input, The X-ray inspection apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the display image generating means performs multiple types of image processing that are set in advance based on X-ray transmission image data of a specific energy region among the multiple energy regions, based on request information from the operation input means, and generates the display image as multiple different images (Xte, Xs1, Xs2, Xs3) showing the same object.

4. the display image generating means executes a plurality of types of image processing stored in advance as the predetermined image processing to generate a total X-ray image (Xte) corresponding to the X-ray transmission image data including the plurality of energy regions, and generates a plurality of different differential images (Xs1, Xs2, Xs3) by performing differential processing on the X-ray transmission image data of the plurality of energy regions under a plurality of different processing conditions; The X-ray inspection apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the operation input means is capable of operation input requesting display output of one or more of the total X-ray image and the plurality of heterogeneous differential images, and operation input requesting change settings of the display output.

5. 5. The X-ray inspection apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of different differential images are differential images in which the article influence densities of the object to be inspected in the images differ from one another according to a plurality of different image processing conditions.

6. 2. An object inspection system comprising: the X-ray inspection apparatus (1) according to claim 1; a conveying device (10) that conveys an object along a predetermined conveying path; and a post-processing booth (93A, 93B, 93C, 93D) arranged downstream of the conveying path, the inspection unit of the X-ray inspection device has an X-ray detector (22) that detects X-rays transmitted through the object on the conveying path and outputs a detection signal; An article inspection system, characterized in that the display image generating means of the X-ray inspection apparatus outputs the display image to a post-processing display means (94A, 94B, 94C, 94D) installed in the post-processing booth.

7. An X-ray image forming device comprising: a transmission image data generating unit (22, 31) which receives a detection signal of X-rays transmitted through an object (W) and generates transmission image data of X-rays in a plurality of different energy regions; an image processing unit (30) which executes predetermined image processing based on the transmission image data of X-rays in the plurality of energy regions to generate at least a differential image of the transmission image data of the X-rays; and an image output unit (40) which outputs the image generated by the image processing unit to a display means, the image processing unit generates a total X-ray image (Xte) corresponding to the X-ray transmission image data including the plurality of energy regions, and includes a display image generating means (34) for executing the predetermined image processing under a plurality of different image processing conditions based on the X-ray transmission image data of the plurality of energy regions, and generating a plurality of different differential images (Xs1, Xs2, Xs3) as the differential images; An X-ray image forming apparatus characterized in that the image output unit has a selection operation means (42) for switchably selecting and setting at least one of the total X-ray image and the multiple heterogeneous difference images generated by the display image generation means as an image to be displayed and output.

8. An article processing system comprising: the X-ray image forming apparatus (1) according to claim 7; a conveying device (10) that conveys the article along a predetermined conveying path; and a post-processing booth (93A, 93B, 93C, 94D) disposed downstream of the conveying path, the transmission image data generating unit of the X-ray image forming device has an X-ray detector (22) that detects X-rays transmitted through the object on the conveying path and outputs the detection signal; The article processing system is characterized in that the post-processing booth has a post-processing display means (94A, 94B, 94C, 94D) that displays and outputs at least one image of the total X-ray image and the multiple heterogeneous difference images generated by the image processing unit and selected and set by the selection operation means.

9. The post-processing display means is configured to include a plurality of displays spaced apart at least in a conveying direction of the article, The item processing system of claim 8, characterized in that the post-processing booth is provided with a distribution means (95A, 95B, 95C and / or 94D) for distributing the items transported by the transport path into additional processing spaces (94A, 94B, 94C and / or 94D) corresponding to any one of the multiple displays in the order of transport.

Images