Multi-camera digital neutron imaging system

Abstract

A digital neutron imaging assembly that includes an enclosure housing a neutron scintillator; a digital camera array comprising at least two rows of two or more digital cameras, wherein the digital camera array is optically coupled to the neutron scintillator; and a mirror positioned between the neutron scintillator and the digital camera array along a particle pathway, wherein the mirror is positioned offset from the neutron scintillator in a first direction and the digital camera array is positioned offset from the neutron scintillator in a second direction.

Description

Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601MULTI-CAMERA DIGITAL NEUTRON IMAGING SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.63 / 778518 filed March 27, 2025, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of neutron imaging systems (e.g., radiography and tomography systems) and methods that provide high-quality, high throughput digital neutron images. Such systems and methods are useful for the commercial-scale imaging of industrial components.BACKGROUND

[0003] Neutron radiography and tomography are proven techniques for the nondestructive testing and quality7control of manufactured components in the aerospace, energy, automotive, defense, and other sectors. Like X-rays, when neutrons pass through an object, they provide information about the internal structure of that object. Neutrons are able to easily pass through many high-density materials and provide detailed information about internal materials, including many low-density' materials. This property' is important for a number of components that require nondestructive evaluation including jet engine turbine blades, munitions, aircraft and spacecraft components, and composite materials. Currently, neutron radiography is performed on X-ray film paired with a neutron conversion screen. The continually decreasing use of film in favor of digital methods for X -ray threatens the long-term supply chain availability7for neutron radiography.

[0004] However, digital modality offers customer convenience, shorter exposure times, expanded bit-depth, post-processing, eliminates film storage requirements, and other advantages such as the ability7to perform neutron computed tomography. Accordingly, a need exists for improved digital neutron imaging methods and systems.Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601SUMMARY

[0005] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a digital neutron imaging assembly includes an enclosure housing a neutron scintillator; a digital camera array comprising at least two rows of two or more digital cameras, wherein the digital camera array is optically coupled to the neutron scintillator; and a mirror positioned between the neutron scintillator and the digital camera array along a particle pathway, wherein the mirror is positioned offset from the neutron scintillator in a first direction and the digital camera array is positioned offset from the neutron scintillator in a second direction.

[0006] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method includes producing neutrons using a neutron source such that a first portion of neutrons are obstructed by a target object and a second portion of neutrons impinge a neutron scintillator of a digital neutron imaging assembly. The digital neutron imaging assembly further includes an enclosure housing the neutron scintillator; a digital camera array comprising at least two rows of two or more digital cameras; and a mirror positioned between the neutron scintillator and the digital camera array along a particle pathway. The digital camera array is optically coupled to the neutron scintillator. The mirror is positioned offset from the neutron scintillator in a first direction. The digital camera array is positioned offset from the neutron scintillator in a second direction. The second portion of neutrons induce a scintillation reaction such that the neutron scintillator generates corresponding photons that propagate from the neutron scintillator to the digital camera array. The method also includes generating a digital image of the target object using at least one of the digital cameras of the digital camera array.

[0007] These and additional features provided by the embodiments described herein will be more fully understood in view of the following detailed description, in conjunction with the drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments can be understood when read inAtty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601conjunction with the following drawings, where like structure is indicated with like reference numerals and in which:

[0009] FIG. 1 schematically depicts a neutron imaging system that includes a neutron source and a digital neutron imaging assembly, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0010] FIG. 2 schematically depicts a digital neutron imaging assembly, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0011] FIG. 3 schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the digital neutron imaging assembly of FIG. 2 along line A- A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0012] FIG. 4 schematically depicts the digital neutron imaging assembly of FIG. 2 with a shielding assembly removed, according to one or more embodiments show n and described herein;

[0013] FIG. 5 schematically depicts a digital neutron imaging assembly having a neutron collimator, a sample chamber, and a camera assembly, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0014] FIG. 6 schematically depicts another view of the digital neutron imaging assembly of FIG. 5, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0015] FIG. 7 schematically depicts a neutron scintillator compnsing a plurality of scintillator regions, a digital camera array comprising a plurality of digital cameras, and a mirror optically coupling the neutron scintillator and the digital camera array, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0016] FIG. 8 schematically depicts a neutron scintillator comprising a plurality of scintillator regions and a plurality of target objects, wherein each target object in alignment with a corresponding scintillator region, according to one or more embodiments show n and described herein.Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Referring generally to the figures, embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to digital neutron imaging systems configured to generate high resolution, high throughput digital neutron images to provide viable commercial-scale digital neutron radiography. Neutron radiography and tomography are proven techniques for the nondestructive testing of manufactured components in the aerospace, energy, automotive, defense, and other sectors. Similar to X-rays, when neutrons pass through an object, they provide information about the internal structure of that object. However, X-rays interact weakly with low atomic number elements (e.g., hydrogen) and strongly with high atomic number elements (e.g., many metals). Consequently, their ability to provide information about low-density materials, particularly when in the presence of higher density7materials, is poor. Neutrons do not suffer from this limitation. Neutrons pass easily through high density metals and provide detailed information about internal materials, including low density¬ materials. Thus, neutrons can be used for non-destmctive evaluation may many components that not conducive to X-rays or other nondestructive evaluation modalities, such as engine turbine blades, munitions, spacecraft components, and composite materials such as certain aerospace components and wind turbine blades.

[0018] However, neutron radiography and tomography are currently performed using analog film technologies, causing these useful techniques to be underutilized and, when utilized, operate with low efficiency using outdated technology. The neutron imaging systems of the present disclosure include a digital neutron imaging assembly configured to generate high quality7, high resolution digital neutron images efficiently and effectively. Embodiments of neutron imaging systems and digital neutron imaging assemblies will now be described and, whenever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0019] Referring now to FIG. 1, a neutron imaging system 100 is schematically depicted. The neutron imaging system 100 includes a neutron source 110 and a digital neutron imaging assembly 120. The neutron source 110 is configured to generate and output neutrons, which may comprise thermal neutrons, epithermal neutrons, fast neutrons, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the neutron source 110 is a reactor. In someAtty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601embodiments, the neutron source 110 comprises a particle accelerator and a beam target such that neutrons are produced at the beam target. For example, the neutron source 110 may generate neutrons by a deuterium-deuterium (DD) fusion reaction, a deuterium-tritium (DT) fusion reaction, or any other source neutron generating reaction. The neutron source 110 may generate neutrons using a linear particle accelerator, a cyclotron, a photo neutron source, or the like. In some embodiments, the neutron source 110 utilizes charge exchange (p,n) or nucleon transfer (d,n) reactions, such as a proton or deuteron beam impinging upon a Be or Li target to generate neutrons. In some embodiments, the neutron source utilizes spallation reactions.

[0020] Referring also to FIGS. 2-6, the digital neutron imaging assembly 120 includes a neutron collimator 130, a sample region 140, and a camera assembly 150 positioned along a particle pathway 112. The neutron collimator 130 is positioned to receive neutrons generated by the neutron source 110. The neutron collimator 130 includes an entry end 132 opposite an exit end 134. The particle pathway 112 extends through the neutron collimator 130 from the entry7end 132 to the exit end 134. The camera assembly 150 includes an enclosure 152 housing a neutron scintillator 160, a mirror 154, and a digital camera array 170 comprising at least two rows of two or more digital cameras 172. The neutron scintillator 160 comprises an impingement side 161 opposite an emission side 163. The neutron scintillator 160 is a neutron sensitive scintillator that produces visible light and is configured to emit photons from the emission side 163 along the particle pathway 112 toward the digital camera array 170 in response to impingement by neutrons along the impingement side 161 of the neutron scintillator 160. It should be understood that the photons exit the neutron scintillator 160 from the emission side 163, however, embodiments are contemplated in which the photons are generated at the emission side 163 and embodiments are contemplated in which photons are generated throughout the neutron scintillator 160. The neutron scintillator 160 may comprises a phosphor layer on an aluminized mylar substrate, a terbium-doped gadolinium oxysulfide deposited on an aluminized mylar substrate, mounted on an aluminum plate, 6LiF / ZnS scintillator, a plastic scintillator, a multi-layerplastic / phosphor scintillator, or the like.Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601

[0021] The enclosure 152 may be a light-tight enclosure such that all. or nearly all. of the photons propagating within the enclosure 152 are generated by the neutron scintillator 160. The neutron scintillator 160 is optically coupled to the digital camera array 170. The sample region 140 is positioned between the exit end 134 of the neutron collimator 130 and the neutron scintillator 160 of the camera assembly 150 along the particle pathway 112. The sample region 140 is a location for positioning a target object 145 in the particle pathway 112 such that the target object 145 obstructs some of the neutrons propagating through the sample region 140, for example, a first portion of neutrons. In some embodiments, a plurality of target objects 145 are positioned in the sample region 140. In some embodiments, a sample chamber 142 is positioned in the sample region 140. The sample chamber 142 is configured to house the target object 145 for neutron imaging and may house a plurality of target objects 145. Indeed, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the target object 145 is positioned in the sample chamber 142.

[0022] Referring now to FIGS. 1-6, the neutron collimator 130 helps to define the neutrons traversing the neutron collimator 130 into a neutron imaging beam comprising some of the neutrons generated by the neutron source 110, where the neutron imaging beam exits the exit end 134 of the neutron collimator 130, traverses the sample region 140, and impinges the neutron scintillator 160, thereby inducing a scintillation reaction and generating corresponding photons that propagate from the neutron scintillator 160 to the digital camera array 170. In operation, the target object 145 positioned in the sample region 140 obstructs a portion of the neutrons (e.g., a first portion of neutrons) traversing the sample region 140 such that neutrons traversing the sample region 140 that are not obstructed by the target object 145 (e.g., a second portion of neutrons) impinge the neutron scintillator 1 0. The photons generated by the neutron scintillator 160 impinge at least one digital camera 172 of the digital camera array 170 and the at least one digital camera 172 generates a digital image of the target object 145. In some embodiments, the target object 145 is an airplane part (e.g., turbine blades), munition, a product that utilizes energetic materials, a fuse, rocket, a nuclear fuel rod, a pyrotechnic material, a chemically activated device, a spacecraft part, a w ind turbine component, (e.g., a composite part), an aerospace part, or the like.Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601

[0023] In some embodiments, an inner surface 135 of the neutron collimator 130 is lined wi th a neutron absorber configured to absorb a portion of the neutrons and produce the neutron imaging beam, for example, athermal neutron imaging beam. This thermal neutron imaging beam traverses the sample region 140, where the target object 145 obstructs a portion of the neutron imaging beam. In some embodiments, the neutron absorber positioned along the inner surface 135 of the neutron collimator 130 may comprise cadmium, boron and boron-containing compounds, lithium and lithium-containing compounds, gadolinium, and composites containing any of these materials. While not depicted, one or more moderation materials, such as heavy water or graphite, may be positioned between the neutron source 110 and the neutron collimator 130 of the digital neutron imaging assembly 120.

[0024] The mirror 154 is positioned between the neutron scintillator 160 and the digital camera array 170 along the particle pathway 112. The mirror 154 alters the propagation direction of the photons generated by interactions between the neutrons and the neutron scintillator 160. This allows the digital camera array 170 to be offset from a line of sight with the neutrons generated by the neutron source 110, minimizing radiation damage to the digital camera array 170 and reducing noise from x-rays and gamma rays. The neutron scintillator 160 and the mirror 154 are positioned offset from the exit end 134 of the neutron collimator 130 in a first direction such that neutrons exiting the neutron collimator 130 propagate to the neutron scintillator 160 and photons generated by neutron interaction with the neutron scintillator 160 are directed toward the mirror 154. Moreover, the digital camera array 170 is positioned offset from the exit end 134 of the neutron collimator 130 in a second direction such that the mirror 154 directs photons generated by neutron interaction with the neutron scintillator 160 toward the digital camera array 170 while the digital camera array 170 is offset from a line of sight with the neutrons generated by the neutron source 110, minimizing radiation damage to the digital camera array 170.

[0025] Referring still to FIGS. 1-6, the digital neutron imaging assembly 120 may include a shielding assembly 122 positioned around a portion of the enclosure 152 to shield the digital camera array 170 from radiation generated by the neutron source 110, such as neutrons. X-rays, and gamma radiation. The shielding assembly 122 blocks line of sight between the neutron source 110 and the digital camera array 170. In some embodiments, theAtty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601shielding assembly 122 comprises a gamma shielding layer 124 and a neutron shielding layer 126. The gamma shielding layer 124 may be positioned between the neutron shielding layer 126 and the enclosure 152 of the neutron shielding layer 126. The gamma shielding layer 124 may comprise any dense, high atomic number material, such as tungsten, lead, bismuth, or the like. The neutron shielding layer 126 may comprise any material with a high density of hydrogen atoms, such as wax, water, or plastic, for example, high density polyethylene, which will scatter and thermalize high energy neutrons. Moreover, the neutron shielding layer 126, for example, a hydrogenous neutron shielding layer, may also be impregnated with thermal neutron absorber such as boron. The shielding assembly 122 may further include an interior shielding portion 128. The interior shielding portion 128 is positioned within the enclosure 152, between the mirror and at least a portion of the digital camera array 170 and includes openings aligned with the lenses of each digital camera of the digital camera array, such that each of the digital cameras 172 remain optically coupled to the mirror 154. Like the remainder of the shielding assembly 122, the interior shielding portion 128 may include portions of the gamma shielding layer 124 and the neutron shielding layer 126. The shielding assembly 122, including the interior shielding portion 128, forms a shielded volume, and the electronics of the camera assembly 150, such as the digital camera array 170 and associated electronics, are positioned in the shielded volume.

[0026] Referring still to FIGS. 1-6, the camera assembly 150 includes a camera mounting grid 155. Each digital camera 172 of the digital camera array 170 is mounted to the camera mounting grid 155. The digital neutron imaging assembly 120 may also include a support structure 180 coupled to the exterior portion of the shielding assembly 122 to hold the portion of the shielding assembly 122 positioned around the enclosure 152. For example, the shielding assembly 122 may be coupled to the support structure 180 using one or more upper connecting mechanisms 182, which may comprise fasteners or the like, and the shielding assembly 122 may be coupled to the camera assembly 150 using one or more lower connecting mechanisms 125, which may comprise latches, flanges, hooks, or the like. The support structure 180 has motion capability such that the shielding assembly 122 and / or the camera assembly 150 may be removed from the remainder of the digital neutron imaging assembly 120 for example, for maintenance. For example, the support structure 180 may be used to lift the shielding assembly 122 and some or all of the camera assembly 150 awayAtty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601from the remainder of the digital neutron imaging assembly 120, Moreover, the lower connecting mechanisms 125 may be removed from engagement with the camera assembly 150 to separate the camera assembly 150 from the shielding assembly 122, for example, for maintenance.

[0027] In some embodiments, each row of the digital camera array 170 comprises at least three digital cameras 172. Indeed, in some embodiments, the digital camera array 170 comprises six digital cameras 172 arranged in a 2x3 array. However, it should be understood that other arrayed arrangements are contemplated. The digital cameras 172 of the digital camera array 170 comprise a focal length in a range of from 80 mm to 150 mm and an angle of view of from 15° to 30°. Each digital camera 172 includes digital sensors, such as complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor. An example digital sensor for use in the plurality of digital cameras 172 is a Sony IMX455. Each digital camera 172 also includes a lens and a lens mount. The lens mount may be mirrorless system or a digital single lens reflex system. Moreover, each digital camera 172 may include a lens focus controller, such as an inline lens focus controller.

[0028] The camera assembly 150 may also include a central signal switch 156 positioned in the enclosure 152. Each digital camera 172 is communicatively coupled to the central signal switch 156 and the central signal switch 156 is communicatively coupled to an external computing device. In some embodiments, the central signal switch 156 is communicatively coupled to the external computing device by a single optical fiber cable, thereby minimizing the number of cable bundles and openings, including sealed openings, in the enclosure 152. In some embodiments, the central signal switch 156 is mounted to the camera mounting grid 155, for example, betw een the at least two rows of two or more digital cameras 172.

[0029] The digital neutron imaging assembly 120 may further comprise a liquid cooling system and each digital camera 172 of the digital camera array 170 is liquid cooled using the liquid cooling system. The central signal switch 156 may also be liquid cooled. By cooling the digital cameras 172, thermal noise is reduced, thereby reducing noise in the resultant digital image. Moreover, liquid cooling provides better cooling performance than fan-based techniques. For example, liquid cooling can achieve low er temperatures than fan-Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601based techniques, fan-based techniques induce vibrations in the digital camera array 170, and fans need an air path, which is difficult to achieve in a light tight enclosure, such as the enclosure 152. In operation, the liquid cooling system may cool the digital cameras 172 and the central signal switch 156 to a temperature less than ambient, for example, a temperature in a range of from -60° C to 20° C, such as, from -50° C to 10° C, from -40° C to 10° C, from -40° C to 0° C, from -30° C to 10° C, from -20° C to 20° C, from -10° C to 15° C, or any or any range having any two of these values as endpoints, or any value in a range having any two of these values as endpoints, for example, less than 20° C, less than 15° C, less than 10° C, less than 5° C, less than 0° C, less than -5° C, less than -10° C. less than -15° C, less than -20° C, less than -25° C, less than -30° C, less than -40° C. or any or any range having any two of these values as endpoints, or any value in a range having any two of these values as endpoints.

[0030] Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8, the neutron scintillator 160 comprises a plurality of scintillation regions 162, and each scintillation region 162 is optically coupled to an individual digital camera 172 of the digital camera array 170. The plurality of scintillation regions 162 comprise at least a first scintillation region 162a optically coupled to a first digital camera 172a and a second scintillation region 162b optically coupled to a second digital camera 172b. The multiple digital cameras 172 and the plurality' of scintillation regions 162 facilitate the simultaneous imaging of multiple target objects, increasing the operational throughput of the digital neutron imaging assembly 120. Moreover, the multiple digital cameras 172 and plurality of scintillation regions 162 facilitate imaging of a single target object at a higher level of detail than using a single digital camera, where each scintillation region 162 and associated digital camera 172 captures an image of a portion of the target object, and the image may be combined using the external computing device. In other words, the target object may be is positioned in alignment with the neutron scintillator 160 such that the target object obstructs neutrons from impinging at least two of the plurality of scintillation regions 162.

[0031] In some embodiments, a plurality of target objects 145 are positioned in the sample region 140 such that at least one target object 145 is in alignment with each of the plurality of scintillation regions 162 such that each at least one target object 145 is positioned to obstructAtty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601neutrons from impinging an individual aligned scintillation region 162. For example, a first target object 145a is positioned in the sample region 140 in alignment with the first scintillation region 162a such that the first target object 145a is positioned to obstruct neutrons from impinging the first scintillation region 162a and a second target object 145b is positioned in the sample region 140 in alignment with the second scintillation region 162b such that the second target object 145b is positioned to obstruct neutrons from impinging the second scintillation region 162b. Thus, the first digital camera 172a captures an image of the first target object 145a while the second digital camera 172b captures an image of the second target object 145b.

[0032] In some embodiments, the neutron scintillator 160 may comprise additional scintillation regions 162. For example, the plurality of scintillation regions 1 2 further comprise a third scintillation region 162c optically coupled to a third digital camera 172c, a fourth scintillation region 162d optically coupled to a fourth digital camera 172d. a fifth scintillation region 162e optically coupled to a fifth digital camera 172e, and a sixth scintillation region 162f optically coupled to a sixth digital camera 172f. In some embodiments, a third target object 145c is positioned in the sample region 140 in alignment with the third scintillation region 162c such that the third target object 145c is positioned to obstruct neutrons from impinging the third scintillation region 162c, a fourth target object 145d is positioned in the sample region 140 in alignment with the fourth scintillation region 162d such that the fourth target object 145d is positioned to obstruct neutrons from impinging the fourth scintillation region 162d, a fifth target object 145e is positioned in the sample region 140 in alignment with the fifth scintillation region 162e such that the fifth target object 145e is positioned to obstruct neutrons from impinging the fifth scintillation region 1 2e, and a sixth target object 145f is positioned in the sample region 140 in alignment with the sixth scintillation region 162f such that the sixth target object 145f is positioned to obstruct neutrons from impinging the sixth scintillation region 162f. Thus, the third digital camera 172c captures an image of the third target object 145c, while the fourth digital camera 172d captures an image of the fourth target object 145d, while the fifth digital camera 172e captures an image of the fifth target object 145e, and while the sixth digital camera 172f captures an image of the sixth target object 145f.Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601

[0033] While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination. It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0034] As utilized herein, the terms ‘‘approximately,” “about,” “substantially”, and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical values or idealized geometric forms provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

[0035] References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below”) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0036] Although the figures and description may illustrate a specific order of method steps, the order of such steps may differ from what is depicted and described, unless specified differently above. Also, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence, unless specified differently above. Such variation may depend, for example, on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations of the described methods could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.

Claims

Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A digital neutron imaging assembly comprising:an enclosure housing a neutron scintillator;a digital camera array comprising at least two rows of two or more digital cameras, wherein the digital camera array is optically coupled to the neutron scintillator; anda mirror positioned between the neutron scintillator and the digital camera array along a particle pathway, wherein the mirror is positioned offset from the neutron scintillator in a first direction and the digital camera array is positioned offset from the neutron scintillator in a second direction.

2. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 1, wherein a target object is positioned in alignment with the neutron scintillator such that the target object is positioned to obstruct neutrons from impinging the neutron scintillator.

3. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 1, wherein the neutron scintillator comprises a plurality of scintillation regions, and each scintillation region optically coupled to an individual digital camera of the digital camera array.

4. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 3, wherein:the plurality' of scintillation regions comprise a first scintillation region and a second scintillation region;a first target object is positioned in alignment with the first scintillation region such that the first target object is positioned to obstruct neutrons from impinging the first scintillation region; anda second target object is positioned in alignment with the second scintillation region such that the second target object is positioned to obstruct neutrons from impinging the second scintillation region.Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.6015. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 3, wherein a plurality of target objects are positioned such that at least one target object is in alignment with each of the plurality of scintillation regions such that each individual target object is positioned to obstruct neutrons from impinging an aligned individual scintillation region.

6. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 3, wherein a target object is positioned in alignment with the neutron scintillator such that the target object obstructs neutrons from impinging at least two of the plurality of scintillation regions.

7. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 1, further comprising a sample chamber configured to house a target object, wherein the sample chamber is positioned such that the neutron scintillator is between the sample chamber and the mirror along the particle pathway.

8. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 7, wherein the target object is positioned in the sample chamber.

9. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 1, further comprising a neutron collimator comprising an entry end opposite an exit end, wherein the particle pathway extends through the neutron collimator from the entry end to the exit end before reaching the neutron scintillator and an inner surface of the neutron collimator is lined wi th a neutron absorber.

10. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 1, wherein each row of the digital camera array comprises at least three digital cameras.

11. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 1, further comprising a liquid cooling system.

12. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 11, wherein each digital camera of the digital camera array is liquid cooled using the liquid cooling system.Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.60113. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 1. wherein each digital camera is communicatively coupled to a central signal switch positioned in the enclosure, wherein the central signal switch is communicatively coupled to an external computing device.

14. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 13, wherein the central signal switch is communicatively coupled to the external computing device by a single optical fiber cable.

15. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 1, further comprising a camera mounting grid and each digital camera of the digital camera array is mounted to the camera mounting grid.

16. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 15, wherein each digital camera is communicatively coupled to a central signal switch mounted to the camera mounting grid between the at least two rows of two or more digital cameras, wherein the central signal switch is communicatively coupled to an external computing device.

17. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 1, wherein the enclosure is a light tight enclosure.

18. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 1, further comprising a shielding assembly positioned around a portion of the enclosure.

19. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 18, wherein the shielding assembly comprises a gamma shielding layer and a neutron shielding layer.

20. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 19, wherein the gamma shielding layer is positioned between the neutron shielding layer and the enclosure.

21. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 18, wherein:the shielding assembly comprises an interior shielding portion positioned within the enclosure between the mirror and at least a portion of the digital camera array; andAtty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601the interior shielding portion includes openings aligned with each digital camera of the digital camera array, such that each digital camera of the digital camera array is optically coupled to the mirror.

22. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 1, wherein the digital cameras of the digital camera array comprise a focal length in a range of from 80 mm to 150 mm and an angle of view in a range of from 15°to 30°.

23. A neutron imaging system comprising:a neutron source configured to produce neutrons; andthe digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 1.

24. The neutron imaging system of claim 23, wherein the neutron source comprises a beam target and a particle accelerator for generating neutrons from the beam target.

25. The neutron imaging system of claim 23, wherein the neutron source comprises a reactor.

26. A method comprisingproducing neutrons using a neutron source such that a first portion of neutrons are obstructed by a target object and a second portion of neutrons impinge a neutron scintillator of a digital neutron imaging assembly, the digital neutron imaging assembly further comprising:an enclosure housing the neutron scintillator;a digital camera array comprising at least two rows of two or more digital cameras; anda mirror positioned between the neutron scintillator and the digital camera array along a particle pathway, wherein:the digital camera array is optically coupled to the neutron scintillator; the mirror is positioned offset from the neutron scintillator in a first direction;Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601the digital camera array is positioned offset from the neutron scintillator in a second direction; andthe second portion of neutrons induce a scintillation reaction such that the neutron scintillator generates corresponding photons that propagate from the neutron scintillator to the digital camera array; andgenerating a digital image of the target object using at least one of the digital cameras of the digital camera array.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the neutron scintillator comprises a plurality of scintillation regions, and each scintillation region is optically coupled to an individual digital camera of the digital camera array.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein:the plurality of scintillation regions comprise a first scintillation region and a second scintillation region;a first target object is positioned in alignment with the first scintillation region such that the first target object obstructs neutrons from impinging the first scintillation region; and a second target object is positioned in alignment with the second scintillation region such that the second target object is positioned to obstruct neutrons from impinging the second scintillation region, and the method further comprises:generating a first digital image of the first target obj ect using a first digital camera of the digital camera array and a second digital image of the second target object using a second digital camera of the digital camera array.

29. The method of claim 27, wherein:the target object is one of a plurality of target objects positioned and at least one of the plurality of target objects is in alignment with each of the plurality of scintillation regions such that each individual target object is positioned to obstruct neutrons from impinging an aligned individual scintillation region and the method further comprises:generating a digital image of each of the plurality of target obj ects using a digital camera of the digital camera array.Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.60130. The method of claim 27, wherein:the target object is positioned in alignment with the neutron scintillator such that the target object obstructs neutrons from impinging at least two of the plurality of scintillation regions and the method further comprises:generating a digital image of the target object using two of more digital cameras of the digital camera array, wherein each of the two of more digital cameras captures photons corresponding with different portions of the target object.

31. The method of claim 26, wherein the target object is a turbine blade, munition, a product that utilizes energetic materials, a fuse, rocket, a chemically activated device, a nuclear fuel rod, a pyrotechnic material, a spacecraft part, a wind turbine component, or an aerospace part.

32. The method of claim 26, wherein the neutron source comprises a beam target and a particle accelerator for generating neutrons from the beam target.

33. The method of claim 26, wherein the neutron source comprises a reactor.

34. The method of claim 26, wherein each row of the digital camera array comprises at least three digital cameras.

35. The method of claim 26, further comprising a liquid cooling system.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein each digital camera of the digital camera array is liquid cooled using the liquid cooling system.

37. The method of claim 26, wherein each digital camera is communicatively coupled to a central signal switch positioned in the enclosure, wherein the central signal switch is communicatively coupled to an external computing device.Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.60138. The method of claim 37, wherein the central signal switch is communicatively coupled to the external computing device by a single optical fiber cable.

39. The method of claim 26, wherein the digital neutron imaging assembly comprises a camera mounting grid and each digital camera of the digital camera array is mounted to the camera mounting grid.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein each digital camera is communicatively coupled to a central signal switch mounted to the camera mounting grid between the at least two rows of two or more digital cameras, wherein the central signal switch is communicatively coupled to an external computing device.

41. The method of claim 26, wherein the enclosure is a light tight enclosure.

42. The method of claim 26, wherein a shielding assembly is positioned around a portion of the enclosure.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein the shielding assembly comprises a gamma shielding layer and a neutron shielding layer.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the gamma shielding layer is positioned between the neutron shielding layer and the enclosure.

45. The method of claim 42, wherein:the shielding assembly comprises an interior shielding portion positioned within the enclosure between the mirror and at least a portion of the digital camera array; andthe interior shielding portion includes openings aligned with each digital camera of the digital camera array, such that each digital camera of the digital camera array is optically coupled to the mirror.Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.60146. The method of claim 26, wherein the digital cameras of the digital camera array comprise a focal length in a range of from 80 mm to 150 mm and an angle of view in a range of from 15° to 30°.

47. A digital neutron imaging assembly comprising:a neutron collimator comprising an entry end opposite an exit end, wherein a particle pathway extends through the neutron collimator from the entry end to the exit end;a camera assembly comprising:an enclosure housing a neutron scintillator;a digital camera array comprising at least two rows of two or more digital cameras, wherein the digital camera array is optically coupled to the neutron scintillator; anda mirror positioned between the neutron scintillator and the digital camera array along the particle pathway, wherein the neutron scintillator and the minor are positioned offset from the exit end of the neutron collimator in a first direction and the digital camera array is positioned offset from the exit end of the neutron collimator in a second direction; anda sample chamber positioned between the exit end of the neutron collimator and the neutron scintillator of the camera assembly along the particle pathway.

48. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 47, wherein each row of the digital camera array comprises at least three digital cameras.

49. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 47, further comprising a liquid cooling system.

50. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 49, wherein each digital camera of the digital camera array is liquid cooled using the liquid cooling system.

51. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 47, wherein the enclosure is a light tight enclosure.Atty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.60152. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 47, further comprising a shielding assembly positioned around a portion of the enclosure.

53. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 52, wherein the shielding assembly comprises a gamma shielding layer and a neutron shielding layer.

54. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 53, wherein the gamma shielding layer is positioned between the neutron shielding layer and the enclosure.

55. The digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 52, wherein:the shielding assembly comprises an interior shielding portion positioned within the enclosure between the mirror and at least a portion of the digital camera array; andthe interior shielding portion includes openings aligned with each digital camera of the digital camera array, such that each digital camera of the digital camera array is optically coupled to the mirror.

56. A neutron imaging system comprising:a neutron source configured to produce neutrons; andthe digital neutron imaging assembly of claim 47.

57. A method comprisingproducing neutrons using a neutron source such that neutrons enter an entry end of a neutron collimator of a digital neutron imaging assembly, the digital neutron imaging assembly further comprising:a camera assembly comprising:an enclosure housing a neutron scintillator;a digital camera array comprising at least two rows of two or more digital cameras, wherein the digital camera array is optically coupled to the neutron scintillator; andAtty Docket No. SHINE2-45285.601a mirror positioned between the neutron scintillator and the digital camera array along a particle pathway, wherein the neutron scintillator and the mirror are positioned offset from an exit end of the neutron collimator in a first direction and the digital camera array is positioned offset from the exit end of the neutron collimator in a second direction; anda sample chamber positioned between an exit end of the neutron collimator and the neutron scintillator of the camera assembly along a particle pathway, wherein:at least some of the neutrons exit the exit end of the neutron collimator, traverse the sample chamber, and impinge the neutron scintillator thereby inducing a scintillation reaction and generating corresponding photons that propagate from the neutron scintillator to the digital camera array; anda target object is positioned in the sample chamber, wherein the target object obstructs a portion of the neutrons traversing the sample chamber; and generating a digital image of the target object using at least one of the digital cameras of the digital camera array.

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