Backscatter X-ray FOD Detection via Structural Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting foreign object debris (FOD) in complex structures, such as aircraft, are inadequate due to the difficulty in visually inspecting and interpreting backscatter X-ray images, which often mask FOD within multiple layers and hardware, leading to potential overlooks during fabrication and modification processes.
Innovation Solution
A method involving obtaining baseline and secondary backscatter X-ray images after imparting movement to the structure, allowing for image subtraction to isolate and identify FOD by removing the overlying structure, thereby enhancing the detection of hidden FOD and structural anomalies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If backscatter X-ray imaging is used to detect FOD in complex structures, then the ability to image internal structures is improved, but the images become difficult to interpret because multiple layers and hardware mask the FOD
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by moving the structure (or components within it) to a different position before taking the second X-ray image. This movement causes FOD to shift positions relative to the structure, creating detectable differences when comparing baseline and secondary images. The movement is performed in advance to enable subsequent image subtraction that isolates FOD from the complex structural background.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the positional parameter of the structure or its components between baseline and secondary imaging. By altering the position of the structure or introducing movement, the relative positions of FOD change while the structural framework remains relatively stable. This parameter change enables the image subtraction process to differentiate between static structural elements and moved FOD.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual visual inspection is used to detect FOD, then the inspection process is simple, but FOD is frequently overlooked due to accessibility and inefficiency issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual visual inspection system with an automated X-ray imaging and image processing system. Instead of relying on human technicians to physically examine structures, the system uses backscatter X-ray imaging combined with image subtraction algorithms to automatically detect FOD. This substitution maintains ease of operation while dramatically improving detection reliability by eliminating human oversight errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces image subtraction processing as an intermediary step between X-ray image acquisition and FOD identification. The subtraction process acts as a mediator that isolates FOD signals from the complex structural background by comparing baseline and secondary images. This intermediary processing step enhances the reliability of detection while keeping the overall system relatively simple to operate.
3Productivity
If existing X-ray subtraction processes are used, then images can be processed, but hidden FOD is not enhanced because the processes do not account for structural movements or FOD displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by intentionally introducing movement between baseline and secondary imaging rather than keeping everything static. This dynamic approach causes FOD to change position relative to the structural framework, creating detectable differences in the subtracted images. The dynamic movement element is what enables the system to distinguish hidden FOD from static structural features, significantly improving detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs mechanical vibration or agitation of the structure to cause FOD to shift positions during the imaging process. By vibrating or agitating the structure between baseline and secondary imaging, FOD items become displaced relative to the structural framework, making them visible through image subtraction. This vibration-based approach enhances the detection of previously hidden FOD while maintaining efficient processing.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach significantly improves the probability of detecting FOD and structural anomalies by isolating FOD in the difference image, reducing the likelihood of overlooks and enhancing the efficiency of FOD detection processes.
Implementation Method 1
interrogating a portion of an aircraft with an X-ray source
Implementation Method 2
backscatter X-ray FOD detection
Data Source
AI summary
A method for detecting an anomaly associated with a structure is described. The method includes obtaining a baseline scan of the structure, changing at least one condition associated with the structure which is intended to impart a movement of the structure or a movement of objects within the structure, obtaining a secondary scan of the structure, the secondary scan obtained from a same position, with respect to the structure, as the baseline scan, determining any differences between the baseline scan and the secondary scan, and identifying at least one of a foreign object proximate the structure and a structural anomaly associated with the structure based on any differences between the baseline scan and the secondary scan.