Backscatter X-ray Tool Alignment via Pixel Coordinate Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Backscatter x-ray scanning systems face challenges in accurately aiming tools at specific positions on concealed targets, particularly when the x-ray source and detector are not on opposing sides, such as in security screening or medical procedures, due to limitations in positioning and alignment.
Innovation Solution
A backscatter x-ray scanning system that includes an x-ray source generating collimated x-rays, a detector for reflected x-rays, and image processing software to generate images with corresponding pixels, allowing a user to select a region of interest and control motors to align a tool's directional axis with the selected pixel, enabling precise positioning of the tool relative to the target.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the x-ray source and detector are positioned on opposing sides of the target, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to positioning difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional transmission geometry by using backscatter geometry where the x-ray source and detector are on the same side of the target rather than opposing sides. This inversion simplifies positioning while maintaining measurement capability through detection of backscattered x-rays
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary coordinate transformation system that maps detector pixel coordinates to tool positioning coordinates. This intermediary transformation layer enables accurate tool positioning at selected target locations without requiring complex direct positioning mechanisms
2Measurement precision
If motors are used to position the tool, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity and loss of time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the tool platform multi-functional by integrating both the backscatter x-ray scanning capability and the tool positioning/delivery capability into a single unified system. This eliminates the need for separate positioning systems and enables coordinated operation of scanning and intervention functions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the coordinate transformation system that continuously maps detector pixel selections to corresponding tool positioning commands. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures accurate tool positioning at selected target locations while maintaining system simplicity
3Ease of operation
If automatic tool alignment is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-alignment through automatic coordinate transformation where the selected pixel coordinates automatically determine the tool positioning parameters. The system serves itself by converting detection coordinates to action coordinates without requiring manual alignment procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment procedures with automated computational coordinate transformation. Instead of requiring operators to physically align tools with targets, the system uses software-based coordinate mapping to automatically position the tool at the correct location
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
Enables accurate and precise alignment of tools, such as medical instruments or diffusers, with concealed targets, improving the effectiveness of security screening and medical procedures by allowing for targeted engagement or treatment.
Implementation Method 1
an x-ray source that generates collimated x-rays over a plurality of output vectors towards a target
Implementation Method 2
the detector detects x-rays that are diffusely reflected by the target responsive to the collimated x-rays impacting the target
Data Source
AI summary
Technologies pertaining to backscatter x-ray scanning systems are described herein. The backscatter x-ray scanning system includes an x-ray source, which directs collimated x-rays along a plurality of output vectors towards a target. A detector detects diffusely reflected x-rays subsequent to respective collimated x-rays impacting the target, and outputs signals indicative of parameters of the detected x-rays. An image processing system generates an x-ray image based upon parameters of the detected x-rays, wherein each pixel in the image corresponds to a respective output vector. A user selects a particular portion of the image, and a medical device is positioned such that its directional axis is coincident with the output vector corresponding to at least one pixel in the portion of the image.