Scatter Imaging With Collimated Detectors for Hidden Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inspection systems struggle to detect objects hidden by opaque materials or those appearing dark on transmission views due to overlap and location in the line of transmission, leading to missed detections in X-ray images.
Innovation Solution
A detection system utilizing a plurality of detectors with associated collimators to selectively receive scatter radiation from specific zones of a load, allowing for enhanced 2D and 3D imaging by controlling the direction of scattered radiation, thereby improving object detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If transmission imaging is used to inspect cargo, then the inspection system can detect objects in the load, but objects hidden by opaque materials or appearing dark on transmission views cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies scatter imaging as a complementary method to transmission imaging. Instead of only viewing objects through transmission (one direction), the system captures scattered radiation from multiple angles, effectively viewing the load from 'the other way round' to reveal hidden objects that appear dark or invisible in transmission views.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from 2D transmission imaging to 3D scatter imaging by capturing radiation scattered in multiple directions. The system uses multiple detectors positioned at different angles to collect scatter data, adding a dimensional aspect that reveals objects hidden in the line of transmission.
2Quantity of substance
If scatter radiation is detected without collimators, then more scattered radiation can be captured, but radiation from multiple zones overlaps and reduces detection precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection process into discrete segments by using collimators with apertures for each detector. Each aperture is positioned to receive scatter radiation from a specific zone of the load, segmenting the overall detection into distinct spatial regions. This prevents overlap between adjacent zones while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by giving each detector a specialized function through its associated collimator aperture. Each aperture is optimized to capture radiation from a specific angular range and zone, creating localized detection capabilities that collectively provide precise whole-load imaging.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple detectors are used to capture scatter radiation from different zones, then detection coverage is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple detection functions into a unified scatter imaging system. Multiple detectors with their associated collimators are integrated and controlled by a single processor that combines all scatter data to generate comprehensive images of the load, achieving versatile detection coverage through systematic integration.
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 enhanced detection of hidden objects through precise scatter radiation analysis, facilitating accurate 2D and 3D imaging of loads, even when obscured by opaque materials.
Implementation Method 1
scatter radiation from the load, wherein the scatter radiation is emitted by a zone of the load in response to the zone being irradiated by radiation transmitted through the zone
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B~2C
AI summary
In one aspect, it is disclosed a detection system comprising: a plurality of detectors, each detector being configured to detect radiation scattered by an associated respective portion of a load to inspect, the radiation being scattered in response to the respective portion being irradiated by radiation transmitted through the portion; and a plurality of collimators associated with the plurality of detectors, each collimator of the plurality of collimators being associated with a respective detector of the plurality of detectors and being configured to, for each detector of the plurality of detectors: enable radiation scattered by the respective portion of the load to reach the associated detector of the plurality of detectors, and inhibit other scattered radiation from reaching the associated detector.