Compact X-ray Body Scanner with Vertical Translation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging systems for detecting concealed security threats are either ineffective due to their inability to penetrate deeply into body cavities or are bulky and difficult to transport, as they require extensive disassembly and mechanical lifting equipment.
Innovation Solution
A compact imaging system with a translational mechanism that vertically translates an X-ray source and detector using a connecting member and linear actuators, allowing for independent movement and alignment, enabling efficient detection of concealed threats while maintaining a small form factor suitable for easy transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional imaging systems use extensive mechanical lifting equipment and large structures to achieve proper X-ray translation, then imaging capability is improved, but device size and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the X-ray source and detector into a single integrated assembly that moves together as one unit, eliminating the need for separate lifting equipment for each component. This merging reduces the overall device size while maintaining imaging capability through coordinated translation of the combined assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The translating assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously - it positions both the X-ray source and detector, provides geometric alignment, and enables vertical translation for imaging. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mechanical lifting equipment, reducing device volume while maintaining reliability.
2Measurement precision
If conventional imaging systems use separate translation mechanisms for X-ray source and detector, then imaging precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the translation functions for the X-ray source and detector into a single translating assembly that moves both components simultaneously. This reduces mechanism complexity while maintaining imaging precision through the integrated design that ensures proper geometric alignment during translation.
Solution Approach 2:
The translating assembly dynamically adjusts the positions of both the X-ray source and detector together during imaging operations, allowing precise geometric alignment to be maintained automatically throughout the translation process without requiring separate control mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional imaging systems use large structural components to ensure proper alignment, then imaging quality is improved, but ease of transport and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the X-ray source, detector, and their translation mechanisms into a single integrated assembly, the patent achieves proper alignment precision without requiring large separate structural components. The compact design maintains portability while the integrated translation mechanism ensures consistent geometric alignment during imaging.
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
The system effectively detects concealed threats in body cavities with improved image quality and reduced geometric distortion, while being compact enough to pass through standard doorways without extensive disassembly, enhancing operational efficiency and portability.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray source configured to emit an X-ray beam, and an X-ray detector configured to detect the X-ray beam emitted by the X-ray source
Implementation Method 2
an active area defined by at least one photodiode array configured to absorb radiant energy associated with the X-ray beam emitted by the X-ray source
Data Source
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AI summary
Imaging systems and methods are provided for detecting objects that may be hidden under clothing, ingested, inserted, or otherwise concealed on or in a person's body. An imaging assembly, e.g., X-ray source and X-ray detector, and mechanisms, e.g., a translational mechanism for vertically moving the imaging assembly, may be configured to reduce the overall form factor of such imaging systems, while still retaining an ability to perform full/complete imaging of a subject.