Compact X-ray Body Scanner with Segmented Connecting Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional imaging systems for detecting concealed security threats are either time-consuming, ineffective, and objectionable due to their large size, complexity, and inability to efficiently scan individuals in high-security areas, and they often fail to detect threats hidden in body cavities or under clothing.

Innovation Solution

A compact imaging system utilizing a smaller form factor with a connecting member that supports an X-ray source and detector, allowing for vertical translation and alignment, enabling efficient detection of concealed threats by emitting a continuous beam of X-ray radiation that can pass through the body, rather than just reflecting off outer layers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional imaging systems are used to detect concealed security threats, then detection capability is provided, but the systems are large, complex, and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection capabilityVSAvoidsystem size and complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging system is divided into separate functional modules: an X-ray source assembly, a detector assembly, and a connecting member. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates compact integration while maintaining detection capability for concealed security threats

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The X-ray source and detector are positioned within a compact configuration where the connecting member integrates both components into a space-efficient assembly. This nested arrangement reduces overall system footprint while preserving the ability to detect threats hidden in body cavities and under clothing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If conventional imaging systems are used, then security screening is performed, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity detectionVSAvoidscanning speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs continuous X-ray beam emission through the connecting member that synchronizes the movement of the X-ray source and detector. This continuous imaging action eliminates gaps in detection and significantly increases scanning speed compared to conventional intermittent imaging methods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting member enables dynamic, synchronized movement of the X-ray source and detector through vertical translation. This dynamic capability allows the system to rapidly capture images of individuals passing through security checkpoints, improving productivity without compromising detection reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Measurement precision

If conventional imaging systems are used, then imaging is performed, but they cannot effectively detect threats in body cavities or under clothing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging qualityVSAvoiddetection effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system utilizes specific X-ray energy parameters and continuous beam emission to penetrate through body cavities and clothing layers. By optimizing X-ray parameters and maintaining continuous imaging, the system achieves superior detection effectiveness for hidden threats while preserving high imaging quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Reliability

If conventional imaging systems are used, then security screening is conducted, but they are difficult to transport through standard doorways

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity screening capabilityVSAvoidtransportability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging system is segmented into modular components that can be independently assembled and disassembled. The connecting member serves as a portable integration platform, allowing the system to be easily transported through standard doorways while maintaining full security screening capability when deployed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 security threats concealed in body cavities while being more efficient and less intrusive, allowing for quicker scanning and improved image quality, and is designed to be easily transportable through standard doorways without extensive disassembly.

Implementation Method 1

emitting a continuous beam of X-ray radiation that can pass through the body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray radiation: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS12038552B2Compact body scanner
Publication Date: 2024.07.16 TEK84 INC
  • US12038552B2 patent drawing
  • US12038552B2 patent drawing
  • US12038552B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Imaging systems and methods are provided for detecting object that may be hidden under clothing, ingested, inserted, or otherwise concealed on or in a person's body. An imaging assembly and mechanisms for 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.