Multi-Energy X-Ray Cargo Inspection via Electron Beam Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo inspection systems using interlaced dual-energy X-ray technology are limited by slow inspection speeds due to the need for separate pulses of different energies, which are not suitable for fast-moving cargo and are constrained by the available RF power, limiting the maximum pulse repetition frequency and inspection speed.
Innovation Solution
The method involves generating a multiple-energy X-ray pulse using a standing wave resonator, where a beam of electrons is modulated to achieve distinct beam current amplitudes and temporal profiles, with specific delays to produce accelerated electrons that generate X-rays with varying energy levels within a single RF pulse, allowing for dynamic dose control and improved material discrimination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate pulses of different energies are used for material discrimination, then material discrimination capability is improved, but inspection speed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple energy pulses into a single composite pulse by injecting electron beams at different timing within the same RF pulse window. This allows simultaneous acquisition of multiple energy measurements without requiring separate pulses, thereby maintaining inspection speed while improving material discrimination capability through multi-energy differential transmission analysis
2Productivity
If pulse repetition frequency is increased to improve inspection speed, then productivity is improved, but RF power availability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous useful action by injecting multiple electron beams at different timing within a single RF pulse, maximizing the utilization of each RF pulse's duration. This continuous utilization of RF power throughout the pulse window increases the effective pulse repetition frequency without exceeding RF power availability constraints, thereby improving inspection speed while maintaining power efficiency
3Stability of the object's composition
If electron beam injection timing is optimized for steady state energy, then energy stability is improved, but adaptability to different inspection requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by allowing flexible adjustment of electron beam injection timing within the RF pulse window. Different timing configurations can be selected based on inspection requirements: timing optimized for steady state energy when stability is prioritized, or timing adjusted for dynamic dose control when adaptability is needed. This dynamic timing adjustment mechanism enables the system to adapt between different operational modes without compromising overall system performance
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 enhances material discrimination capabilities while maintaining high scanning speeds, optimizing the X-ray dose to cargo and environment, and allows for fine adjustment of optimal delays for low and high-energy pulses, improving the efficiency and accuracy of cargo inspection.
Implementation Method 1
accelerating the modulated beam of electrons with the radio frequency field within the accelerating structure to produce accelerated electrons and impinging the accelerated electrons upon a target for generating X-rays
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the disclosed system and method provide for generating a multiple-energy X-ray pulse. A beam of electrons is generated with an electron gun and modulated prior to injection into an accelerating structure to achieve at least a first and second specified beam current amplitude over the course of respective beam current temporal profiles. A radio frequency field is applied to the accelerating structure with a specified RF field amplitude and a specified RF temporal profile. The first and second specified beam current amplitudes are injected serially, each after a specified delay, in such a manner as to achieve at least two distinct energies of electrons accelerated within the accelerating structure during a course of a single RF-pulse. The beam of electrons is accelerated by the radio frequency field within the accelerating structure to produce accelerated electrons which impinge upon a target for generating Bremsstrahlung X-rays.