Large Area X-Ray Detector for Cargo Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current x-ray inspection systems have limited detection capabilities for high-Z materials and other items of interest within cargo containers due to limited field of view and signal-to-noise ratio, making it difficult to distinguish these from common materials, especially when highly attenuating cargo is present.
Innovation Solution
A cargo container inspection system utilizing a large area x-ray detector (LAXD) with a matrix of pixels arranged to match the height of the container, combined with a processor that analyzes attenuated radiation beams to detect items of interest, and employs multiple-energy radiographic inspection and signal processing methods to enhance spatial resolution and contrast sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If linear detector arrays (LDA) are used in current x-ray inspection systems, then the system structure is simpler, but the field of view is limited and detection signal to noise ratio is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple linear detector arrays into a single large area detector that provides a wide field of view. This merging approach allows the system to capture the entire container cross-section in a single inspection, eliminating the need for multiple detector arrays while achieving the desired large detection area.
2Measurement precision
If current x-ray inspection systems are used, then the system is easier to operate, but the detection capability for high-Z materials is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple-energy radiographic inspection, which changes the energy parameters of the x-ray beam to enhance the detection of high-Z materials. By using different energy levels, the system can differentiate between common materials and high-Z materials such as uranium and plutonium, significantly improving detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces advanced signal processing methods as intermediaries between the raw detector signals and the final inspection results. These processing techniques enhance the contrast and clarity of the radiographic images, enabling better detection of high-Z materials while managing the complexity of the inspection system.
3Productivity
If current x-ray inspection systems are used, then the inspection throughput is limited, but the detection accuracy is maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a large area detector that enables continuous inspection of the entire container cross-section without interruptions or repeated measurements. This continuous action significantly improves inspection throughput while maintaining detection accuracy through advanced signal processing that preserves material differentiation capabilities.
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 significantly improves detection capability and throughput by providing enhanced radiation data and statistical definition, allowing for accurate identification of high-Z materials and other contraband within cargo containers, even in the presence of highly attenuating cargo.
Implementation Method 1
detect an attenuated radiation beam in response to the transmitted radiation beam passing through the cargo container
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo container inspection radiation detector apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a support, and a plurality of area radiation detectors disposed upon the support arranged corresponding to a height of the cargo container, each area radiation detector comprising an active area defined by a matrix of pixels.