Linear Detector Array for 3D X-Ray Imaging via Motion Parallax
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional line-scan X-ray systems provide limited information about the three-dimensional shape and composition of objects, particularly when dealing with heterogeneous materials or multiple components, as they generate two-dimensional shadowgraphs that are difficult to interpret and lack full stereoscopic depth cues.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a series of linear X-ray or gamma-ray detectors and a high-energy radiation source to generate multiple images through monocular movement parallax, allowing for the display of successive images on a two-dimensional screen without the need for stereoscopic viewing apparatus, using direct and intermediate images to create an effective impression of three-dimensional movement and composition analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional line-scan X-ray systems generate two-dimensional shadowgraphs, then the system complexity is low, but the ability to interpret three-dimensional shape and composition is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies motion parallax by moving the object through the scanning zone to create successive two-dimensional images at different positions. This temporal dimension of movement allows the human visual system to infer three-dimensional spatial relationships from the sequence of 2D images, effectively adding depth perception without requiring complex stereoscopic hardware
2Measurement precision
If full stereoscopic imaging is implemented to provide physiological depth cues, then three-dimensional resolution is improved, but the device complexity and operational constraints increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses motion parallax as an intermediary mechanism that translates object movement through the scanning zone into differential viewing angles for successive images. This intermediary approach provides sufficient depth perception for security screening applications without requiring the complex dual-eye stereoscopic system, balancing measurement precision with device simplicity
3Measurement precision
If multiple linear detectors are used to generate multiple images for motion parallax, then three-dimensional resolution is improved, but the quantity of radiation and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a limited number of linear detectors (at least two, preferably three to five) positioned at different lateral locations to capture sufficient parallax information. This partial action approach provides adequate three-dimensional resolution for security applications without the excessive radiation dose and processing load that would result from using many more detectors or full stereoscopic systems
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 the user's ability to resolve objects and their components in three-dimensional space, providing improved information about shape and composition without the complexity of stereoscopic systems, and can be integrated into existing X-ray scanning technologies.
Implementation Method 1
The beam of the source may be collimated into a curtain, usually referred to as a 'curtain beam', and is then detected by a linear array detector for example comprising a linear photodiode array
Implementation Method 2
a linear photodiode array
Implementation Method 3
Image information is obtained by having the object of interest move linearly for example at right angles with respect to the beam and storing successive scans of X-ray transmission information
Data Source
Figure 1~2a
Figure 2b~3
Figure 4
AI summary
An apparatus and method for obtaining an image of an object. The apparatus comprises a radiation source and a series of two to five linear detectors spaced therefrom to define a scanning zone; means to cause an object to move relative to and through the scanning zone; a direct image generation apparatus to generate an image from the output of a linear detector; an intermediate image generation apparatus configured to generate at least one intermediate image from an adjacent pair of linear detectors, by processing the output of the pair of detectors and generating an image representative of an output intermediate between the two said detector outputs; the image apparatus adapted such that at least five and preferably at least six images are generated in total; an image display adapted successively to display such images and thus display the monocular movement parallax between the images.