Mobile X-Ray Scanner for Low-Profile Package Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current x-ray systems for inspecting unidentified packages are either stationary, posing risks to bomb squad members, or use handheld sources with low flux and uncontrolled energy, limiting image quality and safety, and are unsuitable for scanning objects near the ground or on desktops.
Innovation Solution
A small mobile x-ray scanning system mounted on a robotic platform with a non-pulsed x-ray source that can adjust energy levels and a detector arm with angular motion to scan objects at various heights and positions, including close to the ground, ensuring higher image quality and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If handheld x-ray sources are used, then portability is improved, but image quality deteriorates due to low flux
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the x-ray generation and detection functions into separate modular components: a mobile platform with x-ray source and a separate detector arm. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the source can be a compact handheld unit while the detector can be a high-quality stationary panel, resolving the contradiction between portability and image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a movable bridge or robotic arm as an intermediary carrier that holds the detector panel and positions it precisely between the handheld x-ray source and the object being scanned. This intermediary mechanism enables the use of high-quality stationary detectors while maintaining the portability benefits of handheld sources.
2Ease of operation
If handheld x-ray sources are used, then portability is improved, but safety deteriorates due to uncontrolled high voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a robotic arm or movable bridge as an intermediary that carries the detector away from the operator's hands. This intermediary mechanism allows the operator to trigger the x-ray source remotely while maintaining a safe distance, eliminating direct exposure to uncontrolled high voltage and radiation while preserving portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with automated robotic positioning systems. The robotic arm can be precisely controlled via software to position the detector and adjust scanning parameters, reducing human exposure to high voltage risks while maintaining system portability.
3Area of stationary object
If large mobile systems mounted on trucks are used, then coverage area is improved, but adaptability to low positions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamically adjustable components including telescopic arms, articulated joints, and height-adjustable detector mounts on the mobile platform. These dynamic elements allow the scanner to adapt its positioning to scan objects at various heights including those near the ground, while maintaining the large coverage area capability of mobile systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces multi-axis positioning capabilities that allow the detector to move not only horizontally for wide coverage but also vertically and at various angles. This dimensional flexibility enables the system to scan objects at low positions near the ground while maintaining comprehensive coverage area capability.
4Power
If x-ray energy is increased, then penetration capability is improved, but image quality for soft objects deteriorates due to washed out effect
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates adjustable x-ray tube voltage and current controls that allow operators to dynamically change the energy parameters of the x-ray source. For soft or low-density objects, the system can reduce energy parameters to prevent washed-out images, while for dense objects requiring greater penetration, energy can be increased. The detector is equipped with energy-sensitive elements that can distinguish different energy levels to optimize image quality across varying object densities.
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 reduces risk to bomb squad members by enabling high-quality imaging of objects at different heights and positions, including near the ground, with controlled x-ray energy levels, enhancing the detection of explosive contents.
Implementation Method 1
a transmissive x-ray system mounted on a small mobile platform such as robots
Implementation Method 2
a detector panel which is sensitive to x-rays and can record an image of the object when x-rays pass through it
Data Source
AI summary
This invention describes a method of inspecting unidentified packages placed on the floor or ground, or on desktops or counters. The method uses a transmissive x-ray system mounted on a small mobile platform such as robots. X-ray is emitted from the source directed away from the platform and detected by a detector arm supported on an extended member attached to a vertical member such that the object to be inspected can pass in between the detector arm and the x-ray source. To scan portions of the object close to the ground, the height of the x-ray source is lowered close to the ground, and during transportation, it is raised up so that there is more clearance from the ground. To scan objects located on higher levels such as desks, the detector arm has an angular movement greater than ninety degrees with respect to an axis that has a vertical component.