Multi-beam X-ray Scanner with Segmented Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray scanning systems for passengers are inefficient and pose health risks due to high radiation levels, limited mobility, and inability to effectively scan internal body cavities and footwear, which are often used for concealing contraband.
Innovation Solution
A high-efficiency multi-beam stereoscopic X-ray scanner system with two low-intensity X-ray sources, slit collimators, and a mobile platform within a van, allowing for complete body scanning in a single cycle with minimal radiation exposure, using a van-based setup with vertical columns and a horizontal platform for movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a single low-intensity X-ray source is used, then radiation safety is improved, but scanning completeness and detection accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the scanning system into multiple independent X-ray sources (at least two) positioned at different locations, each responsible for scanning specific body regions. This segmentation allows comprehensive coverage while maintaining low radiation dosage per source, resolving the contradiction between safety and detection completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces multi-angle scanning by positioning X-ray sources at different locations around the body, adding spatial dimensionality to the scanning process. This enables detection of objects in various orientations and body cavities that a single-source system would miss, improving detection accuracy without increasing radiation exposure per scan.
2Measurement precision
If a stationary scanning system is used, then image quality is improved, but mobility and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a mobile platform that can move the person being scanned through the scanning zone, transforming the stationary system into a dynamic one. This allows the system to be relocated and adapted to different security checkpoints while maintaining scanning effectiveness through controlled movement during the scanning process.
3Measurement precision
If multiple scanning cycles are required, then detection thoroughness is improved, but scanning efficiency and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous multi-angle scanning by positioning multiple X-ray sources to scan different body regions simultaneously or in rapid sequence as the person moves through the system. This eliminates the need for multiple discrete scanning cycles, maintaining thorough detection while significantly improving scanning efficiency and reducing wait time.
4Measurement precision
If the X-ray source is positioned to scan the torso, then detection of internal cavities is improved, but coverage of legs and footwear deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the body into multiple scanning zones with dedicated X-ray sources positioned to target specific regions including torso, legs, and footwear. This ensures comprehensive coverage of all potential concealment areas while maintaining optimized detection parameters for each region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds vertical and lateral positioning dimensions for X-ray sources to achieve coverage of lower body regions and footwear that were previously inaccessible. By positioning sources at multiple heights and angles, the system comprehensively scans the entire body surface and cavities without compromising detection accuracy.
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
Enables safe, efficient, and accurate scanning of the entire body, including internal cavities and footwear, with low radiation doses, improving detection efficiency and mobility compared to existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
two sources of low-intensity X-ray radiation
Implementation Method 2
with at least one slit collimator
Implementation Method 3
a linear detector of X-ray radiation passing through the body of the person being examined
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
An X-ray examination station includes a first source of X-ray radiation for whole body scanning of a human body using a first fan beam of X-ray radiation; a first vertical linear radiation detector configured to detect the first fan beam; a second source of X-ray radiation installed at mid-height of a person being examined, for scanning a central portion of the human body using a second fan beam of X-ray radiation; a second vertical detector of X-ray radiation configured to detect the second fan beam; and a control unit configured to turn on each of the X-ray radiation sources. The first and the second radiation fan beams are emitted in parallel planes. The first X-ray radiation source is turned on for the whole body scanning. The second X-ray radiation source is turned on for scanning the central portion of the body.