Multidimensional X-Ray Scanning for Counterfeit Package Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current x-ray imaging systems, particularly in supply-chain merchandise handling, face challenges in distinguishing counterfeit items from authentic ones due to limitations in dimensionality, leading to inefficiencies in screening large volumes and potential health risks with pharmaceuticals, as they often rely on 2D density information and require manual inspection for accurate analysis.
Innovation Solution
A container handling system employing a computer-implemented method using polychromatic x-rays and multidimensional scanning, such as 4-D or 5-D screening, with computed tomography (CT) and x-ray diffraction imaging (XDI) systems to create voxelized representations of containers, allowing for comparison of initial and final scans to authenticate packages, thereby distinguishing authentic from counterfeit items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 2-D x-ray transmission techniques are used to identify counterfeit products, then some physical anomalies are detectable, but pharmaceutical analyses are complicated and require manual inspection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2-D x-ray transmission techniques to 3-D computed tomography (CT) imaging. This dimensional enhancement allows for comprehensive volumetric analysis of pharmaceutical products, enabling accurate identification of counterfeit items without requiring manual inspection. The 3-D reconstruction provides complete internal structure visualization, resolving the limitation of 2-D projection techniques.
2Measurement precision
If XRPD systems are used for screening drugs, then pharmaceutical analysis capability is improved, but the screening process takes extended periods and limits throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical powder diffraction method with a non-contact 3-D CT imaging system. Instead of physically grinding samples into powder for XRPD analysis, the system uses polychromatic x-ray CT scanning to obtain volumetric data. This substitution dramatically reduces screening time while maintaining pharmaceutical analysis capability, as the entire package can be scanned without manual sample preparation.
3Measurement precision
If manual inspection is performed to pinpoint suspect materials, then accurate identification is achieved, but the screening process is time-consuming and cannot facilitate large-scale shipping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs 3-D volumetric scanning and virtual sectioning before any physical inspection. The system reconstructs the complete internal structure of packages and can virtually navigate to suspect areas, allowing operators to precisely locate and identify counterfeit materials without time-consuming manual searching. This preliminary virtual inspection eliminates the need for physical disassembly and rapid manual examination.
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
Facilitates cost-effective and efficient identification of counterfeit products with high detection probability and low false alarm rates, enabling rapid screening of large volumes of packages, such as in cabin and hold baggage, by utilizing multidimensional scanning to authenticate packages through pre-defined scan and data record protocols.
Implementation Method 1
performing a first scan of the container including irradiating the container with polychromatic x-rays with a first x-ray scanning system
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method of handling a container includes performing a first scan of the container. The container includes objects therein. The scan includes irradiating the container with polychromatic x-rays with a first x-ray scanning system at a first geographic location and generating a first scan record using a processing device. The method also includes moving the container from the first geographic location to a second geographic location. The method further includes performing a second scan of the container including irradiating the container with polychromatic x-rays with a second x-ray scanning system at the second geographic location and generating a second scan record using a processing device. The method also includes comparing the first scan record and the second scan record. The method further includes determining the second scan record is substantially indistinguishable or distinguishable from the first scan record.