Multiple Pass Cargo Inspection System for Large Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo inspection systems face challenges in efficiently inspecting a wide range of cargo sizes within limited space, as they require significant space and infrastructure changes to accommodate varying object sizes, and struggle to produce complete images without corner cut-offs, especially for larger objects.
Innovation Solution
A multiple pass inspection system using a radiation source with translational and rotational movement, mounted on a gantry, which allows for scanning vehicles and cargo of varying sizes by adjusting scanning distances and angles in multiple passes to ensure comprehensive imaging without corner cut-offs, maintaining high throughput.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single-pass inspection system is used, then inspection throughput is maximized, but complete imaging of large objects cannot be achieved without corner cut-offs
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection process is divided into multiple passes, where each pass scans a specific portion of the object. The system performs a first pass scan to capture initial imaging data and a second pass scan to capture additional data from different positions, thereby segmenting the complete imaging task into manageable portions that can be combined for full object coverage without sacrificing throughput
2Area of stationary object
If a compact inspection system is used, then space requirements are minimized, but the ability to inspect large objects completely is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation source and detector array are mounted on a movable gantry system that can dynamically adjust positions. The gantry can move the scanning system to different locations (first position, second position, and intermediate positions) to adapt to objects of varying sizes, allowing a compact system to inspect both small and large objects completely
3Adaptability or versatility
If high energy X-ray sources or LINAC are used, then inspection capability for large objects is improved, but shielding requirements and building footprint increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing the building footprint in the horizontal plane to accommodate larger shielding requirements, the system uses vertical movement of the gantry to create multiple scanning positions. This dimensional approach allows the system to inspect large objects by moving the radiation source and detectors vertically between positions, reducing the horizontal shielding requirements while maintaining inspection capability
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 effectively scans objects of all sizes, including large trucks, in a compact configuration, minimizing space requirements and ensuring optimal throughput by using multiple passes to capture complete images without corner cut-offs, enhancing detection capabilities and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A multiple pass cargo inspection system, employing a radiation source, capable of scanning vehicles and/or cargo in a wide range of sizes
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a cargo inspection system, employing a radiation source, capable of scanning vehicles and/or cargo in a wide range of sizes, including conventional imaging areas as well as taller and bulkier enclosures at sufficiently optimal efficacy and overall throughput. In one embodiment, the present invention is a multiple pass inspection method for inspecting vehicles and their cargo, comprising a first pass scan, wherein said first pass scan includes moving a radiation source at a suitable scanning distance, rotating a radiation source at a suitable scanning angle, and moving said radiation source along an object under inspection.