Photoneutron Source Collimation for Inspection Yield
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neutron sources, such as isotope neutron sources and neutron generators, have limitations in neutron yield and service life, making them unsuitable for quick inspection of large-volume objects in security applications.
Innovation Solution
A photoneutron source comprising an electron accelerating tube, an X-ray converting target, a photoneutron target, and a neutron modulation housing, which generates and collimates a desired neutron beam for efficient inspection, featuring a compact structure and easy installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If isotope neutron sources or neutron generators are used, then neutron generation is achieved, but neutron yield and service life are insufficient for quick inspection of large-volume objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of neutron generation by transitioning from isotope-based or generator-based methods to a photoneutron method using high-energy X-rays (above 2.22 MeV) incident on deuterium-containing materials. This parameter change enables both high neutron yield and extended operational service life, resolving the contradiction between inspection speed and reliability
2Quantity of substance
If complex neutron sources are used to achieve sufficient neutron yield, then neutron generation capability is improved, but device complexity and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical neutron generation systems (isotope sources, neutron generators) with a simpler electromagnetic radiation-based system. By using high-energy X-rays incident on deuterium-containing materials to produce photoneutrons, the system achieves sufficient neutron yield with reduced mechanical complexity and lower maintenance requirements
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 photoneutron source provides high neutron yield, long service life, favorable radiation safety, and improved inspection efficiency for identifying specific substances like explosives and drugs within large containers and vehicles, with reduced complexity and maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
an electron accelerating tube for accelerating an electron beam; an X-ray converting target, wherein the electron beam accelerated by the electron accelerating tube bombards the X-ray converting target to generate X-rays
Implementation Method 2
a photoneutron target, wherein the X-ray enters the photoneutron target to generate photoneutrons
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The present invention discloses a photoneutron source and a neutron inspection system. The photoneutron source comprises: an electron accelerating tube for accelerating an electron beam; an X-ray converting target, wherein the electron beam accelerated by the electron accelerating tube bombards the X-ray converting target to generate X-rays; a photoneutron target, wherein the X-rays enters the photoneutron target to generates photoneutrons; and a neutron modulation housing provided outside the photoneutron target, wherein the neutron modulation housing comprises a neutron collimation port for outputting photoneutrons. The present invention may directly output a desired neutron beam from the neutron collimation port of the photoneutron source.