Radiation Source Distribution Estimation via 3D Geometrical Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for determining the distribution and composition of radioactive material within facilities are expensive, time-consuming, and often require bulky equipment, providing less precise information, especially in initial plant investigations.
Innovation Solution
A method combining radiological and geometrical measurements using conventional cameras and radiation sensors to create a 3D model of the facility, estimating the distribution and composition of radioactive material and radiation field, allowing for a more efficient and cost-effective survey by assuming source locations and using parameterization to calculate the radiation field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional radiation measurement methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines radiological measurements with geometrical measurements from conventional cameras and laser scanners into an integrated measurement system. This merging allows the system to achieve precise 3D localization of radioactive sources using readily available equipment rather than specialized bulky radiation measurement devices, thereby improving measurement precision while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computer as an intermediary that processes both radiological and geometrical measurement data. The computer performs 3D localization calculations and source distribution estimation by integrating data from simple radiation detectors with geometrical information from cameras and laser scanners, enabling precise measurements without requiring complex specialized equipment
2Measurement precision
If conventional radiation measurement methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary 3D modeling of the facility using geometrical measurements from cameras and laser scanners before conducting radiation measurements. This preliminary action creates a ready-to-use spatial framework that accelerates the subsequent radiation source localization process, reducing overall survey time while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous data acquisition by simultaneously capturing radiological and geometrical measurements throughout the facility. The integrated system continuously gathers both types of data during the survey process, eliminating the need for separate measurement phases and reducing total survey time while preserving measurement precision
3Device complexity
If simple measurement methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges data from simple radiation detectors with geometrical information from conventional cameras and laser scanners. This combination allows the system to achieve precise 3D localization and source distribution estimation using inexpensive, readily available equipment rather than specialized bulky radiation measurement devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical radiation measurement systems with an integrated system that uses conventional cameras, laser scanners, and simple radiation detectors. The computer processing substitutes for complex specialized equipment by performing 3D localization and source distribution calculations through software algorithms
4Measurement precision
If detailed radiation field mapping is performed, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary 3D facility modeling using geometrical measurements before conducting detailed radiation field mapping. This pre-established spatial framework enables rapid and precise radiation source localization without requiring time-consuming manual mapping procedures, thereby improving precision while reducing survey time
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
This approach provides a more reliable and precise estimation of the radiation source distribution and field, enabling better estimation of shielding effects and radiation levels at various points within the facility, improving upon existing methods by requiring minimal equipment and providing greater insight into the radiation field.
Implementation Method 1
a gamma radiation camera, together with photogrammetry software
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(a)~2(b)
Figure 3
AI summary
A method of determining the distribution of radioactive material within a region is. described. A plurality of radiological measurements and associated geometrical measurements taken at a plurality of positions in said region are input to a computer system. A 3D model of structures within said region is defined and the position within the model of each radiation measurement is obtained by using the geometrical measurements. The radiological measurements are then ascribed to a distribution of sources restricted to defined locations in the 3D model. The source distribution is parameterised over the defined source locations, and each parameter is related to the calculated observable radiation field, calculated using a physical model, at each measurement position. The parameters are adjusted to optimize the correspondence between the actual radiological measurements and the calculated observable radiation field, to yield the distribution of radioactive material as defined by the adjusted parameters.