Robotic Arm Radiation Scanner for Cargo Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiation scanning technologies, such as radiographic imaging and CT scans, face challenges in efficiently and rapidly inspecting large objects like cargo containers for contraband due to superimposition of items, orientation dependence, and the time-consuming nature of CT reconstruction, which is not commercially viable for large-scale applications.
Innovation Solution
A scanning system utilizing a robotic arm and a radiation source pivotally coupled to it, moving around the object to generate radiation beams at multiple angles, combined with a detector array that can be positioned to avoid interference, allowing for efficient data collection and reconstruction of computed tomography images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If CT scanning is used to reconstruct cross-sectional images of luggage contents, then image quality and item identification capability are improved, but scanning time increases making it too slow for practical use
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs a preliminary radiographic scan to identify regions of interest, then applies CT reconstruction only to those specific regions rather than the entire object. This partial action approach maintains high image quality for suspicious areas while dramatically reducing total scanning time compared to full-object CT scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning process is divided into two segments: a rapid radiographic imaging phase for initial assessment, and a focused CT reconstruction phase for detailed analysis of identified regions. This segmentation allows the system to balance overall scanning speed with detailed image quality where needed.
2Productivity
If radiographic imaging is used to inspect object contents, then scanning speed is improved, but all items are superimposed on the image making it difficult to distinguish among them
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses radiographic imaging for rapid overall assessment, then applies CT reconstruction selectively to regions of interest where item distinguishability is needed. This approach maintains high scanning speed for the majority of the inspection while providing enhanced item separation and identification capability for suspicious areas.
Solution Approach 2:
Different imaging modalities are applied to different regions: rapid radiographic imaging for areas requiring only speed, and detailed CT reconstruction for regions where high item distinguishability is required. This local quality approach optimizes both scanning speed and measurement precision in their respective domains.
3Measurement precision
If a large third generation CT system is used to scan cargo containers, then imaging capability is improved, but system cost increases making it not commercially viable
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a relatively simple radiographic imaging setup for initial scanning, then applies computational CT reconstruction algorithms only to selected regions. This avoids the need for expensive large-scale third generation CT hardware while still providing CT-level imaging capability where needed, making the system commercially viable.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical CT scanning systems with a combination of simpler radiographic imaging hardware and computational reconstruction software. This substitution of mechanical complexity with computational processing achieves similar imaging capabilities at lower system cost and complexity.
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 system enables rapid and effective imaging of large objects by minimizing interference and optimizing data collection, reducing scanning time while maintaining high image quality, making it suitable for practical use in national security screening.
Implementation Method 1
a radiation source to generate a radiation beam to examine an object
Implementation Method 2
Radiation transmitted through the object is attenuated to varying degrees by the contents of the luggage
Data Source
AI summary
In one example, a scanning system for examining contents of an object is disclosed comprising a frame encompassing, at least in part, a first interior region, a robotic arm movably supported by the frame, and a radiation source to generate a radiation beam to examine an object, the radiation source being pivotally coupled to the robotic arm. A detector is positioned and configured to encompass, at least in part, a second interior region within the first interior region, to detect radiation after interaction with the object. A conveying system moves the object, at least in part, through the second interior region. The frame and the robotic arm are configured to move the radiation source at least partially around the object to be examined and the robotic arm is configured to pivot the radiation source to aim the source toward the object.