UAV X-ray Imaging System for Remote 3D CT Acquisition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current x-ray imaging systems for field applications, such as explosive detection, are cumbersome and impractical for mobile use due to the need for a heavy gantry and fixed trajectory, posing safety risks for operators and limiting the ability to obtain 3D CT images remotely without physically transporting the equipment to the object.
Innovation Solution
A remotely controlled x-ray imaging system using a decoupled x-ray source and detector, mounted on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or unmanned vehicle (UV), which captures x-ray projection images from multiple directions and reconstructs them into tomosynthesis, CT, or backscatter images without a rigid gantry or predetermined source-detector trajectory, allowing for wireless transmission and reconstruction of 3D images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a heavy mechanical gantry is used for mechanical stability in stationary CT scanners, then imaging stability is improved, but device portability and ease of deployment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the imaging components into separate modules: an x-ray source unit and a detector unit, which can be independently positioned and moved. This segmentation eliminates the need for a heavy integrated gantry while maintaining imaging capability through coordinated positioning of separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the heavy mechanical gantry system with a software-controlled positioning system. The x-ray source and detector are positioned using less cumbersome mechanical means, with their relative positions tracked and recorded by a computer system to enable image reconstruction without requiring rigid mechanical support structures.
2Device complexity
If a fixed trajectory is used for x-ray source and detector movement, then mechanical design simplicity is improved, but imaging geometry adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from fixed mechanical trajectories to dynamic, flexible positioning. The x-ray source and detector can be moved along arbitrary paths defined by software control, allowing adaptation to different object shapes and imaging requirements while using simpler, more versatile mechanical positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows imaging parameters such as source-to-object distance, detector-to-object distance, and angular positions to be varied independently through software control. This enables flexible imaging geometry adaptation without complex mechanical linkages, as the system records the actual positions achieved and uses them for image reconstruction.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If operator is positioned remotely for safety during explosive detection, then operator safety is improved, but system operation complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automated functions that reduce the need for direct operator intervention near the imaging area. The x-ray source and detector positioning, image acquisition, and reconstruction processes are automated through software control, allowing remote operation while minimizing operational complexity through integrated control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a computer system as an intermediary between the operator and the imaging components. The operator controls the imaging process remotely through software interfaces, which manage source-detector positioning, trigger image acquisition, and perform reconstruction algorithms, thereby simplifying remote operation despite the distributed system architecture.
4Measurement precision
If x-ray source and detector are placed adjacent to object for imaging, then image quality is improved, but operator exposure to explosion risk deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the x-ray source and detector into distinct units that can be positioned close to the object for high-quality imaging while being controlled remotely. This segmentation allows the imaging components to be placed in optimal positions for image acquisition without requiring the operator to be physically present near potential hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual placement and positioning of imaging equipment with automated remote control systems. The x-ray source and detector are positioned and operated through software-controlled mechanisms, enabling high-resolution imaging at close range while eliminating operator exposure to explosion risks through remote operation.
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
Enables convenient and safe remote acquisition of 3D CT images, enhancing safety by eliminating the need for operators to be physically present near the object and providing efficient imaging geometries for various objects, including chemical identification of explosives.
Implementation Method 1
a battery-powered x-ray source, generally designated 10
Implementation Method 2
a flat panel x-ray detector, generally designated 20
Implementation Method 3
backscattering imaging methods have been utilized
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional (3D) x-ray tomographic imaging system includes an x-ray source fixedly attached to a first unmanned vehicle, which can be aerial or otherwise configured for locomotion, and an x-ray detector. A vehicle controller is configured to be operated by an operator, and an optical camera is mounted to the first unmanned vehicle at a fixed position relative to the x-ray source, and an optical pattern is fixed at a position relative to the x-ray detector. The x-ray source and x-ray detector are configured to be positioned on substantially opposite sides of the object, while the x-ray source is rotated radially around the object to one or more imaging positions.