Vehicle X-Ray Inspection Timing Using Profile-Based Cab Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle inspection systems face challenges in accurately determining the timing for switching the operating mode of X-ray sources due to low accuracy in speed measurement and positioning, leading to safety risks from premature or delayed emission of beams, and require extensive civil engineering and high costs for multiple sensors.

Innovation Solution

A vehicle inspection method that uses sensors to acquire vehicle profile information and determine feature points, allowing for precise switching of the X-ray source operating mode based on preset control points, reducing the need for multiple sensors and improving accuracy and cost-effectiveness.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple sensors are used for speed measurement and positioning, then the accuracy of determining X-ray source mode switching timing is improved, but the equipment cost and civil engineering requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetiming accuracyVSAvoidsensor quantity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and utilizes the existing vehicle profile detection capability of the X-ray inspection system itself to determine cab position and length, rather than adding separate measurement sensors. The system processes the vehicle profile data already being collected to identify feature points (front and rear of cab) and calculates switching timing based on this extracted information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The X-ray inspection system performs multiple functions: it inspects vehicle cargo while simultaneously measuring vehicle profile to determine cab position and control X-ray source switching. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated speed measurement and positioning sensors, reducing equipment complexity while maintaining timing accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If multiple sensors are deployed for vehicle monitoring, then the positioning accuracy is improved, but the space required and equipment cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The existing X-ray inspection infrastructure is utilized for dual purposes: cargo inspection and vehicle profile measurement for cab positioning. This eliminates the need for additional sensor installations and reduces the space required for equipment deployment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses its own X-ray detection capability to generate vehicle profile information, which is then processed to determine cab position and control switching timing. This self-service approach eliminates dependency on external sensing systems and reduces installation space requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If the X-ray source emits beams continuously, then the inspection efficiency is improved, but the radiation safety risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection efficiencyVSAvoidradiation exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The X-ray source operates in periodic cycles: preheating phase (low dose or no emission) when the cab is approaching and passing through, followed by normal inspection phase (full emission) after the cab has passed. This periodic operation ensures radiation safety while maintaining inspection efficiency through timely switching.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors vehicle profile information to detect the position of cab feature points and provides feedback control for X-ray source switching. This feedback mechanism ensures beams are emitted only when safe (after cab passage) while maintaining high inspection efficiency through automated real-time control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 method enhances the accuracy and timeliness of X-ray source mode switching, reduces equipment costs, and improves safety by using fewer sensors and less space, while maintaining radiation protection standards.

Implementation Method 1

a first sensor that performs measurement in a direction perpendicular to a passage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a second sensor that performs measurement a direction along the passage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 3

the ray source entering a normal operating state

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray penetration: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS12020518B2Vehicle inspection method, apparatus and system, and computer-readable storage medium
Publication Date: 2024.06.25 NUCTECH CO LTD
  • US12020518B2 patent drawing
  • US12020518B2 patent drawing
  • US12020518B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This disclosure provides a vehicle inspection method, apparatus, system, and computer-readable storage medium and relates to the field of security inspection technologies. The vehicle inspection method of the present disclosure includes: acquiring vehicle profile information of a vehicle through a first sensor that performs measurement in a direction perpendicular to a passage, and determining a feature point of the vehicle according to the vehicle profile information; determining a position of the vehicle in the passage through a second sensor that performs measurement in a direction along the passage, and determining a position of the feature point according to the position of the vehicle in the passage; and switching an operating mode of a ray source based on a preset strategy according to a position relation between the position of the feature point and the ray source.