Pass-Through X-Ray Backscatter Scanner With Chopper Disk
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing x-ray backscatter imaging systems for detecting concealed contraband require individuals to stand still and be scanned from both front and rear, resulting in low throughput, large size, and high cost due to the need for two separate scanning sources and complex mechanical mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A pass-through x-ray backscatter system using a single stationary x-ray source that allows individuals to walk or be transported through, enabling simultaneous scanning of both sides without stopping, with the x-ray source positioned at an angle to obliquely illuminate the subject, and employing a chopper disk for temporal interleaving of scanning beams to prevent cross-talk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single stationary x-ray source is used for backscatter imaging, then system size and cost are reduced, but the ability to scan both front and rear sides simultaneously is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by using a rotating chopper disk to alternately direct the x-ray beam toward the front and rear of the subject. The single x-ray source operates continuously while the chopper disk periodically interrupts and redirects the beam, enabling sequential scanning of both sides without requiring two simultaneous sources. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining high productivity through continuous operation while reducing device complexity to a single source system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the x-ray beam direction variable through the rotating chopper disk mechanism. Instead of having two fixed sources, a single dynamic source alternates its effective scanning position between front and rear of the subject. This dynamic redirection enables the system to achieve dual-sided scanning capability with a single stationary source, resolving the contradiction between system simplicity and scanning effectiveness.
2Manufacturing precision
If the x-ray source is moved vertically to scan the entire person, then complete coverage is achieved, but mechanical complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by making the subject move through a stationary beam instead of moving the beam vertically through a stationary subject. The x-ray source remains fixed in position while the subject travels horizontally through the scanning region on a conveyor belt. This inversion eliminates the need for complex vertical translation mechanisms while maintaining complete scan coverage, resolving the contradiction between coverage completeness and mechanical simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical vertical translation system with a horizontal conveyor belt system. Instead of mechanically moving the heavy x-ray source vertically, the subject is transported horizontally through the stationary beam. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical mechanisms for source positioning while achieving complete coverage, resolving the contradiction between scan completeness and mechanical complexity.
3Measurement precision
If the person stands still for scanning, then image quality is improved, but throughput speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the subject walk or be conveyed through the scanner at a controlled speed before the actual imaging process begins. The continuous motion is maintained throughout scanning, and the system is designed to capture images during this predetermined motion state. This eliminates the need to stop the subject, maintaining both image quality and high throughput speed by pre-establishing the optimal scanning condition of continuous forward motion.
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 design significantly increases throughput, reduces system size and cost, and allows for covert scanning with high-speed processing of multiple individuals, while maintaining effective detection of concealed items through both backscatter and transmission imaging.
Implementation Method 1
backscatter imaging uses reflected or scattered x-rays to create the image
Implementation Method 2
x-ray source is configured to generate one or more scanning x-ray beams
Data Source
AI summary
A system for inspecting a moving person comprises an x-ray source, disposed in a fixed position with respect to the moving person, to generate one or more scanning x-ray beams. Each of the one or more x-ray beams being obliquely incident on either a front of the moving person, a rear of the moving person, or both. The system further comprises one or more backscatter detectors arranged to detect radiation scattered from the moving person, and to produce a detection signal therefrom. The system further comprises a processor and a memory with computer code instructions stored thereon. The memory is operatively coupled to the processor such that, when executed by the processor, the computer code instructions cause the system to produce a backscatter image based on the detection signal. When two or more x-ray beams are implemented, the two or more x-ray beams are temporarily interleaved to prevent crosstalk.