X-ray Inspection Apparatus Mode Switching for Detection Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray inspection apparatuses face challenges in maintaining accurate inspection results when the output of X-rays is suppressed to prevent deterioration of the irradiation unit, leading to insufficient detection by the detection unit and potential inaccuracies in pass/fail judgments.
Innovation Solution
The X-ray inspection apparatus includes a mode switching unit that adjusts the electric power supplied to the irradiation unit between a first mode and a second mode, where the second mode uses less power. Simultaneously, the read frequency of detection results by the image generation unit is changed when switching from the first mode to the second mode, allowing for extended exposure time of detection elements and maintaining satisfactory detection results despite reduced X-ray output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If the output of electromagnetic waves is suppressed to prevent deterioration of the irradiation unit, then the service life of the irradiation unit is extended, but the detection capability of the detection unit becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the read frequency adjustable based on operational mode. The control unit dynamically changes the read frequency of detection elements when switching between first and second operational modes, allowing the system to adapt to varying X-ray output conditions and maintain detection precision despite reduced irradiation power.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of read frequency to compensate for reduced X-ray output. When the irradiation unit operates in the second mode with suppressed output, the control unit increases the read frequency of detection elements, thereby maintaining sufficient detection capability while extending the service life of the irradiation unit.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the output of electromagnetic waves is suppressed, then the power consumption is reduced, but the accuracy of pass/fail judgement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the read frequency based on the operational mode. When operating in power-saving mode with suppressed electromagnetic wave output, the control unit increases the read frequency to maintain adequate detection accuracy, thus achieving both reduced power consumption and maintained judgement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit monitors the operational mode and automatically adjusts the read frequency accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that when power consumption is reduced by suppressing output, the detection accuracy is compensated through increased sampling rate, maintaining reliable pass/fail judgement.
3Measurement precision
If the read frequency is increased to maintain detection accuracy with suppressed output, then the detection precision is maintained, but the exposure time of detection elements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the read frequency parameter to compensate for reduced exposure time. When the irradiation unit operates with suppressed output, the control unit increases the read frequency, ensuring that sufficient detection data is collected within the shorter exposure window, thereby maintaining detection accuracy despite reduced exposure 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 solution enables the X-ray inspection apparatus to perform satisfactory inspections even when the X-ray output is suppressed, ensuring accurate detection and pass/fail judgments while reducing power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
an irradiation unit configured to irradiate the article conveyed by the conveying unit with X-rays
Implementation Method 2
a sensor unit in which detection elements configured to detect the X-rays are arranged in a planar shape
Data Source
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Figure 2
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AI summary
An X-ray inspection apparatus (1) includes a conveying unit (5) configured to convey an article (G), an irradiation unit (6) configured to irradiate the article (G) conveyed by the conveying unit (5) with X-rays, a sensor unit (7) in which a plurality of detection elements (11) configured to detect the X-rays are arranged in a planar shape, an image generation unit (23) configured to read detection results output from at least some of the plurality of detection elements (11) and generate an image, and a mode switching unit (22) configured to switch an operation mode between a first mode in which a first electric power is supplied to the irradiation unit (6) and a second mode in which a second electric power less than the first electric power is supplied to the irradiation unit (6). The mode switching unit (22) changes, when switching the operation mode from the first mode to the second mode, a read frequency at which the image generation unit (23) reads the detection results.