Automated Manual Transmission for X-ray Inspection Speed Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile x-ray inspection systems require complex and maintenance-intensive mechanisms to control scanning speed, relying on driver judgment and additional power sources, which complicates the inspection process.
Innovation Solution
An automated manual transmission system with a dual-clutch transmission and rear axle differential is used to provide precise, slow-speed motion for the x-ray inspection vehicle, allowing it to move at a specified velocity without additional power sources, enabling efficient and reliable scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex speed control mechanisms are used, then scanning speed precision is improved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the speed control function with the existing transmission system by integrating a control module that interfaces with the automated manual transmission. Instead of adding a separate complex speed control mechanism, the system merges the scanning speed regulation function into the vehicle's existing drivetrain control architecture, thereby achieving precise speed control while minimizing additional device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback control mechanism where sensors monitor the actual scanning speed and the control module continuously adjusts transmission commands to maintain the desired speed. This closed-loop feedback system ensures precise scanning speed control while using the existing transmission infrastructure, avoiding the need for overly complex mechanical speed control mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional power sources are added, then scanning speed control capability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing vehicle power system multi-functional by enabling it to serve both propulsion and scanning speed control functions. The automated manual transmission, originally designed for vehicle movement, is repurposed to also control the scanning platform's movement speed, eliminating the need for dedicated additional power sources while maintaining full speed control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the vehicle's own powertrain to serve the dual purpose of propulsion and inspection platform actuation. By controlling the transmission system, the vehicle uses its existing engine and drivetrain to provide both movement and precise scanning speed control, making the system self-sufficient without requiring external or additional power sources
3Ease of operation
If driver judgment is relied upon, then operational simplicity is maintained, but scanning speed consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control module continuously receives feedback from speed sensors and automatically adjusts transmission commands to maintain consistent scanning speed. This eliminates reliance on driver judgment while preserving ease of operation, as the system automatically handles speed regulation without requiring complex manual intervention or specialized driver training
4Productivity
If scanning speed is increased, then productivity is improved, but detection sensitivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the scanning speed through precise control of the transmission system, enabling the vehicle to move at optimized speeds for different inspection scenarios. The automated control ensures that speed variations are minimized, maintaining consistent x-ray exposure time across the scanned area, thereby preserving detection sensitivity even at higher productivity-oriented speeds
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 simplifies the scanning process by eliminating the need for complex speed control systems, reducing maintenance requirements, and allowing the vehicle to operate safely and efficiently at specified speeds, such as 2 mph, while maintaining high precision and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
an automated manual transmission for coupling power from an engine to a set of the plurality of wheels
Implementation Method 2
a rear axle differential adapted to provide motion of the conveyance at a specified velocity
Data Source
AI summary
A conveyance and methods for x-ray inspection of an object. The conveyance has a bed with attached wheels and detector elements disposed along a pontine structure coupled to the conveyance. A source of penetrating radiation is coupled to the conveyance and disposed so as to irradiate each of the detector elements from a single position. An automated manual transmission couples power from an engine to a set of the wheels of the conveyance, both for road travel and for x-ray inspection.