Multi-Scanner X-Ray Inspection System for Artifact Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing x-ray scanning systems have limitations in providing comprehensive inspection of objects due to single-sided imaging and artifacts caused by varying scanning distances and speeds.
Innovation Solution
The integration of two or more x-ray scanners, including at least one mobile scanner, to acquire x-ray images from multiple angles or sides of an object, along with a data integrator to mitigate scaling artifacts and resample images for consistent views.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a single x-ray scanner is used to scan objects, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but the inspection is incomplete and lacks comprehensive information about the object
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system is divided into multiple independent scanner units, each positioned at different locations around the object. Each scanner captures data from its specific viewpoint, and the complete inspection information is assembled by integrating data from all scanner segments, resolving the contradiction between simple individual components and comprehensive overall inspection.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple x-ray scanner units are combined into a coordinated system where each scanner operates independently but their data is merged through a synchronization mechanism. The controllers coordinate the scanning operations and the data is integrated to provide comprehensive 360-degree inspection information, achieving both system complexity and information completeness.
2Loss of information
If multiple x-ray scanners are integrated to provide comprehensive inspection, then more information about the object is obtained, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each scanner unit is designed as a universal module that can operate independently or be combined with other scanners. The scanners are equipped with standardized interfaces and control systems that enable them to function as part of a larger integrated system, allowing flexible configuration based on inspection needs without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A central controller or data integration system acts as an intermediary between multiple scanners and the inspection process. This intermediary coordinates the scanning operations, synchronizes data acquisition, and integrates data from multiple scanners into a unified inspection result, managing system complexity through a centralized coordination mechanism.
3Loss of information
If mobile scanners are used to scan objects from different sides, then comprehensive views are obtained, but artifacts are introduced due to varying scanning distances and speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where position sensors and speed sensors continuously monitor the scanner's location and movement parameters. This feedback information is fed back to the control system, which then adjusts scanning parameters in real-time to maintain consistent scanning conditions across different positions and speeds, reducing artifacts while maintaining comprehensive views.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes scanning parameters such as x-ray beam intensity, detector sensitivity, and scanning speed based on the scanner's position and movement characteristics. By adjusting these parameters in response to varying operating conditions, the system compensates for artifacts introduced by mobile scanning while maintaining measurement precision across different views.
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 approach enhances the utility of x-ray inspection scanners by providing more information about inspected objects, improving detection performance, and reducing the need for multiple operators or image analysts.
Implementation Method 1
X-rays interact with inspected objects in two main processes, Compton scattering and Photoelectric Absorption. As illustrated in FIG. 2, x-ray scatter imaging is based on the Compton scattering process where an x-ray source 101 emits an x-ray beam which interacts with an inspected object 202 generating scattered x-rays 203
Implementation Method 2
x-ray transmission imaging is based on the Photoelectric Absorption process where an x-ray beam interacts with an inspected object 202 and the x-rays which penetrate through the object, along a straight line 205 without being absorbed, are captured by one or more x-ray transmission detectors 206
Data Source
AI summary
Presently disclosed is an x-ray scanning system and method for inspecting an object. The system has a first mobile x-ray scanner configured for scatter imaging and to generate a first compilation of scan data of a first side of the object. A second x-ray scanner is configured for imaging and generating a second compilation of scan data of a second side of the object. A movement device is configured and disposed to move at least one of the first scanner, the second scanner, and the object being scanned, during the scanning of the object. A data integrator is configured and disposed to receive and integrate the first compilation of scan data and the second compilation of scan data.