X-Ray Inspection Threshold Adjustment Using Luminance Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray inspection apparatuses face reduced accuracy due to suboptimal energy threshold values resulting from variations in inspection conditions and apparatus performance, leading to inconsistent inspection results.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray inspection apparatus and method that adjusts the threshold value based on luminance differences between generated images, ensuring the threshold value remains within a predetermined range, thereby adapting to changes in inspection conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a predetermined energy threshold value is stored in advance corresponding to physical properties of an article, then the inspection process is simplified and can be performed efficiently, but the inspection accuracy is reduced when inspection conditions change or apparatus performance varies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic threshold value adjustment by automatically modifying the energy threshold based on detected X-ray transmission characteristics. Instead of using a fixed predetermined threshold, the system adapts the threshold in real-time according to actual inspection conditions and apparatus state, resolving the contradiction between using simple fixed thresholds for efficiency and needing adaptive thresholds for accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the detected X-ray transmission data is used to automatically adjust the energy threshold value. The inspection results and transmission characteristics feed back into the threshold setting process, allowing the system to self-optimize and maintain high accuracy under varying conditions without manual intervention.
2Measurement precision
If the energy threshold value is adjusted to adapt to changing inspection conditions and apparatus state, then the inspection accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the threshold setting process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-adjustment of the energy threshold value using automated algorithms that analyze X-ray transmission data and determine optimal threshold settings without requiring manual calibration or complex user intervention. The apparatus serves itself by automatically adapting to changing conditions, thereby improving accuracy while minimizing the operational complexity for users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the energy threshold parameter dynamically based on detected X-ray transmission characteristics and inspection conditions. By automatically adjusting this key parameter rather than keeping it fixed, the system achieves high inspection accuracy while the automation of the adjustment process prevents significant increases in operational complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the threshold value is fixed based on initial calibration, then the device operation is simple and stable, but the inspection quality becomes inconsistent when transport speed or apparatus state changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static fixed threshold approach to a dynamic adaptive threshold approach. The energy threshold automatically adjusts in response to changes in transport speed, apparatus state, and X-ray transmission characteristics, ensuring consistent inspection quality while maintaining ease of operation through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from real-time X-ray detection data to maintain consistent inspection quality. By continuously monitoring transmission characteristics and adjusting the threshold accordingly, the system ensures reliable and consistent inspection results across varying operating conditions without requiring complex manual recalibration procedures.
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
Ensures high accuracy in inspecting articles by dynamically setting the threshold value, maintaining consistent inspection quality despite variations in conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray source configured to irradiate the article with X-rays
Implementation Method 2
an X-ray detection unit configured to detect the X-rays using a photon counting method and to classify photon energy of the detected X-rays into two energy regions on the basis of a threshold value
Data Source
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AI summary
An X-ray inspection apparatus includes: a transport unit configured to transport an article; an X-ray source configured to irradiate the article with X-rays; an X-ray detection unit configured to detect the X-rays using a photon counting method and to classify photon energy of the detected X-rays into two or more energy regions on the basis of a threshold value; a threshold value setting unit configured to set the threshold value; an X-ray image generation unit configured to generate two or more X-ray transmission images corresponding to the two or more energy regions on the basis of a detection result of the X-rays; and an inspection unit configured to inspect the article on the basis of the X-rays. The threshold value setting unit is configured to set the threshold value on the basis of gradations of the two or more X-ray transmission images.