Combined scatter and transmission multi-view imaging system
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Publication Number
US-12235226-B2
Publication Date
2025-02-25
Expiration Date
Abstract
The present specification discloses a multi-view X-ray inspection system having, in one of several embodiments, a three-view configuration with three X-ray sources. Each X-ray source rotates and is configured to emit a rotating X-ray pencil beam and at least two detector arrays, where each detector array has multiple non-pixellated detectors such that at least a portion of the non-pixellated detectors are oriented toward both the two X-ray sources.
Core Innovation
The invention describes a combined scatter and transmission multi-view X-ray inspection system that uses rotating X-ray pencil beams and multiple non-pixellated detector arrays oriented to receive signals from multiple sources while maintaining minimal cross talk. The system achieves intrinsic spatial resolution based on beam collimation rather than detector pixellation. Detector offset geometry reduces self-absorption in the transmission measurements and supports multi-view operation.
The multi-view inspection system supports low-dose simultaneous multi-view operation using non-overlapping transmission paths, together with detector configurations that combine backscatter rectangular detectors and a smaller transmission square detector. The disclosed detector configuration includes fixed collimators and shielding, and it provides detector architectures described for scatter/backscatter and transmission sensing. The system further includes passive gamma detection by turning off the X-ray sources and switching detectors to a pulse-counting mode.
The invention also describes a rotating collimator-based extended anode X-ray tube and a controller coordination scheme that uses encoder data from the rotation hardware. The controller coordinates scan operation across multiple sources so that the emitted X-ray beams do not interfere. Deployment examples include scanning cargo/vehicles using a gantry or a mobile inspection vehicle, and a network of imaging systems and inspectors.
Claims Coverage
The provided independent claim covers a convertible X-ray inspection system with a deployed/stowed transition on a mobile structure and a coordinated multi-source scan that prevents interference between X-ray beams. The independent claim includes at least four main inventive features as recited in the deployed configuration and coordination language.
Convertible inspection system mounted on a mobile structure
A convertible X-ray inspection system configured to be mounted on a mobile structure and convert between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration.
Deployed boom arrangement for source/detector sets
In the deployed configuration, the system comprises a horizontal boom outwards from the mobile structure and having a distal end and a proximal end, a first vertical boom connected to the distal end of the horizontal boom, and a second vertical boom attached to a side of the mobile structure with the horizontal boom perpendicular to the first vertical boom and the second vertical boom and the first vertical boom and the second vertical boom parallel to each other.
First and second X-ray source and detector sets on different booms
The system includes a first X-ray source and a first set of detectors coupled to the horizontal boom, and a second X-ray source and a second set of detectors coupled to at least one of the first vertical boom or the second vertical boom.
Coordinated scanning to prevent beam interference
At least one controller adapted to control each of the first X-ray source and the second X-ray source, wherein the at least one controller is configured to scan the object in a coordinated manner such that X-ray beams emitted by each of the first X-ray source and the second X-ray source do not interfere with each other.
Overall, the independent claim centers on a convertible mobile X-ray inspection system with a specific deployed boom geometry, multiple X-ray source/detector sets mounted on different booms, and controller-coordinated scanning such that the emitted X-ray beams do not interfere.
Stated Advantages
Minimal cross talk.
Intrinsic spatial resolution based on beam collimation rather than detector pixellation.
Reduced self-absorption in the transmission measurements.
Low-dose simultaneous multi-view operation using non-overlapping transmission paths.
No interference between X-ray beams emitted by multiple sources.
Documented Applications
Scanning cargo/vehicles using a gantry or a mobile inspection vehicle.
A network of imaging systems and inspectors.
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