With Means To Inspect Passive Solid Objects Patents (Class 250/358.1)
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Patent number: 8253105Abstract: A thermal imaging system to facilitate analysis of thermal images comprises a portable thermal imager having a communication interface for transfer of data. The imager also has an on-board memory in which image data for corresponding thermal images is stored. A remote computer is operative to communicate with the thermal imager via the communication interface for download of the image data. The computer runs software operative to superimpose at least one marker at a selected location on a thermal image, the marker being saved on the image.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2008Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: Fluke CorporationInventors: Stefan Warnke, James T. Pickett
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Patent number: 8242445Abstract: In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, a portable inspection system is disclosed to capture inspection data, such as for example an infrared image, sound information, and/or electrical measurement information. The inspection data may be securely recorded (e.g., with an encryption algorithm) along with associated information, which may include for example date, time, system settings, operator identification, and location.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2010Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: FLIR Sysems, Inc.Inventors: Tom Scanlon, James T. Woolaway, Robert P. Madding
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Publication number: 20120199746Abstract: A method of non-destructive inspection of a subject body including an element is comprised of irradiating the subject body with a neutron ray through a first measurement point and a second measurement point; measuring an elapsed time after a first time point when a resonant neutron specific to the element passes through the first measurement point and before a second time point when a prompt gamma ray made emitted by the resonant neutron from the subject body is detected at the second measurement point; and determining a location of the element in the subject body by the first measurement point, the second measurement point, a relative position toward a surface of the subject body, and the elapsed time.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 13, 2010Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: IHI CorporationInventors: Hiroyuki Nose, Hajime Kuwabara, Tetsuya Kobayashi
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Patent number: 8207502Abstract: Disclosed is a relocatable vehicle inspection system. The relocatable vehicle inspection system includes a radiation source for radiating radials; a detection array for receiving the radials from the radiation source, so that an image of the cargo on the vehicle to be inspected may be obtained; a moving device on which the radiation source and the detection array are disposed; and a ramp-platform device. The ramp-platform device includes first and second intermediate parts (6a, 6b); first, second, third and fourth ramp parts (4a1, 4a2, 4b1, 4b2); first, second, third and fourth transitional parts (5a1, 5a2, 5b1, 5b2). The first and second transitional parts can be foldably or removably connected to the first intermediate part, and the third and fourth transitional parts can be foldably or removably connected to the second intermediate part. The said ramp-platform device can be placed onto or removed away from the moving device under disassembling and folding conditions.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2011Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: Nuctech Company LimitedInventors: Zhongrong Yang, Hui Meng, Nan Jiang, Shangmin Sun
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Patent number: 8193504Abstract: A method and apparatus for the remote, non-invasive detection or characterization of materials manifests a controlled temperature perturbation to the sample material location concurrently with sample interrogation by ionizing radiation and with detection of the response emission energy spectra. This configuration induces and detects Doppler effects manifested at the sample location, allowing material inventory and composition measurements, and allowing a comparative reduction of the exposure duration compared to other isothermal proportional count, coincidence count or spectral analysis techniques. The method and apparatus apply primarily to the detection of elements and isotopes in baggage handling, cargo inspection, chemical characterization, process control and geologic operations, though the method and apparatus are not restricted to these applications.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2009Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Inventor: Luca Joseph Gratton
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Publication number: 20120132810Abstract: A radiation imaging apparatus connected to a radiation generation apparatus which generates radiation and a sensor which accumulates a charge corresponding to an irradiating dose on a detection surface acquires a radiation image by driving the sensor upon generation of radiation by the radiation generation apparatus and acquires a dark image by driving the sensor without generation of radiation by the radiation generation apparatus. The radiation imaging apparatus adjusts a driving timing of the sensor so as to set a time difference between two starts of reading charge from the sensor to acquire the radiation image and reading charge from the sensor to obtain the dark image to an integer multiple of a predetermined time.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2011Publication date: May 31, 2012Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: AKEHIKO UCHIYAMA
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Patent number: 8183537Abstract: A neutron detector system including a neutron sensitive reaction layer may be configured to react with incident neutrons to form energetic particles. An energetic particle capturing layer may be configured to capture energetic particles emitted from the neutron sensitive reaction layer and convert the kinetic energy of the captured energetic particles to heat. A microbolometer sensing element responsive to the heat may be configured to detect the incident neutrons.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2009Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: David R. Rhiger, Bernard Harris
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Patent number: 8183528Abstract: According to the present invention, the CT is carried out based on parameters other than the absorption rate. An electromagnetic wave measurement device includes an electromagnetic wave output device 2 which outputs an electromagnetic wave at a frequency equal to or more than 0.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2009Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: Advantest CorporationInventors: Eiji Kato, Shigeki Nishina, Motoki Imamura, Akiyoshi Irisawa, Tomoyu Yamashita
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Patent number: 8129692Abstract: Fouling in the fill portion of a cooling tower is monitored by transmitting radiation through a cooling tower, detecting the amount of radiation that has penetrated the cooling tower, and calculating the density of the fill portion of the cooling tower based on the detected radiation. A higher than expected density indicates the presence of fouling on the fill portion of the cooling tower. A rate of fouling may be established by monitoring the density of the fill portion of the cooling tower over time.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2008Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Quantum Technical Services, LLCInventors: Charles B. Winfield, Lance Freeman, Stephen N. Harris
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Patent number: 8097857Abstract: This application relates to an apparatus and method for providing snapshot action thermal infrared imaging within automated process control article inspection applications. More specifically, it pertains to the use of snapshot mode lead salt area-array imaging sensors (20) as the imaging front-end in high-speed machine vision inspection systems (12). the relatively low-cost, good measurement sensitivity at temperatures consistent with thereto-electric cooling means, and the ability to be operated in snap-shot mode enables lead salt-based image acquisition sensors (20) to be used in a variety of automated process control and article inspection applications.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2002Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: Pressco Technology Inc.Inventors: Don W. Cochran, Steven D. Cech
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Publication number: 20110315883Abstract: A thin film measurement technique is disclosed. The thin film measurement technique comprises radioisotopes, radiation detectors, mechanical hardware, electronics and/or circuitry, wires, cables, connectors, measurement software, and a computer. One aspect of the thin film measurement technique pertains to measurement sensors, which measure radiation emerging from material surfaces. Another aspect of the disclosure pertains to mechanical hardware that enables the thin film measurement to be made. Another aspect of the disclosure pertains to filter housings. Another aspect of the disclosure pertains to measurement software, for quantifying the measurement from the sensor, and/or controlling and optimizing processes based on said measurements. Another aspect of the disclosure pertains to hardware and equipment utilizing the thin film measurement technique. All aspects can be utilized alone or in combination with one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 8, 2009Publication date: December 29, 2011Applicant: Fusion Research Technologies, LLCInventor: Soren Harrison
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Publication number: 20110310380Abstract: A sheet identifying device comprising a light-receiving section (26) for reading each pixel on a sheet which involves color information including a brightness, has a predetermined size, and is handled as one unit, a RAM (114) for storing image data constructed of read pixels, a pixel data increasing/decreasing section (116a) for increasing/decreasing the number of pixels of the image data, and a judging section for judging authentication of the sheet on the basis of the increased/decreased image data.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2011Publication date: December 22, 2011Applicants: Seta Corp., Aruze Corp.Inventors: Jun FUJIMOTO, Nobuyuki Nonaka, Takao Nireki
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Publication number: 20110260064Abstract: The present invention provides a method for on-axis visualization of a target placed in a photon beam, the method comprising: placing the target in the path of the photon beam; selecting a mirror with an external reflecting surface; placing the mirror on a mirror support so that the surface faces the target; placing a reflective microscope so as to collect photons emanating from the target that have been reflected by said surface; counting and analyzing photons collected by the microscope with a CCD camera; and storing and analyzing data collected by the camera.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2010Publication date: October 27, 2011Applicant: UCHICAGO ARGONNE, LLCInventors: Kazimierz Gofron, Michael Molitsky
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Publication number: 20110253897Abstract: A sensor system includes a source of input radiation having a frequency range between about 30 GHz and 3 THz, a whispering gallery mode resonator module coupled to the source for receiving the input radiation, and a detector coupled to the whispering gallery mode resonator module. The whispering gallery mode resonator module is configured to support at least one whispering gallery mode for the input radiation, and output a transmission response having a resonance characteristic related to the at least one whispering gallery mode. The detector detects the transmission response.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2009Publication date: October 20, 2011Applicant: T-RAY SCIENCE INC.Inventors: Daryoosh Saeedkia, Suren Gigoyan, Mohammad Neshat, Safieddin Safavinaeini
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Publication number: 20110255663Abstract: A contraband detection system includes one or more detection devices operatively coupled to a spreader beam of a cargo container crane system. Detection devices may include an X-ray scanner, a detection apparatus, and a sensor array. The X-ray scanner is operative for outputting high-energy X-rays capable of penetrating through the contents of the cargo container. The X-ray scanner is movable from an inactive first position that facilitates engagement of the spreader beam with the cargo container to an active second position that facilitates the scanning of the contents of the cargo container. The detection apparatus is similarly deployable from a first position to a second position and includes a plurality of limbs capable of rotation about a plurality of axes. The detection apparatus further includes a radiation source and a receptor plate.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2011Publication date: October 20, 2011Applicant: DEMING SYSTEMS, LLCInventors: Uday S. Roy, Vishal Sheth, Prithwi S. Roy
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Publication number: 20110240863Abstract: Example embodiments are directed to a method and an apparatus for measuring phase roughness in an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask. In example embodiments, a speckle generated by the phase roughness in the EUV mask is detected by irradiating an EUV beam on the EUV mask. The phase roughness in the EUV mask is calculated and measured using the speckle.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2011Publication date: October 6, 2011Inventors: Dong-gun Lee, Seong-sue Kim
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Publication number: 20110233410Abstract: An apparatus for the inspection of filled containers may include a first radiation device which directs radiation onto the liquid to be tested and present in the container, and an image-recording device which records at least part of the radiation directed from the first radiation device onto the liquid and reflected or scattered by the container. The image-recording device may be designed for recording a spatially resolved image, wherein the apparatus has at least one further radiation device or one further image-recording device. The radiation devices and the image-recording device are arranged in such a way that an observation of the liquid is carried out on at least two image-recording paths which are different from each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2011Publication date: September 29, 2011Applicant: KRONES AGInventor: Anton NIEDERMEIER
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Publication number: 20110226954Abstract: Embodiments of a printed security mark and a process are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2011Publication date: September 22, 2011Inventors: Garry Dale Hinch, Herbert T. Etheridge, III, James William Stasiak, Timothy Dean Strecker
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Publication number: 20110220801Abstract: An arm-folding mechanism for use in a vehicle-mounted radiation imaging system. The vehicle includes a vehicle body behind a driving cab. The vehicle body includes a generator cabin and a control cabin. The arm-folding mechanism includes a vertical detection arm, a main arm frame, and a hinged mechanism hingedly connecting the vertical detection arm with the main arm frame. The hinged mechanism includes: a first connection arrangement having a free end and a fixed end fixedly connected with or integral with the main arm frame; a second connection arrangement fixedly connected with the vertical detection arm; and an intermediate arrangement connecting the first connection arrangement with the second connection arrangement so that the vertical detection arm can rotate relative to the main arm frame. The bottom of the first connection arrangement is at the same level as or above the bottom of the main arm frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2011Publication date: September 15, 2011Inventors: Zhiqiang Chen, Hua Peng, Shangmin Sun, Quanwei Song, Jinning Liang
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Patent number: 8019556Abstract: A method and system for nuclear substance revealing using muon detection technique is presented. In some aspects, naturally occurred muons are selected from the flow of charged particles. Muon coordinate and incidence angle measured above and below the interrogated volume can be used for the decision making on the presence of nuclear substance inside the volume. The system is adapted for performing measurements on moving objects such as moving trucks. A combination of the nuclear substance detection system with an explosive sensing system is presented.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2009Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Inventors: Isaac Shpantzer, Yaakov Achiam, Nadejda Reingand
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Patent number: 8009787Abstract: Non-destructive testing method may include providing a source material that emits positrons in response to bombardment of the source material with photons. The source material is exposed to photons. The source material is positioned adjacent the specimen, the specimen being exposed to at least some of the positrons emitted by the source material. Annihilation gamma rays emitted by the specimen are detected.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2004Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLCInventor: Douglas W. Akers
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Patent number: 8003946Abstract: The invention concerns a method for detecting localized defects, such as hot spots or wet spots, present in a mat of mineral fibers bonded by a binder, including using a microwave radiation of frequency ranging between 1 and 50 GHz, preferably between 5 and 10 GHz, the total power of the emitted electromagnetic wave ranging between 0.1 and 5 watts, preferably of the order of 1 watt. The invention also concerns a device for implementing said method as well as an installation for continuously making mineral fiber mats containing said device.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2007Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: Saint-Gobain IsoverInventor: Christopher Ellison
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Patent number: 7989770Abstract: A radiation inspection system is disclosed. The radiation inspection system comprises: an inspection passage through which a moving object under inspection can pass, a radiation source disposed on a side of the inspection passage for emitting radiation, an array of detectors disposed on the other side of the inspection passage opposite to the radiation source for receiving the radiation emitted from the radiation source, a detector for detecting the moving object, and a controller for receiving a signal from the detector and controlling the radiation source to emit radiation when the detector detects the moving object for radiation imaging and inspection of the moving object. According to the radiation inspection system, the controller can control the radiation source to automatically emit radiation beam based on the detection signal from the detector for inspecting the moving object. As a result, inspection efficiency is improved, safety is increased, and misoperation of the radiation source is eliminated.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2006Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignees: Nuctech Company Limited, Tsinghua UniversityInventors: Zhiqiang Chen, Yuanjing Li, Yinong Liu, Junli Li, Hua Peng, Yaohong Liu, Shangmin Sun, Jinyu Zhang, Qingjun Zhang, Li Zhang, Yali Xie, Yanli Deng, Ming Ruan, Siyuan Liang, Guang Yang, Wei Jia
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Publication number: 20110170661Abstract: An inspection system is provided. The inspection system includes at least one source configured to emit a beam of radiation onto an object. The inspection system also includes at least two area detectors having different characteristics configured to receive a reflected beam of radiation from the object and output a plurality of image data streams corresponding to the different characteristics, wherein the at least two area detectors disposed in at least one of a cascaded arrangement or separated by a pre-determined distance along a direction parallel or perpendicular to a scan direction of the object.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2008Publication date: July 14, 2011Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Clifford Bueno, William Robert Ross, Forrest Frank Hopkins, Joseph Bendahan, Donald Earl Castleberry, Douglas Albagli, Robert August Kaucic, Jeffery Jon Shaw, William Macomber Leue
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Patent number: 7979106Abstract: In order, despite a plurality of terminals, to enable their freedom of movement on the one hand and an unimpeded treatment process on the other hand to be guaranteed, there is provision in accordance with the invention, for recording the devices in their envisaged spatial distribution, especially by at least one camera, to check this distribution as regards a sufficient freedom of movement of the devices, especially by a processing or control unit, and to feed back a corrected distribution, especially by at least one video projector.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2006Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Martin Kleen, Rainer Kuth
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Publication number: 20110156916Abstract: Disclosed is a nuclear radiation-warning detector that measures impedance of silver-silver halide on an interdigitated electrode to detect light or radiation comprised of alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, X rays, and/or neutrons. The detector is comprised of an interdigitated electrode covered by a layer of silver halide. After exposure to alpha particles, beta particles, X rays, gamma rays, neutron radiation, or light, the silver halide is reduced to silver in the presence of a reducing solution. The change from the high electrical resistance (impedance) of silver halide to the low resistance of silver provides the radiation warning that detected radiation levels exceed a predetermined radiation dose threshold.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 24, 2009Publication date: June 30, 2011Inventors: Noel Felix Savignac, Leo S. Gomez, William Graham Yetton, Alex Robinson, Steven Limmer
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Publication number: 20110147593Abstract: The present invention relates to a passive radiometric imaging device and a corresponding method for scanning a scene. The proposed device comprises a radiometer that detects radiation emitted in a predetermined spectral range from a spot of said scene and for generating a radiation signal from said detected radiation, a spot movement means that effects a movement of the spot, from which the radiation is detected, to various positions, a controller that controls said spot movement means to effect the movement of the spot from one position to another position after a random time interval, and a processor that processes the radiation signals detected from the spot at said various positions and for reconstructing an image of said scene by applying compressive sensing. With this device an increase of the temperature resolution of the reconstructed image can be obtained.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2010Publication date: June 23, 2011Applicant: SONY CORPORATIONInventor: Juan NOGUEIRA-NINE
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Publication number: 20110101226Abstract: Apparatus and method for transmittance mapping of an object which is at least partially transparent to deep ultraviolet radiation. The method comprises directing a wide-band deep ultraviolet radiation so as to illuminate different areas of an array of successive areas of the object; using an optical detector positioned on an opposite side of the object with respect to the radiation source detecting the wide-band deep ultraviolet radiation that emerges from the object; and processing signals from the optical detector to determine the transmittance of the radiation through the different areas of the array of successive areas of the object.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2008Publication date: May 5, 2011Inventors: Guy Ben-Zvi, Eitan Zait, Vladimir J. Dmitriev, Steven M. Labovitz, Erez Graitzer, Ofir Sharoni
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Publication number: 20110095887Abstract: A dosimeter is disclosed for use in container including outer walls defining an interior volume, the dosimeter including: a radon detection element adapted to detect a radon level for the interior volume; a neutron detection element adapted detect a neutron level for the interior volume. The dosimeter is adapted to measure the radon level and neutron level for a period of time, compare the measured radon level to a first threshold, compare the measured neutron level to a second threshold, and determine information indicative of the presence or absence of fissile material within the interior volume based on the comparisons.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2008Publication date: April 28, 2011Inventors: Charles T. Hess, Fred Hewitt Smith
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Patent number: 7903783Abstract: A method and system for using Threat Imaging Projection (TIP) technology, and the operator testing data that it generates, in order to certify x-ray inspection system operators and thereby assure an acceptable and uniform level of operator performance. In a preferred configuration, the operator views x-ray images of objects on a screening system equipped with TIP technology. When the operator believes that a threat item image appears on the screening system, the operator indicates such via an indicating means. The system is capable of recording, storing and transmitting individual operator performance data relating to proper detections, missed detections, and false alarms, i.e., when an operator indicates that a threat item image appears when no such image actually appears on the screening system. The system preferably contains a library of various threat item images, e.g., guns, bombs, knives, etc., which are classified according to type of threat and difficulty of detection.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2009Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Rapiscan Systems, Inc.Inventors: Peter Modica, Khai Le, Phong Nguyen
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Patent number: 7897925Abstract: A method and system for high Z material revealing using muon detection technique is presented. The system measures muons' coordinates, velocities, incidence angles and leaving angles. Two series of detectors: one above and one below the interrogated volume are used. A muon trajectory deviation from an expected trajectory is used for the decision making on the presence of high Z material inside the volume. The muon velocity is measured using either a ring Cerenkov counter, a transition radiation detector or/and a threshold Cerenkov counter. The expected trajectory is calculated basing on known particle velocity.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2008Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignee: CeLight, Inc.Inventors: Jacques Goldberg, Isaac Shpantzer, Yaakov Achiam, Nadejda Reingand
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Publication number: 20110026672Abstract: Thickness measurer for metal elements (11), comprising a source device (20), able to emit a bundle (F) of ionizing radiations, at a predetermined or predeterminable intensity, a receiver device (24), disposed on an opposite side with respect to the metal element (11) and suitable to detect the residual intensity of the bundle (F) of ionizing radiations. The measurer comprises a cooling device, associated with the source device (20). The cooling device comprises a heat pump element (30), to remove heat from the source device (20) so as to keep the source device (20) at a predetermined and controlled temperature. The thickness measurer also comprises detection means (46, 124) for the direct or indirect detection of the intensity, or the variation in intensity, of the bundle (F) emitted by the source device (20). The detection means (46, 124) is associated with the heat pump element (30), in order to keep the emission of the bundle (F) of ionizing radiations stable.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2009Publication date: February 3, 2011Applicant: DANIELI AUTOMATION SPAInventor: Lorenzo Ciani
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Patent number: 7863571Abstract: An economical position-sensing muon detector for muon radiography is constructed using a pair of glass plates spaced apart by crossed parallel barriers. Smaller detector wires are interspersed between the barriers and an ionizing gas is used to fill the space between the plates. A muon striking near where detector wires cross causes a local momentary current flow. The current flow in two of the detector wires is sensed to determine the coordinates of the muon impact. Such muon detectors can be assembled in modular surface arrays and such arrays can be positioned on spatial surfaces for differential inspection and detection of muons transiting through and emanating from objects placed within the inspection space. Such a detector constitutes a novel and useful invention in providing an inspection device and means for cargo or cargo vehicles that detects muons transiting through and emanating from hazardous materials intended to cause malicious harm.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2008Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Inventor: Robert Beken
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Patent number: 7858942Abstract: A method for detecting the wall thickness of a container such as a bottle made of PET, for example, in which the absorption of radiation along a first and a second test path of the measurement radiation is ascertained, whereby the test paths intersect the container at two points of intersection such that the two test paths have at least one point of intersection approximately in common. Further, a method for detecting the wall thickness of a container such as a bottle made of PET, for example, such that the wall thickness is detected in the transitional area of a side wall of the container to a bottom area of the container.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2006Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Krones AGInventors: Armin Ott, Stefan Piana, Christian Detrois
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Patent number: 7852466Abstract: To provide an apparatus capable obtaining a temporal waveform of terahertz waves transmitted through or reflected by a sample in a set region. A delay unit is configured to change a timing at which the detection unit detects terahertz waves transmitted through or reflected by a sample, which is originated from terahertz waves generated by a generation unit. A waveform obtaining unit is configured to obtain a temporal waveform of the transmitted terahertz waves which are obtained by using the delay unit. The delay unit, of which more than one may be used, is controlled so that the detection unit detects the transmitted terahertz waves in an area related to the temporal waveform set on the basis of information related to the sample that is pre-stored in the storage unit. Then, a temporal waveform of the transmitted terahertz waves in the area is obtained.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2009Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Takeaki Itsuji
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Patent number: 7851766Abstract: A multi-stage process utilizing one or more radiation sensors on a distributed network for the detection and identification of radiation, explosives, and special materials within a shipping container. The sensors are configured as nodes on the network. The system supports extended time options at each node and the ability to combine data from multiple nodes for the data acquisition and analysis of shipping containers. The system collects radiation data from one or more nodes and compares the collected data to one or more stored spectral images representing one or more isotopes to identify one or more isotopes present. The identified one or more isotopes present are corresponded to possible materials or goods that they represent. The possible materials or goods are compared with the manifest relating to the container to confirm the identity of materials or goods contained in the container or to detect and/or identify unauthorized materials or goods in the container.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2006Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Innovative American Technology Inc.Inventor: David L. Frank
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Patent number: 7839286Abstract: The invention relates to a method for carrying out IT-assisted, customer-oriented airline baggage management, in which the transport route of the airline baggage between check-in and the sorting destination is monitored with the aid of legible information carriers. In order to provide passengers with specific information relating to what has happened to their airline baggage and, if appropriate, to allow losses to be identified quickly, video monitoring is on the one hand carried out with respect to the transport route and, on the other hand, the transport route of the pieces of airline baggage is tracked by successive readers on the basis of the legible information carriers which have been applied to the pieces of airline baggage.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2008Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.Inventor: Thomas Himmel
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Publication number: 20100288932Abstract: A device (26) is used which includes a sealed neutron tube, equipped with alpha particle and gamma radiation detectors; the tube is placed in a given position (P1); steps are performed in which neutrons are sent towards the object (24), and in which data provided by the detectors is acquired and processed in order to obtain a three-dimensional mapping of the object. According to the invention, at least one displacement of the device is performed around the object so as to place it in another position (P2, P3, P4), the steps are repeated, each mapping is geometrically correctly so that that it may be updated relative to the set of all mappings, and these are combined together.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2010Publication date: November 18, 2010Applicant: SOC. ANONYME D'ETUDES ET REALISATIONS NUCLEAIRESInventors: Corinne GROISELLE, Jean-Luc Dumont, Philippe Le Tourneur
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Patent number: 7820960Abstract: The subject matter described herein includes methods, systems, and computer program products for measuring the density of a sample construction material. According to one aspect, a nuclear density gauge is disclosed for measuring the density of a sample construction material. The material measurement gauge includes a radiation source positioned for emitting radiation into a sample construction material. A radiation detector is positioned apart from the radiation source and configured to detect radiation from the sample construction material and to produce a signal representing the detected radiation. A non-nuclear moisture property detector is configured to determine a moisture property of the sample construction material and to produce a signal representing the moisture property. A material property calculation function is configured to calculate a property value associated with the sample construction material based upon the signals representing the detected radiation and the moisture property.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2009Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: Troxler Electronic Laboratories, Inc.Inventor: Robert Ernest Troxler
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Publication number: 20100264316Abstract: An apparatus comprising a mirror array having a plurality of mirrors and a control system. The plurality of mirrors is capable of receiving a signal for an image. The control system is capable of controlling a first portion of the plurality of mirrors in the mirror array to direct a first portion of the signal to a detector. The control system is also capable of controlling a second portion of the plurality of mirrors in the mirror array to direct a second portion of the signal away from the detector.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2009Publication date: October 21, 2010Applicant: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Michael Joseph Delaney, JR., David Arthur Whelan
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Patent number: 7788980Abstract: Strain waves of THz frequencies can coherently generate radiation when they propagate past an interface between materials with different piezoelectric coefficients. Such radiation is of detectable amplitude and contains sufficient information to determine the time-dependence of the strain wave with unprecedented subpicosecond, nearly atomic time and space resolution.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2007Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLCInventors: Evan J. Reed, Michael R. Armstrong
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Patent number: 7791028Abstract: Methods and apparatus for system identification operate by computing phase and amplitude using linear filters. By digitally processing the linearly filtered signals or data, the phase and amplitude based on measurements of the input and output of a system, are determined.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2006Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: TauTheta Instruments LLCInventors: Nathan T. Baltz, J. D. Sheldon Danielson
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Publication number: 20100166142Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method for detecting high atomic number elements in an article by using radiation having two different energies. The detecting of high atomic number elements can be accomplished by using an algorithm, curve fitting or using a data table. Disclosed herein too is a radiation system that uses the aforementioned method for detecting high atomic number elements.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2007Publication date: July 1, 2010Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Yanfeng Du, Forrest Frank Hopkins, Joseph Bendahan
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Patent number: 7745788Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for forming an optical trap with light directed through or above a semiconductor material. A preferred embodiment selected light-trapping wavelengths that have lower absorption by the semiconductor. A preferred embodiment provides for an optical trapping through semiconductor employing a thin silicon (Si) wafer as a substrate. Further embodiments of the invention provide for microchannel fabrication, force probe measurement, sorting, switching and other active manipulation and assembly using an optical trap.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2006Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: David C. Appleyard, Matthew J. Lang
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Publication number: 20100140481Abstract: An apparatus for detecting information on an object includes an irradiating unit, a detecting unit, and an information-obtaining unit. The irradiating unit irradiates the object with electromagnetic waves as a rectangular shaped beam. The electromagnetic waves include a frequency component in (or range of) at least part of a frequency region of 30 GHz to 30 THz, and have variations in magnitude at intervals of 10?11 seconds or more or a temporally constant magnitude. The detecting unit detects the electromagnetic waves transmitted or reflected by the object through interaction therebetween. The information-obtaining unit obtains information on the object from information on the electromagnetic waves detected by the detecting unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2010Publication date: June 10, 2010Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Toshihiko Ouchi
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Patent number: 7732772Abstract: A system for detecting explosive materials includes at least one deuterium/tritium neutron generator module, at least one germanium detector module, and an analysis module. The deuterium/tritium neutron generator module bombards an object with neutrons. The germanium detector module detects gamma rays emitted by the object in response to the neutrons. The analysis module analyzes the gamma rays detected by the germanium detector module for the presence of explosive materials on or within the object.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignees: Raytheon Company, Purdue Research FoundationInventors: David S. Koltick, Yeong E. Kim, Jayson K. Bopp, Joseph C. Deno, Paul G. Jones
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Patent number: 7709800Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for rejecting radioactive interference in a radiation monitoring station. Techniques typically include two radiation detectors positioned to acquire first and second radiation measurements from a moving radiological source in substantially distinct fields of view. A transition zone is established between the fields of view. A function yielding a dependent variable is defined at least in part by the first radiation level measurement and the second radiation level measurement. A detection alert is generated when the dependent variable reaches the first threshold value. In some embodiments a determination is mage as to whether the monitoring station is occupied as a condition for generating a detection alert, and in some embodiments a determination is made as to whether the detected radiological source is likely innocuous or offensive prior to generating a detection alert.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2006Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: Nucsafe, Inc.Inventors: Alan Proctor, William Richardson
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Patent number: 7705294Abstract: An apparatus for recording and displaying images of and identifying material types in a target object in a fluid carrying conduit includes a downhole unit. The downhole unit includes a controllable light source, the controllable light source structured to emit high energy photons. The downhole unit further includes a sensor unit structured to detect the high energy photons that are backscattered from the target object and to generate signals in response to the detected high energy photons. The apparatus also includes a control and display unit that includes a signal transmitter and a viewing screen structured to display at least one two-dimensional image that is generated using the signals from the sensor unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2009Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: VisuRay ASInventors: Einar Ramstad, Phil Teague
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Patent number: 7696480Abstract: One finding of the present invention is that, by use of radiation with a polyfrequent effective spectrum for the examination of the object, beam hardening or shift of the spectrum's center of gravity does indeed lead to the fact that the effectively operative absorption coefficient or attenuation coefficient and/or the effective operative reflection coefficient of the object material, and thus particularly also the ratio of two coefficients to different radiation spectrums, no longer is solely specific for the material, but also depends on the thickness, but that this may be accepted, and nevertheless exact classification of the object material can still be done by using, in addition to the ratio of the absorption and/or reflection coefficients, one of the intensity values resulting during irradiations, in order to perform an association with one of a plurality of predetermined materials on the basis of reference data.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2006Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Foerderung der angewandten Forschung e.V.Inventors: Guenther Kostka, Peter Schmitt, Andreas Jobst
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Publication number: 20100078565Abstract: A radiation detecting apparatus includes a radiation conversion panel for detecting radiation that has passed through a subject and converting the detected radiation into radiation image information, and a casing for storing the radiation conversion panel as a roll when the subject is not being irradiated with radiation. When the subject is irradiated with radiation, the radiation conversion panel stored as a roll in the casing is unrolled and pulled out of the casing, and the radiation conversion panel is extended flatwise against the subject.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2009Publication date: April 1, 2010Applicant: FUJIFILM CorporationInventors: Keiji Tsubota, Yasunori Ohta, Naoyuki Nishino, Yutaka Yoshida, Eiichi Kito, Shinji Imai, Yasuhiro Seto