With Relative Movement Means Patents (Class 250/360.1)
  • Patent number: 11796487
    Abstract: The present invention is related to technologies used to inspect flexible undersea pipes, in particular to detect flooding of the annular space in said pipes. The present invention discloses a device for detecting annular flooding with gamma transmission in a flexible pipe, comprising a structure (07), in which said structure (07) contains in its interior, a first pressure vessel (10) containing an encapsulated radioactive source (03) in its interior, a second pressure vessel (11) containing radiation sensors (04) in its interior, and a third pressure vessel (12), containing electronic means for collecting and amplifying signals (05) in its interior, in which said radiation sensors (04) are connected to the electronic means (05) for collecting and amplifying signals using an internal cable (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignees: PETROLEO BRASILEIRO S.A.—PETROBRAS, UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO RIO DE JANEIRO—UFRJ
    Inventors: Carla Alves Marinho Ferreira, Carlos Eduardo Maia De Souza, Edgar Francisco Oliveira De Jesus, Joao Marcio De Castilho Santos, Nei Mariano Da Fonseca Junior, Ricardo Tadeu Lopes
  • Patent number: 11150287
    Abstract: Various approaches to can be used to interrogate a surface such as a surface of a layered semiconductor structure on a semiconductor wafer. Certain approaches employ Second Harmonic Generation and in some cases may utilize pump and probe radiation. Other approaches involve determining current flow from a sample illuminated with radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: FemtoMetrix, Inc.
    Inventors: Viktor Koldiaev, Marc Kryger, John Changala
  • Patent number: 10648931
    Abstract: A method, a system, and an apparatus for scanning an elongate structure. A scanner in a scanning system is moved on a helical path around the elongate structure. The scanner is moved on the helical path around the elongate structure using a helical track system attached to the elongate structure using a translating structure. An x-ray beam is emitted from the scanner while the scanner moves on the helical path. Backscatter is detected from the x-ray beam encountering the elongate structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Morteza Safai, Gary Ernest Georgeson
  • Patent number: 10641717
    Abstract: This invention relates to a movable article inspection system and inspection method, wherein the inspection system comprises: a first automated guided vehicle, a radiation source and a detection mechanism; said radiation source and said detection mechanism are both mounted on said first automated guided vehicle, said first automated guided vehicle is able to move to a preset scanning inspection position, such that scanning inspection of said article to be scanned is effectuated by means of relative movement between an article to be scanned and the first automated guided vehicle. Such movable inspection system based on an automated guided vehicle is capable of making full use of an existing automated guided vehicle and its control system to make a movement path of the inspection system more flexible, and capable of effectuating centralized control and management of the inspection system, so that it can improve inspection efficiency, and save labor cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: Nuctech Company Limited
    Inventors: Zhiqiang Chen, Yuanjing Li, Shangmin Sun, Yu Hu, Xuejing Yang, Qiangqiang Wang, Long Du, Wei Li
  • Patent number: 10359520
    Abstract: An energy resolution decrease in a radiation imaging apparatus is suppressed. The apparatus includes a detector including a conversion unit configured to convert incident radiation photons into optical photons or charges, a pixel array including pixels arranged in a two-dimensional matrix and configured to obtain a pixel value in accordance with the optical photons or charges, and an output circuit including a plurality of output channels configured to output the pixel value from the pixel array, and a signal processing unit configured to perform signal processing of correcting the pixel value by using a correction coefficient in accordance with a pixel value obtaining process model in which a process of obtaining the pixel value output from the pixel array via the plurality of output channels on the basis of the optical photons or charges is modeled and obtaining an energy-discriminated radiographic image based on the corrected pixel value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2019
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Ishii, Atsushi Iwashita, Sho Sato, Kosuke Terui
  • Patent number: 9689670
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for detecting the thickness and crown of plates and strips, belonging to the field of nuclear technology applications. The device comprises a C-frame; two ray source mounted in an upper arm of the C-frame and distributed at an interval along the width direction of a steel plate/strip; two rows of gas-pressurized ionization chamber detector arrays mounted in a lower arm of the C-frame and distributed at an interval along the moving direction of the plate/strip; collimators mounted below the two ray source, the collimators enabling the rays of each ray source to only irradiate to a corresponding row of detectors; pre-amplifier modules connected with the detector arrays; a data collector connected with the pre-amplifier modules; a data processing and displaying computer connected with the data collector; and a cooling water and pressurized air service system and a control system for ensuring system operation and monitoring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Zhifang Wu, Jigang An, Yuai Zhang, Jichen Miao, Litao Li, Guilai Xing, Liqiang Wang, Zhentao Wang, Ximing Liu, Jian Zheng, Yibin Huang, Xiaojing Guo, Chunming Tan
  • Patent number: 9658344
    Abstract: A radiation detector, such as for a PET scanner, may include an array of scintillator crystals, with each scintillator crystal having a polished end, a roughened end opposite the polished end, and polished sides extending between the polished end and the roughened end. The detector may also include a specular reflector layer between adjacent polished sides of adjacent ones of the array of scintillator crystals, and a diffusive reflector layer adjacent the roughened ends of the array of scintillator crystals. The detector may further include at least one photodetector adjacent the polished ends of the array of scintillator crystals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: CRYSTAL PHOTONICS, INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Bruce Chai, Xiao-mei Pan, Bao-hui Zhou
  • Patent number: 9651610
    Abstract: Visible laser probing is described. In one example a probe device has a laser configured to provide a laser beam at a visible wavelength, an objective lens positioned in front of the laser to focus the laser beam on an active region of an integrated circuit through a back side of an integrated circuit die, and a detector positioned to receive a reflected laser beam reflected from the active region through a back side of the die, through the objective lens. The detector is configured to detect an amplitude modulation of the reflected laser beam wherein the amplitude modulation is attributable to the electric field at the active region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Travis M. Eiles, Rajiv Giridharagopal, David Shykind
  • Patent number: 9329303
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting thermal and epithermal neutrons. The apparatus includes a first radiation responsive element configured to absorb substantially all incident thermal neutrons and produce first light scintillations indicative of the absorbed thermal neutrons and a second radiation responsive element configured to produce second light scintillations indicative of at least epithermal neutrons that traverse the first radiation responsive element. Also disclosed are borehole logging methods and apparatuses for estimating formation properties using nuclear radiation, particularly an apparatus and method for estimating parameters of a formation. The method may include using neutron count rate information from a detector to model porosity or salinity. The apparatus includes a processor and storage subsystem with a program that, when executed, implements the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Feyzi Inanc, Robbie L. Allen, Nikolay N. Velker
  • Patent number: 9228826
    Abstract: A contactless thickness measuring apparatus is provided which includes an terahertz transmitter configured to receive the first optical path signal from the coupler and to generate a terahertz continuous wave using the first optical signal and an applied bias; an optical delay line configured to delay the second optical path signal output from the coupler; and an terahertz receiver configured to receive the terahertz continuous wave penetrating a sample and to detect an optical current using the terahertz continuous wave and the second optical path signal delayed. A thickness of the sample is a value corresponding to the optical current which phase value becomes a constant regardless of a plurality of measurement frequencies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: ELECTRONICS AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Han-Cheol Ryu, Namje Kim, Sang-Pil Han, Kyung Hyun Park, Hyunsung Ko, Jeong Woo Park
  • Patent number: 9201018
    Abstract: Scanning sensor for measuring properties of continuous flat sheet, that is moving in the machine direction, employs an IR radiation source for directing a beam of incident IR radiation that impinges the sheet. The IR source has elongated lamp filament that generates IR radiation and the corresponding spot size formed on the sheet has elongated dimensions with its long axis being aligned with the machine direction. Aligned with the MD maximizes sensor spatial resolution in the cross direction. The sensor can employ a receiver having rectangular geometry with its long axis being aligned also in the MD. Scanning sensor can operate in the reflective, transmissive, or offset transmission mode to monitor characteristics of flat sheets, particularly of paper or plastic products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: Honeywell ASCa Inc.
    Inventor: Frank Martin Haran
  • Patent number: 9057680
    Abstract: Provided is a diagnostic method and system capable of applying tomography to industrial long cylindrical process systems, such as a pipe line, which are difficult to diagnose using existing medical or industrial computed tomography (CT) scanners. Existing industrial X-ray CT scanners cannot be used for such a pipe that is attached to the process system and thus cannot be placed on the turntable, and existing image diagnostic apparatuses of a fan beam type, a collimated beam type, etc. having a stereotyped structure are next to impossible to move and use for undetachable process systems and their peripheral devices. To solve these problems, there is provided a gamma-ray tomography scanning system that is capable of being directly attached to a pipe in operation and measuring a cross section of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2015
    Assignees: Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sung-Hee Jung, Jong-bum Kim, Jinho Moon
  • Patent number: 9057791
    Abstract: A quantum-counting radiation detector in which signals of individual pixels and signals of combined pixels are evaluated in parallel processing branches and count results are combined in an appropriate manner, thereby reducing the influence of unwanted interference effects for the respective application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2015
    Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Thilo Hannemann, Silke Janssen, Steffen Kappler, Edgar Kraft, Daniel Niederlöhner, Mario Reinwand
  • Patent number: 9012852
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for determining the absence or presence of contraband in an object with a fast neutron source for irradiating the object; a detector for measuring ?-rays emitted by the irradiated object from energy state relaxation as a result of neutron capture, typically after the object has been irradiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventor: Gregory Pekarsky
  • Patent number: 8938170
    Abstract: In one aspect, identification and communication systems are described herein. In some embodiments, an identification and communication system comprises one or more query units and one or more response units, wherein at least one query unit is a handheld device. In some embodiments, the handheld device does not comprise a weapon and is not mounted on a weapon. In some embodiments, the handheld device comprises a flashlight. In some embodiments, the handheld device comprises a stylus. In some embodiments, the handheld device comprises a smart device in communication with the stylus. In some embodiments, the handheld device comprises a display screen. In some embodiments, the handheld device comprises a query controller and the display screen is operable to display data provided by the query controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Analysis First LLC
    Inventors: Peter Gerber, Jodi Lasky
  • Publication number: 20140312227
    Abstract: An inspection apparatus capable of facilitating reduction in cost of the apparatus is provided. The inspection apparatus includes: beam generation means for generating any of charged particles and electromagnetic waves as a beam; a primary optical system that guides the beam into an inspection object held on a movable stage in a working chamber and irradiates the inspection object with the beam; a secondary optical system that detects secondary charged particles occurring from the inspection object; and an image processing system that forms an image on the basis of the detected secondary charged particles. The inspection apparatus further includes: a linear motor that drives the movable stage; and a Helmholtz coil that causes a magnetic field for canceling a magnetic field caused by the linear motor when the movable stage is driven.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: EBARA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shoji YOSHIKAWA, Kiwamu TSUKAMOTO
  • Patent number: 8759780
    Abstract: The present application provides techniques and/or systems for inspecting a pipe, or rather measuring one or more characteristics of a pipe, using radiation. A carriage, mounted to the pipe, may provide a mechanism for propelling a radiation source and a detector along the pipe. The detector is configured such that it can receive radiation that has traversed both a wall of the pipe and an obstacle, such as a pipe support. In this way, portions of a pipe that are traditionally difficult to inspect may be inspected easily with minimal human intervention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Analogic Corporation
    Inventor: John M. Dobbs
  • Patent number: 8515008
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for X-ray fluorescence analysis of a mineral sample is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an X-ray source (2) for generating an X-ray beam to irradiate the mineral sample; at least one fluorescence detector (4,5) for measuring fluorescent radiation emitted by the mineral sample when irradiated by the X-ray beam; and a processing unit for providing an analysis of the mineral sample based on the measurements made by the at least one fluorescence detector (4,5). Further, the apparatus comprises a sample container (3) arranged to hold the mineral sample during the irradiation, wherein the sample container is arranged to provide at least two different irradiation paths through said mineral sample during irradiation. An advantage with this arrangement is that it enables analysis of elements having a wide range of atomic numbers in a single sample with improved reliability and accuracy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Orexplore AB
    Inventors: Anders Ullberg, Erik Odén, Ragnar Kullenberg, Frédrik Danielsson
  • Patent number: 8493057
    Abstract: A detector detects an electromagnetic wave having a frequency of 0.01 THz?f?100 THz and transmitted through a device under test (DUT). A changer changes a relative position of an intersection of an optical path of the electromagnetic wave and the DUT, with respect to the DUT. A deriver derives a characteristic value of the electromagnetic wave based on a detection result of the detector, while the characteristic value is associated with an assumed relative position, which is the relative position if the electromagnetic wave is not refracted by the DUT. A corrector changes the assumed relative position to an actual relative position, which is the relative position if the refraction of the electromagnetic wave by the DUT is considered. A corrected deriver derives the characteristic value associated with a predetermined relative position based on an output from the corrector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Advantest Corporation
    Inventors: Shigeki Nishina, Motoki Imamura, Akiyoshi Irisawa, Tomoyu Yamashita, Eiji Kato, Kodo Kawase
  • Patent number: 8426821
    Abstract: An analyzer system (20) including an on-belt analyzer having a housing (2) adapted to be positioned across a path of a conveyor belt (3) which carries material to be analyzed, wherein the housing defines a tunnel (9) dimensioned to allow the belt to travel therethrough in suspended relation in order to allow analysis of the material without the belt contacting the analyzer (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Scantech International Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Andrew Roland Harris, Michael Francis Edwards, Kenneth Graham Smith, Gavin Leith Christie, Nick John Deans
  • Publication number: 20130092839
    Abstract: A particle beam generating device includes at least one accelerator unit for generating a particle beam and at least one emission unit for the output of the at least one particle beam onto a workpiece. The device is configured to release at least two particle beams including hadronic particles with at least one of a different mass or a different charge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: GSI HELMHOLZZENTRUM FUER SCHWERIONENFORSCHUNG GMBH
    Inventors: Gerhard Kraft, Nami Saito, Dieter Schardt
  • Patent number: 8324579
    Abstract: A monitor part performs monitoring by detecting contamination on a lower surface of an article to be inspected based on a lower surface detection signal, detecting contamination on an upper surface of the article based on an upper surface detection signal, detecting contamination on a front surface of the article based on a front, lower surface detection signal and a front, upper surface detection signal, detecting contamination on a rear surface of the article based on a rear, lower surface detection signal and a rear, upper surface detection signal, detecting contamination on a left surface of the article based on a left, lower surface detection signal and a left, upper surface detection signal, and detecting contamination on a right surface of the article based on a right, lower surface detection signal and a right, upper surface detection signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsuhito Ito, Ryohei Yanagishima
  • Publication number: 20120273684
    Abstract: The present invention is a cargo inspection system, employing a radiation source, capable of scanning vehicles and/or cargo in a wide range of sizes, including conventional imaging areas as well as taller and bulkier enclosures at sufficiently optimal efficacy and overall throughput. In one embodiment, the present invention is a multiple pass inspection method for inspecting vehicles and their cargo, comprising a first pass scan, wherein said first pass scan includes moving a radiation source at a suitable scanning distance, rotating a radiation source at a suitable scanning angle, and moving said radiation source along an object under inspection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventor: Alan Akery
  • Patent number: 8207502
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Nuctech Company Limited
    Inventors: Zhongrong Yang, Hui Meng, Nan Jiang, Shangmin Sun
  • Publication number: 20120153162
    Abstract: A hazardous materials detection and identification system includes a set of distributed sensors across one or more sides of a self propelled frame structure such as a straddle carrier or similar cargo equipment device. The system non-invasively analyzes vehicles, one or more containers in a stack, a container during lift and movement, a package, cargo, or other objects, that are located in an analysis position relative to the self propelled frame structure for detection and identification of hazardous materials such as chemicals, biological materials, radiological materials, fissile materials, and explosives (CBRNE).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: Innovative American Technology Inc.
    Inventor: David L. Frank
  • Publication number: 20120032084
    Abstract: A curved linear induction motor direct drive is provided. The rotor of the motor drive is mechanically attached to a rotating frame which in turn holds other components. The rotor may comprise two layers, an aluminum ring to provide the principal magnetic interaction with the stator, and a steel ring to provide mechanical strength. Such a rotor ring may be manufactured with a compression fit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N. V.
    Inventors: Joshua Sapp, Rosemarie Sheridan, Charles L. Cattell, JR., Terrance Nemenz, Shufang Dong, Ted A. Bremenour
  • Publication number: 20120025083
    Abstract: A CT scan system toward an astronomical object, including: a first satellite means for equipping a first satellite with an emitting means, said emitting means being for emitting super penetrating elementary particles; a second satellite means for equipping a second satellite with a detection means, said detection means being for detecting said super penetrating elementary particles; a super penetrating elementary particle measurement means for measuring the super penetrating elementary particles that are emitted from said emitting means, transmitted through said astronomical object, and detected by said detection means on said second satellite, said second satellite being, at the time of a measurement, opposite to said first satellite with respect to said astronomical object in between; and a CT reconstructing means for reconstructing a CT scan image regarding internal structure of said astronomical object based on the data obtained from said super penetrating elementary particle measurement means iterated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventor: Tomohiro Tsuta
  • Publication number: 20110266447
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Zhongrong Yang, Hui Meng, Nan Jiang, Shangmin Sun
  • Patent number: 8003947
    Abstract: A system includes a transmitter is configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal through a sample cell (including a sample medium) to a receiver, which is configured to receive the electromagnetic signal and another electromagnetic signal for mixing therewith. Propagation paths of the signals to the transmitter and receiver include a first propagation path of the electromagnetic signal to the transmitter, and a second propagation path of the other electromagnetic signal to the receiver. The arrangement, which is located along either or each of the propagation paths of signals to the transmitter and receiver, is configured to alter the length of a respective propagation path. And the processor configured to recover an amplitude and phase of the transmitted electromagnetic signal, and calculate a complex index of refraction of the sample medium as a function of the amplitude and phase of the transmitted electromagnetic signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventors: Alexander Majewski, Rene Abreu
  • Patent number: 7999233
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for inspection of stacked cargo containers. One embodiment of the invention generally comprises a plurality of stacked cargo containers arranged in rows or tiers, each container having a top, a bottom a first side, a second side, a front end, and a back end; a plurality of spacers arranged in rows or tiers; one or more mobile inspection devices for inspecting the cargo containers, wherein the one or more inspection devices are removeably disposed within the spacers, the inspection means configured to move through the spacers to detect radiation within the containers. The invented system can also be configured to inspect the cargo containers for a variety of other potentially hazardous materials including but not limited to explosive and chemical threats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventor: Stephen Derenzo
  • Publication number: 20110186739
    Abstract: Apparatus for scanning large cargo to detect concealed contents include a mobile platform configured to carry and position at least one X-ray or gamma-ray source and at least one detector array at a plurality of positions with respect to a stationary cargo. The detector array may be mounted on a boom moveably affixed to the mobile platform. Multiple measurements of radiation passing through the cargo for various source-detector orientations can be used to compute volumetric images of concealed content within the cargo.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: L-3 Communications Security and Detection Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew D. Foland, Richard Franklin Eilbert, Michael R. Gambini, Nicholas Danvers Penrose Gillett, Ronald S. McNabb, Boris Oreper, David Perticone, Vitaliy Ziskin
  • Patent number: 7989770
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignees: Nuctech Company Limited, Tsinghua University
    Inventors: 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
  • Publication number: 20110168900
    Abstract: The present application provides techniques and/or systems for inspecting a pipe, or rather measuring one or more characteristics of a pipe, using radiation. A carriage, mounted to the pipe, may provide a mechanism for propelling a radiation source and a detector along the pipe. The detector is configured such that it can receive radiation that has traversed both a wall of the pipe and an obstacle, such as a pipe support. In this way, portions of a pipe that are traditionally difficult to inspect may be inspected easily with minimal human intervention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: John M. Dobbs
  • Publication number: 20110001048
    Abstract: According to the present invention, an electromagnetic wave measurement device includes an electromagnetic wave output device, an electromagnetic wave detector, a relative position changing unit, a delay period recording unit, a phase deriving unit, a delay-corrected phase deriving unit, a sinogram deriving unit, and an image deriving unit. The electromagnetic wave output device outputs an electromagnetic wave having a frequency equal to or more than 0.01 [THz] and equal to or less than 100 [THz] toward a device under test and a container storing at least a part of the device under test. The electromagnetic wave detector detects the electromagnetic wave which has transmitted through the device under test. The relative position changing unit changes a relative position of an intersection at which an optical path of the electromagnetic wave transmitting through the device under test and the device under test intersect with respect to the device under test.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Applicant: ADVANTEST CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shigeki NISHINA, Motoki IMAMURA, Akiyoshi IRISAWA, Tomoyu YAMASHITA, Eiji KATO
  • Patent number: 7851766
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Innovative American Technology Inc.
    Inventor: David L. Frank
  • Publication number: 20100264317
    Abstract: A monitor part performs monitoring by detecting contamination on a lower surface of an article to be inspected based on a lower surface detection signal, detecting contamination on an upper surface of the article based on an upper surface detection signal, detecting contamination on a front surface of the article based on a front, lower surface detection signal and a front, upper surface detection signal, detecting contamination on a rear surface of the article based on a rear, lower surface detection signal and a rear, upper surface detection signal, detecting contamination on a left surface of the article based on a left, lower surface detection signal and a left, upper surface detection signal, and detecting contamination on a right surface of the article based on a right, lower surface detection signal and a right, upper surface detection signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: FUJI ELECTRIC SYSTEMS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Katsuhito ITO, Ryohei YANAGISHIMA
  • Publication number: 20100252740
    Abstract: Placement of a marker is performed efficiently, when performing a plurality of radiation imaging operations of a subject with different imaging angles. An operator inputs a region of interest within a subject on a bed, via an operating section. The region of interest and a peripheral region thereof are set as an irradiation range, and the marker is placed in the peripheral region. A radiation source control section causes a radiation source to emit radiation toward the subject within the set irradiation range. Radiation which passes through the subject is obtained by a radiation image detector as a radiation image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sadato AKAHORI, Tomonari SENDAI, Yasuko YAHIRO, Makoto SUGIZAKI, Naoto IWAKIRI, Yasunori OHTA
  • Publication number: 20100249647
    Abstract: A radiographic image capturing apparatus includes a radiation source for applying a radiation to an object to be examined, a radiation detector for detecting the radiation which has passed through the object and converting the detected radiation into a radiographic image, a positional information acquiring unit for acquiring positional information of the object, and an image capturing angle changer for changing an image capturing angle of the radiation source with respect to the radiation detector based on the positional information in a stereographic image capturing process for capturing at least two radiographic images of the object by applying the radiation to the object from directions which are different from each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroki Nakayama
  • Patent number: 7800061
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing a radiation scan of a structure involve arranging a source of penetrating radiation and a radiation detector at opposed ends of a radiation path through the structure, oriented in such a way that the source emits radiation along the path through the structure and the detector is capable of detecting the radiation after it has passed through the structure and monitoring the radiation emitted from the source that is detected by the detector. At least one continuous loop of a cable is mounted on the structure between at least two fixed locations on the structure so that the cable is movable along its length relative to the structure, and the at least one of the source of penetrating radiation and the radiation detector are fixed to the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Johnson Matthey PLC
    Inventors: Kenneth James, Lee Michael Robins
  • Patent number: 7752009
    Abstract: A method of checking the height of a mail item relative to at least one dimensional threshold SH defining a change in postage. The mail items are advanced at a constant speed V along a reference surface. The presence of a mail item is detected relative to a given point of the reference surface. First and second times t1, t2 for which the same mail item is present at the first and second distances d1, d2 relative to the reference surface is detected. The ratio t2/t1 is compared with a value equal to (1??), where ? represents a correction coefficient of less than 1 that depends on the tolerances for detection of the presence of a mail item. The height of a mail item is considered greater than the dimensional threshold SH if, and only if, the relationship t2/t1>1?? is true.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: NEOPOST Technologies
    Inventors: Christian Nicolas, Didier Painault
  • Patent number: 7705294
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: VisuRay AS
    Inventors: Einar Ramstad, Phil Teague
  • Patent number: 7683329
    Abstract: The system for automatic determination of the density of an object (100) comprises: an apparatus (2) to determine a significant dimension (x) of said object (100), an apparatus (30) to determine the intensity (I) of a photon beam attenuated by passing through said object (100), an acquisition, processing and analysis apparatus (200), means (70, 72, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88) of transporting the object (100), first means (74, 76, 78) of adjusting the position of the object (100), second means (90, 92, 94, 96, 98) of adjusting the position of the object (100). The method for using the system described above includes steps to calibrate components of apparatuses 2 and 30, and steps to actually determine the significant dimension of objects (100), that are done on each object (100) in said set of objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignees: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique, Compagnie Generale des Matieres Nucleaires
    Inventors: Abdallah Lyoussi, Emmanuel Payan
  • Patent number: 7570787
    Abstract: An X-ray inspection apparatus is provided with a shied box, a conveyor, an X-ray irradiator, an X-ray line sensor, a monitor, and a control computer to enable the apparatus to inspect an article by automatically selecting an appropriate image processing procedure that is most appropriate for the article. The control computer creates function blocks comprising an image forming section, an image processing procedure adoption determination unit, and a contaminant determination unit as a CPU loads various programs stored in a memory units such as HDD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Ishida Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Osamu Hirose
  • Patent number: 7569825
    Abstract: An inspection device includes a light source emitting ultraviolet light onto a banknote conveyed on a conveyance path, a light source emitting infrared light onto the banknote, a photosensor for detecting light from the banknote, a light source control processing portion for controlling the light sources while individually switching the light sources at high speed, and a discrimination processing portion. The discrimination processing portion first imports each of two detection signals (output signals) from the photosensor, which are obtained by substantially within an identical period of time when the banknote is illuminated with the light through sequential lighting of the light sources and calculates an output ratio of the photosensor. Then the calculated output ratio of the photosensor is compared and collated with reference data preliminarily stored in a memory, determining authenticity and denomination of the banknote.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Nidec Copal Corporation
    Inventor: Hideaki Kamijo
  • Patent number: 7566873
    Abstract: One embodiment relates to an apparatus for inspecting a substrate using charged particles. The apparatus includes an illumination subsystem, an objective subsystem, a projection subsystem, and a beam separator interconnecting those subsystems. The apparatus further includes a detection system which includes a scintillating screen, a detector array, and an optical coupling apparatus positioned therebetween. The optical coupling apparatus includes both refractive and reflective elements. Other embodiments and features are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: KLA-Tencor Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: David Walker, Salam Harb, Vassil Spasov, David Stites, Izzy Lewis, Marian Mankos
  • Publication number: 20090101826
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Applicant: INNOVATIVE AMERICAN TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventor: David L. Frank
  • Publication number: 20090101827
    Abstract: An analyser system (20) including an on-belt analyser having a housing (2) adapted to be positioned across a path of a conveyor belt (3) which carries material to be analysed, wherein the housing defines a tunnel (9) dimensioned to allow the belt to travel therethrough in suspended relation in order to allow analysis of the material without the belt contacting the analyser (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Applicant: SCANTECH INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD
    Inventors: Andrew Roland Harris, Michael Francis Edwards, Kenneth Graham Smith, Gevin Leith Christie, Nick John Deans
  • Patent number: 7519146
    Abstract: The present invention uses a penetrative radiation to form images of a reinforced concrete which has a steel bar. By recording a relationship between radioactive energies and thicknesses of the reinforced concrete, a radioactive energy curve for the reinforced concrete is built. The present invention can be used for an on-site detecting of a reinforced concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: National Central University
    Inventors: Chung-Yue Wang, Peng-Ching Peng
  • Patent number: 7408160
    Abstract: A system for detecting and graphically displaying a contents of a fast-moving target object comprises: a radiation source, having a position such that at least a portion of radiation emitted from the radiation source passes through the fast-moving target object, the fast-moving target object having a variable velocity and acceleration while maintaining a substantially constant distance from the radiation source and being selected from the group consisting of: a vehicle, a cargo container and a railroad car; a velocity measuring device configured to measure the variable velocity of the fast-moving target object; a detector array comprising a plurality of photon detectors, having a position such that at least some of the at least a portion of the radiation passing through the target object is received thereby, the detector array having a variable count time according to the variable velocity and a grid unit size; a counter circuit coupled to the detector array for discretely counting a number of photons enterin
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Science Applications International Corporation
    Inventors: Victor V. Verbinski, Scott T. Smith, Judith Maxwell, legal representative, Jeffrey M. Adams, Ryan Shyffer, Kenneth H. Valentine
  • Publication number: 20080156992
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a mobile cantilever door-type container inspection system, in the art of radiation scanning imaging inspection technology. The system according to the present invention comprises a moveable scanning apparatus formed by a scanning frame and a remote control device, wherein the scanning frame comprises a radiation source and some detectors, wherein the radiation source or an apparatus cabin wherein the radiation source is disposed is connected with an L-shaped cantilever structure to form a door-type scanning frame, wherein beneath the radiation source or the apparatus cabin wherein the radiation source is disposed are provided with rollers that can reciprocatingly move on rails and are controlled by drive means. The detectors are disposed in a cross beam and a vertical beam of the cantilever structure of the door-type scanning frame. Rays of the radiation source are right in alignment with rows of detectors in the cantilever structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Applicants: TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY, NUCTECH COMPANY LIMITED
    Inventors: Kejun Kang, Zhiqiang Chen, Qitian Miao, Yuanjing Li, Nan Jiang, Hua Peng, Xuewu Wang, Jinning Liang, Shangmin Sun, Zhizhong Liang, Quanwei Song, Yucheng Wu, Yanjun Han, Guang Yang, Bin Hu, Jingyu Gu