Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a magnetic resonance based material detection system that includes a resonator probe which is highly resonant, is cost effective and has a compact magnetic structure with a low cost tuning mechanism and high quality factor (Q). The probe is relatively immune to radio frequency interference and can be used in close proximity to other resonator probes of similar design, complementary sensing equipment, and electromagnetic shielding due to its low external magnetic field. It is preferred that, if the magnetic resonance based detection equipment is used with complementary sensing equipment that uses x-rays, the portion of shielding that intersects the x-ray beam is made of thin material of a conductive nature which retains electromagnetic shielding properties while causing minimal attenuation to x-rays. In one embodiment, the resonator probe is a rectangular-shaped single turn toroid fabricated from copper sheets.

Abstract: A readily relocatable X-ray imaging system for inspecting the contents of vehicles and containers, and a method for using the same. In a preferred embodiment, the system is relatively small in size, and is used for inspecting commercial vehicles, cargo containers, and other large objects. The X-ray imaging, system comprises a substantially arch-shaped collapsible frame having an X-ray source and detectors disposed thereon. The frame is preferably collapsible via a plurality of hinges disposed thereon. A deployment means may be attached to the frame for deploying the frame into an X-ray imaging position, and for collapsing the frame into a transport position. The collapsible X-ray frame may remain stationary during X-ray imaging while a vehicle or container is driven through or towed through an inspection area defined under the frame. Alternatively, the collapsible X-ray frame may be movable relative to a stationary vehicle or container during X-ray imaging.

Abstract: The inspection methods and systems of the present invention are mobile, deployable, and capable of scanning a wide variety of receptacles cost-effectively and accurately on uneven surfaces. The inspection system comprises an inspection module that, in a preferred embodiment, is in the form of a mobile trailer capable of being towed and transported to its intended operating site with the help of a tug-vehicle. The tug-vehicle preferably includes at least one source of electromagnetic radiation, a hydraulic lift system to load and unload the radiation source, and at least one radiation shield plate positioned on the back of the driver cabin of the tug-vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention improves the resolution and accuracy of the presently known two-dimensional position sensing detectors and delivers improved performance in the 1.3 to 1.55 micron wavelength region. The present invention is an array of semiconductor layers with four electrodes, the illustrative embodiment comprising a semi-insulating substrate semiconductor base covered by a semiconductor buffered layer, the buffered layer further covered by a semiconductor absorption layer and the absorption layer covered with a semiconductor layer. Four electrodes are placed on this semiconductor array: two on the top layer parallel to each other and near the ends of opposite edges, and two etched in the buffered layer, parallel to each other and perpendicular to the first set. The layers are doped as to make a p-n junction in the active area. Substantially all the layers, excepting the semi-insulating substrate layer, are uniformly resistive.