Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting concealed items on or in an object by utilizing a low Z material panel. The object to be scanned is located between an x-ray detector and the low Z material panel. The method includes producing a pencil beam of x-rays from an x-ray source directed toward the object, scanning the beam of x-rays over the object, and detecting x-rays scattered from the beam of x-rays as a result of interacting with the object and the low Z material panel. The apparatus includes an x-ray source to produce a pencil beam of x-rays directed toward the object, a scanner to scan the beam of x-rays over the object, and the detector to detect x-rays scattered from the beam of x-rays as a result of interacting with the object and the low Z material panel.

Abstract: An image display storage and retrieval system provides a mechanism to transmit x-ray images of parcels to one or more remote workstations. The images may be annotated at these workstations to specifically identify articles to be targeted for more thorough investigation.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an apparatus and method for use in a system with an x-ray source to produce a pencil beam of x-rays to scan an object and a first detector providing a value representative of the intensity of the x-rays scattered from the object to produce a scattered image having a second detector disposed opposite the first detector to provide a value representative of the intensity of the x-rays passing directly from the x-ray source to the second detector; a processor coupled to the system to receive information specifying a position of the pencil beam of x-rays, the processor also coupled to second detector to produce a shadow image formed of pixels indicating the intensity value measured by the second detector for a plurality of positions of the pencil beam of x-rays; and combining the scattered and shadow image to produce a composite image.

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 containers and passenger vehicles, such as cars, SUVs, and small trucks, at a variety of sites. The X-ray inspection system includes a substantially rectangular frame having an X-ray imaging system disposed thereon. The frame is detachably connected to a conveyor mechanism having a minimal height, which allows drivers and passengers of vehicles to readily step off of and onto the conveyor mechanism without the aid of steps, railings, and the like. In a preferred configuration, the conveyor mechanism includes two detachable sections comprising a plurality of rollers, or other transport mechanism, having a radio-transparent plate or belt resting thereon for transporting a vehicle or container through the inspection area under the X-ray frame.

Abstract: 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.