Abstract: The present invention discloses an in vitro method to identify a contaminant gas in a specimen comprising a mixture of gases as a function of the decay rate of at least one species of positronium. The positronium is obtained by directing the positrons from a positron source in to a vessel that contains a specimen containing the mixture of gases comprising a contaminant gas to be identified.

Abstract: The present system enables the monitoring and automatic control of the tolerance in splice overlap of textile play , though the identification of the overlap area, identification and counting of textile cords in the overlap area, and the generation of a control signal for the manufacturing equipment based on parameters and criteria defined by a user. The system includes an image acquisition sub-assembly that contains a lighting module, artificial vision module, and respective elements of support, fixation, conditioning and adjustment. The system also includes a quality control computer program that has a module of morphologic image analysis for detection and recognition of the overlap of the ply, detecting and counting of cords in the overlap area, a module of support to the decision of acceptance/rejection of the ply based on parameters defined by the user and a module of an interface with production equipment.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for detecting the presence of an ophthalmic lens, particularly a contact lens, in a package. The method for detecting the presence of an ophthalmic lens, particularly a contact lens, in a package, is characterised in that the package is checked for presence of an ophthalmic lens with an x-ray detection system and with an optical detection system, whereby presence of an ophthalmic lens is given if either one or both cameras detect presence of an ophthalmic lens.

Abstract: Described herein is system for the inspection of a target object. The system may include a gamma radiation source, a gamma detector and an image processor coupled to the gamma detector. When the inspection system is operating in a first active mode for imaging a target object, the gamma radiation source directs radiation at a target object, the radiation passes through the target object, and the image processor images the target object based on an output of the gamma detector. When the dual-mode system is operating in a second passive mode for imaging a target object, the target object is scanned by a neutron detector for radiation that is emitted by the target object, the emitted radiation from the target object is detected by the neutron detector and an indicator indicates the presence of the emitted radiation.

Abstract: A method for detecting an element is described and which includes the steps of providing a gamma-ray spectrum which has a region of interest which corresponds with a small amount of an element to be detected; providing nonparametric assumptions about a shape of the gamma-ray spectrum in the region of interest, and which would indicate the presence of the element to be detected; and applying a statistical test to the shape of the gamma-ray spectrum based upon the nonparametric assumptions to detect the small amount of the element to be detected.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for low-background detection of simultaneously-emitted characteristic radiative emissions is presented. In some aspects, the characteristic radiative emissions, e.g. X-rays, are produced by deexcitation of exotic (excited) atoms in a sample to be identified. The characteristic X-rays can be used to identify the sample according to its unique identifying energy spectrum. In other aspects, a nuclear characteristic radiative emission is detected and used for the identification.

Abstract: Methodologies for non-destructively inspecting and characterizing micro-structural features in a thermal barrier coating (TBC) on a component, wherein the micro-structural features define pores and cracks, if any, in the TBC. The micro-structural features having characteristics at least in part based on a type of process used for developing the TBC and affected by operational thermal loads to which a TBC is exposed. In one embodiment, the method allows detecting micro-structural features in a TBC, wherein the detecting of the micro-structural features is based on energy transmitted through the TBC, such as may be performed with a micro-feature detection system 20. The transmitted energy is processed to generate data representative of the micro-structural features, such as may be generated by a controller 26. The data representative of the micro-structural features is processed (e.g.

Abstract: A real-time method and computer system for identifying radioactive materials which collects gamma count rates from a HPGe gamma-radiation detector to produce a high-resolution gamma-ray energy spectrum. A library of nuclear material definitions (“library definitions”) is provided, with each uniquely associated with a nuclide or isotope material and each comprising at least one logic condition associated with a spectral parameter of a gamma-ray energy spectrum. The method determines whether the spectral parameters of said high-resolution gamma-ray energy spectrum satisfy all the logic conditions of any one of the library definitions, and subsequently uniquely identifies the material type as that nuclide or isotope material associated with the satisfied library definition. The method is iteratively repeated to update the spectrum and identification in real time.

Abstract: An elemental analyzer for identifying quantities of one or more elements in a material has a container for holding a material to be analyzed, a resonant gamma ray source unit for directing resonant gamma rays into the material in the container, and at least one detector for detecting gamma rays resonantly scattered by at least one predetermined element in the material. The resonant gamma ray source unit has an outer housing of gamma ray shield and a radiological shield material, with an inner chamber and an aperture directed towards the container, a moving gamma ray generator source of predetermined materials mounted in the chamber, the materials being selected from a predetermined group of materials which emit resonant gamma rays when exposed to particles or photons, the source being directed towards said aperture, and a source of particles or photons positioned in the chamber adjacent the gamma ray generator source.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for analysing the amount of free gas within a pharmaceutical sample. According to the invention the method comprises the following steps: providing a sample before an irradiating source; irradiating the sample with at least one beam of electromagnetic radiation; detecting radiation emitted through the sample and generating signals corresponding to the amount of free gas in the sample, and correlating the generated signals to at least one solid state parameter of the sample.

Abstract: A system to monitor the health of a structure, sensor nodes, program product, and associated methods are provided. The system includes an array of health monitoring sensor nodes connected to or embedded within a structure to monitor the health of the structure. The health monitoring sensor nodes include sensor elements positioned to sense parameters of the structure and to provide data related to the parameters to a health monitoring sensor node data collector. The sensor nodes can each include an energy harvester to harvest energy to power the sensor node. The system also includes an energy distributing node positioned to provide energy to the sensor nodes, through the structure being monitored, to be harvested by energy harvester of the sensor nodes.

Abstract: A sensing device includes a transmission path, an electromagnetic-wave input unit through which an electromagnetic wave enters the transmission path, an electromagnetic-wave detector configured to detect the electromagnetic wave propagating through the transmission path, and a bent portion provided in the transmission path. The electromagnetic wave propagates through the transmission path while radiating to the periphery of the transmission path. The bent portion is provided in the transmission path for allowing an interaction to occur between a test subject and the electromagnetic wave in the transmission path. When the test subject is positioned relative to the bent portion, the electromagnetic-wave detector detects a change in the state of the electromagnetic wave caused by the interaction occurring between the test subject and the electromagnetic wave in the bent portion. The detected information provides a basis for obtaining information on the test subject.

Abstract: A system for detecting and identifying low-level (weak) radioactive sources moving past stationary detectors. The system, which can detect low-level sources moving at speeds of 30 m/s (about 70 mph), uses the differences between background counts and gamma counts from a moving source to determine that a source has passed the detector, when a source has passed the detector, and the identification of the source. This system has been demonstrated to work successfully for ordinary passenger vehicles transporting a variety of sources, and also for boats at lower speeds on a waterway.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for continuous real-time measurement of bulk material using gamma irradiation. A multi-energy gamma attenuation device monitors bulk material flow and produces a spectrum that is compared to a baseline spectrum to produce a relative weight/impurity/component ratio. A sample analysis, in combination with measurement of the relative weight/impurity/component ratio of the sample, allows for determination of the coefficients for determining the absolute weight/impurity/component values of the bulk material.

Abstract: As a method for using a hard X-ray sensor that can detect weak hard X-rays or the like with a higher resolution, a method for accurately evaluating natural resources of crude oil, natural gas, etc. existing underground, for example, is provided. A buried object evaluating method includes a detecting step of arranging a radiation detector to be opposed to a hard X-ray source radiating first hard X-rays with a buried object buried in a first substance being interposed between the radiation detector and the radiation source and, by using the radiation detector, detecting second hard X-rays transmitted through the buried object out of the first hard X-rays and third hard X-rays not transmitted through the buried object, and an evaluating step of evaluating the buried object based on a strength of the first hard X-rays and a strength of the second hard X-rays detected by the radiation detector.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for screening articles utilizing a plurality of operators, with each operator utilizing an interactive display to identify and electronically mark objects within an article to be further examined. An operator positioned at an interactive display views electronic images of an article to be screened after it has been conveyed past a sensor array which transmits sequences of images of the series either directly or through a computer to the interactive display. The operator selects objects within the article displayed on the screen for further examination using the interactive feature of the display thereby registering the objects selected within the computer. The computer then provides sequential information identifying actions to be taken and information and data to be recorded.

Abstract: A method for investigating the macromolecular structure of a molecular sample, the method composing irradiating the sample with radiation having a plurality of frequencies in the range of 25 GHz to 20 THz; detecting radiation reflected from and/or transmitted by said sample to obtain a spectra of the sample; and identifying structure in the resultant spectra which arises from intermolecular interactions.

Abstract: A method and device for monitoring the position of radioactive materials in vehicles relates to a technical field of monitoring of radioactive materials.

Abstract: Non-destructive testing apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention comprises a photon source. The photon source produces photons having predetermined energies and directs the photons toward a specimen being tested. The photons from the photon source result in the creation of positrons within the specimen being tested. A detector positioned adjacent the specimen being tested detects gamma rays produced by annihilation of positrons with electrons. A data processing system operatively associated with the detector produces output data indicative of a lattice characteristic of the specimen being tested.

Abstract: A radioactive material detection system includes a plurality of radioactive material detection apparatuses and a command center. Each apparatus is disposed in or on a cargo receptacle. Each apparatus includes a wireless transmitter, a radiation sensor, a detection controller and an identification tag. The radiation sensor is configured to detect radiation over a predetermined or commanded period of time. The command center is configured to receive the wirelessly transmitted information directly or indirectly from each of the wireless transmitters of the plurality of radioactive material detection apparatuses. The system is configured to detect fissile or nuclear material that emits radiation. The system is reconfigurable from a passive sensing system to an at least partially active sensing system in the event that the system detects a nuclear anomaly within a cargo receptacle.

Abstract: A defect detection system for thermally imaging a structure that has been energized by sound energy. The system includes a transducer that couples a sound signal into the structure, where the sound signal induces acoustic chaos in the structure that causes defects in the structure to heat up. In one embodiment, the transducer is a broadband transducer. A thermal imaging camera images the structure when it is heated by the sound signal.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method for scanning personnel for the purpose of detecting and identifying certain categories of materials/objects. The invention utilizes stacked-circuit-board tiled assemblies, including one circuit board which carries an array of transmission/reception scanning microwave elements, which elements, during a scanning operation are shifted toward and away successively from a person being scanned. This motion is carried out in a manner enabling detection of peak valley (high and low) values of standing wave reflections, if any, which exist between one of these elements and a region of a person being scanned by the invention. These peak and valley values can be employed, with respect to the magnitude difference between them, to enable “found material/objects” identification.

Abstract: A radiation detection system that measures radiation (e.g., signature energy-level gamma radiation and neutrons) is employed aboard a ship or other transport vehicle along with conventional cargo to monitor for the presence of a fissile material, as would be found in a nuclear weapon, or for the presence of other sources of radiation. The detection system can be used over the course of the cargo transport, thereby enabling finely tuned monitoring for fissile material across distances of many meters extending through surrounding cargo containers. Because the system can be utilized during a ship's transport, a positive detection of fissile material can be made and acted upon while the ship is still at sea far from the destination port, where detonation of a nuclear weapon could have catastrophic consequences.

Abstract: An apparatus for non-destructive measurement of internal properties of individual vegetable or fruit pieces comprises: LEDs constructed and arranged to emit radiation into a vegetable or fruit product; pick-up structure constructed and arranged to pick up radiation, emitted by the LEDs, that has entered the vegetable or fruit product and then exited the vegetable or fruit product; a hollow cylinder between the LEDs and the pick-up structure for preventing radiation emitted by the LEDs from directly reaching the pick-up structure; a spectrometer; structure for conveying to the spectrometer the radiation picked up by the pick-up structure; and structure for processing a spectrum frequency and amplitude data as produced by the spectrometer upon the radiation picked up by the pick-up structure being analyzed by the spectrometer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for using discrete photon counting to produce transmission radiographic images of a target object with improved spatial resolution and high system sensitivity. The system comprises a radiation source for directing photons at a target object and a detector array for receiving photons passing through the target in order to provide an image of the target density. The detector array is configured to enhance spatial resolution and maintain high system sensitivity. To correct the parallax effect that may be induced by such configuration of the detector array, a process can be computer implemented or program coded to parallax correction.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for non-destructively detecting material abnormalities beneath a coated surface. A terahertz (THz) illumination unit illuminates an area of the coated surface. A detection unit detects light reflected from the illuminated area of the coated surface, and a processing unit images the illuminated area of the coated surface from optical characteristics received from the detection unit.

Abstract: Apparatus (1) for imaging an object (4) on the remote side of a barrier (6). The apparatus has source means (2) for scanning the object (4) through the barrier (6) with radiation and mask means (8) having at a least one radiation transparent area wherein the radiation from the source is masked thereby to project on to the object (4) at least one scanning beam of radiation. The apparatus (1) also has detector means (10) for detecting radiation reflected from any scanned point on the object (4) and image generation means for generating an image of the object (4) from the detected radiation.

Abstract: A method of obtaining a series of images of a three-dimensional object by transmitting pulsed terahertz (THz) radiation through the entire object from a plurality of angles, optically detecting changes in the transmitted THz radiation using pulsed laser radiation, and constructing a plurality of imaged slices of the three-dimensional object using the detected changes in the transmitted THz radiation. The THz radiation is transmitted through the object as a scanning spot. The object is placed within the Rayleigh range of the focused THz beam and a focusing system is used to transfer the imaging plane from adjacent the object to a desired distance away from the object. A related system is also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a sample-analyzing method, in which an incident beam slit is provided between an X-ray source and a sample, a receiving side beam slit is provided between the sample and an X-ray detector, the X-ray detector detects X-rays scattered again from the sample and coming through the receiving side beam slit when the sample is irradiated with the X-rays applied through the incident beam slit, and a value is measured from a value detected by the X-ray detector. In the method, a true value is measured from the value, by using a slit function representing an influence which the incident beam slit and receiving side beam slit impose on the detected value. The slit function is determined from an intensity distribution of the X-rays scattered again from the sample. The method obtains an accurate slit function in accordance with the structure of the optical system employed and can therefore analyze the sample with high precision.

Abstract: A method for examining an object includes the steps of: producing ionizing radiation photons; providing other particles or photons, each of which carrying information regarding position, time, movement direction, and/or energy of a respective one of said ionizing radiation photons before having interacted with said object to be examined; detecting each of said other particles or photons to retrieve said information; having said ionizing radiation photons to interact with said object to be examined; detecting at least some of said ionizing radiation photons after having interacted with said object to retrieve information regarding position, time, movement direction, and/or energy of each of said detected ionizing radiation photons; correlating each of said detected ionizing radiation photons with a respective one of said other particles or photons; and deducing information of said examined object by means of said information as retrieved in the steps of detection.

Abstract: An imaging apparatus (10) includes a photon detector (20) and an accessing circuit (44) coupled thereto. The photon detector (20) detects photons and generates signals in response thereto. The accessing circuit (44) reads out the signals from the photon detector (20) at a sufficiently high rate so that it operates in an event sensitive mode. The apparatus (10) also includes a signal processing module (15) for processing the signals and generating data regarding the images of the object. In accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, the signal processing module (15) may include a spatial resolution circuit (56), a photon energy resolution circuit (57), a temporal resolution circuit (58), or any combination thereof.

Abstract: A hand-held sound source for use in an infrared or thermal imaging system that detects sub-surface defects in a structure. The sound source includes a transducer that is positioned against the structure to emit a sound signal into the structure. The sound source further includes an adjustable spring that pushes the transducer against the structure with a predetermined amount of force so that the sound energy is effectively coupled into the structure. The sound source also includes three stabilizing legs that stabilize the transducer on the structure. The length of each leg can be adjustable relative to the length of the other legs so that the sound source can be used against irregular surfaces.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for evaluating a semiconductor wafer. A combination of a photothermal modulated reflectance method and system with a photothermal IR radiometry system and method is utilized to provide information which can be used to determine properties of semiconductor wafers being evaluated. The system and method can provide for utilizing a common probe source and a common intensity modulated energy source. The system and method further provide an infrared detector for monitoring changes in infrared radiation emitted from a sample, and photodetector for monitoring changes in beam reflected from the sample.

Abstract: A non-destructive testing method comprises providing a specimen having at least one positron emitter therein; determining a threshold energy for activating the positron emitter; and determining whether a half-life of the positron emitter is less than a selected half-life. If the half-life of the positron emitter is greater than or equal to the selected half-life, then activating the positron emitter by bombarding the specimen with photons having energies greater than the threshold energy and detecting gamma rays produced by annihilation of positrons in the specimen. If the half-life of the positron emitter is less then the selected half-life, then alternately activating the positron emitter by bombarding the specimen with photons having energies greater then the threshold energy and detecting gamma rays produced by positron annihilation within the specimen.

Abstract: A defect detection system for thermally imaging a structure that has been energized by a sound energy. The system includes a transducer that couples a sound signal into the structure, where the sound signal causes defects in the structure to heat up. In one embodiment, the sound signal has one or more frequencies that are at or near an eigen-mode of the structure.

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

Abstract: A multi-way radiation monitoring and detection system is capable of detecting a radiation source on or within traffic that can travel within M adjacent traffic ways, where M is an integer equal to or greater than a value of 2. The radiation detection system comprises a set of (M+1) radiation detector assemblies with individual radiation detector assemblies of the set of (M+1) radiation detector assemblies respectively positioned at each of two sides of each of the M adjacent traffic ways. A set of M controllers is included and each controller is associated with a respective traffic way of the M adjacent traffic ways. Each controller is coupled to the respective individual radiation detector assemblies positioned at the two sides of the traffic way to which that controller is associated, such that two controllers associated with two adjacent traffic ways couple to the individual radiation detector assembly positioned between those two adjacent traffic ways.

Abstract: A material analyzer for identifying quantities of one or more elements in a material has a container for holding a material to be analyzed, a resonant gamma ray source unit for directing resonant gamma rays into the material in the container, and at least one detector for detecting gamma rays resonantly scattered by at least one predetermined element in the material. The resonant gamma ray source unit has an outer housing of gamma ray shield and neutron shield material, with an inner chamber and an aperture directed towards the container, a moving gamma ray generator source of a predetermined material mounted in the chamber, the material being selected from a predetermined group of materials which emit resonant gamma rays when exposed to neutrons, the source being directed towards said aperture, and a neutron source positioned in the chamber adjacent the gamma ray generator source.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for low-background detection of simultaneously-emitted characteristic radiative emissions is presented. In some aspects, the characteristic radiative emissions, e.g. X-rays, are produced by deexcitation of exotic (excited) atoms in a sample to be identified. The characteristic X-rays can be used to identify the sample according to its unique identifying energy spectrum. In other aspects, a nuclear characteristic radiative emission is detected and used for the identification.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for screening articles utilizing a computerized touch sensitive screen or other computerized pointing device for operator identification and electronic marking of objects within the article to be further examined. An operator positioned at a computerized touch sensitive screen views electronic images of the articles to be screened as they are conveyed past a sensor array which transmits sequences of images of the series either directly or through a computer to the touch sensitive display screen. The operator manually “touches” objects within the articles displayed on the screen to be identified on coupled interactive screens thereby registering the objects selected within the computer. The computer then provides sequential information identifying actions to be taken and information and data to be recorded.

Abstract: Compact, OSL-based devices for long-term, unattended radiation detection and spectroscopy are provided. In addition, a method for extracting spectroscopic information from these devices is taught. The devices can comprise OSL pixels and at least one radiation filter surrounding at least a portion of the OSL pixels. The filter can modulate an incident radiation flux. The devices can further comprise a light source and a detector, both proximally located to the OSL pixels, as well as a power source and a wireless communication device, each operably connected to the light source and the detector. Power consumption of the device ranges from ultra-low to zero. The OSL pixels can retain data regarding incident radiation events as trapped charges. The data can be extracted wirelessly or manually. The method for extracting spectroscopic data comprises optically stimulating the exposed OSL pixels, detecting a readout luminescence, and reconstructing an incident-energy spectrum from the luminescence.

Abstract: An apparatus, which may have an adjustable length, and system for detecting items, such as weapons of mass destruction, in cargo shipping containers or other types of containers. The apparatus comprises one or more detection means and can be releasably secured to a container handling means, such as a crane spreader bar, a top pick, a top handler, a transtainer and a straddle carrier, bar and/or cargo container. Data from the detection means can be transmitted to a local processing system and/or a central processing system.

Abstract: A material sheet attribute detection system, the material sheet having a first side and a second side, the system includes a radiation source located proximate to the first side of the material sheet, the radiation source emitting radiation toward the material sheet, a radiation detection array located proximate to the second side of the material sheet, the radiation detection array producing at least one signal based on the radiation detected from the radiation source and a processor utilizing the at least one signal to determine a position of the material sheet.

Abstract: A body fat measuring apparatus is provided with a light emitting device 1 for projecting light rays to a subject's tissue, light receiving devices 3 and 4 for detecting a transmitted light ray having passed through the subject's tissue and/or a reflected light ray reflected inside the subject's body, and a CPU 6 for calculating the subject's subcutaneous fat thickness and/or body fat percentage by performing an operation by use of the detection results of the light receiving devices 3 and 4. The light receiving devices 3 and 4 are situated at different distances from the light emitting device 1.

Abstract: The vehicle security inspection system may include multiple automated detection devices for detecting explosives, weapons, contraband, etc. which may be contained on or within a motor vehicle. The system includes a tunnel or enclosure with a moving conveyor therein. A motor vehicle is driven into the entrance to the enclosure, and conveyed past the series of sensors by the conveyor belt. One or more surveillance cameras may be installed in the enclosure, as well. The various sensors incorporated therein check the vehicle for illegal articles, and the vehicle is released from the enclosure. A control gate may be provided as a door at the exit of the enclosure, and/or as a gate guiding vehicles along their intended route or to a detention area, as appropriate. The system may be provided either as a portable device or as a permanent installation, and/or may be configured as a multiple lane inspection system.

Abstract: A wall thickness of each layer or a size of a space between layers of a multilayer structured container can be easily measured with high accuracy. According to a method for measuring an inner size of a container by irradiating a multilayer structured container 2 as a target for measurement with X-rays radiated from an X-ray generating source 12 and by detecting the X-rays transmitting the container by a detector 14, the X-ray generating source 12, a slit 15, and the detector 14 perform a linear scan to the container 2 in a direction orthogonal to beams 17 in addition to disposing the slit (a double slit) 15 which narrows the X-rays transmitting the container down to the narrow beams 17 in front of the detector 14 and disposing a focal spot 12a of the X-ray generating source 12, a center of the slit 15, and a center of the detector 14 on a same straight line.

Abstract: The present invention provides an analysis of displacement by calculating the phase variance image P? (k, l) between Fourier transformed images of paired images S1 (n, m) and S2 (n, m) to determine the center of gravity of ? peak appearing on the invert Fourier transform image of the images. The present invention provides numerous advantages such as a precision of displacement analysis of a fraction of pixel to thereby allow to improve the precision of focal analysis, or reduced number of pixels required to achieve the same precision, evaluation of reliability of the analysis by using the ? peak intensity, influence of varying background reduced by using a phase variance component. The improved performance by the present invention allows any operator skilled or not to achieve a best focusing.

Abstract: Brightness information of, for example, an average value of brightnesses at an X-ray image of a first connected part when an electronic component is mounted onto only one face of a printed board is obtained. Binary images of an X-ray image of the board with the electronic components mounted to both faces are formed by an upper and a lower levels relative to the brightness information. The binary images are synthesized with each other so as to extract an image of only a second connected part. The image of only the second connected part can be obtained in this manner on the basis of the X-ray image of the double face-mounted board, so that an accuracy for connection inspection is improved. Also, a relationship between a density in the X-ray image of the connected part and a thickness of the connected part is obtained beforehand, based on which a plurality of thickness images are obtained for a plurality of X-ray images of different image storage times.

Abstract: A digital radiography apparatus (10) and process for providing images of an object, for example, an exhaust transition duct (12) comprising a core material and an overlying thermal barrier layer, to detect surface and interior defects within the duct (12). Incident energy is provided by an energy source (30), transmitted through the object (12), and sensed by a sensor (32). An image of the object (12) is formed by processing the signal from the sensor (32) in a signal processor (34) and displaying the image on a display (36) for determining defects in the object (12).

Abstract: A spectral reflectance sensor including: a light source for emitting a modulated beam of red light; a light source for emitting a modulated beam of near infrared light; a receiver for receiving reflected light produced by either the red source or the near infrared source; a receiver for receiving incident light from either the red source or the infrared source; a signal conditioner responsive to the modulation such that the signals produced by the receivers in response to reflected and incident light from the source can be discriminated from signals produced by ambient light; and a microprocessor having an input such that the microprocessor can determine the intensities of incident red light, reflected red light; incident near infrared light; and reflected near infrared light. From these intensities, and by knowing the growing days since emergence or planting, the sensor can calculate the mid-growing season nitrogen fertilizer requirements of a plant.