Abstract: This invention provides a scanning system for scanning an object in a scanning zone. The scanning system includes both a radiation source arranged to irradiate the object with radiation having a peak energy of at least 900 keV and a scatter detector arranged to detect radiation scattered from the object wherein the radiation source is arranged to irradiate the object over a plurality of regions to be scanned within a single irradiation event. The scatter detector includes a plurality of detection elements, each detection element being arranged to detect scattered radiation from a predefined part of the scanning zone and a signal processor arranged to calculate scatter intensity across the plurality of detector elements.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a scanning device of back-scatter imaging with a radiation beam, comprising: a radiation source; a fixed shield plate and a rotatable shield body disposed between the radiation source and a object to be scanned respectively, wherein the fixed shield plate is stationary with respect to the radiation source and the rotatable shield body is rotatable with respect to the fixed shield plate. The fixed shield plate is provided with a ray passing-through region thereon, which allows for a radiation beam from the radiation source to pass through the fixed shield plate, a ray incidence region and a ray emergence region are arranged on the rotatable shield body respectively, during the rotatable scanning of the rotatable shield body, the ray passing-through region of the fixed shield plate continuously intersects with the ray incidence region and the ray emergence region of the rotatable shield body to generate collimated holes for scanning.

Abstract: A technique for use in security screening and detection contexts employs an X-ray explosive imager that acquires images from backscattered RF modulated X-ray signals on which a time series analysis is performed to detect image change across the time series of images that represent pixels changing at the rate of the difference frequency of the RF frequency and the a priori NQR signature frequencies.

Abstract: This invention has one object to provide radiographic apparatus with a compensating filter that allows simple and accurate estimation of direct radiation to acquire a radioscopic image or a sectional image of excellent contrast. This invention includes a direct-ray attenuation-rate acquiring section for acquiring a direct-ray attenuation rate from a dose of direct radiation entering into a subject and a dose of direct radiation emitted from the subject. In this invention, a direct-ray attenuation rate is acquired on an assumption that a primary indirect-ray attenuation rate is equal to the direct-ray attenuation rate, the primary indirect-ray attenuation rate being a rate of decreasing a primary indirect-ray generated with the compensating filter that transmits the subject. Such configuration may achieve provision of X-ray apparatus that allows more simple acquisition of a fluoroscopic X-ray image or a sectional image without performing complicated calculations conventionally.

Abstract: A portable backscatter advanced imaging technology scanner with automated threat or target recognition including: a floor assembly having a cantilever drive assembly for rotating the floor assembly, the floor assembly being able to be partitioned into multiple parts for reassembly; at least one x-ray tube oriented towards selected sides of a test subject; a detector assembly oriented on the circumference of the floor assembly, the detector assembly being able to partitioned into multiple parts for reassembly; a storage unit to store images from detected scattered photons on the detector assembly; and a processing unit to detect, identify and classify concealed objects on the test subject.

Abstract: The present specification discloses a covert mobile inspection vehicle with a backscatter X-ray scanning system that has an X-ray source and detectors for obtaining a radiographic image of an object outside the vehicle. The systems preferably include at least one sensor for determining a distance from at least one of the detectors to points on the surface of the object being scanned, a processor for processing the obtained radiographic image by using the determined distance of the object to obtain an atomic number of each material contained in the object, and one or more sensors to obtain surveillance data from a predefined area surrounding the vehicle.

Abstract: A radiographic apparatus includes an image acquisition controller for controlling operation of more than one electronic cassette. For signal communication between the image acquisition controller and the electronic cassettes, each electronic cassette may be connected to a communication cable. These communication cables are connected to a switching hub that intermediates communication between the electronic cassettes and the image acquisition controller. The radiographic apparatus includes multiple power supplies corresponding in number to the electronic cassettes. Each electronic cassette may be connected to one power supply through a power cable separately from the communication cable.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for inspecting an object using a backscatter inspection system. In one illustrative embodiment, an apparatus comprises a radiation source, a collimator, and a detector system. The radiation source is configured to emit radiation. The collimator is configured to form a beam using a portion of the radiation emitted by the radiation source. The beam is directed towards a surface of an object. The detector system is configured to detect backscatter formed in response to the beam encountering the object. A shape of the detector system is configured to be changed into a selected shape.

Abstract: A method and system for visualizing the effects of corrosion are provided. In the context of a method, a workpiece is interrogated with radiation, such as by interrogating the workpiece with x-ray radiation. By relying upon a radiographic technique, the workpiece may be hidden and may be interrogated without disassembly. The method generates a backscatter image of the workpiece based upon radiation backscattered from the workpiece. The method also compares one or more regions of the backscatter image of the workpiece with respect to backscatter images of different metal loss indicators. Each metal loss indicator is representative of a different amount of metal loss. As a result of the comparison, the method estimates the metal loss attributable to corrosion of the workpiece.

Abstract: A CT scanner with scatter correction device and a method for scatter correction are provided. The method comprises positioning shields for shielding some of the CT detector elements from direct X ray radiation, while allowing scattered radiation to arrive at said shielded elements; measuring scatter signals from said shielded elements, indicative of scattered radiation intensity; and correcting for scatter by subtracting scatter intensity values estimated from said measured scatter signals from signals measured by unshielded detector elements.

Abstract: A system for imaging a gamma source includes a pixelated Compton scattering layer, for Compton scattering of gamma photons emitted by the gamma source, and a non-pixelated full-energy detector for detecting at least a portion of Compton scattered gamma photons geometrically encoded by a coded aperture positioned between the pixelated Compton scattering layer and the full-energy detector at a distance from the pixelated Compton scattering layer. A method for imaging a gamma source includes (a) detecting coincidence events, each including Compton scattering in a pixelated Compton scattering layer, and transmission to a non-pixelated full-energy detector of a Compton scattered gamma photon transmitted through a coded aperture located at a distance from the pixelated Compton scattering layer, and (b) determining an image of the gamma source from the detection of the coincidence events.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating an inspection system is provided. A housing with an x-ray system located inside of the housing is moved in an environment with water relative to a location on a surface of an object to be inspected. The location on the surface of the object is submerged in the water in the environment. A number of components for the x-ray system are cooled using the water around the housing.

Abstract: The energy of an X-ray beam and critical depth are selected to detect structural discontinuities in a material having an atomic number Z of 57 or greater. The critical depth is selected by adjusting the geometry of a collimator that blocks backscattered radiation so that backscattered X-ray originating from a depth less than the critical depth is not detected. Structures of Lanthanides and Actinides, including nuclear fuel rod materials, can be inspected for structural discontinuities such as gaps, cracks, and chipping employing the backscattered X-ray.

Abstract: Described are a method and apparatus for high-speed phase shifting of an optical beam. A transparent plate having regions of different optical thickness is illuminated by an optical beam along a path of incidence that extends through the regions. The transparent plate can be moved or the optical beam can be steered to generate the path of incidence. The optical beam exiting the transparent plate has an instantaneous phase value according to the region in which the optical beam is incident. Advantageously, the phase values are repeatable and stable regardless of the location of incidence of the optical beam within the respective regions, and phase changes at high modulation rates are possible. The method and apparatus can be used to modulate a phase difference of a pair of coherent optical beams such as in an interferometric fringe projection system.

Abstract: A contraband detection system is provided. The contraband detection system includes an X-ray system including a front X-ray transmitter/detector and a rear X-ray transmitter/detector. The contraband detection system further includes a quadrupole resonance (QR) system comprising a first QR coil, and a second QR coil, wherein the first and second QR coils are located between the front and rear X-ray transmitter/detectors, and wherein the first and second QR coils are constructed from a material having a low mass attenuation coefficient and a high conductivity such that the first and second QR coils do not substantially interfere with transmitting X-rays and detecting emitted photons using the X-ray system. The contraband detection system further comprise a computing device coupled to the X-ray system and the QR system, the computing device configured to detect contraband based on signals received from the X-ray system and the QR system.

Abstract: One aspect relates to at least a portion of at least one Compton scattered X-ray visualizer, imager, or information provider configured to receive an at least one Compton scattered X-ray that has scattered through a substantial scattering depth range to one or more substantial prescribed scattering depths within an at least one matter of an at least a portion of an individual based at least in part on a set of scattering characteristics, the set of scattering characteristics at least partially corresponding to the at least one matter of the least the portion of the individual; the at least the portion of the at least one Compton scattered X-ray visualizer, imager, or information provider being configured for providing an at least one Compton scattered X-ray visualization, imaging, or information providing through one or more visualization, imaging, or information providing depth ranges to one or more visualization, imaging, or information providing prescribed depths into the at least one matter of the least t

Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for obtaining a three-dimensional representation of a target object within a fluid-carrying conduit, such as a hydrocarbon exploration or production well, using high energy photons is provided. The representation is essentially a three-dimensional image that achieves visualization of the shape of the target object despite the intervening opaque fluids located between the imaging tool and the object. In one specific though non-limiting embodiment, a narrow, pencil-shaped beam of radiation is scanned in coordination with a similarly narrow detector field-of-view in order to sample the radiation-scattering properties of only a small volume of material at any given time. The result is a clearer to visualization with a greater viewing depth.

Abstract: A system and method for producing images of the structure and composition of an object based on measurements of the low-angle x-ray diffraction properties of the object. The imaging system includes a coded aperture that encodes spatial and spectral features onto radiation scattered from image points within the object. The radiation is detected at a two-dimensional array of detectors, whose output is deconvolved and processed to estimate a three-dimensional image having molecular specificity.

Abstract: A system and method for inspecting a vehicle or other object by means of two sources and one or more detectors of penetrating radiation. The sources and detector(s) are carried on a mobile conveyance and deployed at a point of operation. One source irradiates an inspected object from within an enclosure, while a second source swings away from the conveyance on a deployable member, such as a boom, such that the second source can irradiate the vehicle from above. A backscatter image of the inspected object is based at least in part on radiation from the second source scattered by the inspected object.

Abstract: Methods of reconstructing the surface topography of an object embedded in a scattering medium are provided, with example methodologies including: imaging an object embedded in a signal scattering medium using a scattered signal detector; detecting changes in the magnitude of a plurality of scattered signals obtained from multiple fields of view within the medium; and constructing an image of the surface topography of the object based on said plurality of detected signal magnitude changes. A plurality of system, apparatus, control means, evaluation methods, and materials and components useful for practicing the methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A volumetric imaging device for constructing a three dimensional image includes a source, and absorbing detector, and an image constructor. The source includes a photon source, and a scatter detector arranged between the object and the photon source. The photon source emits photons towards the scatter detector. The scatter detector scatters at least some of the photons and detects the scattered photons. The object scatters at least some of the photons that were first scattered by the scatter detector. The absorbing detector is arranged to detect scattered photons from the object. The image constructor constructs the three dimensional image based on the scattered photons.

Abstract: Apparatus for inspection of a disk, which includes a crystalline material and has first and second sides. The apparatus includes an X-ray source, which is configured to direct a beam of X-rays to impinge on an area of the first side of the disk. An X-ray detector is positioned to receive and form input images of the X-rays that are diffracted from the area of the first side of the disk in a reflective mode. A motion assembly is configured to rotate the disk relative to the X-ray source and detector so that the area scans over a circumferential path in proximity to an edge of the disk. A processor is configured to process the input images formed by the X-ray detector along the circumferential path so as to generate a composite output image indicative of defects along the edge of the disk.

Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for screening subjects at security locations while preserving the privacy of subjects and retaining the efficiency and thus, throughput, of the screening process. More specifically, the present invention is an improved X-ray detection system and method that allows for maximum threat detection performance with improved verbal and visual communication between the screening and imaging system operator and an image analyst, either proximally or remotely located, thus allowing for an accurate, directed physical search and minimal “pat-down” of subjects under inspection.

Abstract: A human body security inspection system including a plurality of ray emitting-detecting modules, which are configured to emit X-rays to the object to be inspected and to receive X-rays scattered from the object to be inspected, wherein the ray emitting-detecting modules form an enclosed region with respect to the object to be inspected and security inspection is implemented on the object in the enclosed region.

Abstract: The invention discloses a human body inspection system comprising: an X-rays source for emitting X-rays to a human body to be inspected; a modulation and collimation device for modulating and collimating the X-rays from the X-rays source; a detector that receives X-rays scattered from the human body to be inspected; a guiding rail forming an enclosed detection region, wherein the human body to be inspected is in the detection region, and the X-rays source, the modulation and collimation device and the detector are positioned in a same side relative to the human body, and the X-rays source, the modulation and collimation device and the detector together move along the guiding rail in whole so that the X-rays can scan all over the human body.

Abstract: The present application discloses a system for scanning a shoe for illegal materials. The system includes an X-ray source for projecting a beam of X-rays onto the shoe, a detector array for detecting X-rays transmitted through the shoe and at least one metal detector coil for detecting metals within the shoe. The system produces a radiographic image of the shoe by processing the detected X-rays and data obtained from the at least one metal detector coil. Other embodiments are directed toward other screening technologies, including millimeter wave screening technologies.

Abstract: The present specification discloses a system for controlling a movement of at least one person into a controlled location. The system includes an X-ray screening system having an entrance area defined by walls and a gate, and an exit area defined by walls and a gate. The gates are automatically controlled based upon the output of the X-ray screening system. Additional gates, defining an additional holding area, are used for subsequent analysis and inspection.

Abstract: A ray emission device and an imaging system with the ray emission device are disclosed. The ray emission device comprises: a cylinder; a ray source disposed in the cylinder for emitting a ray; and a collimator disposed in the cylinder. The collimator enables the ray emitted by the ray source to form sectorial ray beams at a plurality of positions in an axial direction of the cylinder. The cylinder has a pencil beam forming part arranged over an axial length of the cylinder corresponding to the plurality of positions. The sectorial ray beams form pencil beams through the pencil beam forming part when the cylinder rotates around a rotation axis.

Abstract: The application discloses systems and methods for X-ray scanning for identifying material composition of an object being scanned. The system includes at least one X-ray source for projecting an X-ray beam on the object, where at least a portion of the projected X-ray beam is transmitted through the object, and an array of detectors for measuring energy spectra of the transmitted X-rays. The measured energy spectra are used to determine atomic number of the object for identifying the material composition of the object. The X-ray scanning system may also have an array of collimated high energy backscattered X-ray detectors for measuring the energy spectrum of X-rays scattered by the object at an angle greater than 90 degrees, where the measured energy spectrum is used in conjunction with the transmission energy spectrum to determine atomic numbers of the object for identifying the material composition of the object.

Abstract: The inspection methods and systems of the present invention are mobile, rapidly deployable, and capable of scanning a wide variety of receptacles cost-effectively and accurately on uneven surfaces. The present invention is directed toward a portable inspection system for generating an image representation of target objects using a radiation source, comprising a mobile vehicle, a detector array physically attached to a movable boom having a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is physically attached to the vehicle. The invention also comprises at least one source of radiation. The radiation source is fixedly attached to the distal end of the boom, wherein the image is generated by introducing the target objects in between the radiation source and the detector array, exposing the objects to radiation, and detecting radiation.

Abstract: The present specification discloses an inspection system for detecting objects being carried by a person. The inspection system is highly modular and capable of being assembled by a two person team using conventional tooling equipment. In one embodiment, the inspection system has three primary modules—two detection modules and one radiation source module—that can be readily attached and detached from each other or to a frame and connected to a signal processing system to provide for a quick set up and tear down process.

Abstract: The present application discloses an X-ray imaging apparatus for determining a surface profile of an object under inspection that is positioned at a distance from the apparatus. The X-ray imaging system has an X-ray source for producing a scanning beam of X-rays directed toward the object, a detector assembly for providing a signal representative of an intensity of X-rays backscattered from the object, and processing circuitry to determine a time difference between when the X-ray source is switched on and when the backscattered X-rays arrive at the detector assembly. The processing circuitry is adapted to output data representative of the surface profile of the object under inspection.

Abstract: Provided are an X-ray analyzer and a mapping method for an X-ray analysis which, in a inspection for a harmful substance contained in, for example, a material or a composite electronic component, enable determination as to whether a sample is normal or abnormal to be performed visually based on an image obtained by the X-ray mapping analysis. In the X-ray analyzer, an X-ray mapping image of a sample which is confirmed to be normal in advance is obtained as a reference mapping image. A mapping analysis is performed on a inspection sample. A difference from the reference mapping image is obtained for each pixel, to thereby display a difference mapping image. A region in which the amount of specific element is larger than a reference amount is displayed with high brightness, and hence an abnormal portion may be easily found.

Abstract: Described are a method and apparatus for high-speed phase shifting of an optical beam. A transparent plate having regions of different optical thickness is illuminated by an optical beam along a path of incidence that extends through the regions. The transparent plate can be moved or the optical beam can be steered to generate the path of incidence. The optical beam exiting the transparent plate has an instantaneous phase value according to the region in which the optical beam is incident. Advantageously, the phase values are repeatable and stable regardless of the location of incidence of the optical beam within the respective regions, and phase changes at high modulation rates are possible. The method and apparatus can be used to modulate a phase difference of a pair of coherent optical beams such as in an interferometric fringe projection system.

Abstract: A system comprises a structure having particles embedded at a level within the structure, and X-ray imaging apparatus for capturing images of the particles at the level.

Abstract: In an embodiment, an X-ray detector has a transmissive fluorescence generating portion, and a reflective fluorescence generating portion. The transmissive and reflective fluorescence generating portions have at least one of an intensifying screen having a phosphor layer that contains praseodymium-activated gadolinium oxysulfide phosphor particles in which a ratio of particles having a particle diameter falling in ±30% of a center particle diameter is 45% by volume or more and their filling rate is 60% by volume or more, and an intensifying screen having a phosphor layer that contains europium-activated barium fluorochloride phosphor particles in which a ratio of particles having a particle diameter falling in ±30% of a center particle diameter is 45% by volume or more and their filling rate is 45% by volume or more.

Abstract: The different advantageous embodiments provide a method and apparatus. The apparatus comprises a moveable platform, a housing connected to the moveable platform, a power supply located inside of the housing, and an x-ray tube located inside of the housing. The power supply and the x-ray tube are immersed in a coolant. The x-ray tube is configured to generate an x-ray beam.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a back-scatter human body security inspection system, capable of detecting a radioactive matter carried by the human body, comprising: a radiation source configured to generate radiation rays, a flying spot forming device, configured to modulate the radiation rays from the radiation source, so as to form flying spot scanning beams for scanning the human body to be detected, a detector configured to detect radiation rays from the human body to be detected and output a signal characterizing a dose of the radiation rays, a control and data processing device, configured to process the signal outputted from the detector to obtain a radiation image of the human body to be detected. The detector detects the radiation rays from the radiation source scattered by the human body to be detected, separately at different times, and the radiation rays from the radioactive matter carried by the human body to be detected.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for inspecting personnel or their effects. A first and second carriage each carries a source for producing a beam of penetrating radiation incident on a given subject. A positioner provides for relative motion of each beam vis-à-vis the subject in a motion, the vertical component of which is one-way. A detector receives radiation produced by at least one of the sources after the radiation interacts with the subject.

Abstract: The present application discloses methods and systems for scanning an object. The scanning system provides a first detector region having a thickness of at least 2 mm and a second detector region having a thickness of at least 5 mm. The second detector region is arranged to receive radiation that has passed through the first detector region. The method includes irradiating the object with radiation having a peak energy of a least 1 MeV, and detecting the first profile radiation after it has interacted with or passed through the object in order to provide information relating to the object.

Abstract: A method and system for visualizing the effects of corrosion are provided. In the context of a method, a workpiece is interrogated with radiation, such as by interrogating the workpiece with x-ray radiation. By relying upon a radiographic technique, the workpiece may be hidden and may be interrogated without disassembly. The method generates a backscatter image of the workpiece based upon radiation backscattered from the workpiece. The method also compares one or more regions of the backscatter image of the workpiece with respect to backscatter images of different metal loss indicators. Each metal loss indicator is representative of a different amount of metal loss. As a result of the comparison, the method estimates the metal loss attributable to corrosion of the workpiece.

Abstract: A system for analyzing a sample is provided. The system includes a beam selection device for selecting between a one-dimensional operation mode for providing a one-dimensional x-ray beam to the sample and a two-dimensional operation mode for providing a two-dimensional x-ray beam to the sample.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for inspecting personnel or their effects. A first and second carriage each carries a source for producing a beam of penetrating radiation incident on a given subject. A positioner provides for relative motion of each beam vis-à-vis the subject in a motion, the vertical component of which is one-way. A detector receives radiation produced by at least one of the sources after the radiation interacts with the subject.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for inspecting an object using a backscatter inspection system. In one illustrative embodiment, an apparatus comprises a radiation source, a collimator, and a detector system. The radiation source is configured to emit radiation. The collimator is configured to form a beam using a portion of the radiation emitted by the radiation source. The beam is directed towards a surface of an object. The detector system is configured to detect backscatter formed in response to the beam encountering the object. A shape of the detector system is configured to be changed into a selected shape.

Abstract: Handheld imaging systems and methods for using such systems to create a 3D image of a desired object using scattered radiation are described. The handheld imaging apparatus can contain a housing, a radiation source for irradiating an object with a fan beam or cone beam, and multiple detector elements for detecting backscattered radiation from the object, where each detector element has a different view of the object and collects an image of the object that is different than the other detector elements. Alternatively, the handheld imaging apparatus can contain a housing, a radiation source for irradiating an object with a pencil beam of radiation, and a detector configured to detect backscattered radiation from the object, wherein the detector and the radiation source are oriented off-axis relative to each other.

Abstract: Handheld imaging systems and methods for using such systems to create a 3D image of a desired object using scattered radiation are described. The handheld imaging apparatus can contain a housing, a radiation source for irradiating an object with a fan beam or cone beam, and multiple detector elements for detecting backscattered radiation from the object, where each detector element has a different view of the object and collects an image of the object that is different than the other detector elements. Alternatively, the handheld imaging apparatus can contain a housing, a radiation source for irradiating an object with a pencil beam of radiation, and a detector configured to detect backscattered radiation from the object, wherein the detector and the radiation source are oriented off-axis relative to each other.

Abstract: The present application discloses an X-ray imaging apparatus for determining a surface profile of an object under inspection that is positioned at a distance from the apparatus. The X-ray imaging system has an X-ray source for producing a scanning beam of X-rays directed toward the object, a detector assembly for providing a signal representative of an intensity of X-rays backscattered from the object, and processing circuitry to determine a time difference between when the X-ray source is switched on and when the backscattered X-rays arrive at the detector assembly. The processing circuitry is adapted to output data representative of the surface profile of the object under inspection.

Abstract: A radiation imaging system includes a radiation imaging cassette and a console device. A communication mode between the cassette and the console device is switchable between a wired mode and a wireless mode. Due to shortage of a battery of the cassette, the communication mode is switched to the wired mode to start charging the battery and send image data from the cassette to the console device through a cable. The console device has first and second judging sections. The first judging section judges whether or not a charge level of the battery exceeds a predetermined threshold value. The second judging section judges whether or not radiography is in progress. If it is judged that the charge level of the battery exceeds the predetermined threshold value and the radiography is not in progress, a window that indicates permission for switching to the wireless mode is displayed on a monitor.

Abstract: The present specification discloses an inspection system for detecting objects being carried by a person. The inspection system is highly modular and capable of being assembled by a two person team using conventional tooling equipment. In one embodiment, the inspection system has three primary modules—two detection modules and one radiation source module—that can be readily attached and detached from each other or to a frame and connected to a signal processing system to provide for a quick set up and tear down process.

Abstract: A method for detecting discrepancies in an item is provided. The method comprises: directing energy waves at the item along at least one dimension, wherein a portion of the energy waves are reflected back from the item; detecting reflected energy waves from the item along at least one dimension and recording the intensity of the detected reflected energy waves, and forming a one-dimensional image of the item from the detected reflected energy waves.