Radiation scanning of objects for contraband
US7103137B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 24, 2002 |
| Grant date | Sep 5, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 24, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2223/423
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A scanning unit for identifying contraband within objects, such as cargo containers and luggage, moving through the unit along a first path comprises at least one source of a beam of radiation movable across a second path that is transverse to the first path and extends partially around the first path. A stationary detector transverse to the first path also extends partially around the first path, positioned to detect radiation transmitted through the object during scanning. In one example, a plurality of movable X-ray sources are supported by a semi-circular rail perpendicular to the first path and the detector, which may be a detector array is also semi-circular and perpendicular to the path. A fan beam may also be used. Radiographic images may be obtained and/or computed tomography (“CT”) images may be reconstructed. The images may be analyzed for contraband. Methods of scanning objects are also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.