Background signal reduction in neutron fluorescence applications using agile neutron beam flux
US8357910B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 24, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jan 22, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 5, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01V5/00
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus and methods for operating a neutron gamma fluorescence based system by modulating the interrogating neutron flux (φIllumination) to allow for optimized signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) or to improve other detection parameter such as integration time. The apparatus includes one or more sensing systems to detect the range from the neutron source to an Area Under Investigation (AUI) or other parameters, one or more sensing systems to detect the return signal or signals caused by the interrogating neutrons, and a controller to receive inputs from the sensing systems, process them, and generate neutron beam modulation commands capable of being used by an agile neutron source to adjust its flux rate (φIllumination) and/or other characteristics. Examples of possible embodiments include: radar, video, acoustic, or hybrid sensors to determine range; gamma ray, X-ray, electromagnetic, neutron, proton, acoustic, or hybrid sensors to determine return flux, and analog, digital, optoelectronic, or hybrid neutron beam controllers.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.