Patent ID: 7062011
Filing Date: 2006-06-13
Classification: G01N,G01V

Abstract:
1. An X-ray computed tomography scanning system adapted to scan air cargo containers or other larger containers for detection of explosives, drugs, and other contraband, comprising: a table that rotates about an axis of rotation, wherein the table is sized and adapted to receive and support thereon a cargo container sized and adapted to contain a plurality of pieces of luggage, and wherein the axis of rotation of the table extends in a vertical direction; an X-ray source linearly movable parallel to the rotation axis of the table on one side of the table; an X-ray detector linearly movable parallel to the rotation axis of the table on another side of the table, wherein the X-ray source and the X-ray detector are controlled such that they move in a synchronized manner when the table is rotated; a conveyor for successively conveying cargo containers onto and off of the table; an X-ray containment shield enclosing the table, the X-ray source, and the X-ray detector, wherein the shield includes doors for allowing passage of a cargo container onto and off of the table via the conveyor; and a data acquisition system including a computer for receiving and processing signals generated by the X-ray detector, wherein the synchronized rotation of the table and linear movement of the X-ray source and the X-ray detector allows the data acquisition system to produce computed tomography images of a cargo container located on the rotating table.