Patent ID: 6255654
Filing Date: 2001-07-03
Classification: G01N,G01V

Abstract:
A system using discrete photon counting to generate a graphical display indicative of densities in a target object comprising:a radiation source having a variable, controlled position relative to the target object to radiate photons toward the target object wherein the target object is selected from the group consisting of a vehicle, a cargo container, and a railroad car;a linear array of photon detectors having a variable, controlled position relative to the target object to receive photons passing through the target object;a motion controller coupled to the radiation source and the linear array of photon detectors for determining and controlling motion of one or more of the detector array and the radiation source, such that a constant distance is maintained therebetween;a counter comprising an amplifier, a discriminator, and a pulse generator for each photon detector and means for discretely counting photons received by each photon detector; anda display responsive to the counter for generating a graphical display of densities in the target object in response to the counter.