Single beam backscatter x-ray system

摘要

A method and apparatus for inspecting an object is present. Radiation is emitted from a radiation source. A beam is formed from a portion of the radiation emitted by the radiation source using a collimator. The collimator is connected to the radiation source by a bearing system comprising a first structure associated with the radiation source and a second structure connected to the first structure. The second structure is configured to hold the collimator. The second structure of the bearing system is moved using a movement system such that the second structure rotates in one of a plurality of directions substantially about a center point in the radiation source while the radiation source remains stationary relative to the second structure. Rotation of the second structure substantially about the center point in the radiation source changes a direction in which the beam is directed.

主权项

1. An apparatus comprising:
a radiation source configured to emit radiation selected from the group consisting of: X-rays, gamma rays, and neutrons; a collimator configured to form a beam using a portion of the radiation emitted by the radiation source; a bearing system connecting the collimator to the radiation source, wherein the bearing system comprises:
a first structure connected to the radiation source; anda second structure connected to the first structure at a connection, the second structure holding the collimator; anda movement system configured to move the second structure of the bearing system such that the second structure rotates in one of a plurality of directions substantially about a center point in the radiation source while the radiation source remains stationary relative to the second structure, wherein rotation of the second structure substantially about the center point changes a direction in which the beam formed by the collimator is directed, wherein the connection between the first structure and the second structure is a fixed connection, and wherein movement of the second structure causes the second structure and the first structure to rotate in the one of the plurality of directions substantially about the center point around the radiation source within a selected range of degrees.