SYSTEM FOR, AND METHOD OF, IRRADIATING ARTICLE WITH X-RAY BEAM

摘要

A first support structure (24) disposes articles (12)relative to a radiation beam, preferably x-rays, to obtain an irradiation of the articles (12). A second support structure (30) disposes articles (12)relative to the beam and to the articles (12)on the first structure (24)to obtain an irradiation of t he articles (12)by radiation passing from the accelerator (10)through the articles (12) on the first structure (24). A mechanism (28)transfers the articles (12)on the first structure (24)to the second structure (30), after the irradiation of the articles (12)on the first structure(24), to obtain th e irradiation of the articles (12) on the second structure (30).Each of the first and second structures (24,30) may provide for an irradiation of articl es (12)initially through first sides of the articles (12) and subsequently through second sides of the articles (12) opposite to first sides. The irradiation of the first sides of the articles (12)on the first and second support structures (24,30) are preferably synchronous from a time standpoint as are the irradiation of the second sides of the articles (12)on the structures. The transfer mechanism (28)provides for the transfer of the articles (12)from the first structure (24)to the second structure (30)after the synchronous irradiation of the second sides of the articles (12)on the support structures. A loading area (14) transfers articles to the first structure (20,24) for an irradiation of the articles (12)by the x-ray beam. An unloading area (38)provides for transfer of articles (12)from the second structure (30,36) after the irradiation of the opposite sides of the article s (12)on the second structure (30).