Examination system utilizing ionizing radiation and a flexible, miniature radiation detector probe

Patent · Tue Oct 22 04:00:00 EDT 1996

OSTI ID:392654

Majewski, S; Kross, B J; Zorn, C J; Majewski, L A

An optimized examination system and method based on the Reverse Geometry X-Ray{trademark} (RGX{trademark}) radiography technique are presented. The examination system comprises a radiation source, at least one flexible, miniature radiation detector probe positioned in appropriate proximity to the object to be examined and to the radiation source with the object located between the source and the probe, a photodetector device attachable to an end of the miniature radiation probe, and a control unit integrated with a display device connected to the photodetector device. The miniature radiation detector probe comprises a scintillation element, a flexible light guide having a first end optically coupled to the scintillation element and having a second end attachable to the photodetector device, and an opaque, environmentally-resistant sheath surrounding the flexible light guide. The probe may be portable and insertable, or may be fixed in place within the object to be examined. An enclosed, flexible, liquid light guide is also presented, which comprises a thin-walled flexible tube, a liquid, preferably mineral oil, contained within the tube, a scintillation element located at a first end of the tube, closures located at both ends of the tube, and an opaque, environmentally-resistant sheath surrounding the flexible tube. The examination system and method have applications in non-destructive material testing for voids, cracks, and corrosion, and may be used in areas containing hazardous materials. In addition, the system and method have applications for medical and dental imaging. 5 figs.

• Research Organization: Southeastern University Research Association
• DOE Contract Number: AC05-84ER40150
• Assignee: Southeastern Universities Research Association, Inc., Newport News, VA (United States)
• Patent Number(s): US 5,568,532/A/
• Application Number: PAN: 8-289,918
• OSTI ID: 392654
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

42 ENGINEERING
55 BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE
BASIC STUDIES
BIOMEDICAL RADIOGRAPHY
DESIGN
NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING
OPTICAL FIBERS
SCINTILLATION COUNTERS
USES
X-RAY EQUIPMENT
X-RAY RADIOGRAPHY
X-RAY SOURCES