This backscatter radiography technique uses a shadowing tool in order to generate a 3D image from an object that has only one-sided, or two-dimensional, access. University of Florida researchers create vivid 3D images by applying radiation, illuminating the distinct objects where the radiation is applied, and shadowing the remaining space, thereby creating a clear image from a single radiation burst. The backscatter radiography system and protocol allow for a compact, inexpensive radiation generator and image facilitator. This greatly improves on available radiography imaging tools by providing images with a clearer contrast, increased accessibility to closed-off 3D spaces, and the elimination of multiple radiation bursts.
Backscatter radiography for military, industrial, security, or medical applications in which a 3D image is required from an object that has only one-sided, or 2D, access
This Shadow Aperture Backscatter Radiography (SABR) system includes at least one penetrating radiation source for providing a penetrating radiation field and at least one substantially transmissive radiation detector, wherein the radiation detector is interposed between an object region to be interrogated and the radiation source. The radiation detector transmits a portion of the illumination radiation field. A shadow aperture having a plurality of radiation attenuation regions having illumination apertures in between is disposed between the radiation source and the detector. The apertures provide illumination regions for the illuminating radiation field to reach the object region. Backscattered radiation from the object is detected by the detector in regions of the detector, which are shadowed from the illumination radiation by the attenuation regions of the shadow aperture