Focusing X-ray Inspection System

To meet the U.S. Army need for a device to confirm the presence of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to complete the development begun in Phase I of a new Focusing X-ray Inspection (FOCXI) system based on POC’s X-ray focusing optics, two COTS X-ray generators, and an image processing module. FOCXI can focus below ground or behind walls and combine 2D images into a 3D image to discriminate IEDs from similar objects or cluttered background in real time. The proposed FOCXI system images IEDs and other hidden objects by means of Compton backscattering, operating in the X-ray energy range from 60 to 120 keV. In Phase I POC successfully assembled a fully functional FOCXI prototype system demonstrating its true focusing capabilities on materials similar to concealed IEDs. In Phase II, POC will develop a preproduction FOCXI system including a brassboard data acquisition system and optimized X-ray optics. The system will be tested for accurate detection and confirmation of IEDs buried under rock or soil. Also in Phase II, a portable engineering prototype will be fabricated for transitioning the FOCXI technology to the U.S. Army in Phase III.