Computational model for automatic cargo container inspection systems

A US law mandating non-intrusive imaging and radiation detection by 2012 for 100% of US-bound containers at international ports has provoked widespread concern that the resulting congestion would hinder trade significantly. To address this issue, we present as a viable alternative an advanced computational model to implement computer automation for dual-energy X-ray imaging technique to detect and recognize nuclear and radiological material smuggled in cargo containers. Successful computer automation enables the dual-energy X-ray imaging technique to efficiently sense and recognize radiological and/or nuclear materials, especially shielded Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU), with high detection accuracy, a low positive-false-alarm rate, and negligible impact on freight movement. Thus, dual-energy X-ray inspection can feasibly be used to efficiently inspect 100% of cargo containers entering the US.