Mr. Travis R. Barker Profile

Travis R. Barker

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Proceedings Article | 16 October 2024 Presentation + Paper

Backscatter slant function analysis of suspected explosive component materials

Travis Barker, James Baciak

Proceedings Volume 13151, 131510B (2024) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3029896

KEYWORDS: Modulation transfer functions, Image processing, Image filtering, Backscatter, Explosives, Tunable filters, Lead, Sensors, Plastics, Copper

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Explosive devices typically consist of several common materials, most of which have differing densities. When these materials are imaged through x-ray imaging, the resultant image displays differing contrast intensities within due to the scattering effects of these materials. These intensities provide shape and definition to the operator conducting the imaging, informing their decision making as to parts and components within the suspected device. A power source the size of a battery, or a piece of shrapnel, such a ball bearing, would have a noticeably different appearance than that of plastic explosives. The purpose of this research is to enhance single sided Compton Backscatter Imaging (CBI) of suspected explosive devices to support operators investigating a suspected device. Previous research by the team at UF in material discrepancy utilized Modulation Transfer Functions (MTF) derived from bar patterns of decreasing size to characterize a linear detector array and determine the maximum resolution in a CBI configuration. The previous research expanded into Edge Spread Functions (ESF) of these materials as a secondary method of characterizing material differences. This research explores the Slant Function, a derivative of the ESF, of differing materials to improve the ESF characterization. This occurs through a single edge analysis along every pixel of a linear detector array, comparing local intensities of the imaged edge to determine the cumulative effect on the overall ESF. This will allow for better MTF development, thereby enhancing filters developed for image post processing.

Proceedings Article | 3 May 2017 Presentation + Paper

Backscatter imaging applied to IED detection

Travis Barker, Christopher Hughes, Shuang Cui, Gabriel Sandler, James Baciak

Proceedings Volume 10182, 1018207 (2017) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2262390

KEYWORDS: Improvised explosive devices, Backscatter, Improvised explosive device detection, Fluctuations and noise, Land mines, General packet radio service, Metals, Sensors, Copper, Image processing

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Current land mine detection methods predominately rely on the use of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and metal detectors to scan the ground for disturbances in electromagnetic waves that would indicate a higher concentration of metal. For soldiers, these tools combined with trained observational skills, makes the rapid clearance of mine fields more of an art; one that has become a necessity with the presence of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). Some of these detection methods are taught and trained to every soldier, as the principles behind IED detection are similar no matter the IED construction. Specifically, all IEDs require the use of wires in some way.

This research has expanded the use of Compton backscattering detection methods and pencil beam imaging, proven to be slow but accurate. Investigation of fan beam geometries for backscatter imaging is ongoing. The goal is to allow for a rapid scan of potential pressure plates, focused on detecting the signature of a wire in a mock IED, with efforts to improve imaging properties to aid soldiers. This has the potential to increase the accuracy of current interrogation and detection methods. This research has demonstrated some success over current interrogation methods, with the potential to allow military units to interrogate suspected IEDs through nonphysical means with greater image resolution than GPR. Ultimately, this could allow for the ability to clear suspected enemy obstacles faster, with greater accuracy, and providing more security to the soldiers on the ground.

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