Indoor Radiation Mapping Using the Laser Assisted Ranging and Data System (LARADS)

Category: Characterization > Monitors > Radiation Monitors
Reference # : OST No 1946 , DOE/EM - 0407 Model No : LARADS

The LARADS is based on an integration of modified auto-tracking civil surveyors total station with a radiological detection system and storage of the information obtained from each into electronic files. The LARADS removes the technician's subjective observations from the radiological survey process, both in the data collection and report generation processes. The Laser Assisted Ranging and Data System (LARADS), developed by Eberline Services, Inc. The LARADS is a characterization technology that provides real-time data on the location and concentration levels of radiological contamination during surveys. The system can be used with a number of available detection instruments and can be integrated with existing data analysis and mapping software technologies to generate superior quality survey data reports. The system also has the capability of electronically logging survey data, making it easy to store and retrieve. The electronic files collected are downloaded and processed in CAD, GIS and/or other software packages. The LARADS consists of the following components: Tracking system Radio or wired data communication device Customized software and a portable computer that can be set up either at the survey area or remotely operated. A hand-held radiological detector with a count meter was employed in this demonstration. By using various probes, the LARADS has the ability to capture both alpha and beta/gamma information for walls, floors and ceilings (interior and exterior).Clear, concise, comprehensible maps can be automatically generated representing the location and extent of contamination. For this demonstration, a thin plastic scintillation detector (Eberline E-380-A/B) was used interfaced with a count/dose meter (CRM [Eberline E-600]) Dimensions of Tech Model (LxWxH): Not Available Weight of Tech Model (lb): Not Available

Benefits

The LARADS technology was successfully demonstrated and has the following capabilities: Accurate correlation of contamination level to the contamination location (ñ1 in.) Continuous radiological data acquired and stored in database format Clear, concise, easily understood graphics of survey Provides a tracking record that can be used to check for full coverage of the surface that was surveyed Flexibility with the existing software allows the system to be adapted to most survey probes such as scintillator detectors (gamma and alpha probes), gas-filled detectors, and Geiger Muller (GM) probes Costs using the innovative technology (LARADS) are similar to baseline (manual mapping and logging) costs; however, report information is more complete and comprehensive, resulting in indirect costs savings to a project Production rates using the LARADS are better than the baseline for areas larger than several hundred meters

Limitations

Applicable to a variety of surfaces including floors, walls and structures (door, window, column, etc.) either on the interior or exterior of the building Compatible with readily available portable hand-held radiological survey detectors for both beta/gamma and alpha surface contamination Costs using the innovative technology (LARADS) are similar to baseline (manual mapping and logging) costs; however, report information is more complete and comprehensive; resulting in indirect costs savings to a project. Production rates using the LARADS are better than the baseline for areas larger than several hundred metersú Capable of providing well-documented, usable release surveys or providing characterization surveys involving high levels of contamination Adaptable to mobile platform configurations Electronic storage of survey and radiation detection data Flexible report generation capabilities that are easily integrated with existing software technologies Does not generate any significant secondary waste

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	Indoor Radiation Mapping Using the Laser Assisted Ranging and Data System
	The LARADS equipment as packaged.

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