FAQ
Licensing mode
RayXpert licences are made available on an annual or multi-annual basis, depending on your contract. We do not offer perpetual licences.
Yes, RayXpert can be installed on several PCs and you can share the dongle. However, the dongle must remain plugged in until the end of a calculation on your machine. 1 licence = 1 simultaneous computer.
Yes, there are 3 different types of package for RayXpert: SILVER: for Gamma & Beta radiation; GOLD: for Gamma, Beta & Neutron radiation; PLATINUM: for Gamma, Beta, Neutron & Hadron radiation. You have the option of adding the pro version, which is compatible with each of the licenses and gives you access to a server license in addition to the user license.
The server licence (Pro) allows you to install the software on a calculation server or calculation cluster on which all users can send calculation requests via their user interface. The server’s operating system will be supplied to TRAD so that it can deliver an executable file in the exact same version of your operating system, under LINUS or Windows.
License delivery
The USB activation key (dongle) is delivered by post in around 2-3 days for France and 4-5 days for Europe, Asia and America. In urgent cases, these times may be accelerated.
At the same time, we will provide you with the RayXpert installation file and an activation code via our website www.rayxpert.com / personal space.
Installing the license
The licence is activated on the date defined in the contract. As soon as you receive the USB activation key (dongle) and the software has been installed, your license will be ready for use.
Once you have become a customer, you will have access to the resources area and to your personal space (code and id supplied by Trad), where you will be able to download the RayXpert executable. Depending on your licence type, you will need to download the modules that apply to you (standard Gamma/Beta licence, with Neutrons and/or Hadrons option)… Please note that you will need to recreate a folder so as not to overwrite the previously installed version. Once all this has been done, you will be able to access RayXpert. All you have to do is let yourself be guided through the software and, of course, don’t forget to plug in your dongle, the password for which can be found on the delivery agreement available on the ‘Personal’ page of the site.
The user version of RayXpert runs under Windows as standard, and under LINUX in console version only (without graphical interface). For the Server (Pro) license, we can provide you with an executable file under LINUX in the exact version of your operating system, enabling you to send calculation requests which will be processed by your server, which will send you the results.
Training
Training courses are organised at the request of the user(s) and solely for your company (no group training). A nuclear physics engineer will offer you training slots. 2 ½-day video sessions, or a full day in person. You will be asked to view all the videos available on your resource space before the course, and to send us a list of questions.
One day face-to-face and 2 half days by videoconference.
No, but it is compulsory to access the support service. It is therefore strongly recommended.
Technical Support
Support requests can be made on the www.rayxpert.com website, in the technical support tab, by filling in the form with the information requested (surname, first name, email address, company, version number). Then fill in the message section, following the example given. In terms of the quality of the services provided, the average resolution time is 1 hour.
Yes, support is included in the price of the license and access is free as long as you have an active license and have completed a training course.
All you have to do is write to us via support, but remember that the cost of a dongle is €50, so take maximum care of it.
Release and updates
There is 1 major release every 18 months and ongoing updates.
Yes, you have access to all updates and releases during the validity period of your licence.
The user version of RayXpert is maintained to be compatible with the latest versions of Windows. For the server, the annual license fee includes 1 update per year, i.e. delivery by our IT department of an executable compiled in your server version. If you have already updated your server during the year, you will need to request a quote for this additional service directly from the TRAD team.
End of contract
No, you will no longer be able to use RayXpert. When you try to open it, you will see a message saying that your licence has expired. But don’t panic, before your licence expires RayXpert will notify you of the time remaining. Therefore, if you can no longer open RayXpert, you will no longer be able to open the templates.
We’ll just send you the number of additional licences you’d like to order.
Validation
Firstly, internally, we validate all developments and physics before releasing a new version by carrying out a series of test cases. For each major version of RayXpert, we carry out comparisons between RayXpert and other software, in particular MCNP, Tripoly, Microshield and Geant4. You can find our full validation file at Validation documents- RayXpert
The physics do not change between two minor versions. We therefore revalidate any changes made internally, but do not repeat all the comparisons available in the Validation documents – RayXpert.
Under identical conditions between dosimetry and Monte Carlo calculation, and with good convergence of results (relative error of less than 10%), we obtain differences of less than 5%.
RayXpert has been around since 2012, but its development was based on another Monte Carlo code included in Fastrad, which was developed in 2000.
Physics
The management of physical processes for particle-matter interactions was programmed on the basis of GEANT4’s physics processing, but entirely redeveloped by TRAD Tests & Radiations and included in the code. Only the Hadrons module makes direct use of GEANT4’s nuclear databases.
– What types of particles can RayXpert handle? RayXpert can handle the following particle interactions:
o Gamma radiation: photons and X-rays
o Beta radiation: electrons and positrons
o Neutron radiation: neutrons
o Hadron radiation: protons, ions, alphas, tritons, deutons, mesons and baryons.
Table summarising the radiations included in RayXpert, the interactions simulated, the areas of validity per radiation, and the databases available in RayXpert.
RayXpert has several different databases: EAF 2010 / JEFF 3.1.1/ JEFF 3.3 dec / ENDFB VIII.0 dec / ENDFB VIII.0 n / ENDFB VII.1/ ENDFB VII.1 therm / TENDL 2024 / JEFF3.3 n.
RayXpert is designed for terrestrial radiation applications in Research, Education and Industry. However, if you need reliable Monte Carlo software for space radiation, there is Fastrad, also developed by TRAD.
RayXpert uses a Monte Carlo engine based on the laws of nuclear physics. For each interaction, RayXpert: calculates the probability of interaction (effective cross-section σ), determines the type of event (Compton, photoelectric, capture, etc.), automatically generates the secondary particles (electrons, γ photons, neutrons) with their energy and direction and continues to simulate these particles until they are absorbed or leave the system.
Not yet, but they will be in version 2.1. For the moment, it is necessary to determine the spectrum of the secondary neutrons emitted and enter it into RayXpert.
3D Modelling
Yes, this is possible via a file in STEP format, AP214, AP214_IS or AP209 protocol. This format has been selected because it can be generated by all CAD systems: Catia, AutoCAD, Solidworks, FreeCAD, etc. It is also possible to model directly in RayXpert in addition to the imported model.
RayXpert has several different databases: EAF 2010 / JEFF 3.1.1/ JEFF 3.3 dec / ENDFB VIII.0 dec / ENDFB VIII.0 n / ENDFB VII.1/ ENDFB VII.1 therm / TENDL 2024 / JEFF3.3 n.
Yes, it is also possible to create a model directly in RayXpert using simple or advanced modelling functions.
Yes, this is essential to launch a calculation. To do this, you will have access to a database, which can be modified, and it will be possible to define your own materials in RayXpert by entering the chemical composition and density. Newly created materials can be saved in the database and shared with other users.
Yes, it is possible to create your own materials in RayXpert, using the materials manager integrated directly into the software.
The materials will have to be defined for each new import. You can use the AP214_IS STEP import protocol, which allows you to import the name of the materials associated with each shape in the 3D model. RayXpert can directly associate the right material if it exists in its included database. In this case, the names of the materials in the model and those in RayXpert must be identical. Otherwise, it is possible to make a mass selection of elements in the 3D model by pressing Ctrl + F, which will associate a material with a set of elements. Finally, we have developed a script to read an Excel file describing the names of shapes and materials, and to automate the assignment of materials via the script. This is available on request.
These are invalid shapes detected in the model. There are several ways of resolving these invalid shapes:
– Play with the resolution of the imported model: you can set the resolution at the time of import, or directly on the imported shape.
– Run the shape repair algorithm.
– Isolate these shapes and rework them in the CAD tool used, then re-import the model.
An overlap occurs when two shapes occupy the same position and their geometries intermingle. Overlaps need to be resolved before a calculation is run, as this would be a source of error. To do this, you can isolate and process these different overlaps in your CAD tool. Or use our overlap resolution algorithms, which create a recess in one of the two parts at the overlap point.
Yes, it is possible to export a STEP from RayXpert, as RayXpert allows you to correct and clean up your original STEP by automatically detecting overlaps and repairing invalid shapes.
Setting the parameters of radioactive sources
Yes, this is possible via a file in STEP format, AP214, AP214_IS or AP209 protocol. This format has been selected because it can be generated by all CAD systems: Catia, AutoCAD, Solidworks, FreeCAD, etc. It is also possible to model directly in RayXpert in addition to the imported model.
Yes, you can define custom energy spectra, or you can choose between the different types of energy distribution offered (Mono-energetic, Histogram, Gaussian, Maxwell, Watt, Beta) by importing a text file describing the spectrum. This can be associated with a volume in your geometry, or with a virtual volume.
Yes, this feature is available, which is why the system asks you to enter the date and time of the activity measurement when you set up a source. It allows you to see the evolution of a radio element in n+1 … this feature is very useful for all your activities requiring you to take into account the evolution of a radio element over time.
Yes, of course, it is possible to display the trajectories of randomly generated particles before a calculation is launched. It is also possible to display the trajectories of each particle following a calculation. But don’t worry, you can’t see anything beyond a certain number of drawn particles.
Calculation setting
Yes, RayXpert includes various variance reduction techniques: Splitting, Exponential transform, Russian Roulette and Implicit capture. These are applied by defining an importance map, with importances set manually or via an importance map generator.
Yes, you can use multi-threading and assign the desired number of threads (available on your PC) to optimise the speed and duration of your calculations in RayXpert.
It is possible to draw a specific number of particles beyond which the calculation will stop. You can set a time linked to the machine used. Finally, you can specify a relative error associated with a detector. Once this convergence criterion has been reached, the calculation will stop.
– What is the purpose of the Resume calculation function? This function allows you to restart a calculation from data that has already been calculated. This is very useful if your computer has suffered a bug or if you are not happy with your results and don’t have much time to run a calculation again.
It is possible to stop and restart a calculation by using the (.run) format and creating a restart file. If you wish, you can even write an intermediate result at different times. These two points must be set before the calculation is launched.
Several sources and detectors can be defined simply and simultaneously.
Processing and display results
Via the interface, or via the results files generated in text format.
A sensing volume is an element of 3D geometry selected by the user in which RayXpert calculates various physical quantities. A 3D map is a virtual mesh superimposed on the 3D model, the resolution of which can be set, and which will ultimately display the spatial evolution of the calculated quantity using a colour code.
Yes, the application of a radiological zoning is a way of viewing the results available in RayXpert. It is entirely possible to apply the zoning of a desired country, save it and reuse this display mode for other simulations.
This function is available in RayXpert, and allows you to calculate the dose received by an operator on his route, along different segments of the route, and in total. This feature allows you to reduce operator exposure time by selecting the most optimal route. Ideal for setting up an ALARA approach.
Yes, of course you can. All you have to do is open the script console as follows:
C’est l’erreur statistique (ou incertitude) associée à un calcul Monte Carlo. Un sigma faible correspond à un résultat précis tandis qu’un sigma élevé est un résultat encore flou (pas encore assez de particules tirées).
A partir de quelle valeur de sigma puis je faire confiance à mes résultats ? En principe, nous recommandons d’atteindre une valeur de sigma inférieur à 10%. Mais dans certains cas, il est possible d’exploiter les résultats avec un sigma jusqu’à 30%.
A dosimetric coefficient is a factor used to convert fluence (number of particles per unit area) into an effective or equivalent dose received by an organ or the whole body. This makes it possible to determine the dose received from the quantity of incident radiation, taking into account the physical and biological properties of the radiation and the material through which it passes. The dosimetric coefficients included in RayXpert are as follows: Photons (gamma, X), Electrons and Neutrons (optional module)
The most commonly used coefficient is H*10, which represents the Ambient Dose Equivalent Rate in Sievert/hour.
If you wish, you can create your own calculated quantity and import it into RayXpert in the form of a text file describing the conversion coefficients to be applied.
Yes, RayXpert lets you duplicate a model (geometry + sources + materials) and modify it to create an alternative scenario. The results (dose rates, flux, energy deposits) can then be compared directly in the software output or exported to Excel/CSV for graphical analysis.
Testimonials
RayXpert a été un excellent outil pour accélérer notre cycle de développement. Nous sommes maintenant en mesure de concevoir un blindage efficace sans passer par la réalisation de nombreux prototypes en plomb très coûteux. Il s’adapte à notre géométrie complexe et offre une méthode pour optimiser la conception afin de réduire le poids total de notre système.
L’interface graphique conviviale de ce logiciel, y compris la possibilité d’importer des géométries complexes de CAO et l’introduction de sources multiples radioactives, permet de résoudre facilement et avec une précision élevée des problèmes complexes dans différents domaines nucléaires, tels que la définition des débits de dose pour la qualification des équipements d’Instrumentation et de Contrôle, les calculs de blindage et la caractérisation des déchets radioactifs
En tant que spécialistes des procédés d’irradiation industriels (Gamma, Faisceau d’électrons et Rayons X de faible, moyenne et forte énergie) nous mettons en œuvre RayXpert non seulement pour des calculs de radioprotection mais aussi et surtout pour des simulations de dépôt de dose dans des produits irradiés dans leur configuration géométrique réelle, notamment en important des fichiers de modélisation 3D dérivés d’Autocad. De plus, pour les personnes, qui comme moi n’ont jamais utilisé d’outils tels que Geant 4, EGS ou MCNP, RayXpert est un outil fantastique. Pas besoin d’être informaticien pour sortir le meilleur de ce logiciel il suffit d’être physicien pour bien comprendre les phénomènes et la physique sous-jacente.
As specialists in industrial irradiation processes (gamma, electron beam and low, medium and high energy X-rays) we implement RayXpert not only for radioprotection calculations but also and especially for deposit dose simulations on irradiated products with their real geometrical configuration, notably by importing 3D modeling files derived from Autocad. In addition, for people who like me have never used tools such as Geant 4, EGS or MCNP, RayXpert is a fantastic tool. No need to be a computer scientist to get the best out of this software just to be a physicist to understand the phenomena and the underlying physics
The user-friendly graphical interface of this software, including the possibility to import complex CAD geometries and to introduce radioactive multi-sources, enables to easily solve, with a high precision, complex problems in different nuclear fields such as the dose rates definition for the qualification of Instrumentation and Control equipment, the shielding calculations and the radioactive waste characterisation
RayXpert has been an excellent tool to speed up our development cycle. We are now able to design effective shielding without numerous expensive lead prototypes. It accommodates our complex geometry, and provides a precise method to optimize the design, in order to reduce the weight and cost of our system.
We use RayXpert for calculation of the shielding of a transport container for our 60Co sources. We plan to use it in the future for other similar projects. It is in principle easy to use tool after few training sessions with TRAD. RayXpert imports CAD files of the objects for simulation of 3D dose distribution. We can also add multiple detectors at the desired locations around the object for more precise dose calculation, including indication of the precision. RayXpert has also a nice feature to continue simulations from the previously saved data, which helps to improve the accuracy of the results.
We use RayXpert for calculation of the shielding of a transport container for our 60Co sources. We plan to use it in the future for other similar projects. It is in principle easy to use tool after few training sessions with TRAD. RayXpert imports CAD files of the objects for simulation of 3D dose distribution. We can also add multiple detectors at the desired locations around the object for more precise dose calculation, including indication of the precision. RayXpert has also a nice feature to continue simulations from the previously saved data, which helps to improve the accuracy of the results.