Multi-rotation fixing piece for radiographic system and radiographic system

Abstract

A disclosed example multiple rotational fixture for a radiographic system includes: a plurality of fixture assemblies, each of the fixture assemblies configured to hold a plurality of objects for inspection in the radiographic system; driving the rotary table; and one or more driven rotary tables coupled to the driving rotary table such that rotation of the driving rotary table causes the driven rotary tables to rotate simultaneously, the driving rotary table and the one or more driven rotary tables support corresponding fixing piece assemblies in the plurality of fixing piece assemblies and simultaneously enable the corresponding fixing piece assemblies to rotate; and a plurality of driven member assemblies configured to support the plurality of fixed member assemblies at an opposite end of the fixed member assemblies from the driving turntable and the driven turntable.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 610,264, filed Dec. 14, 2023, entitled "MULTI-ROTATIONAL FIXTURES FOR RADIOGRAPHY SYSTEMS AND RADIOGRAPHY SYSTEMS INCLUDING MULTI-ROTATIONAL FIXTURES". The entire content of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 610,264 is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to industrial radiography imaging processes, and more particularly to multi-rotational fixtures for radiography systems and radiography systems including multi-rotational fixtures. Background Art

[0004] Industrial radiography imaging systems are used to acquire two-dimensional (2D) radiographic images, 2D sinograms, and / or three-dimensional (3D) volume data of parts used in industrial applications. Such industrial applications can include, for example, aerospace, automotive, electronics, medical, pharmaceutical, military, and / or defense applications. The 2D radiographic images can be evaluated to inspect for cracks, flaws, defects, discontinuities, and / or anomalies in the part(s) (which cracks, flaws, defects, discontinuities, and / or anomalies may or may not be visible to the human eye), and / or to determine internal and / or external measurements of the part(s).

[0005] By comparing conventional and traditional methods with the present disclosure set forth in the remainder of this application with reference to the accompanying drawings, the limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional methods will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for configuring a radiography system, as substantially shown and / or described in conjunction with at least one of the accompanying drawings and as more fully set forth in the claims.

[0007] These and other advantages, aspects, and novel features of the present disclosure, as well as details of the illustrated examples of the present disclosure, will be more fully understood from the following description and the accompanying drawings. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] Figure 1 An example of an industrial X-ray radiography system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0009] Figure 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary X-ray radiography system showing an industrial X-ray radiography camera having Figure 1 .

[0010] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a front and top perspective view of an exemplary multiple rotation fixture of

[0011] Figure 4 is Figure 1 a rear and bottom perspective view of an exemplary multiple rotation fixture of

[0012] Figure 5 is Figure 1 a front elevation view of an exemplary multiple rotation fixture of

[0013] Figure 6 shows an exemplary fixture assembly for a multiple rotation fixture that can be used to implement Figure 1 .

[0014] Figure 7 is Figure 1 a more detailed view of the bottom ends of multiple fixture assemblies coupled to a corresponding turntable of a multiple rotation fixture of

[0015] Figure 8 is Figure 1 a cross-sectional elevation view of the top ends of multiple fixture assemblies coupled to a corresponding follower assembly of a multiple rotation fixture of

[0016] Figure 9 is Figure 8 a perspective view of the top ends of multiple fixture assemblies coupled to a follower assembly of

[0017] Figure 10 is Figure 1 a cross-sectional elevation view of an exemplary turntable of a multiple rotation fixture of

[0018] Figure 11 is Figure 1 a cross-sectional top plan view of an exemplary turntable of a multiple rotation fixture of

[0019] The drawings are not necessarily to scale. Where appropriate, the same or similar reference numerals are used to refer to similar or identical elements in the drawings. Detailed Description

[0020] Some conventional industrial radiography systems include a turntable or other table frame device to manipulate an object under inspection. However, due to the speed of processes such as 3D computed tomography, the throughput of conventional industrial radiography systems may be lower than expected.

[0021] The disclosed example multi-rotary fixtures for a radiography system and a radiography system including the multi-rotary fixtures allow for a significant increase in throughput for smaller parts by allowing an industrial radiography system to simultaneously capture scans of multiple parts along multiple parallel axes of rotation, with the multi-rotary fixtures rotating simultaneously to allow for simultaneous image capture of an array of objects. In addition to the multiple axes of rotation, the disclosed example multi-rotary fixtures and radiography systems allow the fixtures to support multiple components along each of the multiple axes of rotation without introducing physical instability in the positioning of the objects being inspected.

[0022] The disclosed example multi-rotary fixtures for a radiography system include: a plurality of fixture assemblies, each of which is configured to hold multiple objects for inspection in a radiography system; a drive rotary table; one or more driven rotary tables coupled to the drive rotary table such that rotation of the drive rotary table causes the driven rotary tables to rotate simultaneously, wherein the drive rotary table and the one or more driven rotary tables support the corresponding fixture assemblies of the plurality of fixture assemblies and rotate the corresponding fixture assemblies simultaneously; and a plurality of follower assemblies configured to support the fixture assemblies at an end of the plurality of fixture assemblies opposite the drive rotary table and the driven rotary tables.

[0023] In some example multi-rotary fixtures, each of the plurality of fixture assemblies is configured to make a tool-free connection with the corresponding follower assembly of the plurality of follower assemblies and the corresponding rotary table of the plurality of rotary tables. In some example multi-rotary fixtures, the drive rotary table is coupled to a drive shaft configured to receive power from an external actuator.

[0024] In some example multi-rotary fixtures, each follower assembly includes a bearing and a pedestal coupled to the bearing, wherein each of the plurality of fixture assemblies is configured to be coupled to the pedestal to be supported by the bearing. In some example multi-rotary fixtures, each of the plurality of fixture assemblies includes a tapered connector configured to be seated within the pedestal to be supported by a ball bearing.

[0025] Some example multi-rotary fixtures further include a table frame to which the follower assemblies and the rotary tables are coupled. In some example multi-rotary fixtures, each fixture assembly includes: a fixture frame configured to removably couple to one of a plurality of follower assemblies and one of a plurality of rotary tables; and a plurality of supports coupled to the fixture frame and configured to securely hold a corresponding one of a plurality of objects to be inspected. In some example multi-rotary fixtures, the capacity of the fixture is the product of the number of rotary tables and the number of supports on each fixture assembly.

[0026] In some example multi-rotary fixtures, the axis of rotation of each follower assembly is aligned with the axis of rotation of the corresponding rotary table of the plurality of rotary tables.

[0027] The disclosed example radiographic system includes: a radiation detector; a radiation emitter configured to direct radiation toward the radiation detector; an object locator; and a multi-rotary fixture coupled to the object locator, wherein the fixture includes: a plurality of fixture assemblies, each of which is configured to hold a plurality of objects for inspection in the radiographic system; a drive rotary table coupled to the object locator; one or more follower rotary tables coupled to the drive rotary table such that rotation of the drive rotary table causes the follower rotary tables to rotate simultaneously, wherein the drive rotary table and the one or more follower rotary tables support a corresponding fixture assembly of the fixture assemblies and rotate the corresponding fixture assembly simultaneously; and a plurality of follower assemblies configured to support the fixture assemblies at an end of the plurality of fixture assemblies opposite the drive rotary table and the follower rotary tables.

[0028] Some example radiographic systems further include control circuitry configured to: control the object locator to rotate the fixture assemblies to rotate the plurality of objects for inspection; control the radiation emitter to emit radiation toward the radiation detector; and combine three-dimensional scans of the plurality of objects based on images captured by respective portions of the radiation detector.

[0029] In some example radiographic systems, each of the plurality of fixture assemblies is configured to make a tool-free connection with a corresponding one of the plurality of follower assemblies and a corresponding one of the plurality of rotary tables. In some example radiographic systems, the drive rotary table is coupled to a drive shaft configured to receive power from an external actuator.

[0030] In some example radiography systems, each follower assembly includes a bearing and a socket coupled to the bearing, wherein each fixture assembly is configured to couple to the socket to be supported by the bearing. In some example radiography systems, each fixture assembly includes a tapered connector configured to be disposed within the socket to be supported by a ball bearing.

[0031] Some example radiography systems further include a table frame to which the follower assemblies and the rotating table are coupled. In some example radiography systems, each fixture assembly includes: a fixture frame configured to removably couple to one of the plurality of follower assemblies and one of the plurality of rotating tables; and a plurality of supports coupled to the fixture frame and configured to securely hold a corresponding one of the plurality of objects under inspection. In some example radiography systems, the capacity of the fixture is the product of the number of rotating tables and the number of the plurality of supports on each fixture assembly.

[0032] In some example radiography systems, the axis of rotation of each follower assembly is aligned with the axis of rotation of the corresponding one of the plurality of rotating tables.

[0033] Figure 1 An example industrial X-ray radiography system 100 is shown. In some examples, the X-ray radiography system 100 can be used to perform non-destructive testing (NDT), digital radiography (DR) scanning, computed tomography (CT), and / or other applications on a set of objects 102. In some examples, the objects 102 can be industrial components and / or assemblies of multiple components (e.g., engine castings, microchips, bolts, etc.). Although primarily discussed in terms of X-rays for simplicity, in some examples, the industrial X-ray radiography system 100 discussed herein can use radiation of other wavelengths (e.g., gamma rays, neutrons, terahertz, etc.). The objects 102 are supported and manipulated in a multiple rotation fixture 103.

[0034] In Figure 1 the example of, the X-ray radiography system 100 directs X-ray radiation 104 from an X-ray emitter 106 through the object 102 to an X-ray detector 108. In some examples, the X-ray emitter 106 can include an X-ray tube configured to emit tapered or fan-shaped X-ray radiation. In some examples, the X-ray emitter 106 can emit X-ray radiation in the energy range of 20 kilo-electron volts (keV) to 15 mega-electron volts (MeV).

[0035] In some examples, a two-dimensional (2D) digital image (e.g., a radiography image, an X-ray image, etc.) can be generated based on X-ray radiation 104 incident on an X-ray detector 108. In some examples, the 2D image can be generated by the X-ray detector 108 itself. In some examples, the 2D image can be generated by the X-ray detector 108 in combination with a computing system that communicates with the X-ray detector 108.

[0036] In some examples, as long as the X-ray detector 108 is powered on, the X-ray detector 108 (e.g., in a free-running mode) can continuously capture / acquire 2D images at a given frame rate. However, in some examples, when a scan / imaging process has been selected and / or is running, the 2D image may be fully generated only by the X-ray detector 108 (and / or the associated computing system(s)). Similarly, in some examples, when a scan / imaging process has been selected and / or is running, the 2D image may be saved only in permanent (i.e., non-volatile) memory.

[0037] In some examples, 2D images generated by the X-ray detector 108 (and / or the associated computing system(s)) can be combined to form a three-dimensional (3D) volume and / or image. In some examples, 2D image slices of the 3D volume / image can also be formed. Although the term "image" is used herein as a shorthand, it should be understood that an "image" can include representative data until the data is visually presented by one or more appropriate components (e.g., a display screen, a graphics processing unit, the X-ray detector 108, etc.).

[0038] In some examples, the X-ray detector 108 can include a flat panel detector (FDA), a linear diode array (LDA), and / or a lens-coupled scintillation detector. In some examples, the X-ray detector 108 can include a fluoroscopy detection system and / or a digital image sensor configured to indirectly receive an image via scintillation. In some examples, the X-ray detector 108 can be implemented using a sensor panel (e.g., a charge-coupled device (CCD) panel, a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) panel, etc.) configured to directly receive X-rays and generate a digital image. In some examples, the X-ray detector 108 can include a scintillation layer / screen that absorbs X-rays and emits visible light photons, which are then detected by a solid-state detector panel (e.g., a CMOS X-ray panel and / or a CCD X-ray panel) coupled to the scintillation screen.

[0039] In some examples, the X-ray detector 108 (e.g., a solid-state detector panel) can include pixels. In some examples, the pixels can correspond to a portion of a scintillation screen. In some examples, the size of each pixel can be in the range of tens to hundreds of micrometers. In some examples, the pixel size of the X-ray detector 108 can be in the range of 25 micrometers to 250 micrometers (e.g., 200 micrometers). Pixel pitch refers to the center-to-center distance of adjacent pixels. The pixel pitch can be the same or different along different directions or axes of the X-ray detector 108.

[0040] In some examples, a 2D image captured by the X-ray detector 108 (and / or an associated computing system) can contain features that are finer (e.g., smaller, more dense, etc.) than the pixel size of the X-ray detector 108. For example, a computer microchip can have very fine features that are smaller than the pixels. In such examples, it can be beneficial to use sub-pixel sampling to obtain a higher and more detailed resolution than might otherwise be possible.

[0041] In Figure 1 an example, the radiography system 100 includes a detector locator 150 that is configured to move the X-ray detector 108 to different detector positions (e.g., for sub-pixel sampling). As shown, the detector locator 150 includes one or more vertical posts 152 and a horizontal rail 154. As shown, the X-ray detector 108 is held on the rail 154. In some examples, the X-ray detector 108 can be held on (and / or attached to) the rail 154 by one or more intermediate supports.

[0042] Since the X-ray detector 108 can be moved by the detector locator 150, in some examples, the object 102 can be moved by the object locator 110. In Figure 1 an example, the object locator 110 holds the object 102 in the path of the X-ray radiation 104, between the X-ray emitter 106 and the detector 108. In some examples, the object locator 110 can be configured to move the object 102 toward and / or away from the X-ray emitter 106 and / or the X-ray detector 108, thereby changing the geometric magnification (defined as the distance between the X-ray emitter 106 and the X-ray detector 108 divided by the distance between the X-ray emitter 106 and the object 102).

[0043] In Figure 1In the example, the object locator 110 includes a multiple rotation fixture 103 on which the object 102 is positioned. As shown, the multiple rotation fixture 103 is attached to a motorized shaft 116 and is actuated via the multiple rotation fixture 103 to rotate the object about multiple axes of rotation, as disclosed in more detail below. The multiple rotation fixture 103 may be replaced in the radiography system 100 to manipulate other types of objects (e.g., individual objects) for scanning. In some examples, one or more alternative and / or additional rotation mechanisms may be provided.

[0044] In Figure 1 the example, the rotatable fixture 112 is supported by a support structure 118. In some examples, the support structure 118 may be configured to translate the rotatable fixture 112 (and / or the object 102) toward and / or away from the X-ray emitter 106 and / or the X-ray detector 108. Additionally, the support structure 118 may be configured to translate the rotatable fixture 112 (and / or the object 102) horizontally or vertically relative to the emitter 106 and the detector 108. In some examples, the support structure 118 may include one or more actuators configured to apply the (multiple) translations. In some other examples, the X-ray emitter 106 and / or the X-ray detector 108 may be moved relative to the fixed or movable fixture and the support structure 118. For example, the X-ray emitter 106 and / or the X-ray detector 108 may move toward and / or away from the fixture, move up and / or down relative to the fixture, rotate about the fixture, and / or otherwise move and / or reorient while the fixture remains fixed or moves and / or reorients.

[0045] Figure 2 An example of an X-ray radiography system 200 is shown, which includes the X-ray radiography system 100, e.g., Figure 1 the X-ray radiography system 100 shown. As shown, the X-ray radiography system 200 also includes a computing system 202, a user interface (UI) 204, and a remote computing system 299. Although only one X-ray radiography system 100, computing system 202, UI 204, and remote computing system 299 are shown in Figure 2 the example, in some examples, the X-ray radiography system 200 may include several X-ray radiography systems 100, computing systems 202, UIs 204, and / or remote computing systems 299.

[0046] In Figure 2In an example, the X-ray radiography system 100 includes a transmitter 106, a detector 108, a detector locator 150, and an object locator 110 enclosed within a housing 199. As shown, the X-ray radiography system 100 is connected to and / or communicates with one or more computing systems 202 and one or more UIs 204. In some examples, the X-ray radiography system 100 may also communicate electrically with one or more remote computing systems 299. In some examples, the communication and / or connection may be electrical, electromagnetic, wired, and / or wireless.

[0047] In Figure 2 an example, the UI 204 includes one or more input devices 206 and / or output devices 208. In some examples, one or more input devices 206 may include one or more touchscreens, mice, keyboards, buttons, switches, sliders, knobs, microphones, dials, and / or other electromechanical input devices. In some examples, one or more output devices 208 may include one or more displays, speakers, lights, haptic devices, and / or other devices. In some examples, a user may provide input to and / or receive output from the X-ray radiography system 100, the computing system 202, and / or the remote computing system 299 via the UI 204.

[0048] In some examples, the UI 204 may be part of the computing system 202. In some examples, the computing system 202 may implement one or more controllers of the X-ray radiography system 100. In some examples, the computing system 202 and the UI 204 may together form an image acquisition system of the X-ray radiography system 200. In some examples, the remote computing system 299 may be similar to or the same as the computing system 202.

[0049] In Figure 2 an example, the computing system 202 communicates (e.g., electrically) with the X-ray radiography system 100, the UI 204, and the remote computing system 299. In some examples, the communication may be direct (e.g., via a wired and / or wireless medium) or indirect, e.g., via one or more wired and / or wireless networks (e.g., a local area network and / or a wide area network). As shown, the computing system 202 includes processing circuitry 210, memory circuitry 212, and communication circuitry 214 interconnected with each other via a common electrical bus.

[0050] In some examples, processing circuitry 210 may include one or more processors. In some examples, communication circuitry 214 may include one or more wireless adapters, wireless cards, cable adapters, line adapters, radio frequency (RF) devices, wireless communication devices, Bluetooth devices, IEEE 802.11-compliant devices, WiFi devices, cellular devices, GPS devices, Ethernet ports, network ports, Lightning cable ports, cable ports, etc. In some examples, communication circuitry 214 may be configured to facilitate communication via one or more wired media and / or protocols (e.g., (multiple) Ethernet cables, (multiple) Universal Serial Bus cables, etc.) and / or wireless media and / or protocols (e.g., Near Field Communication (NFC), ultra-high frequency radio waves (commonly known as Bluetooth), IEEE 802.11x, Zigbee, HART, LTE, Z-Wave, Wireless HD, WiGig, etc.).

[0051] In Figure 1 the example of, multiple rotary fixtures 103 are coupled to a motorized shaft to rotate an object 102 about multiple axes.

[0052] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a front view and a top-down perspective view of an example multiple rotary fixture 103. Figure 4 is Figure 1 a rear view and a bottom-up perspective view of an example multiple rotary fixture. Figure 5 is Figure 1 a front elevational view of an example multiple rotary fixture. The example multiple rotary fixture 103 includes a table frame 302, a plurality of fixture assemblies 304, a drive turntable 306, a driven turntable 308, and a plurality of follower assemblies 310.

[0053] The table frame 302 provides a rigid structural support for the turntables 306, 308 and the follower assemblies 310.

[0054] The fixture assemblies 304 are configured to hold a plurality of objects for inspection. In Figure 3 the example of, the fixture assemblies 304 hold the objects in a vertical arrangement. In some examples, the fixture assemblies 304 may be arranged to hold the objects substantially aligned with the axis of rotation of a corresponding turntable of the plurality of turntables 306, 308. However, in other examples, the multiple rotary fixture may be arranged to hold the fixture assemblies 304 in a horizontal arrangement (e.g., the turntables 306, 308 and the plurality of follower assemblies 310 are also configured to hold the fixture assemblies horizontally).

[0055] Figure 6 illustrates that can be used to implement Figure 1An example fixture assembly 600 of the multiple rotation fixture 103. For example, the fixture assembly 600 can implement Figure 3 Any one of the fixture assemblies 304 of. The fixture assembly 600 includes a fixture frame 602 that provides a connection to each of the rotary tables 306, 308 at a first end and a connection to the follower assembly 310 at a second end. For example, the fixture frame 602 includes slots 604 for connection to the rotary tables 306, 308. The fixture frame 602 also includes a connector (e.g., hook 614) for connection to the follower assembly 310, as discussed in more detail below.

[0056] The fixture frame 602 further includes a support 608, which can include one or more elements and can be adapted to support a particular type of object to be inspected. The support 608 rigidly holds the corresponding object to the fixture frame 602 to reduce or eliminate displacement or movement of the object within the frame 602 during the radiography process. When the fixture frame 602 rotates, the support 608 also rotates the mounted object. The support 608 can be connected or attached to the fixture frame 602 in any removable or permanent manner (such as, via adjustable techniques such as set screws, or via permanent techniques such as chemical bonding or ultrasonic welding). In other examples, the support 608 can be integral with the fixture frame 602, such as by molding the support 608 and the frame 602 as a single fixture. The support can include blocks, clips, slats, and / or any other passive or active support structures.

[0057] As described in more detail below, the example fixture assembly 304 can be easily (e.g., tool - free) inserted into and removed from the multiple rotation fixture 103 to allow an object to be mounted to and removed from the fixture assembly 304.

[0058] The fixture assembly 304 is connected to the rotary tables 306, 308 such that the rotary tables 306, 308 drive the rotation of the fixture assembly 304. Figure 7 is a more detailed view of the bottom end of a plurality of fixture assemblies 304 that are connected to the corresponding rotary tables 306, 308 of the multiple rotation fixture 103 of Figure 1 . As Figure 7 shown, the rotary tables 306, 308 align the fixture assemblies 304 and rotate each fixture assembly 304 simultaneously. To apply a rotational force to the fixture assembly 304, the rotary tables 306, 308 include posts (or struts, dowels, etc.). Corresponding slots or holes of the fixture assembly 304 are placed on the posts. When the rotary tables 306, 308 rotate, the posts cause the fixture assembly 304 to rotate in the direction as Figure 7 shown.

[0059] To provide support and stability along the length of the fixture assembly 304, the fixture assembly 304 is supported from the top end opposite the rotary tables 306, 308. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the top ends of a plurality of fixture assemblies 304 coupled to corresponding follower assemblies 310 of the multiple rotary fixture 103.

[0060] Each exemplary follower assembly 310 includes a bearing 802 that is coupled to the table frame 302. For example, the bearing 802 may be mounted on a bolt 804 extending from a base 806. The base 806 is secured to the bearing 802 and the table frame 302 via a lock nut 808 or other fastener. The bearing 802 allows the base 806 to rotate with low friction relative to the table frame 302. The axis of rotation of the base 806 and the bearing 802 is aligned with a corresponding one of the multiple rotary tables 306, 308.

[0061] The base 806 is coupled to a suspension 810, for example, via one or more fasteners. The suspension 810 is spaced apart from the base 806 to allow insertion of the fixture assembly 304. To support the fixture assembly 304, the suspension 810 includes one or more seats 814 that hold corresponding hooks 614 of the fixture assembly 304. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the top ends of a plurality of rotary object fixtures coupled to a Figure 8 follower assembly. As Figure 9 shown, the suspension 810 is open in a first direction to allow insertion and removal of the hooks 614. When inserted, the hooks 614 may rest in the seats 814 of the suspension 810 to vertically support the fixture assembly 304.

[0062] The exemplary hook 614 has a first portion 616 and a second portion 618, the first portion having a first diameter and the second portion having a second diameter that is larger than the first portion 616. The first portion 616 may be inserted through an opening in the suspension 810, and the second portion 618 prevents the hook 614 from accidentally disengaging from the seat 814. In the example shown, the second portion 618 may have a tapered or countersunk shape, which further improves the seating of the hook 614 in the seat 814.

[0063] After or simultaneously with the placement of the hook 614 into the receptacle 8124, the lower end of the fixture assembly 304 is placed onto the opposing one of the plurality of turntables 306, 308. The dimensions of the suspension 810, the hook 614, the columns of the turntables 306, 308, and the slot 604 of the fixture assembly 304 are sized such that the fixture assembly 304 remains connected to the table frame 302 when in a vertical configuration without an external lifting force (e.g., for intentionally removing the fixture assembly from the table frame, a test operator lifting the fixture assembly 304 with an external lifting force applied to the table frame).

[0064] The suspension 810 provides vertical support for the fixture assembly 304 while the fixture assembly 304 is rotated by the turntables 306, 308. When the turntables 306, 308 rotate the fixture assembly 304, the hook 614 applies a rotational force on the suspension 810, which is capable of rotating via the base 806 and the bearing 802 to maintain vertical support.

[0065] Although the example shown depicts the bearing 802 being supported by the table frame 302, in other examples, the fixture assembly 304 may be provided with bearings that are coupled to fixed supports on the table frame 302. Thus, the fixture assembly 304 is capable of rotating an object 102 attached to the fixture assembly 304 about a bearing located on the fixture assembly 304.

[0066] Figure 10 is Figure 1 A cross-sectional elevation view of example turntables 306, 308 of the multi-rotational fixture 103. Figure 11 is Figure 1 A cross-sectional top plan view of example turntables 306, 308 of the multi-rotational fixture 103.

[0067] The drive turntable 306 is located at the center of the set of turntables 306, 308 and is coupled to a drive shaft 1002, which is connected to a motor shaft 116. When the drive shaft 1002 is coupled to the motor shaft 116, the example table frame 302 is coupled to one or more fixed or structural components of the radiography system 100 to prevent the motor shaft 116 from rotating the entire multi-rotational fixture 103. The multi-rotational fixture 103 may include one or more lower support bases 1004 to support the weight of the multi-rotational fixture 103 and the object 102. The lower support bases 1004 may be supported by a non-rotating portion of the object locator 110 and / or may be coupled to a rotating portion or the object locator 110 (e.g., a platen) via a bearing or other rotational coupling.

[0068] The drive shaft 1002 is coupled to the pulley 1006 that drives the rotary table 306 and is coupled to the drive disk 1008, which includes a post 1010 for coupling to a corresponding passage 620 of the fixture assembly 304.

[0069] The pulley 1006 is coupled to the pulley 1012 of the driven rotary table 308 via a timing belt 1014. The pulley 1012 of the driven rotary table 308 is coupled to the corresponding drive disk 1008 via a corresponding drive shaft 1016. Each drive disk 1008 is supported in the table frame 302 by one or more sets of bearings 1018. The multiple rotary fixtures 103 may include a belt tensioner, teeth, and / or any other elements to control and / or regulate the movement of the rotary tables 306, 308.

[0070] When the drive shaft 1002 is driven by the power shaft 116, the pulley 1006 and the timing belt 1014 cause the pulley 1012 and the drive shaft 1016 of the driven rotary table 308 to also rotate. Thus, actuation by the power shaft 116 causes the rotary tables 306, 308 to synchronously rotate the fixture assembly 304.

[0071] Although the examples discussed above illustrate the rotary tables 306, 308 positioned below the fixture assembly 304, in other examples, the rotary tables 306, 308 may be implemented above the fixture assembly 304 (e.g., to rotate the base 806 and the suspension 810), while the alignment supports are positioned below the fixture assembly 304. In such examples, the drive rotary table 306 may be driven by Figure 1 the power shaft 116 via a gear drive and / or a belt drive, and / or may include a separate drive system to power the drive rotary table 306 (and even the driven rotary table 308).

[0072] The method and / or system can be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. The method and / or system can be implemented in a centralized manner in at least one computing system, or in a distributed manner with different elements spread across several interconnected computing systems and / or remote computing systems. Any kind of computing system or other device adapted to execute the methods described herein is suitable. A typical combination of hardware and software can be a general-purpose computing system with a program or other code that, when loaded and executed, controls the computing system to cause the computing system to execute the methods described herein. Another typical implementation can include an application-specific integrated circuit or chip. Some embodiments can include a non-transitory machine-readable (e.g., computer-readable) medium (e.g., a flash drive, an optical disc, a magnetic storage disk, etc.) having stored thereon one or more instructions (e.g., lines of code) executable by a machine to cause the machine to perform the processes described herein.

[0073] As used herein, the terms "e.g.," and "for example" provide a list of one or more non-limiting examples, instances, or illustrations.

[0074] As used herein, the terms "coupled," "couples to," and "is coupled with" each refer to a structural connection and / or an electrical connection, whether attached, affixed, connected, joined, fastened, linked, and / or otherwise secured. As used herein, the term "attached" refers to attaching, coupling, connecting, joining, fastening, linking, and / or otherwise securing. As used herein, the term "connected" refers to attaching, affixing, coupling, joining, fastening, linking, and / or otherwise securing.

[0075] As used herein, the terms "circuit" and "circuitry" refer to physical electronic components (i.e., hardware) and any software and / or firmware ("code") that can configure the hardware, be executed by the hardware, and / or otherwise be associated with the hardware. As used herein, for example, a particular processor and memory can form a first "circuit" when executing a first line or lines of code, and a second "circuit" when executing a second line or lines of code. As used herein, a circuitry is "operable" and / or "configured" to perform a function when the circuitry includes the hardware and / or code (if necessary) required to perform the function, regardless of whether the performance of the function is disabled or enabled (e.g., by user-configurable settings, factory adjustments, etc.).

[0076] As used herein, a control circuit can include digital and / or analog circuitry, discrete and / or integrated circuitry, a microprocessor, a DSP, etc., located on one or more boards that form part or all of a controller and / or software, hardware, and / or firmware for controlling a radiography system to perform a radiography process.

[0077] As used herein, the term "processor" refers to processing devices, apparatuses, programs, circuits, components, systems, and subsystems, whether implemented in hardware, software in a tangible form, or both, and whether or not programmable. As used herein, the term "processor" includes, but is not limited to, one or more computing devices, hardwired circuits, signal modifying devices and systems, devices and machines for controlling systems, central processing units, programmable devices and systems, field programmable gate arrays, application specific integrated circuits, system on a chip, systems including discrete components and / or circuits, state machines, virtual machines, data processors, processing facilities, and any combination of the foregoing. A processor can be, for example, any type of general purpose microprocessor or microcontroller, digital signal processing (DSP) processor, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), graphics processing unit (GPU), reduced instruction set computer (RISC) processor with an advanced RISC machine (ARM) core, etc. A processor can be coupled to a memory device and / or integrated with a memory device.

[0078] As used herein, the terms "memory", "memory circuitry", and / or "memory device" refer to computer hardware or circuitry for storing information for use by a processor and / or other digital devices. The memory, memory circuitry, and / or memory device can be any suitable type of computer memory or any other type of electronic storage medium, such as read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), cache memory, compact disc read only memory (CDROM), electro-optical memory, magneto-optical memory, programmable read only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), computer readable medium, etc. The memory can include, for example, non-transitory memory, non-transitory processor-readable medium, non-transitory computer-readable medium, non-volatile memory, dynamic RAM (DRAM), volatile memory, ferroelectric RAM (FRAM), first in first out (FIFO) memory, last in first out (LIFO) memory, stack memory, non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), static RAM (SRAM), cache, buffer, semiconductor memory, magnetic memory, optical memory, flash memory, flash card, compact flash card, memory card, secure digital memory card, micro card, mini card, expansion card, smart card, memory stick, multimedia card, picture card, flash device, subscriber identity module (SIM) card, hard disk drive (HDD), solid state drive (SSD), etc. The memory can be configured to store code, instructions, applications, software, firmware, and / or data, and can be external to the processor, internal to the processor, or both internal and external to the processor.

[0079] As used herein, "and / or" refers to any one or more of the items in a list joined by "and / or". By way of example, "x and / or y" refers to any element in the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, "x and / or y" means "one or both of x and y". As another example, "x, y and / or z" refers to any element in the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}. In other words, "x, y and / or z" means "one or more of x, y and z". As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used to mean a non-limiting example, instance or illustration. As used herein, the terms "e.g.," and "for example" introduce a list of one or more non-limiting examples, instances or illustrations.

[0080] Although the method and / or system has been described with reference to certain embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted without departing from the scope of the method and / or system. For example, the blocks and / or components of the disclosed examples can be combined, divided, rearranged and / or otherwise modified. Additionally, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the method and / or system is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Instead, the method and / or system will include all embodiments that fall within the scope of the appended claims, either literally or under the doctrine of equivalents.

Claims

1. A multiple rotation fixture for a radiographic system, the fixture comprising: a plurality of fixture assemblies, each of the plurality of fixture assemblies being configured to hold a plurality of objects for examination in a radiographic system; driving the rotating table; one or more driven rotating tables coupled to the driving rotating table such that rotation of the driving rotating table causes the driven rotating tables to rotate simultaneously, wherein the driving rotating table and the one or more driven rotating tables support corresponding fixture assemblies of the plurality of fixture assemblies and cause the corresponding fixture assemblies to rotate simultaneously; as well as A plurality of follower assemblies are configured to support the fixing member assemblies at ends of the plurality of fixing member assemblies opposite to the driving rotary table and the driven rotary table.

2. The multiple rotation fixture of claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of fixture assemblies is configured for tool-less connection with a corresponding one of the follower assemblies and a corresponding one of the rotation stages.

3. The multiple rotation fixture of claim 1, wherein: The driving rotary table is coupled to a driving shaft configured to receive power from an external actuator.

4. The multiple rotation fixture of claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of follower assemblies includes a bearing and a socket coupled to the bearing, wherein each of the plurality of stationary member assemblies is configured to be coupled to the socket to be supported by the bearing.

5. The multiple rotation fixture of claim 4, wherein: Each of the plurality of fixture assemblies includes a tapered connector configured to be seated within the socket to be supported by the ball bearing.

6. The multiple rotation fixture of claim 1, further comprising a table frame, the follower assembly and the rotation table being coupled to the table frame.

7. The multiple rotation fixture of claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of fixture assemblies comprises: a fixture frame configured to be removably coupled to one of the follower assemblies and one of the rotation stages; and A plurality of supports are coupled to the fixture frame and are configured to securely hold a corresponding object under inspection.

8. The multiple rotation fixture of claim 7, wherein: The capacity of the fixture is the product of the number of rotation stages and the number of the plurality of supports on each of the plurality of fixture assemblies.

9. The multiple rotation fixture of claim 1, wherein: The rotation axis of each of the plurality of follower assemblies is aligned with the rotation axis of the corresponding rotary stage.

10. A radiographic system comprising: Radiation detectors; a radiation emitter configured to direct radiation toward the radiation detector; Object locator; as well as a multiple rotation fixture coupled to the object positioner, the fixture comprising: a plurality of fixture assemblies, each of the plurality of fixture assemblies being configured to hold a plurality of objects for examination in a radiographic system; a drive rotary stage coupled to the object positioner; one or more driven rotating tables coupled to the driving rotating table such that rotation of the driving rotating table causes the driven rotating tables to rotate simultaneously, wherein the driving rotating table and the one or more driven rotating tables support corresponding fixture assemblies of the plurality of fixture assemblies and cause the corresponding fixture assemblies to rotate simultaneously; and A plurality of follower assemblies are configured to support the fixing member assemblies at ends of the plurality of fixing member assemblies opposite to the driving rotary table and the driven rotary table.

11. The radiographic system of claim 10, further comprising a control circuit system configured to: controlling the object positioner to rotate the fixture assembly to rotate the plurality of objects for inspection; controlling the radiation emitter to emit the radiation toward the radiation detector; and A three-dimensional scan of the plurality of objects is assembled based on the images captured by corresponding portions of the radiation detectors.

12. The radiographic system of claim 10, wherein: Each of the plurality of fixture assemblies is configured for tool-less connection with a corresponding follower assembly of the plurality of follower assemblies and a corresponding rotation stage of the rotation stage.

13. The radiographic system of claim 10, wherein: The driving rotary table is coupled to a driving shaft configured to receive power from an external actuator.

14. The radiographic system of claim 10, wherein: Each of the plurality of follower assemblies includes a bearing and a socket coupled to the bearing, wherein each of the plurality of stationary member assemblies is configured to be coupled to the socket to be supported by the bearing.

15. The radiographic system of claim 14, wherein: Each of the plurality of fixture assemblies includes a tapered connector configured to be seated within the socket to be supported by the ball bearing.

16. The radiographic system of claim 10, further comprising a table frame, the follower assembly and the rotation table being coupled to the table frame.

17. The radiographic system of claim 10, wherein: Each of the fixing member assemblies comprises: a fixture frame configured to be removably coupled to one of the plurality of follower assemblies and one of the rotation stages; and A plurality of supports are coupled to the fixture frame and are configured to securely hold a corresponding object under inspection.

18. The radiographic system of claim 17, wherein: The capacity of the fixture is the product of the number of rotation stages and the number of the plurality of supports on each of the plurality of fixture assemblies.

19. The radiographic system of claim 10, wherein: The rotational axis of each of the plurality of follower assemblies is aligned with the rotational axis of a corresponding one of the rotational stages.

Images