High Resolution Continuous Rotation Industrial Radiography Imaging Process

Abstract

Described herein is an example of an industrial radiography system that can control or recommend certain parameter values ​​of a high-resolution continuous rotational radiography imaging process. By controlling or recommending certain parameter values, it can be possible to alleviate certain synchronization issues that occur during the high-resolution continuous rotational radiography imaging process. Once the synchronization issues are alleviated, a user can perform the high-resolution continuous rotational radiography imaging process at high speeds without loss of detail and / or blurring that can occur due to the synchronization issues.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] [CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 244,329, filed September 15, 2021, entitled “HIGH RESOLUTION CONTINUOUS ROTATION INDUSTRIAL RADIOGRAPHY IMAGING PROCESSES,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to industrial radiography imaging processes, and more particularly to high resolution continuous rotation industrial radiography imaging processes. [Background technology]

[0003] Industrial radiography imaging systems are used to obtain two-dimensional (2D) radiographic images of parts used in industrial applications. Such industrial applications may include, for example, aerospace, automotive, electronic, medical, pharmaceutical, military, and / or defense applications. The 2D radiographic images may be reviewed to inspect the part(s) for cracks, scratches, and / or defects that may or may not be normally visible to the human eye.

[0004] By comparing such a system with the present disclosure described in the remainder of this application with reference to the drawings, the limitations and disadvantages of the conventional and traditional approaches will become apparent to one skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure relates to a high resolution continuous rotation industrial radiography imaging process substantially as illustrated and / or described in connection with at least one of the drawings and more fully described in the claims.

[0006] These and other advantages, aspects, and novel features of the present disclosure, as well as details of illustrated examples of the disclosure, will become more fully understood from the following description and drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an industrial X-ray radiography machine, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0008] [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example X-ray radiography system having the industrial X-ray radiographer of FIG. 1 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0009] [Diagram 3] 3 is a flow chart illustrating an example operation of a high resolution imaging process of the X-ray radiography system of FIG. 2 in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0010] [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a method for combining different images captured at different (e.g., sub-pixel shifted) X-ray detector positions to generate a single higher resolution image, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] [Figure 5a-5b] 1A-1C illustrate the concept of angle change introduced due to lack of synchronization between the start of rotation of an object and the start of image capture of the object, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] [Figure 6] 4 illustrates an example display screen showing various parameters of the high resolution imaging process of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Where appropriate, the same or similar reference numbers are used in the figures to refer to similar or identical components. For example, reference numbers utilizing letters (e.g., Grid 402a, Grid 402b) refer to the same reference number without the letter (e.g., Grid 402).

[0014] Some examples of the present disclosure relate to an industrial radiography system that controls or recommends certain parameter values ​​of a high-resolution continuous rotational radiography imaging process. By controlling or recommending certain parameter values, it may be possible to alleviate certain synchronization issues that occur during the high-resolution continuous rotational radiography imaging process. Once the synchronization issues are alleviated, a user may perform the high-resolution continuous rotational radiography imaging process at high speeds without loss of detail and / or additional blurring that may occur due to the synchronization issues.

[0015] Some examples of the disclosure include a non-transitory computer readable medium including machine readable instructions that, when executed by a processor, include receiving, via an input device of a user interface, a selection of a continuous high resolution image acquisition process that acquires radiographic images of an object at a plurality of different detector positions of a radiation detector while the object is rotated, and in response to the selection, identifying a maximum starting angle change that includes a maximum allowable difference between an orientation of the object when a first initial image is acquired and an orientation of the object when a second initial image is acquired during the high resolution image acquisition process, the maximum starting angle change including ... the first initial image is acquired when the radiation detector is at a first detector position during a high-resolution image acquisition process and the second initial image is acquired when the radiation detector is at a second detector position during the high-resolution image acquisition process; setting or recommending a first parameter value of a first parameter to be a first value or a second parameter value of a second parameter to be a second value based on a maximum starting angle change; and performing the high-resolution image acquisition process based on the first parameter value and the second parameter value to generate an image of the object.

[0016] In some examples, the first parameter includes a number of image projections and the second parameter includes a number of image frames averaged for one image projection. In some examples, the non-transitory computer readable medium, when executed by the processing circuitry, generates a first radiographic image set based on radiation detected by the radiation detector while the rotatable fixture rotates the object through a first rotational motion while the radiation detector is at a first detector position, generates a second radiographic image set based on radiation detected by the radiation detector while the rotatable fixture rotates the object through a second rotational motion while the radiation detector is at a second detector position, and generates a second radiographic image set based on radiation detected by the radiation detector while the rotatable fixture rotates the object through a second rotational motion while the radiation detector is at a second detector position, and and generating a third radiographic image set of higher resolution based on the first radiographic image set and corresponding radiographs in the second radiographic image set, the higher resolution radiographic images having a higher resolution than the radiographic images in the first radiographic image set and corresponding radiographic images in the second radiographic image set, and a size of the first radiographic image set, the second radiographic image set, or the third radiographic image set depends on a first parameter value of the first parameter or a second parameter value of the second parameter.

[0017] In some examples, the non-transitory computer-readable medium further includes machine-readable instructions for a high resolution image acquisition process that, when executed by the processing circuitry, causes the processing circuitry to combine a higher resolution third radiographic image set into an image of the object, where the image of the object includes data representing a two-dimensional (2D) image, data representing a three-dimensional (3D) volume, or data representing a 2D slice of the 3D volume. In some examples, a size of the first radiographic image set and the second radiographic image set is equal to the first parameter value multiplied by the second parameter value, and a size of the third set is equal to the first parameter value. In some examples, setting or recommending a first parameter value of a first parameter to be a first value or a second parameter value of a second parameter to be a second value based on the maximum starting angle change includes determining one or more first values ​​of the first parameter or one or more second values ​​of the second parameter that may result in a starting angle change that exceeds the maximum starting angle change, where the starting angle change includes a difference between an orientation of the object when a first initial image of the first radiographic image set is acquired by the radiation detector during a first rotational movement of the object and an orientation of the object when a second initial image of the second radiographic image set is acquired by the radiation detector during a second rotational movement of the object, and prohibiting or disrecommending entry or selection of one or more first values ​​of the first parameter or one or more second values ​​of the second parameter.

[0018] In some examples, setting or recommending a first parameter value of a first parameter to be a first value or a second value of a second parameter to be a second value based on the maximum starting angle change further includes automatically setting the first parameter value or the second parameter value such that the starting angle change does not exceed the maximum starting angle change. In some examples, the first detector position is offset from the second detector position by a size that is less than a pixel size of the radiation detector. In some examples, the non-transitory computer readable medium further includes machine readable instructions that, when executed by the processing circuitry, cause the processing circuitry to display the image on a display screen. In some examples, the maximum starting angle change is identified based on a geometric magnification of the industrial radiography imaging system or an image quality required for a particular application of the industrial radiography imaging system, the geometric magnification including a first distance from the radiation emitter to the radiation detector divided by a second distance from the radiation emitter to the object.

[0019] Some examples of the present disclosure include an industrial radiography imaging system comprising: a radiation emitter configured to emit radiation; a radiation detector configured to detect radiation emitted by the radiation emitter; a rotatable fixture configured to hold and rotate an object, the rotatable fixture positioned between the radiation emitter and the radiation detector; a detector positioner configured to move the radiation detector to a plurality of different detector positions; and an image acquisition system configured to generate images of the object based on radiation detected by the radiation detector after passing through the object, the image acquisition system comprising a user interface comprising an input device, processing circuitry, and memory circuitry including machine readable instructions that, when executed by the processing circuitry, configure a continuous high resolution image acquisition process to acquire images at the plurality of different detector positions while the object is rotated. and in response to the selection, causing processing circuitry to: receive via an input device a selection of a process to be performed to determine a maximum starting angle change, the maximum starting angle change comprising a maximum allowable difference between an orientation of the object when a first initial image is acquired and an orientation of the object when a second initial image is acquired during a high resolution image acquisition process, the first initial image being acquired when a radiation detector is in a first detector position during the high resolution image acquisition process and the second initial image being acquired when the radiation detector is in a second detector position during the high resolution image acquisition process; setting or recommending a first parameter value of a first parameter to be a first value or a second parameter value of a second parameter to be a second value based on the maximum starting angle change; and performing the high resolution image acquisition process based on the first and second values ​​to generate an image of the object.

[0020] In some examples, the first parameter includes a number of image projections and the second parameter includes a number of image frames averaged for one image projection. In some examples, the memory circuitry further includes machine readable instructions for a high resolution image acquisition process that, when executed by the processing circuitry, causes the processing circuitry to generate a first radiographic image set based on radiation detected by the radiation detector while the rotatable fixture rotates the object through a first rotational motion while the radiation detector is in a first detector position; generate a second radiographic image set based on radiation detected by the radiation detector while the rotatable fixture rotates the object through a second rotational motion while the radiation detector is in a second detector position; and generate a higher resolution third radiographic image set based on the radiographic images in the first radiographic image set and corresponding radiographs in the second radiographic image set, wherein the higher resolution radiographic images have a higher resolution than the radiographic images in the first radiograph set and the corresponding radiograph images in the second radiograph set, and a size of the first radiographic image set, the second radiographic image set, or the third radiographic image set is based on a first value of the first parameter or a second value of the second parameter.

[0021] In some examples, the memory circuitry includes machine-readable instructions for a high resolution image acquisition process that, when executed by the processing circuitry, further causes the processing circuitry to combine a higher resolution third radiographic image set into an image of the object, where the image of the object includes data representing a two-dimensional (2D) image, data representing a three-dimensional (3D) volume, or data representing a 2D slice of the 3D volume. In some examples, a size of the first radiographic image set and the second radiographic image set is equal to the first parameter value multiplied by the second parameter value, and a size of the third set is equal to the first parameter value. In some examples, setting or recommending a first parameter value of a first parameter to be a first value or a second parameter value of a second parameter to be a second value based on the maximum starting angle change includes determining one or more first values ​​of the first parameter or one or more second values ​​of the second parameter that may result in a starting angle change that exceeds the maximum starting angle change, where the starting angle change includes a difference between an orientation of the object when a first initial image of the first radiographic image set is acquired by the radiation detector during a first rotational movement of the object and an orientation of the object when a second initial image of the second radiographic image set is acquired by the radiation detector during a second rotational movement of the object, and prohibiting or disrecommending entry or selection of one or more first values ​​of the first parameter or one or more second values ​​of the second parameter.

[0022] In some examples, setting or recommending a first parameter value of a first parameter to a first value or a second parameter value of a second parameter to a second value based on the maximum starting angle change further includes automatically setting the first parameter value or the second parameter value such that the starting angle change does not exceed the maximum starting angle change. In some examples, the first detector position is offset from the second detector position by a size that is less than a pixel size of the radiation detector. In some examples, the memory circuitry further includes machine-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, display an image of the object on a display screen of the user interface. In some examples, the maximum starting angle change is identified based on a geometric magnification of the industrial radiography imaging system or an image quality required for a particular application of the industrial radiography imaging system, the geometric magnification including a first distance from the radiation emitter to the radiation detector divided by a second distance from the radiation emitter to the object.

[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary industrial X-ray radiographer 100. In some examples, the X-ray radiographer 100 can be used for non-destructive testing (NDT), digital radiography (DR) scans, computerized tomography (CT) scans, and / or other applications performed on an object 102. In some examples, the object 102 can be an industrial component and / or an assembly of components (e.g., engine castings, microchips, bolts, etc.). In some examples, the object 102 can be relatively small such that finer, more detailed, and higher resolution radiographic imaging processes can be utilized. Although primarily discussed with respect to X-rays for simplicity, in some examples, the industrial X-ray radiographer 100 discussed herein can also use radiation at other wavelengths (e.g., gamma rays, neutrons, etc.).

[0024] 1, the X-ray radiographer 100 directs X-ray radiation 104 from an X-ray emitter 106 through an object 102 to an X-ray detector 108. In some examples, the X-ray emitter 106 may comprise an X-ray tube configured to emit a cone or fan of X-ray radiation. In some examples, the X-ray emitter 106 may emit X-ray radiation in an energy range of 20 kiloelectronvolts (keV) to 10 megaelectronvolts (meV).

[0025] In some examples, a two-dimensional (2D) digital image (e.g., a radiographic image, an X-ray image, etc.) may be generated based on the X-ray radiation 104 incident on the X-ray detector 108. In some examples, the 2D image may be generated by the X-ray detector 108 itself. In some examples, the 2D image may be generated by combining the X-ray detector 108 with a computing system in communication with the X-ray detector 108.

[0026] In some examples, the 2D images may be continuously captured / acquired at a given frame rate by the X-ray detector 108 (e.g., in a free-run mode) as long as the X-ray detector 108 is powered on. However, in some examples, the 2D images may only be generated entirely by the X-ray detector 108 (and / or associated computing system(s)) when a scanning / imaging process is selected and / or operating. Similarly, in some examples, the 2D images may only be stored in persistent (i.e., non-volatile) memory when a scanning / imaging process is selected and / or operating.

[0027] In some examples, 2D images generated by the X-ray detector 108 (and / or associated computing system(s)) may be combined to form a three-dimensional (3D) volume and / or a 3D image. In some examples, 2D image slices of the 3D volume / image may also be formed. It should be noted that while the term "image" is used herein as shorthand, an "image" may include representative data until that data is visually rendered by one or more appropriate components (e.g., a display screen, a graphics processing unit, the X-ray detector 108, etc.).

[0028] 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 receive images indirectly 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 that 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.

[0029] In some examples, the X-ray detector 108 (e.g., a solid-state detector panel) can include pixels 404 (see, e.g., FIG. 4). In some examples, the pixels 404 can correspond to portions of a scintillation screen. In some examples, the size of each pixel 404 can range from tens of micrometers 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).

[0030] In some examples, the 2D image captured by the X-ray detector 108 (and / or associated computing system) may include features finer (e.g., smaller features, denser features, etc.) than the pixel size of the X-ray detector 108. For example, a computer microchip may have very fine features that are smaller than the pixels 404. In such examples, it may be useful to use sub-pixel sampling to achieve a higher and more detailed resolution than may be possible without using sub-pixel sampling.

[0031] For example, multiple 2D images of the object 102 may be captured while the object 102 is at the same orientation and the X-ray detector 108 is at one of two (or more) different positions. In some examples, the different positions of the X-ray detector 108 may be offset from one another by a size (i.e., sub-pixels) less than the size of a pixel 404. The multiple sub-pixel shifted 2D images may then be combined (e.g., via interlacing techniques) to form a single higher resolution 2D image of the object 102 at that orientation. Thus, when the term "high resolution imaging process" is used herein, the term may refer to an imaging process (e.g., radiography, computed tomography, etc.) in which sub-pixel sampling is used to ensure a resolution (and / or pixel density) of the final image that is greater than the resolution (and / or pixel density) of the X-ray detector 108 (and / or portions of the X-ray detector 108 and / or virtual detector) used to capture the image. It may be possible to instead translate the object 102 rather than the X-ray detector 108 to perform sub-pixel sampling, however, moving the object 102 may change the imaging geometry, which may adversely affect the resulting image combination.

[0032] 4 illustrates the concept of forming a single higher resolution image using different images from different (e.g., sub-pixel shifted) locations of the X-ray detector 108. As shown, the diagram illustrates two different grids 402 of pixels 404 representing two different locations of the X-ray detector 108 offset from one another by a size smaller than the size of the pixels 404. A first grid 402a of pixels 404a is illustrated using solid lines, while a second grid 402b of pixels 404b is illustrated using dashed lines. As illustrated, the location of grid 402b is offset from the location of grid 402a by a half pixel 404 in the positive x direction and a half pixel in the negative y direction (resulting in a smaller offset than the pixels 404 in the diagonal direction).

[0033] In the example of FIG. 4, the smaller squares formed by the overlapping pixels 404 show how the pixels 404 of the two grids 402 can be combined to increase the resolution beyond that of the pixels 404 (e.g., to sub-pixel resolution). Further explanation of this concept can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 9,459,217, entitled "High-Resolution Computed Tomography," and dated September 30, 2015, 35 U.S.C. 371, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Although two grids 402 representing two positions are shown for simplicity and clarity, in some examples the x-ray detector 108 can be moved to four, six, eight, and / or more positions during sub-pixel sampling.

[0034] 1, the X-ray machine 100 includes a detector positioner 150 configured to move the X-ray detector 108 to different detector positions (e.g., positions for sub-pixel sampling). As shown, the detector positioner 150 includes two parallel posts 152 connected by two parallel rails 154. As shown, the X-ray detector 108 is held on the rails 154. In some examples, the X-ray detector 108 may be held on (and / or attached to) the rails 154 by one or more intermediate supports.

[0035] In some examples, the detector positioner 150 can be configured to move the X-ray detector 108 toward and / or away from either of the columns 152 along rails 154. In some examples, the rails 154 can be configured to move along and / or parallel to the columns 152 (e.g., upward and / or downward), thereby also moving the X-ray detector 108 along and / or parallel to the columns 152. The detector positioner 150 is shown simply in the example of FIG. 1, but in some examples can be more complex, similar to the x translation stage 18, y translation stage 20, detector mounting frame 26, and / or x / y stage linear encoders 22 / 24 shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 9,459,217, entitled "High-Resolution Computed Tomography," and dated September 30, 2015, 35 U.S.C. 371, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0036] Just as the X-ray detector 108 can be moved by the detector positioner 150, in some examples, the object 102 can be moved by the object positioner 110. In the example of FIG. 1, the object positioner 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 positioner 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). In some examples, the object positioner 110 can be configured to move and / or rotate the object 102 such that a desired portion and / or orientation of the object 102 is located in the path of the X-ray radiation 104. In some examples, the object positioner 110 can position the object 102 at different angles / orientations relative to the X-ray emitter 106 and / or the X-ray detector 108 to acquire 2D images at different orientations. These 2D images can then be used to generate one or more three-dimensional (3D) images of the object 102.

[0037] 1, object positioner 110 includes a rotatable fixture 112 on which object 102 is positioned. As shown, rotatable fixture 112 is a circular plate. As shown, rotatable fixture 112 is mounted to a motorized spindle 116 through which rotatable fixture 112 can rotate about an axis defined by spindle 116. In some examples, one or more alternative and / or additional rotation mechanisms can be provided.

[0038] 1, rotatable fixture 112 is supported by support structure 118. In some examples, support structure 118 can be configured to translate rotatable fixture 112 (and / or object 102) toward and / or away from X-ray emitter 106 and / or X-ray detector 108. In some examples, support structure 118 can include one or more actuators configured to provide the translation(s).

[0039] Although one exemplary object positioner 110 is shown in the example of FIG. 1, in some examples, a different object positioner 110 may be used. For example, a robotic object positioner may be used to translate and / or rotate the object 102. Similarly, while the rotatable fixture 112 is shown in the example of FIG. 1 as a circular plate, in some examples, the rotatable fixture 112 may instead include a different fixture, such as, for example, a brake, a catch, a gripper, and / or other holding mechanism. In some examples, rather than (or in addition to) the object 102 being rotated by the rotatable fixture 112, the X-ray emitter 106 and the X-ray detector 108 may instead be rotated around the object 102 (which may be useful, for example, if the object 102 is awkward).

[0040] 1, the X-ray machine 100 further includes a rotatable platform 160 configured to move the X-ray emitter 106 and the X-ray detector 108 around the object 102. In the example of Figure 1, the rotatable platform 160 is shown elevated above and connected to the X-ray emitter 106 and the X-ray detector 108, although such may occur when implemented using a gantry system, for example.

[0041] In some examples, the rotatable platform 160 may alternatively be implemented differently, such as as a platform built into the floor of the X-ray machine 100, via one or more robotic movers, a conveyor, and / or one or more other suitable means. In some examples, the rotatable platform 160 may be configured to rotate about a different axis (e.g., a horizontal axis, a diagonal axis, etc.) and the X-ray emitter 106 and / or the X-ray detector 108 may be repositioned accordingly.

[0042] In some examples, one or more portions of the object positioner 118 (e.g., support structure 118) may be modified and / or omitted to facilitate use (e.g., line of sight) of the X-ray emitter 106 and the X-ray detector 108 as they are moved around the object 102 by the rotatable platform 160. In some examples, the rotatable platform 160 may be configured to maintain the same geometric magnification of the X-ray machine 100 as the X-ray emitter 106 and the X-ray detector 108 are moved around the object 102.

[0043] Figure 2 illustrates an example of an X-ray radiography system 200 that includes an X-ray radiography machine 100, such as the X-ray radiography machine 100 illustrated in Figure 1. 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 one X-ray radiography machine 100, computing system 202, UI 204, and remote computing system 299 is shown in the example of Figure 2, in some examples, the X-ray radiography system 200 can include multiple X-ray radiography machines 100, computing systems 202, UIs 204, and / or remote computing systems 299.

[0044] 2, the X-ray radiographer 100 includes an emitter 106, a detector 108, a detector positioner 150, and an object positioner 110 enclosed within a housing 199. As shown, the X-ray radiographer 100 is connected to and / or in communication with a computing system(s) 202 and a UI(s) 204. In some examples, the X-ray radiographer 100 may also be in electrical communication with a remote computing system(s) 299. In some examples, the communication and / or connection may be electrical, electromagnetic, wired, and / or wireless.

[0045] 2, the UI 204 includes one or more input devices 206 and / or output devices 208. In some examples, the one or more input devices 206 can include one or more touch screens, mice, keyboards, buttons, switches, slides, knobs, microphones, dials, and / or other electromechanical input devices. In some examples, the one or more output devices 208 can include one or more display screens, speakers, lights, tactile devices, and / or other devices. In some examples, a user can provide input to and / or receive output from the X-ray radiographer(s) 100, the computing system(s) 202, and / or the remote computing system(s) 299 via the UI(s) 204.

[0046] In some examples, the UI(s) 204 can be part of the computing system 202. In some examples, the computing system 202 can implement one or more controllers of the X-ray radiography machine(s) 100. In some examples, the computing system 202 together with the UI(s) 204 can comprise the image acquisition system of the X-ray radiography system 200. In some examples, the remote computing system(s) 299 can be similar or identical to the computing system 202.

[0047] 2, computing system 202 is in communication (e.g., electrically) with X-ray radiography machine(s) 100, UI(s) 204, and remote computing system(s) 299. In some examples, the communication may be direct communication (e.g., over wired and / or wireless medium) or indirect communication, such as, for example, over one or more wired and / or wireless networks (e.g., local area networks and / or wide area networks). As shown, computing system 202 includes processing circuitry 210, memory circuitry 212, and communication circuitry 214 interconnected with each other via a common electrical bus.

[0048] In some examples, the processing circuitry 210 can include one or more processors. In some examples, the communications circuitry 214 can include one or more wireless adapters, wireless cards, cable adapters, wired 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, the communications circuitry 214 can be configured to facilitate communication over one or more wired media and / or protocols (e.g., Ethernet cable(s), Universal Serial Bus cable(s), etc.) and / or wireless media and / or protocols (e.g., Near Field Communication (NFC), Very High Frequency Radio (commonly known as Bluetooth), IEEE 802.11x, Zigbee, HART, LTE, Z-Wave, WirelessHD, WiGig, etc.).

[0049] 2, memory circuitry 212 includes and / or stores a high resolution imaging process 300. In some examples, high resolution imaging process 300 may be implemented via machine readable (and / or processor executable) instructions stored in memory circuitry 212 and / or executed by processing circuitry 210. In some examples, high resolution imaging process 300 may be performed as part of a larger scanning and / or imaging process of X-ray radiography system 200.

[0050] In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can be performed in response to a user selection of a high resolution (e.g., sub-pixel) imaging / scanning process that generates and / or stores images while the object 102 is continuously rotated (e.g., via the object positioner 110). In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can address synchronization issues that may arise during such high resolution continuous rotational imaging processes. This can be distinguished from more conventional high resolution (e.g., sub-pixel) imaging processes that generate and / or store images incrementally after the object 102 is rotated (e.g., while the object 102 is stationary). In this conventional process, synchronization may not be an issue.

[0051] In particular, the high resolution imaging process 300 can provide a solution that mitigates problems associated with synchronizing the start of image capture / generation with the start of rotation of the object 102. In some instances, synchronizing the start of image capture / generation with the start of rotation of the object 102 can be difficult, at least in part because the X-ray detector 108 may be capturing images at all times. Due to this synchronization problem, the initial images captured / generated during a scan may be captured / generated at some non-zero rotation angle (as viewed by the scanning process).

[0052] Furthermore, because the rotation of the object 102 is continuous, this change in rotation angle may cascade across all images of an image set captured / generated while the X-ray detector 108 is in a given position. Moreover, the same synchronization issues and / or angle changes may occur each time the X-ray detector 108 is shifted to a different position (as it takes some time to shift to a different position and then start rotating and capturing images again). Thus, the orientation angle of the object 102 may be different in the initial / initial images (and corresponding subsequent images) of different image sets (captured / generated at different positions of the X-ray detector 108). This change in angle of the object 102 in what would have been angularly aligned object images may result in reduced image quality, loss of detail, reduced sharpness, blurring, and / or other negative consequences when the images are combined into (what would have been) a higher resolution image.

[0053] Although much of this disclosure discusses rotating the object 102 during the high resolution imaging process 300, in some instances, as discussed above, the X-ray emitter 106 and the X-ray detector 108 can instead be rotated around the object 102. However, angular variations remain an issue in such instances.

[0054] Figures 5a and 5b show an example of this angle change. These figures show a top-down view of a rectangular object 102 when an initial / initial image is captured / generated for two different image sets (e.g., with different positions of the X-ray detector 108). Figure 5a represents the angular orientation of the object 102 (e.g., relative to the X-ray emitter 106 and / or the X-ray detector 108) when the X-ray detector 108 is in a first position. Figure 5b represents the position of the object 102 when the X-ray detector 108 is in a second (e.g., slightly shifted) position. The dashed crosshairs indicate both the center of the object 102 and the angles of 0 degrees, 90 degrees, 180 degrees, and 270 degrees. The dark black lines extending from the center of the object 102 are used as a visual aid to make the rotation angle more clear.

[0055] In the example of Figure 5a, the object 102 is rotated past the 0 degree dotted line in the initial image capture. In the example of Figure 5b, the object is also rotated past the 0 degree dotted line in the initial image capture. However, the angle of rotation of the object 102 is not the same in Figures 5a and 5b. Conversely, the object 102 is rotated to a larger angle in Figure 5a than in Figure 5b. Thus, the corresponding images show the object 102 at two different angles, and the high resolution image formed from the combination of these two images (and any subsequent images) may be adversely affected, as discussed above.

[0056] The angular difference between the object 102 in corresponding images of any two image sets can potentially be as large as (but not greater than) the maximum angle the object 102 can be rotated to at / before the original / initial image in the set is captured. This potential starting angle change is directly correlated to the rotational speed of the object 102. The faster the object is rotated, the larger the potential starting angle change will be, and vice versa.

[0057] Interestingly, the frame rate does not affect the potential start angle change in any way. This may make it appear that the potential start angle change is inversely correlated with the frame rate. After all, the faster the image is captured, the less time the object 102 has to rotate past the start angle before the image is captured. Therefore, one might think that a larger frame rate should correlate with a smaller potential start angle change. However, in high-resolution (e.g., sub-pixel) continuous rotational scans, the rotation speed is also directly correlated to the frame rate. Since the potential start angle change is directly correlated with the rotation speed (which is directly correlated with the frame rate) and the potential start angle change is also inversely correlated with the frame rate, the frame rate term cancels out and has no effect in any way.

[0058] Parameters that affect the potential starting angle variations are the number of image projections captured at a particular position of the X-ray detector 108 and the number of image frames averaged to produce a single image projection.

[0059] As used herein, an "image projection" refers to a single image of the object 102 (at a given orientation of the object 102) that is projected (due to radiation 104 traveling from the X-ray emitter 106 through the object 102 into / onto the X-ray detector 108) onto the X-ray detector 108 and then stored in the memory circuitry 212. However, to increase the signal-to-noise ratio in a single image projection, several image frames (e.g., image frames captured while the object 102 is rotating into the orientation of that image projection) may be averaged to generate a single image projection. Thus, the total number of images captured during a single (partial or complete) rotational movement of the object 102 (at one position of the X-ray detector 108) during a continuous rotation high-resolution (e.g., sub-pixel) scan is equal to the number of image projections captured multiplied by the number of images averaged for a single image projection. These parameters are referred to below as image projection parameters and frame averaged parameters.

[0060] Using the image projection parameter values ​​and the frame averaging parameter values, the rotation rate (and potential starting angle change) of the object 102 can be calculated. In particular, the rotation rate can be calculated as the rotation angle (e.g., 270 degrees, 360 degrees, etc.) divided by the total number of images captured (i.e., number of image projections x number of frames averaged) multiplied by the frame rate (i.e., rotation rate = degrees per image frame x image frames per second = degrees per second). The potential starting angle change can then be calculated as the rotation rate multiplied by the time to capture one image frame (i.e., rotation rate x (1 / frame rate)). However, since the frame rate is also part of the rotation rate, the frame rate is omitted from the potential starting angle change equation. By simplification, the potential starting angle change is equal to the rotation angle divided by the total number of images captured (i.e., potential starting angle change = rotation angle / (number of image projections x number of frames averaged)).

[0061] Furthermore, it has been discovered that the adverse effects of potential start angle changes can be mitigated if the potential start angle changes are kept below a certain maximum start angle change. Although it is safest to keep the potential start angle changes to a minimum, the potential start angle changes are directly correlated with the rotation speed, so keeping the potential start angle changes as low as possible also means keeping the rotation speed as slow as possible. In addition, one of the main advantages of high-resolution continuous rotational scanning is the increased scan speed compared to high-resolution step rotational scanning. Therefore, the high-resolution imaging process 300 disclosed herein and discussed below controls (and / or strongly suggests) the values ​​used for the image projection parameters and frame averaging parameters to ensure that both sufficient speed and image quality are obtained.

[0062] Some of the following disclosure discusses a high resolution imaging process 300 that performs certain operations. In some instances, this is used as shorthand for one or more components of the X-ray radiography system 200 (e.g., processing circuitry 210, communications circuitry 214, UI 204, radiographer 100, etc.) that perform the operation(s) as part of the high resolution imaging process 300.

[0063] 3 is a flow chart illustrating an example operation of a high-resolution imaging process 300. In the example of FIG. 3, the high-resolution imaging process 300 begins at block 302. In block 302, the high-resolution imaging process 300 receives an input (e.g., from the input device(s) 206 of the UI 204) representing a selection of a continuous rotational high-resolution (e.g., sub-pixel) scan. Although block 302 is shown as part of the high-resolution imaging process 300 in the example of FIG. 3 for completeness, in some examples it may be part of a more general scanning process that performs the high-resolution imaging process 300 in response to the selection of block 302. In the example of FIG. 3, after block 302, the high-resolution imaging process 300 proceeds to block 304.

[0064] In block 304, the high resolution imaging process 300 identifies one or more of the parameter values ​​that affect the potential start angle change and / or the maximum start angle change. Although other parameter values ​​(e.g., ramp-up time to reach rotation speed, number of different positions of the X-ray detector 108, (e.g., sub-pixel) distance between different positions of the X-ray detector 108, etc.) can also be identified in block 304 (and / or other blocks), this disclosure focuses on the parameter values ​​that affect the potential start angle change and / or the maximum start angle change. In some examples, the parameter values ​​that affect the potential start angle change and / or the maximum start angle change can include values ​​for image projection, frame averaging, rotation angle (e.g., 1 degree or more and 360 degrees or less), geometric magnification, and the level of detail (and / or image quality) required for a particular application. In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can prompt a user to input one or more of the parameter values, such as via one or more fields of a graphical user interface (GUI) 604 (see, e.g., FIG. 6 ).

[0065] In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can automatically identify one or more of the parameter values. For example, the high resolution imaging process 300 can automatically identify the geometric magnification of the X-ray radiographer 100 (e.g., based on an analysis of test images captured via the X-ray radiographer 100, an analysis of radiation detected by the X-ray detector 108, one or more position / distance / proximity sensors of the industrial radiographer, etc.).

[0066] In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can identify one or more of the above parameter values ​​based on one or more other parameter values. For example, the high resolution imaging process 300 can identify an ideal (and / or default) geometric magnification value based on the required level of detail (and / or image quality) through a data structure (e.g., look-up table, database) stored in the memory circuitry 212, dynamic algorithmic calculations, etc. In the example of FIG. 3, the high resolution imaging process 300 proceeds to block 306 after block 308.

[0067] In block 308, the high resolution imaging process 300 determines whether sufficient parameter values ​​have been identified in block 304 to identify a maximum starting angle change. In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 may need to identify at least a level of detail (and / or image quality) and a geometric magnification factor to determine the maximum starting angle change. However, as discussed above, the geometric magnification factor may be determined based on the identified level of detail (and / or image quality). Thus, in some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 may determine that sufficient parameter values ​​have been identified if at least a level of detail (and / or image quality) value has been identified in block 304.

[0068] 3, the high resolution imaging process 300 returns to block 304 if sufficient parameter values ​​have not been identified in block 304. On the other hand, if sufficient parameter values ​​have been identified in block 304 to enable a maximum starting angle change to be determined, the high resolution imaging process 300 proceeds to block 308.

[0069] At block 308, the high resolution imaging process 300 identifies a maximum starting angle change based on the required level of detail (and / or image quality) and the geometric magnification. As used herein, maximum starting angle change refers to the maximum threshold potential starting angle change that still allows the captured image to have the required level of detail (and / or image quality).

[0070] In some examples, the memory circuitry 212 may store a look-up table, database table, and / or other data structure that maps values ​​of geometric magnification and / or level of detail (and / or image quality) to values ​​of maximum starting angular change (e.g., determined empirically for a variety of different levels of detail and / or geometric magnification). In such examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 may determine a value of maximum starting angular change at block 308 based on the data structure mapping and the identified values ​​of geometric magnification and level of detail (and / or image quality).

[0071] In some examples, the maximum starting angle change may be determined via one or more proprietary algorithms. In such examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 may dynamically determine and / or calculate a value for the maximum starting angle change in block 308 based on one or more proprietary algorithms and a specified value of the geometric magnification and / or level of detail (and / or image quality). In the example of FIG. 3, after block 308, the high resolution imaging process 300 proceeds to block 310.

[0072] In block 310, the high resolution imaging process 300 determines whether sufficient parameter values ​​have been identified in block 304 to identify a potential starting angle change. In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 may need to identify parameter values ​​for at least an image projection parameter, a frame averaging parameter, and a rotation angle parameter to identify a potential starting angle change. In the example of FIG. 3, if there are not enough parameters to identify a potential starting angle change, the high resolution imaging process 300 proceeds to block 312.

[0073] In block 312, the high resolution imaging process 300 can control or recommend parameter values ​​for the parameters (e.g., image projection, frame averaging, and rotation angle) required to identify a potential starting angle change. In some examples, the operations in block 312 can depend on how many parameter values ​​(and / or which parameter values) have already been set (or have not yet been set). If only one required parameter has not been set, in some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can control or recommend that parameter to have a parameter value that results in a potential starting angle change equal to the maximum starting angle change, or a potential starting angle change that is less than the maximum starting angle change and within a threshold of the maximum starting angle change.

[0074] In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can control or recommend parameters to have parameter values ​​that result in the largest potential start angle change possible without exceeding the maximum start angle change. In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can prohibit or discourage parameter values ​​that result in a potential start angle change greater than a threshold amount below the maximum start angle change (e.g., to maintain sufficient rotation / scan speed). In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can determine parameter values ​​based on other identified parameter values ​​and potential start angle change equations (discussed above) or data structures (e.g., lookup tables, databases) stored in the memory circuitry 212.

[0075] In some examples, if the parameter values ​​of either the image projection parameters and / or the frame averaging parameters are not set, the high resolution imaging process 300 may first identify an optimal number of image projections. For example, the optimal number of image projections may be identified using the Nyquist theorem, a specified level of detail (and / or image quality), a geometric magnification, the amount and / or size of pixels 404 in the x-ray detector 108, and / or other relevant information. The number of image projections may then be controlled or recommended to be equal to the optimal number of image projections (and / or within a threshold range of the optimal number). The parameter value of the frame averaging parameter may then be controlled or recommended as described above (if only one required parameter is not set).

[0076] In some examples, if one of the required parameters that is left unset (or the only required parameter that is left unset) is the rotation angle parameter, the high resolution imaging process 300 may control or recommend a default parameter value of 360 degrees (or some other default parameter value stored in the memory circuitry 212).

[0077] 3, the high resolution imaging process 300 returns to block 310 after block 312. As shown, if sufficient parameter values ​​have been identified to identify a potential starting angle change, the high resolution imaging process 300 proceeds to block 314 after block 312.

[0078] At block 314, the high resolution imaging process 300 determines a potential start angle change based on the identified / required parameter values ​​and the potential start angle change equation (discussed above). In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 may use a data structure (e.g., a look-up table, a database) stored in the memory circuitry 212 (e.g., that implements the potential start angle change equation) rather than the potential start angle change equation itself. Once the potential start angle change is determined, the high resolution imaging process 300 checks whether the potential start angle change is equal to the maximum start angle change or is less than the maximum start angle change and within a threshold range of the maximum start angle change.

[0079] The threshold range requirement (in cooperation with the maximum value) effectively sets a minimum and maximum starting angle change (ensuring sufficient rotation / scan speed). In some examples, the threshold range can be omitted. In the example of FIG. 3, the high resolution imaging process 300 proceeds to block 316 after block 314 if the potential starting angle change is not equal to the maximum starting angle change, or is less than the maximum starting angle change and not within the threshold range of the maximum starting angle change. In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can also output an alert (similar to a recommendation discussed below) informing the user that the potential starting angle change is not equal to the maximum starting angle change, or is less than the maximum starting angle change and not within the threshold range of the maximum starting angle change.

[0080] At block 316, the high resolution imaging process 300 controls or recommends parameter values ​​for one or more of the geometric magnification, image projection, and / or frame averaging parameters to ensure that the potential starting angle change is equal to or less than the maximum starting angle change and within a threshold range of the maximum starting angle change. In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 may control or recommend only one of the parameter values ​​(e.g., the most recently set parameter value, the parameter value identified in memory as most sensitive, or the parameter value identified by the user, etc.). In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 may only control or recommend a different parameter value for the geometric magnification parameter if the maximum starting angle change is below a threshold value (e.g., stored in the memory circuitry 212 and / or set via the UI 204) and / or if the identified geometric magnification is above a threshold amount above the default / ideal geometric magnification (discussed above) for a particular level of detail (and / or image quality).

[0081] In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can make the recommendation by outputting a message via the output device(s) 208 of the UI 204. In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can output the recommendation in the form of audio, text, image(s), video(s), and / or other suitable formats. In some examples, the recommendation can inform the user of the parameter, current parameter value, and / or problem (e.g., currently identified parameter value is too high / low and / or causing too high / low rotation speed, scan time, maximum start angle change, and / or potential start angle change). In some examples, the recommendation can inform the user of the recommended value and / or direction of change (e.g., higher / lower value) that will resolve the problem. In some examples, the recommendation can inform the user of one or more values ​​to avoid.

[0082] In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can directly control the parameter values, such as by setting the parameter values. In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can indirectly control the parameter values, such as by disallowing the entry of parameter values ​​that do not meet requirements. In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can output notifications informing the user of when, how, and / or why the parameter values ​​were controlled, similar to those described above with respect to recommendations.

[0083] 3, the high resolution imaging process 300 returns to block 308 after controlling or recommending the parameter value(s) in block 316. As shown, the high resolution imaging process 300 proceeds to block 318 after block 314 if the potential starting angle change is equal to the maximum starting angle change or is less than the maximum starting angle change and within a threshold range of the maximum starting angle change. In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 proceeds to block 318 after block 314 only if the user selects (e.g., via the UI 204) to begin the scanning / imaging process.

[0084] At block 318, the high resolution imaging process 300 controls the X-ray emitter 106, the X-ray detector 108, the detector positioner 150, the object positioner 110, and / or the rotatable platform 160 based on the parameter values ​​to acquire and / or generate several (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, etc.) different radiographic image sets. In some examples, each radiographic image set may be captured and / or generated while the X-ray detector 108 is in a slightly different (e.g., sub-pixel shifted) position and / or while the object 102 is rotated (e.g., via the object positioner 110). In some examples, the size of each radiographic image set (and / or the number of images in each radiographic image set) may be equal to the number of image projections multiplied by the number of frames averaged. In some examples, one or more of the radiographic images may be output to a user via output device(s) 208 of the UI 204 and / or stored in memory circuitry 212.

[0085] In the example of FIG. 3, the high resolution imaging process 300 proceeds to block 320 after block 318. In block 320, the high resolution imaging process 300 combines corresponding image projections of the different radiographic image sets together (at the same orientation angle of the object 102) to generate a higher resolution radiographic image set, as described above. In some examples, each higher resolution radiographic image in the higher resolution radiographic image set has a higher resolution than each corresponding (and / or any other) radiographic image(s) in the radiographic image set. In some examples, the size of the higher resolution radiographic image set is equal to a specified parameter value corresponding to the image projection parameter. In some examples, one or more of the higher resolution images can be output to a user via the output device(s) 208 of the UI 204 and / or can be stored in the memory circuitry 212.

[0086] In the example of FIG. 3, after block 320, the high resolution imaging process 300 proceeds to block 322. In block 322, the high resolution imaging process 300 combines the higher resolution radiographic images into one or more 3D volumes and / or 3D images. In some examples, the 3D volumes can be images and / or models of the object 102. In some examples, the high resolution imaging process 300 can further acquire one or more specific 2D image slices of the 3D volume (e.g., based on some user selected or stored parameters). In some examples, the 2D image slice(s) can be different from any 2D image previously generated and / or acquired. In some examples, one or more of the 3D images and / or 2D images can be output to a user via the output device(s) 208 of the UI 204 and / or can be stored in the memory circuitry 212.

[0087] FIG. 6 is an example of a display screen 602 of the output device(s) 208 of the UI 204 outputting a GUI 204 that may, for example, enable a user to set one or more parameters during the high resolution imaging process 300. As shown, the GUI 204 shows several different parameters in a row on the left and corresponding parameter values ​​for each parameter in a row on the right. In particular, the GUI 204 indicates that a high resolution sub-pixel (i.e., SubPiX) parameter value has been set as the scan type parameter. In addition, a continuous (as opposed to stepped) rotation parameter value has been selected as the rotation type parameter. Both the scan type parameter value and the rotation type parameter value may indicate a selection of the high resolution imaging process 300. Although the example of FIG. 3 shows two separate parameters and / or parameter values, in some examples there may be only one (or more than two) parameters and / or parameter values ​​that indicate a selection of the high resolution imaging process 300.

[0088] 6, a parameter value of High is set as the Detail Required parameter, and a parameter value of 4× is set as the Geometric Magnification parameter. From this information, a parameter value of 0.40 degrees has been identified (e.g., by the high resolution imaging process 300) as the Maximum Starting Angle Change parameter. However, the GUI 204 also shows a parameter value of 0.90 degrees as a potential starting angle change parameter, which exceeds the parameter value of 0.40 degrees of the Maximum Starting Angle Change parameter.

[0089] Due to the potential start angle change parameter value exceeding the maximum start angle change parameter value, the high resolution imaging process 300 has output an alert 606. As shown, the GUI 604 also colors the Start Scan button 610 gray to indicate that the button 610 cannot currently be activated to start a scan. In some examples, the button 610 can remain inactive until the potential start angle change parameter value is equal to the maximum start angle change parameter value or is less than the maximum start change parameter value and within a threshold of the maximum start change parameter value.

[0090] 6, the high resolution imaging process 300 also outputs several recommendations 608 on how to eliminate the problem. In particular, the recommendations 608 are for parameter value changes that can reduce the potential starting angle change parameter value or increase the maximum starting angle change parameter value, thereby eliminating the problem.

[0091] For example, recommendation 608a advises reducing the geometric magnification to 2×, which in some instances may still meet the High parameter value of the Required Detail parameter while also allowing a sufficiently high maximum starting angle change (and / or high speed scan) to eliminate the problem.

[0092] As another example, recommendation 608b advises increasing the image projection parameter value from 100 to 225. As another example, recommendation 608c advises increasing the frame averaging parameter value from 4 to 9. In some examples, increasing such an image projection parameter value or frame averaging parameter value results in the potential starting angle change parameter value being equal to the maximum starting angle change parameter value, thereby eliminating the problem. Although short and simple textual explanations of alert 606 and recommendation 608 are shown, in some examples the explanations can be more extensive and / or detailed and / or include links to more extensive and / or detailed explanations.

[0093] Certain parameter values ​​of the high resolution imaging process 300 can be controlled or recommended to mitigate problems that may arise due to lack of synchronization, allowing a user to perform high resolution scans of the object 102 at increased speed (e.g., due to continuous rotation) without loss of detail and / or blurring that typically occurs due to synchronization problems.

[0094] The method and / or system can be implemented in hardware, software, and / or a combination of hardware and software. The method and / or system can be implemented centrally in at least one computing system, or in a distributed fashion where different elements are distributed across several interconnected and / or remote computing systems. Any kind of computing system or other device adapted to perform the methods described herein is suitable. A typical combination of hardware and software can include a general-purpose computing system, with programs or other code that, when loaded and executed, controls the computing system to perform the methods described herein. Another typical embodiment can include application-specific integrated circuits or chips. Some embodiments can include a non-transitory machine-readable (e.g., computer-readable) medium (e.g., flash drive, optical disk, magnetic storage disk, etc.), which stores one or more instructions (e.g., lines of code) executable by a machine, thereby causing the machine to perform a process as described herein.

[0095] Although the method and / or system have been described with reference to certain specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications can be made and equivalents can be substituted without departing from the scope of the method and / or system. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from its scope. Therefore, the method and / or system is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is contemplated that the method and / or system will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0096] As used herein, "and / or" means any one or more of the items in the list linked by "and / or." As an example, "x and / or y" means any element of 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" means any element of 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."

[0097] As used herein, the term "for example" begins a list of one or more non-limiting examples, instances, or illustrations.

[0098] As used herein, the terms "coupled," "coupled to," and / or "coupled with" refer to a structural and / or electrical connection, whether by attaching, adhering, connecting, joining, fastening, linking, and / or otherwise securing. As used herein, the term "attach" refers to attaching, coupling, connecting, joining, fastening, linking, and / or otherwise securing. As used herein, the term "connect" refers to attaching, adhering, coupling, joining, fastening, linking, and / or otherwise securing.

[0099] As used herein, the terms "circuitry" and "circuitry" refer to physical electronic components (i.e., hardware) and any software and / or firmware ("code") that may comprise, be executed by, and / or be otherwise associated with the hardware. As used herein, for example, a particular processor and memory may comprise a first "circuitry" when executing a first one or more lines of code, and may comprise a second "circuitry" when executing a second one or more lines of code. As used herein, whenever circuitry comprises the hardware and code (if either is necessary) necessary to perform a function, the circuitry is "operable" and / or "configured" to perform that function, regardless of whether performance of that function is disabled or enabled (e.g., by a user-configurable setting, factory trim, etc.).

[0100] As used herein, control circuitry can include digital and / or analog circuitry, discrete and / or integrated circuitry, microprocessors, DSPs, etc., software, hardware and / or firmware that constitutes part or all of the controller and / or is located on one or more boards used to control the welding process and / or devices such as power supplies and wire feeders.

[0101] As used herein, the term "processor" refers to processing devices, apparatus, programs, circuits, components, systems, and subsystems, whether implemented in hardware, tangibly embodied software, or both, and whether programmable or not. As used herein, the term "processor" includes, but is not limited to, one or more computing devices, hardwired circuits, signal modifying devices and systems, system control devices and machines, central processing units, programmable devices and systems, field programmable gate arrays, application specific integrated circuits, systems on chips, systems with discrete elements and / or circuits, state machines, virtual machines, data processors, processing facilities, and any combination of the above. A processor can be, for example, any type of general purpose microprocessor or general purpose microcontroller, digital signal processing (DSP) processor, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), graphics processing unit (GPU), reduced instruction set computer (RISC) processor with advanced RISC machine (ARM) core, etc. A processor may be coupled to and / or integrated into a memory device.

[0102] As used herein, the terms "memory" and / or "memory device" refer to computer hardware or circuitry that stores information for use by a processor and / or other digital devices. The memory 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. Memory may 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, stacked 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 storage, subscriber identity module (SIM) card, hard drive (HDD), solid state drive (SSD), etc. Memory may be configured to store code, instructions, applications, software, firmware, and / or data and may be external, internal, or both to the processor.

Claims

1. A non-transitory computer-readable medium containing machine-readable instructions that, when executed by processing circuitry, perform: receiving, via an input device of a user interface, a selection of a successive high resolution image acquisition process, the successive high resolution image acquisition process being a process by which the industrial radiography imaging system acquires radiographic images of the object at a plurality of different detector positions of a radiation detector while the object is rotated; identifying a maximum starting angle change in response to said selecting; the maximum starting angle change comprises a maximum allowable difference between an orientation of the object when a first initial image is acquired and an orientation of the object when a second initial image is acquired during the high resolution image acquisition process; the first initial image is acquired when the radiation detector is in a first detector position during the high resolution image acquisition process, and the second initial image is acquired when the radiation detector is in a second detector position during the high resolution image acquisition process; setting or recommending a first parameter value of a first parameter to be a first value or a second parameter value of a second parameter to be a second value based on the maximum starting angle change; performing the high resolution image acquisition process based on the first parameter value and the second parameter value to generate an image of the object; a non-transitory computer-readable medium that causes the processing circuitry to perform

2. 1. An industrial radiography imaging system, comprising: a radiation emitter configured to emit radiation; a radiation detector configured to detect radiation emitted by the radiation emitter; and a rotatable fixture configured to hold and rotate an object, the rotatable fixture positioned between the radiation emitter and the radiation detector; a detector positioner configured to move the radiation detector to a plurality of different detector positions; an image acquisition system configured to generate an image of the object based on radiation detected by the radiation detector after passing through the object; Equipped with the image acquisition system a user interface having an input device; a processing circuit unit; memory circuitry containing machine-readable instructions; Equipped with The machine-readable instructions, when executed by the processing circuitry, receiving, via an input device of a user interface, a selection of a successive high resolution image acquisition process, the successive high resolution image acquisition process being a process by which the industrial radiography imaging system acquires radiographic images of the object at a plurality of different detector positions of a radiation detector while the object is rotated; identifying a maximum starting angle change in response to said selecting; the maximum starting angle change comprises a maximum allowable difference between an orientation of the object when a first initial image is acquired and an orientation of the object when a second initial image is acquired during the high resolution image acquisition process; the first initial image is acquired when the radiation detector is in a first detector position during the high resolution image acquisition process, and the second initial image is acquired when the radiation detector is in a second detector position during the high resolution image acquisition process; setting or recommending a first parameter value of a first parameter to be a first value or a second parameter value of a second parameter to be a second value based on the maximum starting angle change; performing the high resolution image acquisition process based on the first value and the second value to generate the image of the object; The processing circuit unit performs the above steps.

Images