3D Optical Scanning for Collision-Free X-Ray CT Microscopy

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Solution Overview

Problem

In X-ray microscopy systems, objects with unknown shapes pose alignment challenges, leading to potential collisions with scanning setup components, as the X-ray source and detector need to be moved close to the object for optimal performance, complicating collision avoidance.

Innovation Solution

A collision avoidance system using cameras to capture object images at different angles, generating a 3D model to configure the microscope and prevent collisions, which includes a computer processing image data, rendering a display with object and setup models, and providing controls for stage movement to avoid collisions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the X-ray source and detector are moved close to the object for optimal performance, then imaging quality is improved, but the risk of collision with the object increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging qualityVSAvoidcollision risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by capturing images from multiple angles before the scanning process, generating a 3D model of the object in advance. This pre-acquired spatial information is then used to plan and adjust scanning trajectories, allowing the X-ray source and detector to operate at optimal close distances without risking collision with unknown object features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Loss of information

If the object is rotated to different angles for scanning, then comprehensive imaging data is obtained, but collision with scanning setup components may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging data completenessVSAvoidcollision avoidance
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback by continuously using the generated 3D model to monitor and adjust the scanning process. The spatial information from the 3D model provides real-time guidance on object geometry, allowing the system to adapt scanning trajectories and angles dynamically, ensuring complete imaging data acquisition while preventing collisions with scanning setup components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If a 3D model is generated to avoid collisions, then collision-free operation is achieved, but system complexity increases due to additional cameras and processing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecollision-free operationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system achieves multi-functionality by having the camera system serve dual purposes: capturing images for both 3D model generation (collision avoidance) and potential imaging applications. The same computational infrastructure used for X-ray reconstruction is also utilized for processing optical images and generating 3D models, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the added functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11821860B2Optical three-dimensional scanning for collision avoidance in microscopy system
Publication Date: 2023.11.21 CARL ZEISS X-RAY MICROSCOPY INC
  • US11821860B2 patent drawing
  • US11821860B2 patent drawing
  • US11821860B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A collision avoidance system and method for an x-ray CT microscope processes image data of an object at different angles and generates a model of the object. This model is then used to configure the microscope for operation and possibly avoid collisions between the microscope and the object.