3D Threat Object Visualization With Virtual Cut-Away Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray computed tomography scanners face challenges in efficiently processing and visualizing complex 3D images, particularly in identifying and isolating potential threat objects (PTOs) within baggage, as they often get occluded by surrounding clutter, limiting the ability to discriminate and interact with these objects effectively.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a multi-focus X-ray source with multiple source points arranged around a scanning volume, combined with a detector array, to generate and analyze 3D images, allowing for the classification and isolation of potential threat objects by highlighting them with different optical properties and providing spatial and contextual information, enabling interactive visualization and manipulation of these objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If conventional X-ray CT scanners use standard visualization methods, then the system structure is simple, but potential threat objects are occluded by surrounding clutter and cannot be effectively discriminated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the 3D image data into multiple depth planes and isolates potential threat objects from the background clutter by separating them into distinct visual layers. This segmentation allows PTOs to be detected and visualized independently from surrounding objects, resolving the occlusion problem while maintaining manageable system complexity through algorithmic processing rather than hardware complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts potential threat objects from the complex 3D scanned data by identifying and isolating specific regions of interest. The system extracts PTOs from the background clutter and presents them in a simplified, enhanced visualization that removes obscuring elements, enabling clear detection without requiring complex hardware modifications
2Ease of operation
If the system provides detailed 3D visualization of all objects, then spatial information is comprehensive, but the interface complexity increases and user interaction becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the critical information (potential threat objects) from the complex 3D dataset and presents it through a simplified graphical interface. By extracting PTOs and displaying them with enhanced optical properties while maintaining a clean, intuitive UI, the system achieves ease of operation without overwhelming users with unnecessary detailed visualization controls
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different visualization qualities to different parts of the image - PTOs are highlighted with enhanced optical properties (different colors, contrast, or transparency) while the background maintains standard visualization. This local differentiation simplifies the overall interface by focusing attention only where needed, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining comprehensive spatial information
3Measurement precision
If multiple X-ray sources are used to create 3D images, then imaging quality improves, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single X-ray source and detector array configured in a stationary gantry system, where the multi-emitter X-ray source can be electronically controlled to simulate multiple source positions. This multi-functional approach achieves high-quality 3D imaging without physically installing multiple X-ray tubes, thereby improving measurement precision while avoiding the complexity and cost of multiple hardware sources
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the efficiency and usability of analyzing threat objects by clearly isolating and interacting with them within their contextual background, improving the ability to discern and interpret 3D images in security screening and medical imaging applications.
Implementation Method 1
irradiating the object with X-rays generated by a plurality of X-ray sources arranged around the scanning volume
Implementation Method 2
detecting X-rays transmitted through the object using a detector array positioned between the X-ray source and the scanning volume
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, the present specification describes methods for displaying a three-dimensional image of an isolated threat object or region of interest with a single touch or click and providing spatial and contextual information relative to the object, while also executing a view dependent virtual cut-away or rendering occluding portions of the reconstructed image data as transparent. In some embodiments, the method includes allowing operators to associate audio comments with a scan image of an object. In some embodiments, the method also includes highlighting a plurality of voxels, which are indicative of at least one potential threat item, in a mask having a plurality of variable color intensities, where the intensities may be varied based on the potential threat items.