3D X-Ray Imaging with Contact Detection to Minimize Blur
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray imaging devices using micro-focus X-ray tubes are limited by low power output, leading to long acquisition times for high-resolution 3D X-ray images, and are sensitive to focal spot size causing blurring in geometric magnification methods.
Innovation Solution
A high-speed three-dimensional X-ray imaging system that uses a high-power X-ray tube and a detector in contact with the object, combined with a 3D reconstruction algorithm, to acquire high-resolution 2D images quickly and minimize blurring by varying the position between the X-ray source and object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If geometric magnification method is used to obtain high-resolution images, then image resolution is improved, but blurring increases due to sensitivity to focal spot size
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using geometric magnification that amplifies both image and blur, the patent inverts the approach by using direct contact imaging where the object touches the detector. This eliminates the magnification-induced blur while still achieving high resolution through the direct detection of X-rays transmitted through the object.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a direct optical copy of the object's transmission pattern on the detector by placing the object in direct contact with the detector surface. This copying method preserves fine details without the geometric distortion and blur that occur in magnification-based systems.
2Measurement precision
If micro-focus X-ray tube is used to reduce focal spot size, then image resolution is improved, but power output is limited leading to long acquisition times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the resolution achievement from the micro-focus tube constraint. By using direct contact imaging geometry, the system achieves high resolution without requiring a micro-focus tube, thereby freeing up the power output limitation and enabling the use of higher power X-ray tubes for faster acquisition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the imaging geometry parameter from magnification-based to direct contact-based. This parameter change decouples resolution from focal spot size, allowing the use of higher power tubes with larger focal spots without sacrificing resolution, thus improving acquisition speed.
3Productivity
If high-power X-ray tube is used to increase output, then image acquisition speed is improved, but focal spot size increases causing blurring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional relationship between power output and blur by eliminating geometric magnification. High-power tubes can now be used without the penalty of magnified blur, since the direct contact geometry ensures that blur is not amplified.
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
The system achieves high-resolution 3D X-ray images with a resolution of 1 to 100 μm within 60 seconds, without the need for micro-focus tubes, enabling fast and accurate 3D imaging for industries like secondary batteries and semiconductors.
Implementation Method 1
a scintillator positioned to be in contact with the object and generating visible light by detecting X-rays transmitted through the object
Implementation Method 2
an X-ray source for irradiating the object with high-power X-rays of 100 to 100,000 watts
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a high-speed three-dimensional X-ray imaging apparatus and a method for obtaining a three-dimensional X-ray image using the apparatus, the apparatus comprises a two-dimensional image acquisition part for acquiring multiple 2D X-ray images of an object to be inspected by varying the relative position between the X-ray source and the object so that X-rays are projected onto the object from various angles, and a three-dimensional image acquisition part acquiring a 3D X-ray image from a plurality of 2D X-ray images obtained by the two-dimensional image acquisition a 3D part using reconstruction algorithm.