Multi-Standard CT Calibration Gauge via Segmented Substrates

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Solution Overview

Problem

X-ray computed tomography (CT) devices require accurate calibration to ensure precise measurements, but existing calibration methods lack versatility and standard compliance, leading to potential inaccuracies in dimensional verification of work pieces.

Innovation Solution

A gauge system comprising two planar substrates with precisely positioned and certified objects, allowing calibration and verification using multiple standards, such as VDI/VDE, ISO, ASME, and ASNT, by coupling substrates to form a multi-standard calibration tool that enhances measurement accuracy and versatility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing calibration methods are used for CT devices, then calibration can be performed, but measurement precision and standard compliance are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoidstandard compliance
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The calibration gauge is divided into multiple substrates, each carrying specific certified objects that comply with different measurement standards. This segmentation allows the system to simultaneously support multiple standards while maintaining high measurement precision for each standard through dedicated certified reference objects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The calibration gauge system is designed to be universal by incorporating certified objects on substrates that comply with multiple measurement standards (VDI/VDE, ISO, ASME, ASNT). This multi-functionality enables a single gauge system to serve various calibration needs across different standards, improving both precision and standard compliance simultaneously.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing calibration gauges are used, then calibration is possible, but versatility across multiple measurement standards is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The calibration gauge incorporates certified objects that comply with multiple measurement standards (VDI/VDE 2634, ISO 10360, ASME V&V 100, ASNT SNT-TC-1A), enabling the single system to serve various calibration needs across different standards while maintaining the measurement precision required by each standard through certified reference objects.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from single-standard calibration to multi-standard calibration by adding the dimension of standard compliance diversity. Multiple substrates with different certified objects enable calibration across various measurement standards without compromising the precision requirements of any individual standard.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Measurement precision

If multiple substrates with certified objects are used, then calibration accuracy and standard compliance improve, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalibration accuracyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The calibration gauge is segmented into multiple substrates, each carrying specific certified objects for different measurement standards. This segmentation organizes the complexity into manageable modules, where each substrate can be independently characterized and certified, making the overall complex system more controllable and maintainable while achieving high calibration accuracy across multiple standards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 gauge system enables accurate calibration and verification of CT devices, ensuring precise measurements and compliance with various standards, thereby reducing measurement errors and improving the reliability of CT systems.

Implementation Method 1

x-ray computed tomography device positions a gauge within an x-ray computed tomography device. The gauge has a first plurality of certified objects on a first substrate and a second plurality of certified objects on a second substrate.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray: X-Ray

Implementation Method 2

the method images the gauge to form a three-dimensional model representing the gauge

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectComputed tomography: Tomography

Implementation Method 3

To effectively perform their respective functions, the first and second pluralities of objects are visible to x-rays and each have an object attenuation value to x-rays. In various embodiments, the objects may include precision ground or lapped objects (e.g., ruby or sapphire spheres). In a manner similar to the objects, the first and second substrates each also have a base attenuation value to x-rays.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray attenuation: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentUS10585051B2X-ray computed tomography gauge
Publication Date: 2020.03.10 HEXAGON METROLOGY INC
  • US10585051B2 patent drawing
  • US10585051B2 patent drawing
  • US10585051B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of making a gauge for verifying or calibrating an x-ray computed tomography device positions a first plurality of objects on a first substrate, and a second plurality of objects on a second substrate. The method also certifies the positions of both the first plurality of objects on the first substrate, and the second plurality of objects on the second substrate. After certifying both the first and second plurality of objects, the method couples the first substrate with the second substrate.