Dynamic X-Ray Parameter Control for CT Metrology
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CT systems for coordinate metrology require manual pre-programming of fixed operating parameters, which can lead to inefficient scanning and suboptimal image quality, especially for objects with varying geometric and material properties.
Innovation Solution
A method that dynamically adjusts x-ray device operating parameters such as voltage, current, magnification, detector exposure time, image averaging, number of projections, and region of interest based on geometric and material data of the object, using a parameter manager to control the scanning process and optimize image acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual pre-programming of fixed operating parameters is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and image quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines optimal scanning parameters by analyzing geometric and material data of the object, eliminating the need for manual parameter programming. The parameter manager autonomously selects voltage, current, exposure time, and other settings based on object characteristics, allowing the system to serve itself rather than requiring operator intervention for parameter selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts operating parameters such as x-ray voltage, current, and detector exposure time based on the specific geometric and material properties of the object being scanned. This adaptive parameter modification optimizes image quality for different object types while maintaining automated operation.
2Ease of operation
If fixed operating parameters are used, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to different objects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically adapts to different objects by analyzing their geometric and material data, eliminating the need for operators to manually adjust parameters for each object type. The parameter manager self-configures scanning settings based on object characteristics, maintaining ease of operation while achieving high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from static fixed parameters to dynamic adaptive parameters that automatically adjust based on object properties. The scanning parameters are continuously optimized during the measurement process according to the specific geometric and material characteristics of each object.
3Measurement precision
If automated parameter adjustment is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The parameter manager serves multiple functions: it stores geometric and material data, analyzes object characteristics, determines optimal scanning parameters, and controls the scanning process. By consolidating these functions into a single integrated system, the patent reduces overall device complexity while maintaining automated precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The parameter manager acts as an intermediary between the object data and the scanning parameters. It receives geometric and material information, processes this data to determine optimal settings, and translates them into appropriate scanning parameters, simplifying the control architecture while enabling precise automated adjustment.
4Device complexity
If manual parameter determination is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines scanning parameters without requiring manual operator intervention, significantly reducing setup time and increasing productivity. The parameter manager autonomously processes object data and configures scanning settings, eliminating time-consuming manual adjustments while maintaining scanning efficiency.
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 enables improved output images for high aspect ratio objects and minimizes the need for manual parameter determination, allowing for more precise and efficient scanning with automated parameter calculation.
Implementation Method 1
a CT system generates three-dimensional images of an object as a function of the attenuation of its x-rays by the object
Data Source
AI summary
A method of measuring an object having associated geometric data and material data receives the geometric data and material data relating to the object, and controls an x-ray device to scan the object. The x-ray device operates in accordance with a plurality of operating parameters. The method then varies at least one of the operating parameters during the scan as a function of one or both the geometric data and the material data.