3D Food Surface Profile via Conical X-ray Attenuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for generating a three-dimensional surface profile of food objects using conical X-ray beams introduce errors due to the natural cone shape of the X-ray beam, leading to inaccurate mass measurements and requiring additional complex equipment and software for correction.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a conical X-ray beam exposure with sensors positioned below the food object to detect X-ray attenuation, converting this data into penetration lengths, and determining surface coordinates to generate accurate 3D surface profiles, which corrects for the cone shape error without reducing X-ray power by maintaining the X-ray source distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the X-ray source is moved further away from the food object to reduce cone shape error, then the measurement precision improves, but the X-ray power decreases dramatically resulting in less clear images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new dimension of measurement by placing sensors at multiple positions below the food object rather than relying solely on the X-ray source position. By measuring attenuation from multiple sensor positions, the system can mathematically determine the 3D surface profile and correct for cone shape errors without changing the X-ray source-to-object distance, thus maintaining high X-ray power while improving measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If a surface scan device such as a line laser device is used to obtain accurate surface profile, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing X-ray detection system multi-functional by using the same X-ray sensors that detect attenuation for mass measurement to also determine the 3D surface profile. The sensors positioned at pre-determined locations below the food object serve dual purposes: measuring X-ray attenuation for mass calculation and providing geometric information for surface profile reconstruction, thereby eliminating the need for separate surface scan devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the surface profile measurement function with the existing X-ray detection system. Instead of adding a separate line laser device, the system combines the attenuation detection from multiple sensor positions to simultaneously obtain both mass information and surface geometry, reducing overall device complexity and space requirements.
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 provides highly accurate 3D surface profiles for precise mass mapping and portioning, eliminating the need for additional surface scan devices and complex software, resulting in a more compact and economical processing system.
Implementation Method 1
The X-rays passing through the food object are attenuated relative to the mass of the food object, and impinge upon an X-ray detector array
Data Source
AI summary
A method of generating a three dimensional surface profile of a food object is provided wherein a food object is exposed with a conical X-ray beam while the food object is conveyed. The attenuation of the X-rays after penetrating through the food object is detected, and the detection is performed using a plurality of sensors arranged below the food object. The plurality of sensors are positioned at predetermined angular positions in relation to the X-ray source. For each of the plurality of sensors, the detected attenuation is converted into a penetration length of the X-ray beam, and the penetration length indicates the length from where the X-ray beam enters and leaves the food object. Surface coordinates are sequentially determined using the penetration lengths and the angular positions as input data.