Selective X-Ray Scanning for CT Inspection Bottlenecks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current computed tomography inspection systems are impractical for geometric inspection due to the collection of excessive data, which slows down processing time and increases storage needs, as they scan the entire object volume regardless of the known locations and orientations of features of interest.
Innovation Solution
The system registers the object with a CAD model to selectively scan only relevant regions, using a movable fixture and an X-ray scanning device that scans less than the entire object, focusing on specific features and reconstructing only the necessary portions for accurate measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the entire object volume is scanned using computed tomography, then complete data acquisition is achieved, but processing time increases to 30-45 minutes and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and scans only the specific region of interest containing the feature to be measured, rather than scanning the entire object volume. This is achieved by registering the object with a CAD model to identify the precise location and extent of the feature, then configuring the X-ray scanner to acquire data only from that specific region, thereby eliminating unnecessary data collection and processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the object scanning task into two parts: the registered CAD model provides the framework for identifying the region of interest, while the physical object is scanned only in the specific area containing the feature. This segmentation allows the system to focus computational and scanning resources only on the relevant portion of the object
2Measurement precision
If the entire object volume is scanned using computed tomography, then complete data acquisition is achieved, but data storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and scans only the specific region of interest containing the feature to be measured, rather than scanning the entire object volume. This is achieved by registering the object with a CAD model to identify the precise location and extent of the feature, then configuring the X-ray scanner to acquire data only from that specific region, thereby eliminating unnecessary data collection and processing
3Measurement precision
If a single point stylus is used for tactile probing, then measurement accuracy is achieved, but measurement cycle time increases due to many moves required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical tactile probing system with an X-ray imaging system. Instead of using a physical stylus that must sequentially contact multiple points on the object, the system uses non-contact X-ray imaging to capture three-dimensional information about the feature of interest, dramatically reducing measurement cycle time while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary registration of the object with its CAD model before scanning. This preliminary action identifies the precise location and orientation of the feature to be measured, allowing the X-ray scanner to be configured to capture only the necessary data from the region of interest, thereby optimizing the measurement process before it begins
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 reduces measurement time and data storage requirements by collecting only essential data, making the process more efficient and practical for industrial applications.
Implementation Method 1
controls an X-ray scanning device to scan less than the entirety of the object to produce visual data representing at least one scanned portion
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A
AI summary
A method of measuring an object registers the object with a model of the object, and determines at least one feature of the object to scan. Next, the method controls an X-ray scanning device to scan less than the entirety of the object to produce visual data representing at least one scanned portion. The at least one scanned portion has the at least one feature, while the X-ray scanning device is controlled as a function of registering the object and model.