X-Ray Talbot Imaging for Composite Fiber Orientation Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for validating fiber orientation information in composite materials require destructive sampling and time-consuming image reconstruction, making it difficult to accurately analyze large components.

Innovation Solution

Utilizing an X-ray Talbot imaging system to non-destructively capture Talbot images of composite materials, which are then processed to obtain Talbot orientation information, reducing the need for destructive validation and enabling faster, more accurate structural analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If destructive observation methods (SEM, optical microscope) are used to validate fiber orientation information, then measurement precision is improved, but the sample is damaged and cannot be used for further analysis

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiber orientation measurement precisionVSAvoidsample damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces CT imaging as an intermediary non-destructive measurement method. Instead of directly observing fiber orientation through destructive sectioning, the system uses X-ray CT to obtain three-dimensional density distribution data, which serves as an intermediary representation of the internal structure. This intermediary data allows validation of fiber orientation information without physically damaging the sample.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If CT imaging is used to reconstruct three-dimensional internal structure, then measurement precision is improved, but inspection time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinternal structure measurement precisionVSAvoidinspection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary action by acquiring complete three-dimensional CT data of the entire sample before any analysis. This preliminary three-dimensional dataset is then reused for multiple validation purposes without requiring additional scanning or reconstruction time. The preliminary action of capturing comprehensive spatial information upfront eliminates repeated inspection time for different analysis angles or sections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If conventional CT scanning is used for large-sized components, then measurement precision is improved, but the workpiece needs to be rotated making inspection difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiber orientation measurement precisionVSAvoidinspection ease for large components
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a three-dimensional digital copy of the sample's internal density distribution through CT imaging. This virtual model serves as a copy that can be analyzed from any angle or orientation without physically rotating the actual large-sized workpiece. The digital replica allows comprehensive validation of fiber orientation information while eliminating the operational difficulty of rotating large components during inspection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

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 method significantly reduces the workload associated with validating sample analysis by providing non-destructive, efficient, and accurate fiber orientation information for large components.

Implementation Method 1

an X-ray Talbot imaging system to non-destructively capture Talbot images of composite materials

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTalbot effect:

Data Source

PatentEP3974807B1Information processing apparatus, learning device, information processing system, information processing method, program, and non-transitory storage medium
Publication Date: 2025.07.23 KONICA MINOLTA INC
  • EP3974807B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3974807B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3974807B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

An information processing apparatus including a calculator 51 configured to calculate orientation information 43 based on a Talbot image 42 of a sample, a structure analyzer 52 configured to perform structural analysis of the sample based on the calculated orientation information 43, and an output 28 configured to output a result of the structural analysis. The information processing apparatus may further include a learning device 53 configured to perform part of a process of structural analysis using machine learning. The learning device 53 may include a first learning unit 53a that undergoes learning by associating sample manufacture information 41 of samples with Talbot images 42. The learning device 53 may include a second learning unit 53b that undergoes learning by associating sample manufacture information 41 of samples with orientation information 43.