X-Ray CT Particle Size Measurement With Grid Statistics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing particle size distribution measurement methods for granules in suspension liquids are unreliable, destructive, and time-consuming, lacking the ability to provide high-speed, non-destructive evaluations.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing X-ray CT imaging to acquire first and second CT images, calculate statistical values for grids and overall images, and compare these values with a standard sample to determine particle size and moisture content distribution in a non-destructive manner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If extraction evaluation is performed only on a part of evaluation samples, then evaluation time is reduced, but reliability of evaluation result deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sample is divided into multiple grid regions, and statistical values are calculated for each grid separately. This allows parallel processing of different regions, reducing overall evaluation time while maintaining comprehensive coverage of the entire sample for reliable results
Solution Approach 2:
The evaluation approach transitions from evaluating entire samples sequentially to evaluating multiple grid regions in parallel across a spatial dimension. This dimensional transformation enables simultaneous processing of multiple sample portions, reducing time loss while maintaining evaluation reliability through comprehensive grid-based coverage
2Measurement precision
If irreversible destruction test is performed, then measurement accuracy may be improved, but sample integrity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement method replaces destructive mechanical testing with non-destructive X-ray CT imaging. The X-ray transmission technique allows statistical analysis of particle size distribution and moisture content without physically altering or destroying the sample, maintaining both measurement accuracy and sample integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement approach changes from direct physical measurement requiring sample destruction to indirect statistical measurement using X-ray transmission parameters. By analyzing statistical values (mean, standard deviation, variance) of X-ray transmission data, the system achieves accurate particle size and moisture content measurement without sample destruction
3Measurement precision
If temporal change in concentration during precipitation is detected, then particle size distribution can be obtained, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs statistical value calculations for multiple grid regions in advance and stores them. During measurement, pre-calculated statistical values are retrieved and used immediately, eliminating the need for real-time temporal monitoring of precipitation processes and significantly reducing measurement time while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of directly measuring temporal changes during precipitation, the system uses pre-calculated statistical values from X-ray CT images as copies of the particle distribution state. This copying approach allows rapid analysis without waiting for precipitation processes to complete, reducing measurement time while preserving measurement accuracy
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
Enables high-speed, non-destructive measurement of particle size and moisture content distribution, improving measurement accuracy and enabling efficient evaluation of large samples like boring cores and industrial metal powders.
Implementation Method 1
a particle size distribution measurement device in which a suspension liquid obtained by dispersing a granular material to be measured in a medium liquid is precipitated in a sample cell, and a temporal change in a concentration of the suspension liquid in a precipitation process is detected
Data Source
AI summary
A particle size distribution measurement method includes: an image acquisition step of acquiring a first CT image of a target sample including the granules; a statistical value calculation step of specifying a region of interest by dividing the acquired first CT image into predetermined grids, and calculating a first statistical value including a grid statistical value for each of the grids and an overall statistical value of the entire first CT image regarding a CT value; and a measurement step of measuring a particle size distribution of the granules in the target sample based on the first statistical value and a second statistical value including a grid statistical value and an overall statistical value of a type same as the grid statistical value and the overall statistical value included in the first statistical value in a second CT image of a standard sample including granules having a known particle size.