3D X-ray Inspection of Large Objects via Coordinated Sub-image Stitching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current three-dimensional X-ray inspection systems are inadequate for objects of large dimensions, as they either lack the necessary image quality, ease of use, or mobility, particularly when it is not feasible to move the object or when the object's size exceeds the imaging device's capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A mobile apparatus comprising an X-ray generator and a digital imaging device that moves in coordinated unitary movements to capture overlapping sub-images, allowing for three-dimensional inspection with high sensitivity and resolution, while maintaining ease of use and adaptability for large objects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If digital radiography imaging devices are used for large dimension objects, then image quality and instantaneous imaging are improved, but the device cannot cover large surfaces and requires multiple juxtapositions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidcoverage area
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging process is segmented into multiple sequential captures that are later assembled. The digital imaging device captures a first image at an initial position, then moves to a second position to capture a second image, and finally moves to a third position to capture a third image. These segmented images are assembled to form a complete three-dimensional representation of the large object, resolving the contradiction between device size and coverage area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Area of stationary object

If photostimulable phosphor plates are used for large dimension objects, then large surfaces can be covered by juxtaposition, but signal-to-noise ratio and sensitivity are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidsignal-to-noise ratio
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical reading process of photostimulable phosphor plates with a digital imaging system. Instead of using PSP plates that require delayed reading and manual reconfiguration, the invention uses a digital imaging device that captures images instantaneously and processes them digitally through assembly operations. This substitution maintains high signal-to-noise ratio and sensitivity while achieving large area coverage through sequential imaging and digital assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If multiple detection and irradiation means are employed for three-dimensional reconstruction, then acquisition time is reduced, but mass and volume of the system increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveacquisition timeVSAvoidsystem mass
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic approach where a single detection device and single irradiation source are moved to multiple positions sequentially. The digital imaging device moves from a first position to a second position, then to a third position, capturing images at each location. This dynamic repositioning of limited components achieves three-dimensional reconstruction without requiring multiple heavy detection and irradiation means, thus reducing system mass while maintaining acceptable acquisition time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Weight of stationary object

If a limited number of detection and irradiation means are moved for multiple measurements, then system mass is reduced, but acquisition time and implementation complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem massVSAvoidacquisition time
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of stationary objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent ensures continuity of useful action by systematically moving the detection device through predetermined positions (first, second, and third positions) and capturing images in sequence. The controller coordinates the movement and imaging operations continuously without unnecessary interruptions. This continuous operation minimizes acquisition time while using a limited number of detection and irradiation means, balancing system mass reduction with efficient time utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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 rapid and precise three-dimensional inspection of large objects with high image quality, overcoming limitations of existing systems by allowing for depth determination and dimension measurement without the need to move the object or the imaging device.

Implementation Method 1

apparatus for three-dimensional inspection of an object by X-rays

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS10874364B2Apparatus and method for three-dimensional inspection of an object by x-rays
Publication Date: 2020.12.29 COMMISSARIAT A LENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENERGIES ALTERNATIVES
  • US10874364B2 patent drawing
  • US10874364B2 patent drawing
  • US10874364B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus and method for three-dimensional inspection of an object by X-rays. The apparatus includes an X-ray generator and a digital imaging device spaced from each other by a distance which defines a magnification by 1 on the imaging device. The apparatus also includes a means for moving the X-ray generator and identically the imaging device by unitary movements in two orthogonal directions. Each unitary movement corresponds to an integer number fraction of the side of the imaging device, and obtains, by successive shots after each unitary movement, a matrix set of sub-images overlapping in the plane of extension of the imaging device. Each sub-image has a center with coordinates in a plane of magnification equal to N. An image processing means performs magnification of each sub-image and determines a stretch factor enabling the coincidence of the sub-images representing all or part of a predefined element of interest.