Technological Advancements for High-Speed Industrial Computed Tomography

Abstract

We explore current advancements in radiographic and computer technologies that greatly improve performance characteristics for industrial computed tomography (CT). Non-film radiography methods, necessary for CT, have improved significantly and personal computers and software are advancing at an unparalleled rate. By combining these advancing technologies, we construct low cost, fully functional CT systems with high data acquisition rates. Normally, CT scans are made on a line by line basis, requiring constant axial repositioning of the specimen or x-ray equipment. However CCD cameras and scintillator screens allow for image plane views of the specimen-a collection of image plane views is equivalent to an entire series of line scans-to be made and thus have greatly reduced or eliminated the need to axially reposition. A consequence of collecting image plane views of a specimen, as opposed to line scans, is that the total data acquisition time can be reduced by up to a factor of one hundred. The next generation of technology is based on flat panel x-ray detectors that have a number of important advantages over the scintillator-optics-CCD approach. Additionally, flat panel detectors are robust under several source types, which makes this CT system practical for many applications. The rapid enhancements of personal computers (PC) and PC hardware and software have also contributed to advancements in CT technology. Hardware improvements result in efficient data acquisition, fast data transfer, precision staging and real-time high-resolution displays. Software improvements result in better hardware control, efficient data processing and functional graphical user interfaces. In this paper we will further discuss the advancements in emerging CT technology and offer comparisons to past systems. We will also present results from various specimen tests and conclude with examples from recent tests.