Modeling Algorithms for Empowering Automated Manufacturing with Industrial X-Ray Computed Tomography

Abstract

X-ray computed tomography (CT) is a technology that can non-destructively acquire volumetric images of objects. It is the only commercialized and practical measurement of the inner geometry of objects with micrometer-order accuracy. Microfocus X-ray CT scanners have been widely used in several manufacturing industries. The main applications range from typical observation and inspection to precision measurement and geometry acquisition. They are expanding beyond manufacturing (e.g., science, archeology, and food industries). This review describes the requirements for the use of X-ray CT scanners in the manufacturing industry and their modeling techniques. Recently, there have been growing expectations for the introduction of CT scanners for the high-accuracy acquisition of geometry and inline inspection for manufacturing automation. This requires quality and fast measurement data generation and scan data processing methods. Therefore, this paper presents attempts in the field of modeling for this purpose. The latest topics will also be covered, including large-scale CT and 4DCT.