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Discover the benefits of having multiple scanning modes on your X-ray CT system

by Roland on 10 Apr 2023 at 13h56
Multiple acquisition modes are available in each RX Solutions X-ray system thanks to the powerful X-Act software suite. A scanning mode refers to the method used with the X-ray system to acquire data from an object for the purpose of creating an image. There are several different scanning modes that can be used, including axial, helical, multi-slice, and cone-beam CT. These modes differ in how the sample, the x-ray source and the detector are moved and how the data is collected and processed.
 
 
Acquisition modes are typically selected based on the type of object being examined and the desired image characteristics, such as resolution, contrast, and coverage. Different scanning modes are suitable for different types of examinations and can produce different types and resolutions of images.
 
For example, helical scan mode is generally faster than conventional scan mode and is well-suited for examining large objects, but it may produce less detailed images. On the other hand, conventional scan mode is usually a bit longer but can produce high-resolution images of thin slices.
 
 

The different modes at a glance

 
// Conventional cone-beam CT (circular): Conventional cone-beam scanning is a convenient and widely employed scanning method which requires the acquisition of hundreds of radiographs, equi-angularly distributed over 360 degrees.
 
// Step-by-step or continuous rotation mode: In step-by-step mode, the object being scanned rotate in discrete steps, typically at intervals of 1 to 2 degrees. At each step, an x-ray image is acquired and stored. This scan mode is slower than the continuous rotation mode and may be less suitable for certain types of inspections.
 
In continuous rotation mode, the object being scanned rotates in a continuous motion. The data collected during the scan is used to reconstruct detailed 2D and 3D images of the object's internal structure. This scan mode is faster than the step-by-step mode and allows for the acquisition of a large volume of data in a short period of time.
 
// Helical mode: In this mode, the object being scanned rotates continuously while the tube & detector moves vertically simultaneously. This creates a continuous, spiral-shaped scan that covers the entire object being examined. The data collected during the scan is used to reconstruct detailed 2D and 3D images of the object's internal structure.
 
// Multi-slice CT: In this mode, multiple detectors are used to acquire data simultaneously from multiple slices of the object being scanned. This allows for faster scanning speeds and the ability to acquire high-resolution images of the entire object in a single scan.
 
 
 
 
 
// Laminography: X-ray laminography is a non-destructive testing technique that uses X-rays to create images of the internal structure of an object. X-ray laminography is typically used to inspect objects that are too large or complex to be scanned by conventional CT, such as large samples (plates) that would be difficult to rotate in the booth.
 
// 360° or limited angles rotation: X-ray limited angle rotation mode is a technique used in computed tomography (CT) to acquire data from a limited range of angles around the object being scanned. It is used when it is not possible or practical to rotate the sample a full 360 degrees in the X-ray cabinet, such as when the object is too large.
 
In limited angle rotation mode, the x-ray tube and detector rotate around the object through a limited range of angles, typically less than 180 degrees. The data collected during the scan is used to reconstruct a 3D image of the object's internal structure. However, the image quality may be lower than that of a full 360-degree scan, as not all angles of the object being imaged.
 
// Vertical extension stack mode & lateral shift modes: These two different modes allow to virtually increase the scanning area by moving the x-ray tubes & detectors in different directions.
 
// Virtual center of rotation, Region of interest zooming, Dynamic 4D CT ….
 

Having multiple acquisition modes, a real benefit for your daily inspections

Having multiple acquisition modes on an x-ray computed tomography (CT) system allows the operator to select the most appropriate mode for each examination, which can provide several benefits, including:
 
// Improved image quality: Different acquisition modes can produce different types and resolutions of images. Having multiple modes allows the operator to select the mode that is most suitable for the examination, which can result in higher-quality images and more accurate results.
 
// Enhanced capabilities: Some acquisition modes, such as cone-beam CT or limited angle rotation mode, offer capabilities that are not available in other modes. Having multiple modes allows the CT system to take advantage of these capabilities when needed.
 
// Increased speed: Some acquisition modes, such as multi-slice CT and helical scan mode, allow for faster scanning speeds and shorter scan times. This can be particularly useful for examining large objects or for performing multiple scans in a short period of time.
 
// Flexibility: Different acquisition modes are suitable for different types of objects and applications. Having multiple modes allows the CT system to be used for a wider range of examinations and to adapt to the specific needs of each case.
 
// Improved efficiency: Having multiple acquisition modes can help the operator to optimize the CT system for each examination, which can result in more efficient use of the system and reduced downtime.
 
 
 
 
Our innovative X-ray CT solutions are suitable for product development, turning ideas into reality from brainstorming to the actual product ready for manufacturing. User-driven improvements are the core of our business, offering you optimal solutions with the right and powerful interface & components.
 
For a better understanding of X-ray CT, check our blog or contact an expert at www.rx-solutions.com