Three-Dimensional Radiographic and Image Analysis for Defect Detection

We propose to develop in this Phase I SBIR a technique to produce high-energy, multi-aspect radiographic images in near real-time, using a conventional real time radiography (RTR) system. This technique, stereo-pair imaging, will allow three-dimensional analysis of RTR images by producing two views, at different angles, of the object being inspected. The separate views will be generated by taking one view, rotating the object a small angle using the RTR system manipulator, and then taking the second view. The two views are displayed separately to each eye through a viewing adaptor; the operator's visual cortex easily combines the views to provide the inherent depth and positional information. The propsoed approach is much simpler and less expensive than other stereo-pair approaches such as the use of a dual focal spot x-ray source. The only modifications that will need to be made to the RTR system are the addition of soem software and the viewing adaptor. During Phase I we will optimize the design of the technique, write data acquisition software, and produce 3-D images for demonstration. In Phase II we will refine the software and develop the viewing adaptor, which will be available as an inexpensive upgrade to compatible RTR systems.