ECNDT 2014, Signal and image processing in NDT/NDE Detections of Minute Defects and Accurate Measurements of Distance & Area of Objects in Neutron Beam Computed Tomography and X-ray Radiography Images by a CAD Based on the De-Convolution Technique K. Chui1 4, S. Chui2 3, S. Zhang3 3, E. Lehmann4 14, A. Kaestner4 7, A. Wride1 4, D. Stanfield1 4 1Image Enhancement Technology Ltd 4, Uxbridge [United Kingdom] 2University Hospital of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) 3, Prince George, BC [Canada] 3Rutherford Appleton Laboratory; Science and Technology Facilities Council 3, Didcot [United Kingdom] 4Spallation Neutron Source Division; Paul Scherrer Institute 23, Villigen [Switzerland] NDT-wide, Neutron Beam Computed Tomography, X-ray Radiography, Image Enhancement, De-Convolution Technique, Accurate Measurements
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Blurred image edges caused by the Penumbra Effect have existed since the discovery of X-rays. In Computed Tomography (X-ray or Neutron-Beam), the combined effect of the size(s) of the energy source and the detector(s) cause the Penumbra Spread. Recently, by using the processing power of modern CPUs, we have found a software solution to the problem - a post-processing De-Convolution Technique for the detection, definition, and enhancement of image edge profiles. Enhancement is carried out in a zoomed space within which, the higher the magnification factor, the clearer the enhanced image, as both the Penumbra and the Pixelization Effects are overcome simultaneously. The overall effect is to re-focus the image edge-profile, as if derived from an infinitely small energy source. This patented technique has all the advantages of sensitivity, sub-pixel accuracy, and efficiency (in terms of processing-time). By solving this previously 'unsolvable' problem, numerous important applications may now be realized.
| Signal and image processing in NDT/NDE |