RoboCT – Robot-Based Micro-Computed Tomography for Large Components

>> X-ray radiography and computed tomography using cooperating robots to make large or complex objects accessible for X-ray NDT.<<

For bulky components in automotive manufacturing, such as side frames or attachments like doors and tailgates, as well as fuselage components from the aerospace sector, there have not been any series-capable or production-integrated X-ray systems available – especially not for complete 3D CT examination. Such examinations can only be conducted under laboratory conditions with immense effort at a few suitably equipped locations.

With RoboCT, large or complexly shaped components – which would otherwise hardly fit into a CT system – can be examined and inspected using X-ray and micro-computed tomography. Two or more large robots move the X-ray tube and detector around the object.

Against this background, we have developed the robot-supported CT technology >>RoboCT<< – originally particularly for testing tasks in aerospace. Today, RoboCT supports various fields – from the early development phase to quality control of the final assembled product, without the need to disassemble it.

The robot-based computed tomography now enables non-destructive testing of such complex objects with nearly unlimited flexibility on the entire component or on any >>Region-of-Interests<< (ROI). This is especially true now in the micrometer resolution range. Thanks to the mobility of the robots, challenges in handling the test object due to high object weights as well as complex transportable objects are no longer an issue.

The inaccuracy of the actuators compared to high-precision positioning axes of laboratory systems is compensated for by patented intelligent algorithms on the software side to achieve the necessary precision for the reliable representation of required details in the object, particularly for micro-computed tomography. This reduces costly components and ensures the economic viability of the system in your company, all without the end user needing to program the robots.