Construction Of A White Light Sourced Computed Tomography Scanner Prototype

Mehrzad Namiranian

School Name

South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics

Grade Level

12th Grade

Presentation Topic

Engineering

Presentation Type

Mentored

Mentor

Mentor: David Kwartowitz, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University

Abstract

An X-Ray Computed Tomography (CT) scanner is an instrument of medical imaging used to study the human body from the 3D scans that it compiles. However, these machines are generally large, expensive and can emit harmful radiation. In order to study the basics of CT and medical imaging there is a need for more cost-effective, non-ionizing alternatives. To accomplish this, we constructed a scanner using white light and practical materials to create a three dimensional image of any suitably sized, transparent object. SolidWorks was used to create the designs of the various components of the scanner, while MATLAB was used to program an assortment of functions that the desk sized CT scanner needed to operate. The aim of this part of the project was to convert the designs into a finished prototype. Our design utilized a main galvanized vent pipe along with two identical end pieces that were connected through metal tubing. With the help of a laser cutter, we were able to create camera and light mounts as well as end handles that stopped light seepage. Collimators for the camera and light source were designed and tested, as they were an important aspect in increasing image quality by directing the light rays. Our aim was to eliminate the harmful X-ray exposure normally present in CT scanners, while maintaining the capability of taking a snapshot every degree an object rotated, so that these pictures could be sliced and reconstructed together to create a 3D CT image.

Start Date

4-11-2015 9:45 AM

End Date

4-11-2015 10:00 AM

COinS
 
Apr 11th, 9:45 AM Apr 11th, 10:00 AM

Construction Of A White Light Sourced Computed Tomography Scanner Prototype

An X-Ray Computed Tomography (CT) scanner is an instrument of medical imaging used to study the human body from the 3D scans that it compiles. However, these machines are generally large, expensive and can emit harmful radiation. In order to study the basics of CT and medical imaging there is a need for more cost-effective, non-ionizing alternatives. To accomplish this, we constructed a scanner using white light and practical materials to create a three dimensional image of any suitably sized, transparent object. SolidWorks was used to create the designs of the various components of the scanner, while MATLAB was used to program an assortment of functions that the desk sized CT scanner needed to operate. The aim of this part of the project was to convert the designs into a finished prototype. Our design utilized a main galvanized vent pipe along with two identical end pieces that were connected through metal tubing. With the help of a laser cutter, we were able to create camera and light mounts as well as end handles that stopped light seepage. Collimators for the camera and light source were designed and tested, as they were an important aspect in increasing image quality by directing the light rays. Our aim was to eliminate the harmful X-ray exposure normally present in CT scanners, while maintaining the capability of taking a snapshot every degree an object rotated, so that these pictures could be sliced and reconstructed together to create a 3D CT image.