The computer simulation of radiography is applicable for different purposes in NDT such as for the qualification of NDT systems, the optimization of system parameters, feasibility analysis, model-based data interpretation, education and training of NDT/NDE personnel, and others. Within the framework of the European project PICASSO simulators will be adapted to support reliability assessments of NDT tasks. The radiographic simulator aRTist developed by BAM is well suited for this task. It combines analytical modelling of the RT inspection process with the CAD-orientated object description applicable to various industrial sectors such as power generation, aerospace, railways and others. The analytic model includes the description of the radiation source, the interaction of Radiation
with the material of the part, and the detection process with special focus to DIR. To support reliability estimations the simulation tool is completed by a tool for probability of detection (POD) estimation. It consists of a user interface for planning automatic simulation runs with varying parameters, specifically defect variations.
Further, an automatic image analysis procedure is included to evaluate the defect visibility and calculate the POD therefrom.
X-ray computed tomography (CT) is a volumetric (3D) Imaging diagnostic method, well established in the medical field, and in industrial NDE as well. Developments in industrial CT aim to extent the applicability to complex structures, which do not allow the access of all directions. This are e.g. limited view, data and angle CT applications. New reconstruction algorithms are required on one
side, and the accuracy has to be improved on the other side. Numerical Simulation can support such developments by providing well defined data sets for the testing of reconstruction algorithms. This approach of virtual CT is realized within the radiographic simulator aRTist, developed by BAM. The poster shows the possibilities of this tool to consider complex scan paths. Simulated data sets have been reconstructed by an versatile backprojection algorithm.
Within the framework of the European project PICASSO, the radiographic simulator aRTist (analytical Radiographic Testing inspection simulation tool) developed by BAM has been extended for reliability assessment of film and digital radiography. NDT of safety relevant components of aerospace industry requires the proof of probability of detection (POD) of the inspection. Modeling tools can reduce the expense of such extended, time consuming NDT trials, if the result of simulation fits to the experiment. Our analytic simulation tool consists of three modules for the description of the radiation source, the interaction of radiation with test pieces and flaws, and the detection process with special focus on film and digital industrial radiography. It features high processing speed with near–interactive frame rates and a high level of realism. A concept has been developed as well as a software extension for reliability investigations, completed by a user interface for planning automatic simulations with varying parameters and defects. Furthermore, an automatic image analysis procedure is included to evaluate the defect visibility. The radiographic modeling from 3D CAD of aero engine components and quality test samples are compared as a precondition for real trials. This enables the evaluation and optimization of film replacement for application of modern digital equipment for economical NDT and defined POD.