Computed tomography of high-speed events

A new mathematical method for the three-dimensional reconstruction of objects from x-ray projections in high-speed dynamic events has been developed at the Fraunhofer Ernst-Mach-Institut, EMI. Compared to medical and non-destructive testing applications, high-dynamic events require faster data acquisition. Usually flash x-ray technology is used in ballistic research to avoid motion blur. With a flash x-ray setup only few projections can be simultaneously taken from an event due to geometrical reasons. Standard computed tomography algorithms are not applicable to immediately calculate a useful three-dimensional image of the event from these few projections. The EMI PEA-algorithm (projection - evaluation - annihilation) computes the shape of compact objects, fragments or fragment clouds. Shape, mass and center of gravity for every single fragment in the scene are provided. These results are given in tables for further calculations and in files for virtual reality visualization.