Experimental investigation on the accuracy of fast CT dimensional measurements using the Multi-Feature Check standard

X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) has gained significant traction across various industrial sectors as a dimensional metrology tool. However, despite its potential, dimensional CT scanning can be relatively slow, often hindering routine adoption for many applications. This work explores the feasibility of reducing measurement time while maintaining measurement accuracy, based on a trade-off between speed and measurement quality. Three distinct acquisition times achievable with a fast CT system were explored, namely 192 s, 112 s, and 68 s. Within these durations, CT settings are systematically fine-tuned and adjusted to uphold fixed acquisition times. In particular, the investigated scanning parameters were the number of projections, exposure time, and scan mode on fast CT measurements of dimensional and geometrical characteristics. This is conducted through an experimental approach utilizing a commercially available calibrated standard, commonly known as Multi-Feature Check, to evaluate measurement errors. Preliminary results indicate the feasibility of improving the measurement accuracy with reduced scanning times by an appropriate selection of scanning parameters. The design of experiments, key findings, and their implications are outlined and discussed in this study.