Rapid identification of 3D object features using limited number of X-ray projections

A robust stereoscopic method is presented for rapid identification of hidden 3D objects by extracting edge and other features from computed depth planes using only a small number of X-ray projections acquired with a low-cost portable X-ray imager. The portable X-ray imager acquires X-ray projections with a single fixed sensor from different viewing angles by rotating an X-ray source attached to the end of a pivot arm. Knowing the geometry of the X-ray imaging system, a series of depth planes are computed to extract the significant features of the hidden objects for quick identification. The proposed hidden object identification algorithm can be easily parallelised and embedded in portable devices for real-time applications.