Geometric effects in tomographic reconstruction

In x-ray and ion-beam computerized tomography, there are a number of reconstruction effects, manifested as artifacts, that can be attributed to the geometry of the experimental setup and of the object being scanned. In this work, we will examine four geometric effects that are common to first-and third-generation (parallel beam, 180 degree) computerized tomography (CT) scanners and suggest solutions for each problem. The geometric effects focused on in this paper are: X-pattern'' artifacts (believed to be caused by several errors), edge-generated ringing artifacts (due to improper choice of the reconstruction filter and cutoff frequency), circular-ring artifacts (caused by employing uncalibrated detectors), and tuning-fork artifacts (generated by an incorrectly specified center-of-rotation). Examples of four effects are presented. The X-pattern and edge-generated ringing artifacts are presented with actual experimental data introducing the artifact. given the source of the artifact, we present simulated data designed to replicate the artifact. Finally, we suggest ways to reduce or completely remove these artifacts. The circular-ring and tuning-fork artifacts are introduced with actual experimental data as well, while digital signal processing solutions are employed to remove the artifacts from the data. 15 refs., 12 figs.