We can X-Ray Gadgets we Review Now! - Lumafield CT Scanner

Linus Tech Tips
21 Apr 202418:37

TLDRThe video showcases the capabilities of the Neptune CT scanner from Lumafield, which allows for non-destructive 3D imaging of gadgets. The scanner can produce detailed 3D models from hundreds of 2D X-rays, revealing intricate internal components without disassembly. It is used to inspect various objects, including a Sony DualSense controller, a Buzz Lightyear toy, and a high heel shoe. The video explains the technology behind the scanner, which differs from medical CT scanners in its operation, and discusses safety measures due to the use of ionizing radiation. The presenter also touches on the potential applications of the technology in R&D and manufacturing, and mentions the cost of the scanner, which includes a subscription to Lumafield's Voyager software for image reconstruction. The video concludes with a call to action for viewers to suggest items for scanning and a promotion for Thorum, a sponsor that offers unique jewelry.

Takeaways

  • đź“š The Lumafield Neptune CT scanner allows for non-destructive 3D imaging of gadgets by stitching together hundreds or thousands of 2D X-rays.
  • 🔍 Detailed internal components of devices like the Apple Vision Pro and Sony DualSense controller are revealed without disassembly.
  • 🧲 The optional Zeiss lenses and automatic IPD adjustment worm drives are shown in the internal mechanism of the Apple Vision Pro.
  • 🔊 The Neptune CT scanner's power is demonstrated by its ability to create detailed images of both plastic and metal components within devices.
  • đź’» Lumafield's Voyager cloud platform processes the X-ray images and creates a 3D model that can be interacted with to view different densities of materials.
  • 🛍️ The scanner has been used to inspect a variety of objects including toys, high heel shoes, and tech equipment for quality assurance and design validation.
  • ⚙️ Unlike medical CT scanners that rotate around a patient, the Lumafield scanner rotates the object being scanned.
  • ⚡ The Neptune CT scanner is powerful enough to penetrate steel but caution is advised to avoid damaging electronics with prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation.
  • đź’° The Neptune CT scanner is available via a subscription service starting at $75,000 a year, which includes the Voyager software for image reconstruction.
  • 🛠️ The scanner is particularly useful for R&D and manufacturing sectors where it can save significant time in inspecting and validating assembled parts.
  • 🌟 The price point, while high, is justified by the lack of need for a full-time technician to operate the scanner and the potential savings in time and resources.

Q & A

  • What is the primary function of the Lumafield CT Scanner?

    -The Lumafield CT Scanner is designed to create a detailed 3D model of objects by stitching together hundreds or thousands of 2D x-rays.

  • How does the Neptune CT scanner from Lumafield differ from a traditional 2D x-ray?

    -Unlike a traditional 2D x-ray, the Neptune CT scanner can produce a full 3D model of an object, offering a more comprehensive view of its internal structure.

  • What is the significance of the magnets for the optional Zeiss lenses in the Apple Vision Pro?

    -The magnets for the optional Zeiss lenses in the Apple Vision Pro are part of the device's design, allowing for the attachment of additional lens components.

  • How does the Neptune CT scanner create a 3D image?

    -The Neptune CT scanner takes hundreds of 2D x-ray images from different angles, then uploads them to Lumafield's Voyager cloud platform, which uses complex algorithms to reconstruct a 3D model.

  • What is the purpose of the attenuation slider in the Lumafield's Voyager software?

    -The attenuation slider allows users to adjust the view of the 3D model to see different densities of materials within the scanned object, from air to steel and solder.

  • How does the Lumafield CT Scanner handle the issue of radiation exposure?

    -The Lumafield CT Scanner is designed to prevent x-rays from escaping by being encased in lead. When the machine is not in use, there is zero radiation emitted, and the lead casing also blocks external sources of radiation.

  • What is the difference between the Lumafield CT Scanner and a medical CT scanner in terms of operation?

    -In a medical CT scanner, the scanner rotates around the patient, whereas in the Lumafield CT Scanner, the object being scanned is the one that rotates.

  • Why are non-living objects suitable for scanning with the Lumafield CT Scanner?

    -Non-living objects do not move unexpectedly and can be exposed to x-rays for extended periods without risk, making them ideal for detailed scanning with the Lumafield CT Scanner.

  • What is the main challenge when scanning objects with both metal and plastic components?

    -The challenge is dealing with the phenomenon called beam hardening, where low-energy x-ray photons are absorbed first, causing the first layer of material to appear darker than subsequent layers in the scan.

  • How does the Lumafield CT Scanner's pricing model work?

    -The Lumafield CT Scanner operates on a subscription model starting at $75,000 a year, which includes the Voyager software for image reconstruction. There is also an option to buy the machine outright for a higher price.

  • What are some potential applications of the Lumafield CT Scanner in industrial settings?

    -The Lumafield CT Scanner can be used for non-destructive quality control, validating injection molding or casting, inspecting solder joint quality, and examining the internal structure of assembled parts without disassembly.

  • What precautions should be taken when scanning electronic components with the Lumafield CT Scanner?

    -While it's unlikely to damage electronics, exposure to ionizing radiation for extended periods can cause bits to flip in flash memory. Lumafield provides research and guidelines on safe exposure levels to prevent damage to electronic components.

Outlines

00:00

🔍 Exploring the Apple Vision Pro with Neptune CT Scanner

The first paragraph introduces the Apple Vision Pro, a device that allows for intricate exploration without damaging it. The Neptune CT scanner, borrowed from Lumafield, is highlighted for its ability to create a full 3D model from hundreds or thousands of 2D x-rays. The presenter invites the audience to observe the intricate components such as the optional Zeiss lenses' magnets and the automatic IPD adjustment's worm drives. The Neptune's non-destructive approach is praised, and the convenience of finding screws is noted. The sponsor, Thorum, is mentioned with a promotional code for discounts on their unique jewelry. The versatility of the Neptune CT scanner is further demonstrated by scanning a Sony DualSense controller, illustrating the differences in material densities through x-ray imaging. The process of scanning and the technology behind it, including the Lumafield's Voyager cloud platform, is explained. The potential applications of the scanner in various scenarios are also discussed.

05:07

⚙️ Understanding the Mechanics and Safety of the Lumafield CT Scanner

The second paragraph delves into the operational differences between medical CT scanners and the Lumafield scanner, emphasizing the rotation of the object instead of the scanner in the Lumafield. It addresses concerns about radiation exposure, explaining that while the scanner produces ionizing radiation, it is not radioactive and that the machine is safely shielded with lead to prevent radiation leaks. The importance of object positioning during scanning and the use of floral foam to secure non-moving objects are discussed. The process of setting up a scan, including aligning the object with the x-ray emitter and adjusting the table, is outlined. The function of the scintillator in converting x-rays to visible light is explained, and the safety of standing near the scanner during operation is confirmed. The paragraph concludes with a humorous reference to a failed attempt to poison a colleague with radiation.

10:13

🛠️ Advanced Scanning Techniques and Applications of the Lumafield

The third paragraph discusses the challenges and solutions associated with CT scanning, particularly the issue of beam hardening. It explains the use of copper filters to eliminate low-energy photons and the trade-off between filter thickness and image exposure. The benefits of manual settings for difficult scans, such as a screwdriver with steel and plastic components, are highlighted. The paragraph also explores various applications of the Lumafield, including inspecting assembled parts, validating injection molding, and checking for internal defects in products like alternator casings. The potential for damaging electronics through prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation is noted, and Lumafield's research on safe exposure levels is mentioned. The versatility of the Lumafield for different materials and sizes is discussed, with the exception of gold, which is too dense for the scanner.

15:13

đź’° The Cost and Impact of the Lumafield Neptune CT Scanner

The fourth paragraph focuses on the cost and practicality of the Lumafield Neptune CT Scanner. It mentions the subscription model starting at $75,000 a year, which includes the Voyager software for image reconstruction. The high price is justified by comparing it to the cost of industrial CT scanners and the salary of a full-time technician. The option to buy the machine outright for a significant price is also mentioned. The potential impact on R&D and manufacturing industries is discussed, along with the scanner's ability to non-destructively inspect various products. The paragraph concludes with a call to action for viewers to share their thoughts on what should be scanned next and a reminder of the sponsor, Thorum, offering unique jewelry made from rare materials with a discount code for viewers.

Mindmap

Keywords

đź’ˇCT scanner

A CT (Computed Tomography) scanner is a device that uses X-ray technology to create detailed images of internal structures. In the video, a Neptune CT scanner from Lumafield is used to examine gadgets by taking hundreds or thousands of 2D X-rays from different angles and stitching them into a 3D model. This allows for non-destructive inspections of internal components and mechanisms, such as the assembly and material densities of gadgets, without disassembling them.

đź’ˇVoyager software

Voyager software, mentioned in conjunction with Lumafield's Neptune CT scanner, is a cloud platform that processes raw X-ray images to create detailed 3D models. It performs complex mathematical calculations to convert the 2D X-ray images into 3D representations, allowing users to analyze the internal structures of scanned objects in high detail. This software is vital for understanding material densities and internal component configurations.

đź’ˇionizing radiation

Ionizing radiation refers to the type of radiation that has enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, thus creating ions. The video discusses how the Lumafield scanner uses ionizing X-ray radiation to penetrate different materials. It emphasizes safety precautions to prevent excessive exposure, which could be harmful.

đź’ˇbeam hardening

Beam hardening is a phenomenon in CT scanning where lower energy photons are absorbed by the material being scanned more quickly than higher energy photons, leading to distortion in the images. The video explains how beam hardening affects the quality of scans and discusses methods to mitigate it, such as using filters to adjust the energy levels of the X-ray beam.

đź’ˇattenuation slider

The attenuation slider in CT imaging software adjusts the visibility of different densities in the scanned object. In the video, the narrator uses the slider to differentiate between materials like plastic, air, and metals within a gaming controller, illustrating how density variations are analyzed to understand the internal structure of scanned objects.

đź’ˇscintillator

A scintillator in CT scanning is a material that converts the X-rays passing through it into visible light, which can then be detected by sensors. The video explains this process as part of how the Lumafield CT scanner captures detailed images of the internal structures of various objects.

đź’ˇsolder joint

Solder joints are connections made by melting solder around components to create electrical contacts, particularly on electronic circuit boards. The CT scanner in the video allows for inspection of these joints non-destructively, checking for quality and defects without disassembling the device.

đź’ˇautomatic IPD adjustment

IPD (Interpupillary Distance) adjustment refers to the mechanism that adjusts the distance between the lenses in devices like VR headsets to match the user’s eyes. The video showcases a CT scan revealing the worm drives involved in this automatic adjustment process without dismantling the device.

đź’ˇpolychromatic X-rays

Polychromatic X-rays are X-rays that contain multiple energies or wavelengths. The video describes how these are used in the CT scanner and the problem they pose, such as beam hardening, where lower energy X-rays are absorbed faster than higher energies, affecting image quality.

đź’ˇradiation safety

Radiation safety is concerned with protecting people from harmful effects of exposure to ionizing radiation. The video highlights how the CT scanner is designed to minimize radiation exposure, using heavy lead shielding to ensure that it is safe for operators to stand nearby during scans.

Highlights

The Lumafield CT Scanner allows for non-destructive internal examination of devices like the Apple Vision Pro without damaging them.

Unlike traditional 2D X-ray images, the Neptune CT scanner can create a full 3D model by stitching together hundreds or thousands of 2D X-rays.

The scanner reveals intricate details such as the magnets for optional Zeiss lenses and the worm drives for automatic IPD adjustment.

Components can be isolated to examine mechanisms, and even individual BGA solder joints on chips can be seen without unscrewing the device.

Screws are now easier to locate, allowing for a less invasive iFixit approach if desired.

The scanner's tuning allows for high-resolution zoom to reveal hidden messages, such as sponsor mentions.

Thorum, a sponsor of the video, offers unique jewelry made from materials like meteorite and ethically sourced antlers.

The Neptune CT scanner showcases its power and versatility by scanning a Sony DualSense controller, revealing its internal structure.

The scanner uses the differential density of materials to create an X-ray shadow, distinguishing between plastic and metal components.

Lumafield's Voyager cloud platform mathematically processes hundreds of images to construct a detailed 3D model.

The 3D image can be interactively explored to examine raw X-rays and adjust for different material densities.

The scanner provides layer-by-layer views, allowing for the examination of densities in components like capacitors and battery rolls.

The Neptune CT scanner has been used to scan a wide range of objects, from toys to tech equipment, for non-destructive quality inspections.

Unlike medical CT scanners, the Lumafield scanner rotates the object instead of the scanner, and is powerful enough to penetrate steel.

The scanner is safe to use due to extensive lead shielding that blocks all radiation leaks when the beam is off.

Beam hardening can affect image quality, but Lumafield uses copper filters to mitigate this and improve scan results.

Different materials require different scan times, with plastic parts scanning quickly, and steel parts benefiting from longer scans.

The Lumafield CT Scanner has practical applications in R&D and manufacturing for inspecting assembled parts and validating designs.

While the Neptune CT scanner is expensive, it offers a more cost-effective solution than hiring a full-time technician or purchasing a high-priced machine.

Lumafield provides options for clients to either subscribe to the service or buy the machine outright for in-house processing.