What is Cone-Beam CT?

Cone-beam CT is a CT geometry with a point X-ray source and a flat-panel detector. The topic is a methodological foundation for reliable CT data, because it directly affects detection limits, measurement capability and reproducibility.

Scientific background

The scientific basis is rooted in the physical interaction of X-ray radiation with matter and in the mathematical data processing of projections. Particularly relevant are cone-beam geometry, projection collection and FDK evaluation. For technical decisions, these relationships must be understood as a quantifiable measurement chain.

Relevant key metrics

Spatial resolution, contrast-to-noise ratio and measurement uncertainty are the central parameters.
Systematic effects are controlled via calibration, reference standards and repeat measurements.
Parameter changes must be evaluated for robustness and transferability to series production conditions.

Standards and thresholds

Standards: ISO 15708-2:2025 and ISO 15708-3:2025 as well as VDI/VDE 2630 Part 1.2:2018-06.
Typical thresholds (in practice): Smallest defect for stable detection usually at least 3 voxels; scan parameters must be chosen so that critical zones are reconstructed with minimal artifacts.
Validity: Achievable quality is limited by material, part size, geometry and system configuration.

Application in industrial practice

Design of valid scan parameters for defect and measurement tasks.
Objective interpretation of CT findings in development and series production.
Comparability of results across systems, batches and time points.

Sources and reference date

ISO 15708-2:2025.
ISO 15708-3:2025.
VDI/VDE 2630 Part 1.2:2018-06.
Reference date: February 2026.