What is Reconstruction?

Reconstruction refers to the mathematical inversion of 2D projections into a 3D volume. 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 FDK back-projection, iterative algorithms and regularisation. 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 (principles, operation and interpretation).
Typical thresholds (in practice): Reconstruction parameters are considered released when reference standards and repeat measurements deliver stable results within the target uncertainty.
Validity: Parameters are not universally transferable; every significant change requires requalification.

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.
Reference date: February 2026.