Metrology and 3D Imaging
Metrology and 3D Imaging
Bringing together a broad set of tools, techniques, and processes
WMG's Centre for Imaging, Metrology, and Additive Technologies (CIMAT) brings together a broad set of tools, techniques, and processes, used across the high value manufacturing industry and a range of other sectors, including medical and healthcare, forensics, and criminal justice, and archaeology and paleontology.
CIMAT, located in the International Manufacturing Centre (IMC) on the University of Warwick Campus, specialises in Metrology, X-ray Computed Tomography, and Additive Manufacturing.
The scanning technologies, such as high-resolution laser scanning and microfocus CT, enable 3D characterisation of internal and external structures.
CIMAT's additive manufacturing capabilities focus on advanced functional metallic and multi-material solutions for high-value manufacturing. With a proven track record, CIMAT collaborates with diverse partners to address real challenges, bridging the gap from prototyping to mass low-volume technology.
Focus areas
Metrology
Metrology is the science of measurement and is a key enabler of modern, high value manufacturing processes. The ability to assess manufacturing quality accurately and traceably, while identifying and resolving issues as early as possible, is a critical aspect of new product development.
Our main focus is geometric measurement, with equipment ranging from sub-3µm accuracies through to large volume measurements of over 300m.
X-ray Computed Tomography
X-ray Computed Tomography (XCT), known for medical use, is gaining traction in industry. It captures a series of 2D radiographs, reconstructed into 3D models using algorithms like Filtered Back Projection. The reconstructions detail outer and inner structures, identifying defects and variations, especially in Additive Manufacturing (AM) parts. XCT finds applications in diverse industries, including food, automotive, aerospace, and construction.Applied Visualisation
Applied visualisation encompasses a range of visual and in some cases, multi-modal communication technologies, including virtual and augmented reality. We utilise a range of media from portable/wearable technologies, through to large displays and projection systems. We aim to improve the communication of and interaction with digital data from a variety of sources, including scanned/captured and digitally created.
Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering
Biomechanics and Biomedical engineering addresses medical challenges through engineering solutions. We primarily focus on joint and cardiac mechanics with strong NHS and industry collaborations. Our work includes fundamental studies to achieve greater insights into physiology and pathophysiology and applied research for early disease diagnosis and improved surgical planning for better outcomes. We utilise in-vivo (human), in-vitro (cadaveric), and in-silico (computational) techniques encompasses physics-based (FEM) and data-driven numerical modelling (ML/AI), image analysis, motion tracking, and more.
Forensic Imaging
Micro-CT imaging and 3D surface scanning are increasingly being used for forensic applications where assessment and analysis of external and internal structures may be vital for police investigations. Forensic imaging is used at our centre for forensic analysis of industry components as well as medical equipment for fractures and failure analysis or suspected tampering. Micro-CT scanning is also used for samples recovered at post-mortem examinations in suspected murder investigations.
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