P.PSH.0886 - Rapiscan Multispectral Continuous CT Scanner - development and evaluation of the benefits and application of continuous MEXA CT systems
Airline x-ray systems are being investigated to provide real-time imaging of carcasses to assess carcase value traits and enhance automation?
| Project start date: | 01 October 2017 |
| Project end date: | 15 September 2023 |
| Publication date: | 24 April 2024 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Livestock species: | Grain-fed Cattle, Grass-fed Cattle, Sheep, Goat, Lamb |
| Relevant regions: | National, Cold wet, Dry, Mediterranean, Tropical warm season wet, Sub-tropical moist, Sub-tropical sub-humid, Temperate, Temperate sub-humid, Tropical Moist, Tropical wet |
|
Download Report
(2.6 MB)
|
|
Summary
The use of dual-energy X-ray absorption (DEXA) imaging in the red meat industry is well known both as a method for assessing carcase composition (lean, fat and bone %) and as a sensor to drive automation systems. This project aimed to develop and evaluate the benefits of the multi energy (MEXA) continuous computed tomography (CT) for the Australian red meat industry. While substantial progress was made, a stable prototype that could deliver the required energy levels to image carcases was not achieved. Rapiscan remain committed to MEXA CT and will continue this development in their R&D program.
Objectives
The objectives of this project were to:
1. Develop and manufacture a MEXA CT scanner using concepts derived from the airport security sector.
2. Evaluate the MEXA CT system for potential to support objective measurement and automation programs in the red meat industry.
Key findings
While many of the core design goals were sound and achieved the real-time tomography multi-energy x-ray tube, while developed and constructed, was unable to operate at full specified performance levels. It also proved to be fragile to the point it was unable to be moved for industry evaluation without risking the catastrophic failure of the x-ray tube.
Benefits to industry
The project aimed to develop an industry-first multi-energy (MEXA) CT sensor to:
1. Improve economic efficiency through improved automation of carcase fabrication.
2. Develop automated assessment of carcase disease and defect characteristics to improve meat inspections and provide enhanced feedback on animal health to producers.
3. Addresses labour shortfalls in manual handling and health inspection at meat processing plants.
MLA action
MLA will make no further investment in the development of MEXA CT at this time. Rapiscan have offered to keep MLA updated on progress with the view that if a commercially robust system is developed MLA will have the opportunity to reengage to consider opportunities for red meat applications.
Future research
While the project did not deliver a functional MEXA CT for industry evaluation the progress made has given Rapiscan the confidence to continue this R&D under their own funding.
More information
| Project manager: | Richard Apps |
| Contact email: | reports@mla.com.au |
| Primary researcher: | Rapiscan Systems Pty Ltd |
