Immersive Inspection: Intuitive Material Analysis using X-Ray Computed Tomography Data in AR

Abstract Material analyses based on X-ray computed tomography (XCT) imaging are typically conducted away from scanning facilities, in separate office environments on 2D displays. This separation hinders on-site analysis, and due to the lack of spatial representation, limits the effective exploration of the material structure. We present a novel augmented reality (AR) framework enabling in-situ visualization of non-destructive testing (NDT) data spatially registered with real specimens. Our approach facilitates comprehensive exploration of primary and secondary XCT data, enabling researchers to inspect material properties onsite and in-place. Coupling immersive visualization techniques with real physical objects allows for highly intuitive workflows in material analysis and inspection, which enables the identification of anomalies and accelerates informed decision making. The AR framework offers automatic material recognition, hands-free workflows and embodied interaction with physical samples, generating an engaging analytical experience. A case study on fiber-reinforced polymer datasets was used to validate the AR framework and its new workflow. Expert evaluations revealed significant improvements in spatial data comprehension and more natural interaction compared to conventional analysis systems. This study demonstrates the potential of immersive AR technologies to enhance industrial materials analysis, providing preliminary insights for integrating such immersive approaches.