A Hands-on Model-computed Tomography Scanner for Teaching Biomedical Imaging Principles*

The physical and mathematical foundations of computed topography are notoriously difficult to understand. A newly designed hands-on model laser optical tomography systemÐsuitable for both classroom and labÐcan help students grasp the abstract concepts, such as projections, the Radon transform, and filtered backprojection. The model bridges the gap between the well-known need and the lack of hands-on imaging equipment in most educational programs. The device consists of simple elements that can be easily fabricated and assembled, for example within a capstone design class. Image generation can be watched on the controlling computer in a step-by-step process. In class, the majority of the students attested to the effectiveness of the demonstration. Particularly students who had not taken a related class before favored the model and generally considered it a significant teaching help for biomedical imaging.