CADRE: A novel unsupervised reconstruction algorithm for limited-angle CT of ancient wooden structures

BackgroundNon-destructive testing (NDT) is crucial for the preservation and restoration of ancient wooden structures, with Computed Tomography (CT) increasingly utilized in this field. However, practical CT examinations of these structures-often characterized by complex configurations, large dimensions, and on-site constraints-frequently encounter difficulties in acquiring full-angle projection data. Consequently, images reconstructed under limited-angle conditions suffer from poor quality and severe artifacts, hindering accurate assessment of critical internal features such as mortise-tenon joints and incipient damage.ObjectiveThis study aims to develop a novel algorithm capable of achieving high-quality image reconstruction from incomplete, limited-angle projection data.MethodsWe propose CADRE (Contour-guided Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers-optimized Deep Radon Enhancement), an unsupervised deep learning reconstruction framework. CADRE innovatively integrates the ADMM optimization strategy, the learning paradigm of Deep Radon Prior (DRP) networks, and a geometric contour-guidance mechanism. This approach synergistically enhances reconstruction performance by iteratively optimizing network parameters and input images, without requiring large-scale paired training data, rendering it particularly suitable for cultural heritage applications.ResultsSystematic validation using both a digital dougong simulation model of the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda and a physical wooden dougong model from Foguang Temple demonstrates that, under typical 90° and 120° limited-angle conditions, the CADRE algorithm significantly outperforms traditional FBP, iterative reconstruction algorithms SART and ADMM-TV, and other representative unsupervised deep learning methods (Deep Image Prior, DIP; Residual Back-Projection with DIP, RBP-DIP; DRP). This superiority is evident in quantitative metrics such as PSNR and SSIM, as well as in visual quality, including artifact suppression and preservation of structural details. CADRE exhibits exceptional capability in accurately reproducing internal mortise-tenon configurations and fine features within ancient timber.ConclusionThe CADRE algorithm provides a robust and efficient solution for limited-angle CT image reconstruction of ancient wooden structures. It effectively overcomes the limitations of existing methods in handling incomplete data, significantly enhances the quality of reconstructed images and the characterization of internal fine structures, and offers strong technical support for the scientific understanding, condition assessment, and precise conservation of cultural heritage, thereby holding substantial academic value and promising application prospects.