Nonlinear Back Projection for Tomographic Image Reconstruction

The objective of this paper is to investigate a new non-iterative paradigm for image reconstruction based on the use of nonlinear back projection filters. This method, which we call nonlinear back projection (NBP), attempts to directly model the optimal inverse operator through off-line training. Potential advantages of the NBP method include the ability to better account for effects of limited quantities and quality of measurements, image cross-section properties, and forward model non-linearities. We present some preliminary numerical results to illustrate the potential advantages of this approach and to illustrate directions for future investigation.