Methods and systems for reducing vibration in medical imaging

Abstract

The present invention is entitled "Method and System for Reducing Vibration in Medical Imaging". The present invention provides various methods and systems for reducing vibration in a rotating body of a medical imaging system. In one example, a dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) for a medical imaging system includes: a mounting portion including one or more openings and adapted for fixed attachment to a mounting surface within the imaging system; a sprung portion; and a vibration tuner, wherein when the mounting portion is mounted to the mounting surface and during operation of the imaging system, the sprung portion moves relative to the mounting surface, the amount of movement of the sprung portion being at least partially based on the vibration tuner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein relate to medical imaging, and more specifically to computed tomography (CT) medical imaging. Background Technology

[0002] Non-invasive imaging techniques allow for the acquisition of images of the internal structures of a patient or object without the need for invasive procedures. Specifically, techniques such as computed tomography (CT) use various physical principles, such as differential transmission of X-rays through a target volume, to acquire image data and construct tomographic images (e.g., a three-dimensional representation of the interior of the human body or other imaging structures). CT scanners may include a rotatable gantry on which an X-ray radiation source and an X-ray radiation detector are mounted. Vibration of the gantry during rotation directly translates into a deterioration in image quality, as gantry vibration can distort images and produce streaks / artifacts in patient data. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one embodiment, a dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) for a medical imaging system includes: a mounting portion including one or more openings and adapted to be fixedly coupled to a mounting surface within the imaging system; a sprung portion; and a vibration tuner, wherein when the mounting portion is mounted to the mounting surface and during operation of the imaging system, the sprung portion moves relative to the mounting surface, the amount of movement of the sprung portion being at least partially based on the vibration tuner.

[0004] It should be understood that the above brief description is provided to introduce selected concepts further described in the detailed embodiments in a simplified form. This is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is uniquely defined by the claims following the detailed embodiments. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to embodiments that address any shortcomings mentioned above or in any part of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0005] This disclosure will be better understood by referring to the following description of non-limiting embodiments, in which:

[0006] Figure 1 A drawing view of an imaging system including a dynamic vibration absorber according to one embodiment is shown.

[0007] Figure 2 A block diagram of an exemplary imaging system including a dynamic vibration absorber according to one embodiment is shown.

[0008] Figure 3 An internal end view of an imaging system including a dynamic vibration absorber according to one embodiment is shown.

[0009] Figure 4 A perspective view of a dynamic vibration absorber according to one embodiment is shown.

[0010] Figure 5 Show Figure 4 End view of a dynamic vibration absorber.

[0011] Figure 6 A perspective view of a dynamic vibration absorber according to one embodiment is shown.

[0012] Figure 7 It shows Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a dynamic vibration absorber.

[0013] Figure 8 It shows Figures 6 to 7 The dynamic vibration absorber, with dotted shading indicating the vibration characteristics of each part of the dynamic vibration absorber.

[0014] Figures 9 to 12 A graph comparing the vibration characteristics of an imaging system without a dynamic vibration absorber with those of an imaging system including a dynamic vibration absorber is shown.

[0015] Figure 13 The mass adjustment portion and biasing member of different groups according to embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0016] Figure 14 A flowchart illustrating a method for tuning a dynamic vibration absorber according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0017] Figure 15 It shows Figures 4 to 5 A cross-sectional view of a dynamic vibration absorber.

[0018] Figures 16 to 18 It shows Figures 6 to 8 Different cross-sectional views of the dynamic vibration absorber.

[0019] Figures 4 to 8 , Figure 13 as well as Figures 15 to 18 The figures are shown to scale, but other relative dimensions may be used if desired. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The following description relates to various implementation schemes for reducing vibration in medical imaging systems. Medical imaging systems such as Figure 1 The illustrated medical imaging system may include an X-ray radiation source configured to deliver X-ray radiation to an imaging region disposed within an aperture in the gantry of the imaging system, such as... Figure 2 As shown. The imaging system includes a dynamic vibration absorber (DVA), such as... Figure 3 The DVA is shown. The DVA is located near the X-ray radiation source and is configured to reduce vibration of the imaging system. It can be adjusted using different mass adjustment sections (such as...) with different masses. Figure 13 (As shown) Replace one or more quality adjustment sections of the DVA (such as) Figures 4 to 5 as well as Figure 15 (as shown) and / or with different offset members of different stiffness (such as Figure 13 (As shown) Replace one or more bias members (such as) that span the gap across the DVA. Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the exemplary gap is made of Figures 16 to 18 The vibration characteristics of the DVA can be adjusted (e.g., tuned) by configuring the DVA to have adjustable vibration characteristics (e.g., according to the cross-section shown). Figure 14 (Methods), DVA can reduce the vibration response of some parts of the imaging system caused by the vibrational forces generated by the X-ray radiation source and / or other parts of the imaging system, such as Figures 9 to 12 As shown. This reduces noise generated by the operation of the imaging system, thereby increasing patient comfort and improving patient-operator communication. Reduced vibration of the imaging system also leads to increased image quality and / or reduced wear on the components of the imaging system.

[0021] The X-ray radiation source of an imaging system may be an X-ray tube configured to generate X-ray radiation. The X-ray tube may include a rotor configured to rotate within the X-ray tube to distribute the heat generated at the X-ray production focal point. For example, the focal point may move continuously along the surface of the rotor, such that the high rotor temperature is not confined to a single point. In cases where a higher quantity and / or intensity of X-ray radiation is generated, this heat distribution can be utilized at a higher rotational speed. Some imaging systems may include an X-ray tube configured for higher speeds (e.g., higher rotor rotation speeds) compared to the X-ray tubes of other imaging systems. Rotation of the X-ray tube rotor can produce vibrations in the imaging system. For example, the X-ray tube rotor may rotate within the X-ray tube, which can cause vibrations in the X-ray tube. In some examples described herein, the terms "rotation" and "vibration" of the X-ray tube are used synonymously to refer to the vibrations produced by the rotating rotor of the X-ray tube. Vibration of the X-ray tube can cause vibrations in other parts of the imaging system, such as the gantry. Therefore, the vibration characteristics of some imaging systems may differ from those of other imaging systems. For example, some X-ray tubes may vibrate at 145 Hz during operation, some X-ray tubes may vibrate at 160 Hz during operation, and some X-ray tubes may vibrate at 180 Hz during operation, where the higher vibration frequency corresponds to the higher X-ray tube speed.

[0022] In some imaging systems, the X-ray tube may vibrate at approximately the same frequency as the resonant frequency of the gantry structure (e.g., 160 Hz) during operation, which can lead to an undesirable forced vibration response. Resonance can increase the amount of noise generated by the imaging system and / or undesirable gantry movement.

[0023] The speed of the X-ray tube can be at least partially based on the rotational speed of the gantry. Because some gantry can rotate faster relative to others, some X-ray tubes can be configured for higher speeds than others. For example, an imaging system including a gantry with a slower first rotational speed may also include X-ray tubes with a slower operating speed, and an imaging system including a gantry with a higher second rotational speed may include X-ray tubes with a higher operating speed. However, in order to configure an X-ray tube for a higher operating speed, the X-ray tube may have a different rotor geometry (e.g., a longer length) relative to an X-ray tube configured for a lower operating speed. This change in X-ray tube geometry can alter the vibration characteristics of the X-ray tube relative to a comparison X-ray tube (e.g., the amplitude of the X-ray tube's vibration). As an example, some X-ray tubes configured for a higher operating speed may vibrate with a higher amplitude relative to X-ray tubes configured for a lower operating speed (e.g., 15 Hz higher, 20 Hz higher, etc.). This increase in vibration amplitude can lead to degradation of components of the imaging system (e.g., wear on bearings of the imaging system).

[0024] The speed of the X-ray tube can be selected to reduce undesirable resonances in both the X-ray tube and gantry vibrations by intentionally separating the two frequencies (e.g., the vibration source frequency and the gantry resonant frequency, respectively). As an example, the X-ray tube speed can be selected such that the X-ray tube has a peak vibration of 180 Hz, while the gantry has a peak vibration of 160 Hz. However, even with different peak vibration frequencies, the gantry structure can still experience significant forced responses. For example, while the X-ray tube may be calibrated during manufacturing to have certain vibrational characteristics (e.g., reduced vibration due to imbalance), some vibrations resulting from imbalances can occur and / or increase over time. Furthermore, because the X-ray tube speed is selected to be relatively high to vibrate at a different peak frequency relative to the gantry, imbalances in the X-ray tube can generate undesirable noise levels. The vibration of the X-ray tube can act on the support structure of the imaging system (e.g., the gantry) and can increase gantry vibration and / or noise generated by the gantry.

[0025] To reduce vibration and noise from the X-ray tube and / or gantry, the DVA (Displacement Vibration Controller) can be coupled to the imaging system at a location adjacent to the vibration source. For example, the DVA can be directly coupled to the X-ray tube or a nearby X-ray tube (e.g., coupled to the X-ray tube housing). The DVA is configured to vibrate out of phase with the X-ray tube and / or gantry at approximately the same amplitude to reduce net vibration on the imaging system. In some examples, the DVA can be configured to vibrate at the same frequency as the gantry but out of phase with it to reduce resonance between the X-ray tube and the gantry. The DVA can be coupled to the imaging system such that it vibrates automatically in response to vibrations of the X-ray tube and / or gantry without operator input.

[0026] The vibration characteristics of the DVA described herein can be adjusted (e.g., tuned) for use with various imaging systems, such as imaging systems including an X-ray radiation source that has different operating speeds and / or vibration characteristics relative to the X-ray radiation sources of other imaging systems, as described above. For example, the DVA described herein may include a vibration tuner that can affect the amount of movement of a sprung portion of the DVA (where the sprung portion is one or more masses of the DVA configured to move relative to a stationary portion of the DVA and / or components of the imaging system to which the DVA is mounted). The vibration tuner may include replaceable bias members and / or replaceable mass adjustment portions that can be selected to adjust the vibration frequency of the DVA (e.g., the vibration frequency of a given DVA can be adjusted to be approximately the same as the vibration frequency of the X-ray tube of the imaging system including the DVA). In this way, the vibration frequency of the DVA can be selected to reduce the amount of vibration of the X-ray tube and / or the gantry.

[0027] In some examples, adjusting the vibration characteristics of a DVA (such as the DVA disclosed herein) may include coupling the DVA to an imaging system and measuring the vibration characteristics (e.g., vibration frequency) of the X-ray tube without rotating the gantry. Measuring the vibration characteristics of the X-ray tube may include coupling a vibration measuring device (e.g., an accelerometer transducer) to the X-ray tube (e.g., directly coupled to the X-ray tube, coupled to the housing of the X-ray tube, or coupled to a surface of the gantry adjacent to the X-ray tube) and operating the X-ray tube at the same speed as the operating speed of the X-ray tube used when imaging a subject. The measuring device may measure the vibration characteristics of the X-ray tube, such as vibration amplitude and frequency, during operation. If the vibration characteristics are unsatisfactory (e.g., the vibration frequency is approximately the same as the vibration frequency of the gantry), the vibration tuner may be adjusted, for example, by replacing the mass adjustment portion of the DVA with a different mass adjustment portion (e.g., a lighter or heavier mass adjustment portion) and / or by replacing the bias member of the DVA with a different bias member (e.g., a spring with higher or lower stiffness), in order to adjust the amount of X-ray tube vibration counteracted by the DVA.

[0028] See Figure 1 The image shows a perspective view of the imaging system 100. The imaging system 100 is configured to image a subject 112 (e.g., a patient). In some examples, the subject may be an inanimate object, one or more manufactured components, or a foreign object present within the patient's body, such as a dental implant, stent, and / or contrast agent. The imaging system 100 includes a gantry 102, which may further include at least one x-ray radiation source 104 configured to project an x-ray radiation beam 106 (see image). Figure 2 This is used to image a subject 112 lying on an examination table 114. Specifically, an X-ray radiation source 104 is configured to project an X-ray radiation beam 106 toward a detector array 108 positioned on the opposite side of the gantry 102. The imaging system 100 also includes a dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) 105, which is located adjacent to the X-ray radiation source 104 within the imaging system 100 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown by the dashed line in the figure). The DVA is configured to reduce the amount of vibration generated by the operation of the x-ray radiation source 104, such as vibration generated by the rotation of the rotor of the x-ray radiation source 104. The DVA 105 may be similar to (e.g., the same as) an embodiment of the dynamic vibration absorber further described below with respect to other figures.

[0029] The imaging system 100 may also include an image processor unit 110 configured to reconstruct an image of the target volume of the subject 112 acquired by projecting x-ray radiation 106 through the subject 112 and receiving attenuated x-rays at a detector array 108. In some known CT imaging system configurations, an x-ray radiation source (e.g., x-ray radiation source 104) projects a cone-shaped x-ray radiation beam that is collimated to lie in a Cartesian coordinate plane and is often referred to as the “imaging plane.” The x-ray radiation beam passes through the object being imaged, such as a patient or subject 112. After being attenuated by the object, the x-ray radiation beam strikes an x-ray radiation detector (e.g., x-detector array 108). The intensity of the attenuated x-ray radiation beam received at the x-ray radiation detector array depends on the attenuation of the x-ray radiation beam by the subject. Each detector element of the x-ray radiation detector array can generate a separate electrical signal that is a measurement of the attenuation of the x-ray radiation beam at the x-ray radiation detector location.

[0030] In some CT systems, the X-ray radiation source and detector array rotate together with the gantry (e.g., gantry 102) in the imaging plane and around the object to be imaged (e.g., object 112), such that the angle at which the X-ray radiation beam intersects the object changes continuously. A set of X-ray radiation attenuation measurements (e.g., projection data) from the detector array at a single gantry angle is referred to as a “view.” A “scan” of the object comprises a set of views acquired at different gantry angles or viewing angles during a single rotation of the X-ray radiation source and detector. It is conceivable that the embodiments described herein originate from medical imaging modalities other than CT, and therefore, as used herein, the term “view” is not limited to the uses described above regarding projection data from a single gantry angle. The term “view” is used to mean a data acquisition whenever multiple data acquisitions from different angles exist (whether from CT / PET, X-ray (e.g., angiography / fluorescence microscopy or interventional radiography), or SPECT acquisitions), and / or any other modality (including modalities yet to be developed) and their combinations in fusion embodiments.

[0031] To reduce overall scan time, a "spiral" scan can be performed. To perform a "spiral" scan, the patient is moved while data from a predetermined number of slices is acquired. Such systems generate a single spiral from a cone-beam spiral scan. The spiral mapped out by the cone beam produces projection data, from which an image in each predetermined slice can be reconstructed.

[0032] As used herein, the phrase “reconstructed image” is not intended to exclude the case where data representing an image is generated without generating a visual image. Therefore, as used herein, the term “image” broadly refers to both a visual image and the data representing a visual image.

[0033] Figure 2 It schematically shows something similar to Figure 1 Imaging system 100 and imaging system 200. Imaging system 200 may include several components similar to those included in imaging system 100, and similar components may be similarly labeled and not reintroduced (e.g., imaging system 200 includes dynamic vibration absorber 105, detector array 108, X-ray radiation source 104, etc.).

[0034] Detector array 108 includes a plurality of detector elements 202 that together sense through the subject 204 (e.g., similar to...). Figure 1 The patient (112 shown in the image) was exposed to X-ray radiation 106 (e.g., similar to...). Figure 1 (As shown in the example) to acquire the corresponding projection data. In such a configuration, one or more rows of detector elements 202 can be arranged in parallel to acquire projection data.

[0035] The imaging system 200 is configured to traverse different angular positions around the subject 204 to acquire desired projection data. Therefore, the gantry 102 and the components mounted thereon can be configured to rotate about a center of rotation 206 to acquire projection data, for example, at different energy levels. Alternatively, in an embodiment where the projection angle relative to the subject 204 varies over time, the mounted components can be configured to move along a generally curved path rather than along a circumference.

[0036] As the x-ray radiation source 104 and detector array 108 rotate, detector array 108 collects data on the attenuated x-ray beam. In some examples, the individual detectors or detector elements 202 of detector array 108 may include photon counting detectors that register the interactions of individual photons.

[0037] In one embodiment, the imaging system 200 includes a control mechanism 208 to control the movement of components, such as the rotation of the gantry 102 and the operation of the x-ray radiation source 104. In some embodiments, the control mechanism 208 further includes an x-ray controller 210 configured to provide power and timing signals to the x-ray radiation source 104. Additionally, the control mechanism 208 includes a gantry motor controller 212 configured to control the rotational speed and / or position of the gantry 102 based on imaging requirements.

[0038] In some embodiments, control unit 208 further includes a data acquisition system (DAS) 214 configured to sample analog data received from detector element 202 and convert the analog data into digital signals for subsequent processing. The data sampled and digitized by DAS 214 is transferred to a computer or computing device 216. In one example, computing device 216 stores the data in storage device 218. For example, storage device 218 may include hard disk drives, floppy disk drives, optical disc read / write (CD-R / W) drives, digital versatile optical disc (DVD) drives, flash memory drives, and / or solid-state storage drives.

[0039] Additionally, computing device 216 provides commands and parameters to one or more of the DAS 214, x-ray controller 210, and rack motor controller 212 to control system operations, such as data acquisition and / or processing. In some embodiments, computing device 216 controls system operations based on operator input. Computing device 216 receives operator input, such as commands and / or scan parameters, via an operator console 220 operably coupled to computing device 216. Operator console 220 may include a keyboard (not shown) or a touchscreen to allow the operator to specify commands and / or scan parameters.

[0040] Although Figure 2 Only one operator console 220 is shown, but more than one operator console can be coupled to the imaging system 200, for example, to input or output system parameters, request inspections, and / or view images. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the imaging system 200 can be coupled via one or more configurable wired and / or wireless networks (such as the Internet and / or VPNs) to multiple monitors, printers, workstations, and / or similar devices, located locally or remotely, either within an institution or hospital or in completely different locations.

[0041] The computing device 216 operates the inspection table motor controller 226 using operator-supplied and / or system-defined commands and parameters, which in turn controls the inspection table 114, which may include an electric inspection table. Specifically, the inspection table motor controller 226 moves the inspection table 114 to properly position the subject 204 in the rack 102 to acquire projection data corresponding to the target volume of the subject 204.

[0042] As previously described, the DAS 214 samples and digitizes the projection data acquired by detector element 202. Subsequently, the image reconstructor 230 uses the sampled and digitized X-ray data to perform high-speed reconstruction. Although Figure 2 Image reconstructor 230 is shown as a separate entity, but in some embodiments, image reconstructor 230 may be part of computing device 216. Alternatively, image reconstructor 230 may not be present in imaging system 200, and alternatively, computing device 216 may perform one or more functions of image reconstructor 230. Image reconstructor 230 may store reconstructed images in storage device 218 and / or transfer reconstructed images to computing device 216 (e.g., display 232 of computing device 216) to generate useful patient information for diagnosis and evaluation. For example, display 232 of computing device 216 may allow an operator to evaluate the anatomical structures of the imaging. Display 232 may also allow an operator, for example via a graphical user interface (GUI), to select the volume of interest (VOI) and / or request patient information for subsequent scanning or processing.

[0043] The various methods and processes further described herein may be stored as executable instructions in a non-transitory memory on a computing device in the imaging system 200. In one embodiment, the image reconstructor 230 may include such executable instructions in the non-transitory memory and may apply the methods described herein to reconstruct an image from scan data. In another embodiment, the computing device 216 may include instructions in the non-transitory memory and may apply the methods described herein at least partially to the reconstructed image after receiving it from the image reconstructor 230. In yet another embodiment, the methods and processes described herein may be distributed across the image reconstructor 230 and the computing device 216.

[0044] See Figure 3 This shows a view of the interior of the imaging system 300. The imaging system 300 can be similar to the one described above. Figure 1 The imaging system 100 and / or the above reference Figure 2 The imaging system 200 is described above. The imaging system 300 includes a frame 302, which is similar to the frame described above. Figures 1 to 2 The rack 102 is described above. The rack 302 includes an aperture 303, wherein the aperture 303 is configured to receive a subject to be imaged by the imaging system 300 (e.g., similar to...). Figure 1 (The patient is shown in the example above). Similar to the example above, the imaging system 300 includes an x-ray radiation source 306 (e.g., an x-ray tube) configured to deliver x-ray radiation to an imaging region 304 of an aperture 303 in a gantry 302. For example, with the subject positioned within the aperture 303 for imaging, the gantry 302 can be rotated about a central axis 310 to adjust the position of the x-ray radiation source 306 (and the x-ray beam 312 generated by the x-ray radiation source) relative to the subject. The x-ray radiation can be intercepted and attenuated by the subject's body, and the attenuated x-ray radiation can be received by a detector array 305 positioned relative to the x-ray radiation source 306 across the central axis 310. The imaging system 300 can generate one or more views of the subject based on the output of the detector array 305, similar to the example above.

[0045] The imaging system 300 also includes a dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) 308 disposed at the x-ray radiation source 306. In some examples, the DVA 308 may be directly coupled to the x-ray radiation source 306. For example, the x-ray radiation source 306 may be an x-ray tube configured to generate x-ray radiation, and the DVA 308 may be directly connected to the x-ray tube. In other examples, the DVA 308 may be located adjacent to the x-ray radiation source 306 within the imaging system 300, but may not be directly coupled to the x-ray radiation source 306. For example, the x-ray radiation source 306 may be mounted to a bracket or other mounting surface of the rack 302 (e.g., mounting surface 311), and the DVA 308 may be mounted to a different bracket or mounting surface of the rack 302 adjacent to (e.g., adjacent to) the x-ray radiation source 306 (e.g., mounting surface 309). The x-ray radiation source 306 may include a housing 307, wherein the housing 307 encloses the x-ray radiation source 306. In some examples, housing 307 may be mounted to rack 302, and DVA 308 may be mounted to housing 307. X-ray radiation source 306 may be referred to herein as an X-ray tube, and housing 307 may be referred to herein as an X-ray tube housing.

[0046] DVA 308 may be configured to vibrate at approximately the same frequency as the x-ray source 306 and / or gantry 302. However, DVA 308 may vibrate out of phase (e.g., 180 degrees out of phase) relative to the x-ray source 306 and / or gantry 302, such that the vibration of DVA 308 causes at least partial cancellation of the vibration of the x-ray source 306 and / or gantry 302. By canceling at least partial vibration of the x-ray source 306 and / or gantry 302, the amount of noise generated by the imaging system 300 may be reduced and / or the image quality may be improved. To configure DVA 308 to vibrate at approximately the same frequency as the x-ray source 306 and / or gantry 302, DVA 308 may include components configured to be replaced with similar components having different mass and / or stiffness. For example, DVA 308 may include multiple mass adjustment sections (e.g., plates), and one or more of the mass adjustment sections may be replaced with corresponding different mass adjustment sections with different weights (e.g., heavier or lighter components) to increase or decrease the vibration frequency of DVA 308. As another example, DVA 308 may include one or more biasing members (e.g., springs), and one or more biasing members may be replaced with corresponding different biasing members with different stiffnesses (e.g., different spring constants). In some examples, DVA 308 may include mass adjustment sections and biasing members, such that adjusting the vibration frequency of DVA 308 may include replacing one or more of the mass adjustment sections, replacing one or more of the biasing members, or both. Examples of DVAs similar to DVA 308 that include mass adjustment sections and biasing members are referenced below. Figures 4 to 8 describe.

[0047] See also Figures 4 to 5 The diagram illustrates a dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) 400 for an imaging system. In some examples, the DVA 400 may be included in the aforementioned imaging system (e.g., Figure 1 The imaging system 100 shown Figure 2 The imaging system 200 and / or shown Figure 3 In the imaging system 300 shown. For example. Figure 3 As shown, and as described above, the DVA 308 can be used with... Figures 4 to 5 The DVA 400 shown is the same. Figure 4 A perspective view of the DVA 400 is shown, and Figure 5 An end view of the DVA 400 is shown. Reference axis 499 is included for comparison with the view shown.

[0048] DVA 400 includes multiple segments configured to set the vibration characteristics (e.g., vibration frequency) of DVA 400. For example, DVA 400 includes a first segment 450, a second segment 452, and a third segment 454, wherein the first segment 450 includes a first upper portion 402, a second upper portion 404, a third upper portion 406, a fourth upper portion 408, and a fifth upper portion 410 arranged in layers, the second segment 452 includes a central portion 412, and the third segment 454 includes a first lower portion 422 and a second lower portion 424 arranged in layers. The second segment 452 is disposed between each of the first segment 450 and the third segment 454 in the direction between the upper surface 451 and the opposite lower surface 453 of the DVA 400 (e.g., the z-axis direction of the reference axis 499, wherein, in the case where the DVA 400 is coupled to the imaging system, the z-axis extends in the radial direction of the central axis of the imaging system (such as the central axis 310 mentioned above).

[0049] The DVA 400 can be coupled to an imaging system at the second segment 452 (e.g., directly coupled to the X-ray tube of the imaging system, or coupled adjacent to the X-ray tube at the frame of the imaging system). The central portion 412 of the second segment 452 includes a first arm 414 having a first mounting member 418 (e.g., a first opening) and an opposing second arm 416 having a second mounting member 420 (e.g., a second opening). The first mounting member 418 and the second mounting member 420 can each be arranged to align with a corresponding mounting surface of the X-ray tube, X-ray tube housing, or frame, and corresponding fasteners (e.g., bolts) can be inserted through each of the first mounting member 418 and the second mounting member 420 to secure (e.g., mount) the DVA 400 to the X-ray tube, X-ray tube housing, or frame. The first arm 414 is spaced apart from the first segment 450 by a first gap 442 (e.g., spaced apart), and the first arm 414 is spaced apart from the third segment 454 by an opposing second gap 444. The second arm 416 is separated from the first segment 450 by a third gap 446, and the second arm 416 is separated from the third segment 454 by an opposing fourth gap 448.

[0050] In this configuration, the first arm 414 and the second arm 416 can be held in place (e.g., remain stationary) relative to the surface on which the DVA 400 is mounted (e.g., the mounting surface of the x-ray tube, x-ray tube housing, or rack), while the first segment 450 and the third segment 454 can move (e.g., vibrate) relative to the first arm 414 and the second arm 416. Thus, the first arm 414 and the second arm 416 can act as corresponding biasing members of the DVA 400. Figures 4 to 5In the example shown, DVA 400 is in an unloaded state (e.g., no vibration load is applied to DVA 400 and the components of DVA 400 are not vibrating). However, when a load (e.g., vibration) is applied to DVA 400 such that the first segment 450 and the third segment 454 move together with the first arm 414 and the second arm 416 (e.g., in a first direction 461 parallel to the z-axis direction of the reference axis 499), the first arm 414 and the second arm 416 apply a restoring force to the first segment 450 and the third segment 454 opposite to the direction of movement of the first segment 450 and the third segment 454 (e.g., the restoring force pushes the first segment 450 and the third segment 454 in a second direction 463 opposite to the first direction 461). The first arm 414 and the second arm 416 are used to restore DVA 400 to its original position. Figures 4 to 5 The state shown (e.g., the state in which the first segment 450 and the third segment 454 do not deform or move due to the load applied to the DVA 400).

[0051] The components of the first segment 450, the second segment 452, and the third segment 454 of the DVA 400 can be joined together via corresponding fasteners (e.g., bolts) inserted through channels 434 and 436. Channel 434 extends along axis 426 from the upper surface 451 to the lower surface 453 through each portion of the DVA 400, and opens at an opening 430 on the upper surface 451 and an opening 438 on the lower surface 453. Similarly, channel 436 extends along axis 428 from the upper surface 451 to the lower surface 453 through each portion of the DVA 400, and opens at an opening 432 on the upper surface 451 and an opening 440 on the lower surface 453. As described above, the fasteners provided in channels 434 and 436 connect the first segment 450, the second segment 452, and the third segment 454 together, maintaining the relative arrangement of the components of each segment (e.g., holding the second segment 452 between the first segment 450 and the third segment 454), and further increasing the ease of removing components of one or more segments, as described below.

[0052] Each segment of the DVA 400 (e.g., the first segment 450, the second segment 452, and the third segment 454) contributes to the vibration characteristics of the DVA 400. The mass of the DVA 400 generated by the individual segments can be selected to provide the desired vibration characteristics of the DVA 400. For example, the first upper portion 402, the fifth upper portion 410, the first lower portion 422, and the second lower portion 424 may each have a mass greater than that of the second upper portion 404, the third upper portion 406, and the fourth upper portion 408. In some examples, the first upper portion 402, the fifth upper portion 410, the first lower portion 422, and the second lower portion 424 may each have a mass of approximately 0.5 kg. The first upper portion 402, the fifth upper portion 410, the first lower portion 422, and the second lower portion 424 may each be formed of a material with a higher density (e.g., steel), while the central portion 412, including the first arm 414 and the second arm 416, may be formed of a material with a lower density (e.g., aluminum). Furthermore, each of the second upper portion 404, the third upper portion 406, and the fourth upper portion 408 may be formed of a first material with a higher density, but may have a lower thickness relative to each of the first upper portion 402, the fifth upper portion 410, the first lower portion 422, and the second lower portion 424.

[0053] DVA 400 can be configured such that the combined mass of the first upper portion 402, the fifth upper portion 410, the first lower portion 422, and the second lower portion 424 causes DVA 400 to vibrate at a frequency close to (e.g., within 10%) the vibration frequency of a component of the imaging system (e.g., the X-ray tube, the X-ray tube housing, and / or the gantry), and to vibrate out of phase relative to that component, when a vibration load is applied to DVA 400. The selection of the mass of the larger components of DVA 400 (such as the mass of the first upper portion 402, the fifth upper portion 410, the first lower portion 422, and the second lower portion 424) may be referred to herein as the coarse tuning of DVA 400.

[0054] To further adjust the vibration frequency of the DVA 400 to be approximately the same as that of components of the imaging system on which the DVA 400 is mounted (e.g., an X-ray tube, X-ray tube housing, or gantry), the DVA 400 includes a second upper portion 404, a third upper portion 406, and a fourth upper portion 408, each having a smaller mass relative to the first upper portion 402, the fifth upper portion 410, the first lower portion 422, and the second lower portion 424. One or more of the second upper portion 404, the third upper portion 406, and the fourth upper portion 408 may be removed from the DVA 400 or replaced with similar portions of different masses (e.g., higher or lower mass) to adjust the vibration frequency of the DVA 400.

[0055] Because each of the second upper portion 404, the third upper portion 406, and the fourth upper portion 408 has a smaller mass relative to each of the first upper portion 402, the fifth upper portion 410, the first lower portion 422, and the second lower portion 424, removing or replacing one of the second upper portion 404, the third upper portion 406, or the fourth upper portion 408 results in a relatively small adjustment to the vibration frequency of the DVA 400, while removing or replacing one of the first upper portion 402, the fifth upper portion 410, the first lower portion 422, or the second lower portion 424 results in a relatively large adjustment to the vibration frequency. Adjusting the vibration frequency by removing or replacing one or more of the second upper portion 404, the third upper portion 406, or the fourth upper portion 408 as described above may be referred to herein as fine-tuning of the DVA 400.

[0056] As an example of configuring DVA 400 to reduce vibration of an imaging system, an operator (e.g., a technician) can connect DVA 400 to the x-ray tube via first mounting bracket 418 and second mounting bracket 420. The operator can connect a vibration measuring device (e.g., an accelerometer transducer) to the x-ray tube and can configure DVA 400 via coarse adjustment (e.g., removing or replacing one or more of the first upper portion 402, the fifth upper portion 410, the first lower portion 422, and the second lower portion 424) such that the vibration frequency of DVA 400 is close to the vibration frequency of the x-ray tube (e.g., within 10% of the x-ray tube's vibration frequency). The operator can then configure the DVA 400 via fine-tuning (e.g., removing or replacing one or more of the second upper portion 404, the third upper portion 406, or the fourth upper portion 408) to adjust the vibration frequency of the DVA 400 to be approximately the same as the vibration frequency of the X-ray tube (e.g., within 5% or less of the X-ray tube's vibration frequency). In this configuration, when the imaging system is operated to image a subject, the DVA 400 vibrates at approximately the same frequency as the X-ray tube, wherein the vibration of the DVA 400 is out of phase relative to the X-ray tube's vibration (e.g., 180 degrees out of phase). Therefore, the net vibration of the imaging system is reduced, which can reduce noise generated by the imaging system and / or increase image quality (e.g., reduce image blur).

[0057] As described above, the DVA 400 can be positioned very close to the mounting location of the X-ray tube (e.g., approximately at the same location as the X-ray tube mounting location). In this configuration, the portion of the DVA 400 positioned at the mounting location moves in the same in-phase relationship as the mounting portion of the X-ray tube (e.g., approximately zero phase shift). When the DVA 400 is not coupled to the imaging system, the drive point transfer function of the force generated by the X-ray tube has alternating resonances with anti-resonance. Near the resonant frequency, the displacement response of the X-ray tube relative to the forced function (as the force changes from a lower frequency to a higher frequency) transitions from in-phase to out-of-phase between force and motion. Near the anti-resonant frequency, the displacement response of the X-ray tube (as the force changes from a lower frequency to a higher frequency) conversely transitions from out-of-phase to in-phase. The anti-resonant frequency is the frequency at which the displacement response is very small, although the forced function from the X-ray tube rotor has some significant input. By coupling the DVA 400 to the imaging system, vibrations can be counteracted by shifting the anti-resonance at the X-ray tube mounting point to occur at approximately the same frequency as the rotor rotation speed. For example, the DVA 400 can be tuned to have an appropriate resonant frequency (e.g., via coarse and fine tuning) and appropriate mass, such that the DVA 400's resonance alters the frame's vibration characteristics and shifts the anti-resonant frequency to occur at the rotor's rotational speed, thereby reducing the net vibration of the imaging system.

[0058] By connecting the DVA 400 adjacent to the x-ray tube in the imaging system, the vibration amplitude of the DVA 400 can be more closely matched to that of the x-ray tube. For example, arranging the DVA 400 further away from the x-ray tube reduces the amount of vibration load exerted on the DVA 400 by the x-ray tube. Therefore, the vibration amplitude of the DVA 400 can be reduced relative to the x-ray tube, and the amount of vibration cancellation provided by the DVA 400 (e.g., due to the out-of-phase vibration of the DVA 400 relative to the x-ray tube) can be reduced. However, by connecting the DVA 400 adjacent to the x-ray tube in the imaging system (e.g., directly to the x-ray tube or the x-ray tube housing), the vibration amplitude of the DVA 400 can be increased, and the noise reduction due to the constructive interference of the vibrations of the DVA 400 and the x-ray tube can be increased.

[0059] Now see together Figures 6 to 8 Another dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) 600 is shown. Specifically, Figure 6 A perspective view of the DVA 600 is shown. Figure 7 It shows along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view of DVA 600 along axis 690 is shown, and Figure 8An end view of the DVA 600 is shown, including dotted shading to indicate the portion of the DVA 600 that moves in response to a vibrational load applied to the DVA 600. The DVA 600 may be included in imaging systems (such as...) Figure 1 The imaging system 100 shown Figure 2 The imaging system 200 shown Figure 3 In the imaging system 300 shown and described above. For example, the above reference Figure 3 The DVA 308 may be similar to (or identical to) the DVA 600. Reference axis 699 is included. Figures 6 to 8 The views shown are compared in the middle.

[0060] DVA 600 includes a first segment 692, a second segment 694, and a third segment 696. The first segment 692 includes an upper portion 682, the second segment 694 includes a central portion 684, and the third segment 696 includes a lower portion 686. The upper portion 682, the central portion 684, and the lower portion 686 are arranged in layers such that the central portion 684 is positioned between the upper portion 682 and the lower portion 686 in a direction between the upper surface 606 and the opposite lower surface 608 of DVA 600 (e.g., the z-axis direction of reference axis 699, where, in the case of DVA 600 being coupled to an imaging system, the z-axis extends in the radial direction of the central axis of the imaging system (such as the central axis 310 described above).

[0061] In some examples, the first segment 692, the second segment 694, and the third segment 696 of the DVA 600 can be formed together from a single piece of material (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.) (e.g., by cutting, molding, etc.). For example, the DVA 600 can be formed by wire electrical discharge machining. This is because the DVA 600 is configured to be coupled to the imaging system at a position offset from the central axis of the imaging system (e.g., an X-ray tube configured to be coupled to the imaging system, similar to...). Figure 3 As shown and in the position of DVA 308 described above, the centrifugal force applied to DVA 600 due to the rotation of the imaging system's frame can be relatively high (e.g., up to 70 times the weight of DVA 600). By forming DVA 600 from a single piece of material, the durability of DVA 600 can be increased, and the weight of the parts of DVA 600 not configured for vibration can be reduced.

[0062] The DVA 600 includes a first arm 651 and a second arm 653, wherein the first arm 651 includes a first mounting member 628 disposed within a recess 624 and a second mounting member 630 disposed within a recess 626, and wherein the second arm 653 includes a third mounting member 658 disposed within a recess 670 and a fourth mounting member 660 disposed within a recess 672. The first mounting member 628 includes a first opening 636, the second mounting member 630 includes a second opening 638, the third mounting member 658 includes a third opening 666, and the fourth mounting member 660 includes a fourth opening 668, wherein the first opening 636, the second opening 638, the third opening 666, and the fourth opening 668 are each configured to receive a corresponding fastener (e.g., a bolt) for coupling the DVA 600 to an imaging system (e.g., coupling the DVA 600 to an X-ray tube, X-ray tube housing, or frame). The first end 602 and the opposing second end 604 of the DVA 600 may each be shaped (e.g., bent) to allow the DVA 600 to be mounted close to other components of the imaging system (e.g., sensors and other devices) while still maintaining the DVA 600's ability to reduce vibration of the x-ray tube, x-ray tube housing, and / or frame. In some examples, the DVA 600 also includes a fifth mounting member 610 having a fifth opening 612 and a sixth mounting member 614 having a sixth opening 616, wherein the fifth opening 612 and the sixth opening 616 are each configured to receive a corresponding fastener. Each fastener coupled to the fifth opening 612 and the sixth opening 616 may be positioned within the corresponding opening and spaced apart from the corresponding opening by a gap (e.g., a notch between the outer surface of the fastener and the inner surface of the opening). In this configuration, fasteners enhance the connection configuration between the DVA 600 and the rack (e.g., in addition to fasteners inserted through the first opening 636, the second opening 638, the third opening 666, and the fourth opening 668, they also provide support for connecting the DVA 600 to the rack).

[0063] The first arm 651 and the central portion 684 are separated (e.g., spaced apart) by a gap 618 extending in the direction between the first end 602 and the second end 604 of the DVA 600. The gap 618 includes a first portion 619 positioned toward the first end 602 and extending generally parallel to the upper surface 606 (e.g., in a direction parallel to the x-axis of the reference axis 699), a second portion 632 positioned around the first mount 628 and following the curvature of the first mount 628, a third portion 620 extending between the first mount 628 and the second mount 630 and parallel to the first portion 619, a fourth portion 634 positioned around the second mount 630 and following the curvature of the second mount 630, and a fifth portion 622 positioned toward the second end 604 and parallel to the first portion 619 and the third portion 620. Each of the first part 619, the second part 632, the third part 620, the fourth part 634, and the fifth part 622 engages (e.g., not closed or not separated by one or more walls, surfaces, etc.) such that the gap 618 is a single continuous opening (e.g., a slot) extending through the thickness of the DVA 600 (e.g., in the y-axis direction of the reference axis 699).

[0064] The second arm 653 and the central portion 684 are separated (e.g., spaced apart) by a gap 652 extending in the direction between the first end 602 and the second end 604 of the DVA 600. The gap 652 includes a first portion 655 positioned toward the first end 602 and extending generally parallel to the lower surface 608 (e.g., in a direction parallel to the x-axis of the reference axis 699), a second portion 662 positioned around the third mount 658 and following the curvature of the third mount 658, a third portion 654 extending between the third mount 658 and the fourth mount 660 and parallel to the first portion 655, a fourth portion 664 positioned around the fourth mount 660 and following the curvature of the fourth mount 660, and a fifth portion 656 positioned toward the second end 604 and parallel to the first portion 655 and the third portion 654. Each of the first part 655, the second part 662, the third part 654, the fourth part 664, and the fifth part 656 joins (e.g., not closed or not separated by one or more walls, surfaces, etc.) such that the gap 652 is a single continuous opening (e.g., a slot) extending through the thickness of the DVA 600 (e.g., in the y-axis direction of the reference axis 699).

[0065] In the above configuration, when the DVA 600 is coupled to an imaging system (e.g., to an X-ray tube, X-ray tube housing, and / or frame) via a first mounting member 628, a second mounting member 630, a third mounting member 658, and a fourth mounting member 660, the first arm 651 and the second arm 653 can remain substantially stationary relative to the mounting surface to which the DVA 600 is coupled, while the central portion 684 can move (e.g., vibrate) due to the central portion 684 being spaced from the first arm 651 by a gap 618 and due to the central portion 684 being spaced from the second arm 653 by a gap 652. Furthermore, the DVA 600 may include one or more biasing members (e.g., springs) configured to apply a restoring force to the central portion 684 in the event of movement of the central portion 684 due to a vibrational load applied to the DVA 600. The biasing members may be oriented towards... Figures 6 to 8 The position shown pushes the central portion 684, which is centered between the first arm 651 and the second arm 653. In some examples, gaps 618 and 652 may each have a length of 2 mm in the direction from the upper surface 606 to the lower surface 608 (e.g., the z-axis direction of the reference axis 699), and in the event that the central portion 684 moves due to the vibration load applied to the DVA 600, the central portion 664 may move 0.5 mm or less in the length direction of gaps 618 and 652 (e.g., the z-axis direction of the reference axis 699).

[0066] The biasing member of DVA 600 can be positioned within the third segment 620 of gap 618. In the above configuration, DVA 600 includes a recess 644 disposed at the upper surface 606. First channel 640 and second channel 642 ( Figure 7 (As shown) Extending from the central portion 684 through the first arm 651, and opening at the recess 644. A first biasing member 678 (e.g., a first spring) may be disposed within the first channel 640, and a second biasing member 680 (e.g., a second spring) may be disposed within the second channel 642. The first biasing member 678 and the second biasing member 680 may be held within the first channel 640 and the second channel 642 respectively by a cover 646 disposed within the recess 644 and connected to the DVA 600 by a first fastener 648 and a second fastener 650 (e.g., bolts).

[0067] To adjust the vibration characteristics of the DVA 600 (e.g., the vibration frequency of the DVA 600 in response to vibrations applied to the DVA 600 by the imaging system), one or more of the first bias member 678 and the second bias member 680 may be removed or replaced. For example, the first bias member 678 may be replaced with a bias member of different stiffness (e.g., a spring) to adjust the vibration characteristics of the DVA 600. The removal or replacement of the first bias member 678 and / or the second bias member 680 to adjust the vibration characteristics of the DVA 600 may be referred to herein as fine-tuning of the DVA 600. Significant adjustments to the vibration characteristics of the DVA 600 (e.g., coarse adjustment of the DVA 600, similar to the coarse adjustment of the DVA 400 described above) can be performed by adjusting the thickness of the first arm 651, the second arm 653, and / or the center portion 684 (e.g., the thickness in the z-axis direction of the reference axis 699) (e.g., by removing material from the first arm 651, the second arm 653, and / or the center portion 684) and / or widening the gaps 618 and / or 652. For example, during the manufacture of the DVA 600, the dimensions of the gaps 618 and 652 (e.g., the widths of the gaps 618 and 652 in the x-axis direction parallel to the reference axis 699, from the first end 602 to the second end 604) can be selected based on the predetermined vibration characteristics of the imaging system to which the DVA 600 is coupled.

[0068] As an example, DVA 600 can be configured to reduce vibration in an imaging system including an X-ray tube driven at a relatively high speed, causing the X-ray tube to vibrate at a frequency of 180 Hz. The thicknesses of the first arm 651, the second arm 653, and / or the central portion 684, as well as the dimensions of the gaps 618 and 652, can be selected to coarsely adjust the vibration characteristics of DVA 600 (e.g., adjusting the vibration characteristics by a larger first amount) so that DVA 600 vibrates at a frequency close to 180 Hz (e.g., within 10% of 180 Hz). Furthermore, the stiffness of the first bias member 678 and the second bias member 680 can be selected to finely adjust the vibration characteristics of DVA 600 (e.g., adjusting the vibration characteristics by a smaller second amount) so that DVA 600 responds violently (e.g., vibrates) at approximately 180 Hz. Therefore, DVA 600 can counteract vibration at a desired location on the imaging system (e.g., reduce vibration) while the X-ray tube operates at 180 Hz.

[0069] To illustrate the motion of the various parts of the DVA 600 relative to each other when a vibration load is applied to the DVA 600 (e.g., due to vibration of surfaces to which the DVA 600 is attached, such as an X-ray tube), Figure 8An end view of the DVA 600 is shown. The DVA 600 is shown with dotted shadows of different sizes at various portions, where portions shaded by larger dotted shadows can vibrate by a larger amount, while portions shaded by smaller dotted shadows can vibrate by a smaller amount. Because the first mount 628, the second mount 630, the third mount 658, and the fourth mount 660 are configured to be fixedly mounted to the mounting surface of the imaging system (e.g., an X-ray tube, X-ray tube housing, or frame), the first mount 628, the second mount 630, the third mount 658, and the fourth mount 660 experience very little (or zero) vibration when a vibrational load is applied to the DVA 600. Therefore, the first mount 628, the second mount 630, the third mount 658, and the fourth mount 660 are shown without dots. However, as described above, the central portion 684 can vibrate in response to a vibrational load applied to the DVA 600 (e.g., due to...). Figure 7 The first biasing member 678 and the second biasing member 680 shown, and the central portion 684 separated from the first arm 651 by a gap 618 and from the second arm 653 by a gap 652, are thus shown with redrawn dots. The portions of the first arm 651 and the second arm 653 positioned closer to the first end 602 and the second end 604 may experience a greater amount of vibration than the portions positioned toward the mounts (e.g., the first mount 628, the second mount 630, the third mount 658, and the fourth mount 660), as indicated by the gradually increasing dot size applied to the first arm 651 and the second arm 653 in a direction away from the mounts and toward the first end 602 and the second end 604.

[0070] Similar to the example above, when a vibration load is applied to the DVA 600 (e.g., force is applied to the DVA 600 due to vibration of other components of the imaging system, such as the X-ray tube), the DVA 600 is configured to vibrate at approximately the same frequency as the applied vibration but out of phase with respect to the applied vibration. In some examples, the DVA 600 may vibrate 180 degrees out of phase with respect to the vibration applied to the DVA 600 (e.g., the vibration load). In this configuration, the DVA 600 may counteract at least a portion of the vibration load (e.g., reduce the vibration response of the imaging system), resulting in a reduction in the net vibration of the imaging system.

[0071] Although this article describes Figures 4 to 5 The DVA 400 shown and Figures 6 to 8 The DVA shown is different in some implementations. Figure 3 The DVA 308 shown may include a removable and / or replaceable quality adjustment section (e.g., similar to...). Figure 4The second upper portion 404, the third upper portion 406, the fourth upper portion 408, etc., shown and described above, and removable and / or replaceable biasing members (e.g., Figure 7 As shown above, the first biasing member 678 and the second biasing member 680 are described.

[0072] See Figures 9 to 12 Various graphs are shown illustrating the vibration characteristics of the X-ray source and gantry of the imaging system with and without the dynamic vibration absorber connected to it. Specifically, Figure 9 A graph 900 is shown, which illustrates the relationship between the overall acceleration amplitude of the X-ray source (e.g., the acceleration caused by the vibration of the X-ray tube) and the operating speed of the X-ray source. Figure 10 Figure 1000 is shown, which illustrates the relationship between the overall acceleration amplitude of the gantry (e.g., acceleration caused by gantry vibration) and the operating speed of the X-ray radiation source; Figure 11 Figure 1100 shows the relationship between the acceleration amplitude of the X-ray source with first harmonic vibration and the operating speed of the X-ray source; and Figure 12 Figure 1200 is shown, illustrating the relationship between the gantry acceleration amplitude of the first harmonic oscillation and the operating speed of the X-ray source. (Referencing...) Figures 9 to 12 In the example described, the dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) can be the aforementioned DVA (e.g., Figure 3 The DVA 308 shown Figures 4 to 5 The DVA 400 shown Figures 6 to 8 Any of the DVA 600, etc. shown. The imaging system can be similar to... Figure 1 The imaging system 100 shown Figure 2 The imaging system 200 and / or shown Figure 3 The imaging system 300 shown is (or is the same as it). The X-ray radiation source may be similar to the example above (e.g., Figure 3 The X-ray radiation source 306 shown and / or Figures 1 to 2 The X-ray radiation source shown is 104, and may be referred to herein as an X-ray tube. The gantry may be similar to... Figures 1 to 2 The rack 102 and / or shown Figure 3 The rack 302 shown.

[0073] Figure 9The graph 900 shown includes curves 902 and 904, where curve 902 indicates the relationship between the acceleration amplitude of the x-ray source and the operating speed of the x-ray source when the imaging system does not include a DVA, and curve 904 indicates the relationship when the imaging system includes a DVA (e.g., the DVA is connected to the x-ray tube, the x-ray tube housing (such as...)). Figure 3 The relationship between the acceleration amplitude of the X-ray source and the operating speed of the X-ray source is illustrated in the case of the housing 307 or frame shown. The acceleration amplitude of the X-ray source refers to the acceleration of the X-ray source caused by the vibration of the X-ray tube at various frequencies (including but not limited to the rotational frequency of the rotor of the X-ray tube (e.g., the operating speed of the X-ray source)).

[0074] As shown by curve 902, when the DVA is not connected to the imaging system, the acceleration of the X-ray source can be relatively high for various operating velocities of the X-ray source (e.g., in the range between x1 and x2, where in one example x1 might correspond to 150 Hz and x2 might correspond to 180 Hz), where higher acceleration corresponds to higher oscillation frequencies. However, as shown by curve 904, connecting the DVA to the imaging system can significantly reduce the acceleration of the X-ray source, which can significantly reduce the oscillation frequency of the X-ray source. For example, for X-ray operating velocities between x1 and x2, the DVA can reduce the acceleration of the X-ray source from y2 (which might correspond to 1 m / s²) to y1 (which might correspond to 0.5 m / s²).

[0075] In addition, such as Figure 10 As shown in graph 1000, the DVA can further reduce the gantry acceleration amplitude (e.g., acceleration caused by vibration), thereby reducing gantry vibration (e.g., reducing vibration frequency, reducing vibration amplitude, etc.). Curve 1002 shows the relationship between gantry acceleration amplitude and X-ray source operating speed when the imaging system does not include the DVA, and curve 1004 shows the relationship between gantry acceleration amplitude and X-ray source operating speed when the imaging system includes the DVA (e.g., the DVA is connected to the imaging system as described above). For example, for X-ray operating speeds between x1 and x2, the DVA can reduce the gantry acceleration amplitude caused by gantry vibration from y4 (which may correspond to 3 m / s^2) to y3 (which may correspond to 1.5 m / s^2).

[0076] Although graphs 900 and 1000 show the acceleration of the X-ray source and gantry for various X-ray source operating speeds, the acceleration amplitudes shown in graphs 900 and 1000 include accelerations caused by all vibration frequencies (e.g., combinations of harmonic frequencies). However, Figure 11 The curves shown in graph 1100 and Figure 12 The graph 1200 illustrates the acceleration amplitude caused solely by the first harmonic frequency (e.g., the frequency corresponding to the rotational speed of the rotor of the X-ray tube for a given X-ray source operating speed). Specifically, graph 1100 includes curve 1102, which shows the relationship between the X-ray source acceleration amplitude associated with the first harmonic and the X-ray source operating speed when the imaging system does not include a DVA, and curve 1104, which shows the relationship between the X-ray source acceleration amplitude associated with the first harmonic and the X-ray source operating speed when the imaging system includes a DVA (e.g., the DVA is coupled to the imaging system as described above). Graph 1200 includes curve 1202, which shows the relationship between the gantry acceleration amplitude associated with the first harmonic and the X-ray source operating speed when the imaging system does not include a DVA, and curve 1204, which shows the relationship between the gantry acceleration amplitude associated with the first harmonic and the X-ray source operating speed when the imaging system includes a DVA (e.g., the DVA is coupled to the imaging system as described above). For both the X-ray radiation source and the gantry, DVA significantly reduces the acceleration caused by first harmonic vibrations. Therefore, it reduces the amount of noise generated by the imaging system and increases the durability of the imaging system components.

[0077] See Figure 13 This illustrates various mass adjustment sections and biasing components that may be included in the aforementioned Dynamic Vibration Absorber (DVA). In some examples, the mass adjustment sections and biasing components may be included as a set of components. For example, the first set 1300 mass adjustment section includes a first mass adjustment section 1309 (which may be referenced above). Figures 4 to 5 The second upper portion 404 is the same as described above, the second mass adjustment portion 1310 and the third mass adjustment portion 1312. The second group 1302 mass adjustment portion includes a fourth mass adjustment portion 1313 (which can be referenced above). Figures 4 to 5 The first lower portion 422 is the same as the first mass adjustment portion 422), the fifth mass adjustment portion 1314, and the sixth mass adjustment portion 1316. The third group 1304 biasing members include the first biasing member 1317 (which can be connected to...). Figure 7 The first biasing member 678 is the same, the second biasing member 1318 and the third biasing member 1320 are the same.

[0078] Referring to the first group 1300, the first mass adjustment portion 1309 includes a top surface 1322 and a bottom surface 1328 opposite to the top surface. The top surface 1322 includes a protrusion 1324. The protrusion 1324 is configured to make surface-shared contact with the bottom surface of the center portion of the second segment of the DVA (such as the center portion 412 of the second segment 452 of the DVA 400). The protrusion 1324 may protrude over the remainder of the top surface 1322 by an appropriate amount that provides clearance for movement of the fourth mass adjustment portion 1313 relative to the second segment of the DVA, as described above regarding Figure 4 The protrusion 1324 also includes two through holes, namely a first through hole 1326a and a second through hole 1326b. When the first mass adjustment portion 1309 is mounted in the DVA (e.g., DVA 400), the through holes can each form part of a corresponding channel through which a corresponding fastener can be inserted to hold the components of the DVA in place. The bottom surface 1328 can be configured to share surface contact with the top surface of another mass adjustment portion (such as the second lower portion 424) when the first mass adjustment portion 1309 is mounted in the DVA.

[0079] The first mass adjustment portion 1309 may have a length extending along the x-axis (shown in coordinate set 1399), a width extending along the y-axis, and a height extending along the z-axis. The first mass adjustment portion 1309 may be made of a high-density material such as steel and may have a first height H1, which causes the first mass adjustment portion to have a first mass.

[0080] Group 1300 includes two additional mass adjustment portions having a different mass than the first mass adjustment portion: a second mass adjustment portion 1310 and a third mass adjustment portion 1312. Each of the second mass adjustment portion 1310 and the third mass adjustment portion 1312 may have a top surface, a protrusion on the top surface, two through holes, and a bottom surface similar to the first mass adjustment portion 1309. Furthermore, the second mass adjustment portion 1310 and the third mass adjustment portion 1312 may each have the same length and width as the first mass adjustment portion 1309. The second mass adjustment portion 1310 may have the same height (H1) as the first mass adjustment portion 1309, while the third mass adjustment portion 1312 may have a different height (H2). The height H2 of the third mass adjustment portion 1312 may be greater than the height H1 of the first mass adjustment portion 1309. The second mass adjusting portion 1310 may be made of a material with a lower density than the first mass adjusting portion 1309 (e.g., aluminum), and / or the second mass adjusting portion 1310 may include internal voids, which may allow the second mass adjusting portion 1310 to have a lower mass than the first mass adjusting portion 1309. The third mass adjusting portion 1312 may be made of the same high-density material as the first mass adjusting portion 1309, but due to the increased height of the third mass adjusting portion 1312, the third mass adjusting portion 1312 may have an increased mass relative to the first mass adjusting portion.

[0081] Thus, the first group 1300 can include three different mass adjustment sections, each with a different mass. When tuning the vibration characteristics of the DVA, one of the mass adjustment sections of the first group 1300 can be selected and installed in the DVA, which can provide the desired vibration characteristics to match and counteract the vibration of the rack on which the DVA is mounted.

[0082] Although three mass-adjusting portions are shown in the first group 1300, the first group 1300 may include more or fewer mass-adjusting portions without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, each of the mass-adjusting portions in the first group 1300 may have the same dimensions but may have different masses due to different material compositions. In other examples (such as...) Figure 13 In the example shown, two or more of the mass adjustment sections in the first group 1300 may have different dimensions (e.g., different heights), which may result in the mass adjustment sections having different masses.

[0083] Referring now to the second group 1302, the fourth mass adjustment portion 1313 includes a top surface 1330 and a bottom surface 1332 opposite to the top surface. The top surface 1330 is configured to share a surface contact with the bottom surface of the first upper portion of the first segment of the DVA (such as the first upper portion 402 of the first segment 450 of DVA 400). The top surface 1330 also includes two through holes, namely a first through hole 1334a and a second through hole 1334b. When the fourth mass adjustment portion 1313 is installed in the DVA (e.g., DVA 400), the through holes can each form part of a corresponding channel through which a corresponding fastener can be inserted to hold the components of the DVA in place. The bottom surface 1332 can be configured to share a surface contact with the top surface of another mass adjustment portion (such as the third upper portion 406) when the fourth mass adjustment portion 1313 is installed in the DVA.

[0084] The fourth mass adjustment section 1313 may have a length extending along the x-axis (shown in coordinate set 1399), a width extending along the y-axis, and a height extending along the z-axis. The fourth mass adjustment section 1313 may be made of a high-density material such as steel and may have a third height that is less than the first and second heights described above, which gives the fourth mass adjustment section a third mass.

[0085] The second group 1302 includes two additional mass adjustment sections having a different mass than the fourth mass adjustment section, namely a fifth mass adjustment section 1314 and a sixth mass adjustment section 1316. Each of the fifth mass adjustment section 1314 and the sixth mass adjustment section 1316 may have a top surface, two through holes, and a bottom surface similar to the fourth mass adjustment section 1313. Furthermore, the fifth mass adjustment section 1314 and the sixth mass adjustment section 1316 may each have the same length and width as the fourth mass adjustment section 1313. The fifth mass adjustment section 1314 may have the same height as the fourth mass adjustment section 1313, while the sixth mass adjustment section 1316 may have a different height. The height of the sixth mass adjustment section 1316 may be greater than the height of the fourth mass adjustment section 1313. The fifth mass adjusting portion 1314 may be made of a material with a lower density than the fourth mass adjusting portion 1313 (e.g., aluminum), and / or the fifth mass adjusting portion 1314 may include internal voids, which may allow the fifth mass adjusting portion 1314 to have a lower mass than the fourth mass adjusting portion 1313. The sixth mass adjusting portion 1316 may be made of the same high-density material as the fourth mass adjusting portion 1313, but due to the increased height of the sixth mass adjusting portion 1316, the sixth mass adjusting portion 1316 may have an increased mass relative to the fourth mass adjusting portion.

[0086] Thus, the second group 1302 may include three different mass adjustment sections, each with a different mass. When tuning the vibration characteristics of the DVA, one of the mass adjustment sections of the second group 1302 can be selected and installed in the DVA, which can provide the desired vibration characteristics to match and counteract the vibration of the rack on which the DVA is mounted.

[0087] Although three mass-adjusting portions are shown in the second group 1302, the second group 1302 may include more or fewer mass-adjusting portions without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, each of the mass-adjusting portions in the second group 1302 may have the same dimensions but may have different masses due to different material compositions. In other examples (such as...) Figure 13 In the example shown, two or more of the mass adjustment sections in the second group 1302 may have different dimensions (e.g., different heights), which may result in the mass adjustment sections having different masses.

[0088] Additionally, although the first group 1300 is described above as including a mass adjustment portion configured to include or replace the second upper portion 404, and the second group 1302 is described above as including a mass adjustment portion configured to include or replace the first lower portion 422, other mass adjustment portions of the DVA 400 described above may also be included as part of a set of replaceable mass adjustment portions, each of which has a different mass but is configured (e.g., due to size, the location of the through-hole, the presence or absence of a protrusion, etc.) to be installed in the same location on the DVA.

[0089] The third group 1304 includes a plurality of biasing members, including a first biasing member 1317, a second biasing member 1318, and a third biasing member 1320, each configured to be mounted in a DVA (such as DVA 600). The first biasing member 1317 may have a first height H1 extending along the z-axis, a length extending along the x-axis, and a width extending along the y-axis. The first biasing member 1317 may be configured to be positioned in a channel of the DVA (such as a first channel 640 of DVA 600) and may be configured to contact a cover of the DVA (e.g., cover 646) at a top portion of the biasing member and to contact the bottom surface of a recess of the DVA (e.g., recess 644) at a bottom portion of the biasing member.

[0090] Similarly, the second bias member 1318 and the third bias member 1320 may each be configured to be positioned in a channel of the DVA (such as the first channel 640 of the DVA 600), and may be configured to contact the cover (e.g., cover 646) of the DVA at the top portion of the bias member and the bottom surface of the recess (e.g., recess 644) of the DVA at the bottom portion of the bias member. The second bias member 1318 and the third bias member 1320 may each have the same length and width as the first bias member 1317. However, the second bias member 1318 may have the same height H1 as the first bias member 1317, while the third bias member 1320 may have a different height H2, which may be higher than the first height H1. The first bias member 1317 and the third bias member 1320 may each be made of the same material or may be made of materials with similar stiffness properties. The second bias member 1318 may be made of different materials with different stiffness properties. Therefore, when installed in a DVA, each of the offset members in the third group 1304 can have different stiffness / offset characteristics.

[0091] Thus, the third group 1304 may include three different bias members, each with different stiffness and / or bias characteristics. When tuning the vibration characteristics of the DVA, one of the bias members of the third group 1304 can be selected and installed in the DVA, which can provide the desired vibration characteristics to match and counteract the vibration of the rack on which the DVA is mounted.

[0092] Although three biasing members are shown in the third group 1304, the third group 1304 may include more or fewer biasing members without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, each of the biasing members in the third group 1304 may have the same dimensions but may have different stiffnesses due to different material compositions. In other examples (such as...) Figure 13 In the example shown, two or more of the bias members in the third group 1304 may have different dimensions (e.g., different heights), which may allow the bias members to have different bias characteristics when mounted in the DVA.

[0093] Additionally, although the third group 1304 is described above as including a bias member configured to include or replace the first bias member 1317, other bias members of the DVA 600 described above (e.g., the second bias member 680) may also be included as part of a group of bias members, wherein each bias member in the group of replaceable bias members has different stiffness and / or bias characteristics, but is configured (e.g., due to size) to be mounted in the same location on the DVA.

[0094] See Figure 14This paper illustrates a method 1400 for adjusting the vibration characteristics of a dynamic vibration absorber (DVA). In some examples, the DVA in method 1400 can be... Figure 4 The DVA 400 and / or shown Figure 6 As shown and mentioned above, the DVA 600.

[0095] At 1402, the vibration condition of the X-ray radiation source and the dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) of the imaging system is estimated and / or measured. The vibration condition may include vibration frequency, vibration amplitude, vibration phase, etc. The vibration condition can be determined by coupling an accelerometer to the DVA after the DVA has been mounted to (or near) the X-ray radiation source as described above. The DVA may be in a first configuration that may include selecting alternative mass adjustment and / or biasing components included in the DVA. While the gantry remains stationary, the rotor of the X-ray radiation source is rotated at a standard or target speed. The accelerometer measures the vibration condition during the rotation of the rotor of the X-ray radiation source. The accelerometer is operatively coupled to a computing device, which may in turn include or be operatively coupled to a display device. The vibration condition (e.g., vibration frequency) may be determined (e.g., by the computing device) based on the output from the accelerometer, and the determined vibration condition may be displayed on the display device.

[0096] At 1404, method 400 includes determining whether the vibration frequency of the DVA is within a first threshold range. The first threshold range can be a relatively small range near a target vibration frequency, such as + / - 2 Hz near the target vibration frequency. The target vibration frequency can be + / - 0.5 Hz. If the measured vibration frequency is within the first threshold range, method 1400 proceeds to 1408 to maintain the current DVA configuration. The current DVA configuration sufficiently reduces the vibration of the X-ray radiation source, thus not indicating DVA tuning. Method 1400 then terminates.

[0097] If the measured vibration frequency is not within the first threshold frequency, method 1400 proceeds to 1406 to determine if the vibration frequency of the DVA is within the second threshold range. The second threshold range may be a range near a target frequency greater than the first range, such as within + / - 10 Hz of the target frequency. If the vibration frequency is not within the second threshold range, method 1400 proceeds to 1410 to adjust the vibration frequency of the DVA to the second threshold range via coarse adjustment. Adjusting the vibration frequency of the DVA to the second threshold range via coarse adjustment may include removing a first mass adjustment portion of the DVA, as shown in 1414. The first mass adjustment portion may be from a first set of mass adjustment portions having a larger mass than other mass adjustment portions of the DVA. For example, the first mass adjustment portion may be a first lower portion 422 or a second lower portion 424 of the DVA 400.

[0098] Adjusting the DVA's vibration frequency to within the second threshold range via coarse adjustment may also include replacing the first lower portion (e.g., the first mass adjustment portion) with different mass adjustment portions having different masses, as shown in 1416. For example, if the first lower portion 422 is removed, it can be replaced by a second mass adjustment portion 1310 or a third mass adjustment portion 1312, each of which has a different mass than the first lower portion 422. The decision of which mass adjustment portion should replace the first mass adjustment portion (e.g., whether the replacement mass adjustment portion has a higher or lower mass than the first mass adjustment portion) may be based on the DVA's vibration frequency, such as whether the vibration frequency is greater than or less than the DVA's target frequency and / or the magnitude of the difference between the target frequency and the measured vibration frequency.

[0099] In some examples, coarsely adjusting the DVA's vibration frequency to within a second threshold range may include replacing the DVA's bias member with different bias members of varying stiffness and / or size, as shown in 1418. For example, a first bias member currently installed in the DVA (e.g., bias member 678) may be removed and replaced with a different bias member (e.g., a second bias member 1318 or a third bias member 1320). In some examples, both the first mass adjustment portion and the bias member may be replaced. In other examples, only the first mass adjustment portion or only the bias member may be replaced. In yet another example, the DVA may be coarsely adjusted by completely removing the first mass adjustment portion from the DVA, rather than removing it but not replacing it.

[0100] Returning to 1406, if the vibration frequency of the DVA is within the second threshold range, method 1400 proceeds to 1412 to fine-tune the DVA vibration frequency to within the first threshold range. In some examples, after coarsely adjusting the DVA vibration frequency to within the second threshold range, as performed at 1410, method 1400 may also proceed to 1412 to fine-tune the DVA vibration frequency. For example, after coarsely adjusting the DVA at 1410, the vibration of the DVA can be measured again by rotating the rotor of the X-ray radiation source, and if the vibration frequency is not within the first threshold range, the method may proceed to 1412.

[0101] Adjusting the vibration frequency of the DVA to within a first threshold range via fine-tuning may include removing a second mass adjustment portion of the DVA, as shown in 1420. The second mass adjustment portion may be from a second set of mass adjustment portions having a smaller mass than the other mass adjustment portions of the DVA. For example, the second mass adjustment portion may be the second upper portion 404 of the DVA 400.

[0102] Adjusting the DVA vibration frequency to within a first threshold range via fine-tuning may also include replacing the second mass adjustment portion with a different mass adjustment portion having a different mass, as shown in 1422. For example, if the second upper portion 404 is removed, it can be replaced by a fifth mass adjustment portion 1314 or a sixth mass adjustment portion 1316, each of which has a different mass than the second upper portion 404. The decision of which mass adjustment portion should replace the second mass adjustment portion (e.g., whether the replacement mass adjustment portion has a higher or lower mass than the second mass adjustment portion) can be based on the vibration frequency of the DVA, such as whether the vibration frequency is greater than or less than the target frequency of the DVA and / or the magnitude of the difference between the target frequency and the measured vibration frequency.

[0103] In some examples, fine-tuning the DVA's vibration frequency to a first threshold range may include replacing the DVA's bias member with a different bias member having different stiffness and / or size, as shown in 1424. For example, a first bias member currently installed in the DVA (e.g., bias member 678) may be removed and replaced with a different bias member (e.g., a second bias member 1318 or a third bias member 1320). In some examples, both the second mass adjustment portion and the bias member may be replaced. In other examples, only the second mass adjustment portion or only the bias member may be replaced. In yet another example, the second mass adjustment portion may be removed but not replaced; instead, the DVA may be fine-tuned by completely removing the mass adjustment portion from the DVA. Method 1400 then ends.

[0104] Although Figure 14 Not shown, but it should be understood that, at least in some examples, the vibration condition of the DVA can be measured after replacing the mass adjustment section and / or bias member, and the process of replacing the mass adjustment section and / or bias member can be repeated until the vibration frequency is within a first threshold range. Furthermore, although the tuning process described herein is performed with the gantry stationary, in some examples, the gantry can be rotated during the tuning process. Additionally, the vibration condition can be determined based on the output from one or more balance sensors present on the imaging system, rather than relying on an external accelerometer that must be coupled to the DVA and then removed.

[0105] See Figure 15 , showed Figures 4 to 5 A cross-sectional view of the DVA 400. Figure 15 The diagram shows the housing of an X-ray tube of an imaging system, such as the enclosure described above, attached to a mounting surface 1500 (e.g., an imaging system including a rack). Figure 3The DVA 400 is a housing 307 of the X-ray radiation source 306. The DVA 400 is coupled (e.g., mounted) to the mounting surface 1500 via fasteners 1502 (e.g., bolts) inserted through each of the first mounting member 418 and the mounting surface opening 1510. In some examples, the fastener 1502 may include threads configured to engage with mating threads of the first mounting member 418 and / or the mounting surface opening 1510 to retain the DVA 400 in an engaged configuration with the mounting surface 1500. The head 1503 of the fastener 1502 may be spaced apart from the first arm 414 by a first spacer 1504 (e.g., a first washer), and the first arm 414 of the DVA 400 may be spaced apart from the mounting surface 1500 by a second spacer 1506 (e.g., a second washer). Therefore, a gap 1508 is formed between DVA 400 and mounting surface 1500, wherein DVA 400 is only present in the first mounting member 418 and the second mounting member 420 (e.g., Figures 4 to 5 The fastener 1502 connects the first spacer 1504, the first arm 414, the second spacer 1506, and the mounting surface 1500 together at the location of the first mounting member 418 and the mounting surface opening 1510, so as to connect the DVA 400 to the mounting surface 1500.

[0106] By providing a gap 1508 between the DVA 400 and the mounting surface 1500 via the second spacer 1506, the DVA 400 is held in a coupled configuration with the mounting surface 1500, while portions of the DVA 400 can move relative to the mounting surface 1500 (e.g., vibrate). For example, when a vibration load is applied to the DVA 400 (e.g., when the X-ray tube is energized and the movement of the X-ray tube rotor causes the mounting surface 1500 to vibrate), the portion of the first arm 414 coupled to the mounting surface 1500 at the first mounting member 418 can be held in place relative to the mounting surface 1500, and portions of the DVA 400 located away from the first arm 414 (e.g., the first upper portion 402, the second upper portion 404, the third upper portion 406, the fourth upper portion 408, the fifth upper portion 410, the first lower portion 422, and the second lower portion 424) can vibrate out of phase relative to the mounting surface 1500 (e.g., similar to the example described above). The out-of-phase movement of the various parts of the DVA 400 relative to the mounting surface 1500 can reduce the impact of the X-ray tube on the imaging system on which the X-ray tube is mounted (e.g., see above reference). Figure 3 The net vibration effect of the imaging system 300.

[0107] See also Figures 16 to 18Different cross-sectional views of DVA 1601 are shown. DVA 1601 is shown as coupled (e.g., mounted) to a mounting surface 1600, which may be similar to the referenced above. Figure 15 The mounting surface 1500 is described. DVA 1601 can be similar to the one described above. Figures 6 to 8 The DVA 600 is described above. For example, the DVA 600 includes a first arm 1602, a second arm 1606, a center portion 1604, a mounting member 1622, gaps 1612 and 1614, which may be similar to the first arm 651, second arm 653, center portion 684, fifth mounting member 610, gaps 618 and 652 of the DVA 600, respectively. The DVA 1601 includes openings 1617 and 1619, each opening adapted to receive a corresponding fastener (e.g., a bolt) to attach the DVA 1601 to the mounting surface 1600. Figure 16 A DVA 1601 is shown, with a fastener 1608 inserted through opening 1617 and a fastener 1610 inserted through opening 1619, connected to mounting surface 1600. Fastener 1608 is further inserted through opening 1621 of mounting surface 1600, and fastener 1610 is further inserted through opening 1623 of mounting surface 1600. In this configuration, DVA 1601 is held connected to mounting surface 1600 by each of fasteners 1608 and 1610. DVA 1601 may include additional openings (e.g., similar to...). Figures 6 to 8 The second opening 638 and the fourth opening 668 shown are additional openings adapted to receive fasteners to further connect the first arm 1602 and the second arm 1606 of the DVA 1601 to the mounting surface 1600.

[0108] DVA 1601 is configured such that the first arm 1602 and the second arm 1606 are positioned to have direct face-shared contact with the mounting surface 1600 at the locations where fastener 1608 is located within openings 1617 and 1621, and where fastener 1610 is located within openings 1619 and 1623. For example, the first arm 1602 forms interface 1616 with the mounting surface 1600 at opening 1617, and the second arm 1606 forms interface 1618 with the mounting surface 1600 at opening 1618, wherein interfaces 1616 and 1618 do not include a notch or gap between DVA 1601 and the mounting surface 1600. Furthermore, the first arm 1602 and the second arm 1606 may be positioned in a manner similar to... Figures 6 to 8 The additional openings of the second opening 638 and the fourth opening 668 shown make direct surface-shared contact with the mounting surface 1600.

[0109] However, other portions of DVA 1601 are configured to be spaced apart from mounting surface 1600 such that, when a vibration load is applied to DVA 1601, portions of DVA 1601 not directly connected to mounting surface 1600 may move relative to mounting surface 1600 (e.g., similar to the example above). For example, when a vibration load is applied to DVA 1601 due to vibration of mounting surface 1600, portions of DVA 1601 positioned to share face contact with mounting surface 1600 may not move relative to mounting surface 1600, while portions of DVA 1601 arranged further away from openings 1617 and 1619 (e.g., the central portion 1604 arranged between gaps 1612 and 1614, where gaps 1612 and 1614 space the central portion 1604 from openings 1617 and 1619) may vibrate out of phase relative to mounting surface 1600 (e.g., similar to the example above). Figure 8 The example described. Specifically, gap 1620 (in Figure 16 China and in Figure 17 Illustrations from 1624 and Figure 18 The gap 1620 (shown in an enlarged view of illustration 1626) is arranged between at least the central portion 1604 and the mounting surface 1620, wherein the gap 1620 separates the central portion 1604 from the mounting surface 1620 (e.g., spaced apart). The gap 1620 may additionally extend between the DVA 1601 and the mounting surface 1600 to accommodate other portions of the DVA 1601 (such as portions that do not form interfaces 1616 and 1618, e.g., portions away from the arrangements of openings 1617 and 1619, such as...) Figures 17 to 18 (As shown) is spaced apart from the mounting surface 1600. The out-of-phase movement of the parts of DVA 1601 relative to the mounting surface 1500 reduces the impact of the X-ray tube on the imaging system on which the X-ray tube is mounted (e.g., as shown in the reference above). Figure 3 The net vibration effect of the imaging system 300.

[0110] The technical effect of coupling a DVA to an imaging system and configuring the DVA to vibrate at approximately the same frequency as the components of the imaging system but out of phase with them is to reduce noise generated by the imaging system (e.g., within the imaging area of ​​the imaging system) and increase the reliability of the imaging system components (e.g., reducing the likelihood of wear on components such as X-ray tubes due to vibration). The DVA can reduce the vibration of the imaging system without increasing the size and / or stiffness of the gantry, which can reduce the cost and / or space required by the imaging system.

[0111] In one embodiment, a dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) for an imaging system includes: a mounting portion including one or more openings and adapted for fixed attachment to a mounting surface within the imaging system; a sprung portion; and a vibration tuner, wherein when the mounting portion is mounted to the mounting surface and during operation of the imaging system, the sprung portion moves relative to the mounting surface, the amount of movement of the sprung portion being at least partially based on the vibration tuner. In a first example of the DVA, during operation of the imaging system, the vibration tuner causes the sprung portion to exhibit one or more vibrational characteristics matching one or more vibrational characteristics of the imaging system. A second example of the DVA optionally includes the first example and further includes wherein the vibration tuner causes the sprung portion to exhibit vibrational frequencies within a threshold range of the vibrational frequencies of the imaging system. A third example of the DVA optionally includes one or more of the first and second examples and further includes wherein the vibration tuner causes the sprung portion to exhibit a vibrational phase out of phase with the vibration of the imaging system. A fourth example of the DVA optionally includes one or more or each of the first to third examples and further includes wherein the vibration tuner is a first vibration tuner selected from a plurality of first vibration tuners, each first vibration tuner having a different mass. A fifth example of a DVA optionally includes one or more or each of the first to fourth examples, and further includes each of the first vibration tuners having a mass within a smaller first range. A sixth example of a DVA optionally includes one or more or each of the first to fifth examples, and further includes a second vibration tuner selected from a plurality of second vibration tuners, each of the second vibration tuners having a mass within a larger second range. A seventh example of a DVA optionally includes one or more or each of the first to sixth examples, and further includes a vibration tuner coupled between a mounting portion and a sprung portion, and configured to bias the sprung portion relative to the mounting portion. An eighth example of a DVA optionally includes one or more or each of the first to seventh examples, and further includes a vibration tuner including a bias member selected from a plurality of bias members, wherein at least two of the plurality of bias members have different stiffnesses relative to each other. A ninth example of a DVA optionally includes one or more or each of the first to eighth examples, and further includes a mounting portion including a first arm and an opposing second arm, each of the first and second arms having an opening adapted to receive a corresponding fastener.

[0112] In one embodiment, a method includes: coupling a dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) to a mounting surface of an imaging system; determining the vibration frequency of the DVA while rotating a rotor of the imaging system; and fine-tuning the vibration frequency of the DVA based on the determined vibration frequency. In a first example of the method, the DVA includes a plurality of mass adjustment sections, and wherein fine-tuning the vibration frequency includes removing, replacing, or adding one or more of the plurality of mass adjustment sections from the DVA. A second example of the method optionally includes the first example and further includes wherein fine-tuning the vibration frequency by removing, replacing, or adding one or more of the plurality of mass adjustment sections includes fine-tuning the vibration frequency by removing, replacing, or adding a first lower mass adjustment section. A third example of the method optionally includes one or more of the first and second examples and further includes coarsely adjusting the vibration frequency by removing, replacing, or adding a second higher mass adjustment section from the DVA. A fourth example of the method optionally includes one or more of the first to third examples, and further includes wherein the DVA includes one or more bias members, and wherein fine-tuning the vibration frequency includes replacing one or more bias members of the DVA with bias members of different stiffness.

[0113] In one embodiment, a system includes: a frame; an x-ray radiation source coupled to the frame and including an x-ray tube and a housing; and a dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) configured to be coupled to one of the frame, the x-ray tube, or the housing, the DVA including a mounting portion, a sprung portion, and one or more interchangeable elements configured to modulate the vibration characteristics of the DVA. In a first example of the system, the one or more interchangeable elements include one or more mass adjustment portions. A second example of the system optionally includes the first example and further includes one or more of the one or more interchangeable elements including one or more biasing members. A third example of the system optionally includes one or more of the first and second examples and further includes the mounting portion and the sprung portion formed as a single unit. A fourth example of the system optionally includes one or more or each of the first to third examples and further includes the DVA configured to vibrate out of phase relative to the vibration of the x-ray tube.

[0114] As used herein, elements or steps listed in the singular and beginning with the word "a" or "an" should be understood to not exclude multiple said elements or steps unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to "an embodiment" of the invention are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also include the referenced features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments that "comprise," "include," or "have" elements or multiple elements having a particular characteristic may include additional such elements that do not have that characteristic. The terms "comprise" and "in..." are used as concise linguistic equivalents to the corresponding terms "comprising" and "wherein". Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used merely as notations and are not intended to impose numerical requirements or a particular order of position on their objects.

[0115] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also enables those skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any included methods. The scope of patentability of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that differ only slightly from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A dynamic vibration absorber for an imaging system, comprising: The mounting portion includes one or more openings and is adapted to be securely connected to a mounting surface within the imaging system; Sprung components; and A vibration tuner, wherein when the mounting portion is mounted to the mounting surface and during operation of the imaging system, the sprung portion moves relative to the mounting surface, the amount of movement of the sprung portion being at least partially based on the vibration tuner, the sprung portion being spaced apart from the vibration tuner by a gap. During operation of the imaging system, the vibration tuner causes the sprung portion to exhibit one or more vibration characteristics that match one or more vibration characteristics of the imaging system.

2. The dynamic vibration absorber according to claim 1, wherein the vibration tuner causes the sprung portion to exhibit a vibration frequency within a threshold range of the vibration frequency of the imaging system.

3. The dynamic vibration absorber according to claim 2, wherein the vibration tuner causes the sprung portion to exhibit a vibration phase that is out of phase with the vibration phase of the imaging system.

4. The dynamic vibration absorber according to claim 1, wherein the vibration tuner is a first vibration tuner selected from a plurality of first vibration tuners, each first vibration tuner having a different mass.

5. The dynamic vibration absorber according to claim 4, wherein each first vibration tuner has a mass within a first range.

6. The dynamic vibration absorber according to claim 5 further includes a second vibration tuner selected from a plurality of second vibration tuners, each second vibration tuner having a mass within a second range, the second range being greater than the first range.

7. The dynamic vibration absorber of claim 1, wherein the vibration tuner is coupled between the mounting portion and the sprung portion and is configured to bias the sprung portion relative to the mounting portion.

8. The dynamic vibration absorber of claim 7, wherein the vibration tuner includes a bias member selected from a plurality of bias members, wherein at least two of the plurality of bias members have different stiffnesses relative to each other.

9. The dynamic vibration absorber of claim 1, wherein the mounting portion comprises a first arm and an opposing second arm, each of the first arm and the second arm having an opening adapted to receive a corresponding fastener.

10. A method comprising: The dynamic vibration absorber is attached to the mounting surface of the imaging system via a mounting portion, wherein the dynamic vibration absorber includes a sprung portion, a vibration tuner, and a mounting portion including one or more openings. The vibration frequency of the dynamic vibration absorber is determined when the rotor of the imaging system is rotated. as well as The vibration frequency of the dynamic vibration absorber is finely adjusted based on the determined vibration frequency. The sprung portion moves relative to the mounting surface, the amount of movement of the sprung portion being at least partially based on the vibration tuner, the sprung portion being spaced apart from the vibration tuner by a gap, the vibration tuner causing the sprung portion to exhibit one or more vibration characteristics matching one or more vibration characteristics of the imaging system.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the dynamic vibration absorber comprises a plurality of mass adjustment portions, and wherein fine-tuning the vibration frequency comprises removing, replacing, or adding one or more of the plurality of mass adjustment portions from the dynamic vibration absorber.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein fine-tuning the vibration frequency by removing, replacing, or adding one or more of the plurality of mass adjustment portions comprises fine-tuning the vibration frequency by removing, replacing, or adding a first lower mass adjustment portion.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising coarsely adjusting the vibration frequency by removing, replacing, or adding a second, higher quality mass adjustment portion from the dynamic vibration absorber.

14. The method of claim 10, wherein the dynamic vibration absorber comprises one or more biasing members, and wherein fine-tuning the vibration frequency comprises replacing the biasing members of the one or more biasing members of the dynamic vibration absorber with biasing members having different stiffnesses.

15. A system comprising: frame; An X-ray radiation source, the X-ray radiation source being coupled to the frame and including an X-ray tube and a housing; and The dynamic vibration absorber as claimed in any one of claims 1-9, wherein the dynamic vibration absorber is configured to be coupled to one of the frame, the X-ray tube, or the housing.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the dynamic vibration absorber is configured to vibrate out of phase with respect to the vibration of the x-ray tube.

Images