Imaging system and method

Abstract

An image acquisition device includes: a positioner controller, which is communicatively coupled to the positioner, wherein the positioner controller is configured to generate control signals to cause the positioner to linearly translate the patient support 14 relative to the imager 80 and / or linearly translate the imager relative to the patient support; an imaging controller, which is configured to operate the imager to generate a plurality of first two-dimensional images for the patient 28 when the patient is supported by the patient support and when the positioner linearly translates the patient support and / or the imager; and an image processing unit, which is configured to obtain the plurality of first two-dimensional images and arrange the two-dimensional images relative to each other to obtain a first composite image.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The field of application relates to medical imaging, and more particularly to systems and methods for imaging a patient prior to and / or during treatment. Background Art

[0002] Image guidance in radiotherapy is an important tool for providing high-quality treatment by aligning the patient's current anatomy with the planned configuration. The field of view of existing imaging modalities (e.g., 2D planar, CBCT imaging, etc.) may be limited by the size of the image receptor, which is approximately 30 cm or less in length at the isocenter level. In order to be able to treat longer patient volumes, image guidance needs to provide a longer field of view to provide sufficient confidence in the alignment of the patient relative to the planned configuration. In some cases, the longitudinal field of view of CBCT can be extended by combining separate CBCT scans acquired from different couch positions. However, this approach may not be desirable due to its long acquisition time and will result in the delivery of a large non-therapeutic radiation dose to the patient. Summary of the invention

[0003] An image acquisition device includes: a positioner controller, which is communicatively coupled to a positioner, wherein the positioner controller is configured to generate control signals to cause the positioner to linearly translate a patient support relative to an imager and / or linearly translate the imager relative to the patient support; an imaging controller, which is configured to operate the imager to generate a plurality of first two-dimensional images for the patient when the patient is supported by the patient support and when the positioner linearly translates the patient support and / or the imager; and an image processing unit, which is configured to obtain the plurality of first two-dimensional images and arrange the two-dimensional images relative to each other to obtain a first composite image.

[0004] An imaging method performed by an image acquisition device, comprising: generating a control signal by a positioner controller that is communicatively coupled to a positioner, wherein the control signal is generated to cause the positioner to linearly translate a patient support relative to the imager and / or to linearly translate the imager relative to the patient support; operating the imager to generate a plurality of first two-dimensional images for the patient when the patient is supported by the patient support and when the positioner linearly translates the patient support and / or the imager; and arranging the two-dimensional images relative to each other by an image processing unit to obtain a first composite image.

[0005] Other and further aspects and features will be apparent from reading the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] The drawings illustrate the design and utility of the embodiments, wherein similar elements are referenced by common reference numerals. These drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. In order to better understand how the above-listed and other advantages and purposes are obtained, a more specific description of the embodiments will be presented, which is illustrated in the drawings. These drawings depict only exemplary embodiments and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0007] Figure 1 A radiation system with an imager according to some embodiments is illustrated.

[0008] Figure 2 An imager is illustrated.

[0009] Figure 3 Picture shows Figure 2 Example electrical components of an imager.

[0010] Figure 4 An image acquisition device is illustrated.

[0011] Figure 5 The imaging scheme is illustrated.

[0012] Figure 6 A series of overlapping two-dimensional images are shown.

[0013] Figure 7 The imaging method is illustrated.

[0014] Figure 8 An imaging device in a half-fan configuration is illustrated.

[0015] Fig. 9 Different types of projection geometries are illustrated.

[0016] Fig.10 A dedicated processing system is illustrated in accordance with some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Various embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the drawings are not drawn to scale and that elements having similar structures or functions are represented by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings. It should also be noted that the drawings are only intended to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended to be an exhaustive description of the invention or to limit the scope of the invention. In addition, the illustrated embodiments do not need to have all the aspects or advantages shown. The aspects or advantages described in conjunction with a particular embodiment are not necessarily limited to that embodiment and may be practiced in any other embodiment, even if not illustrated as such, or not so explicitly described.

[0018] Figure 1A treatment system 10 is illustrated. The system 10 is a radiation therapy system that includes a gantry 12, a patient support 14 for supporting a patient 28, and a control system 18 for controlling the operation of the gantry 12. The gantry 12 is in the form of an arm, but in other embodiments, the gantry 12 can have other forms (such as a ring form, etc.). The system 10 also includes a radiation source 20 that projects a radiation beam 26 toward the patient 28 when the patient 28 is supported on the support 14, and a collimator system 22 for controlling the delivery of the radiation beam 26. The collimator 22 can be configured to adjust the cross-sectional shape of the beam 26. In other embodiments, the radiation source 20 can be configured to generate a cone beam, a fan beam, or other type of radiation beam.

[0019] As shown in the drawings, the system 10 also includes an imager 80, which is located at an operating position relative to the source 20 (e.g., below the support 14). In the illustrated embodiment, the radiation source 20 is a therapeutic radiation source for providing therapeutic energy. In this case, the therapeutic energy can be used by the imager 80 to obtain an image. In order to obtain imaging using therapeutic energy, the imager 80 is configured to generate an image in response to radiation with therapeutic energy (e.g., an MV imager). In other embodiments, in addition to being a therapeutic radiation source, the radiation source 20 can also be a diagnostic radiation source for providing diagnostic (imaging) energy for imaging purposes. In other embodiments, the system 10 may include a radiation source 20 for providing therapeutic energy and one or more other radiation sources for providing diagnostic energy. In some embodiments, the therapeutic energy is typically those energies of 160 kiloelectronvolts (keV) or greater, more typically those energies of 1 megaelectronvolt (MeV) or greater, and the diagnostic energy is typically those energies below the high energy range, more typically below 160keV. Moreover, in some embodiments, the therapeutic energy can be 6MV or higher (e.g., 25MV). In other embodiments, therapeutic energy and diagnostic energy can have other energy levels and refer to energy used for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes, respectively. In some embodiments, radiation source 20 can generate X-ray radiation at a plurality of photon energy levels in any range between about 10 keV and about 20 MeV. In other embodiments, radiation source 20 can be configured to generate radiation in other energy ranges, such as a range below 160 keV, a range from 1 MeV to 12 MeV or less, etc.

[0020] In the illustrated embodiment, the control system 18 includes a processing unit 54, such as a computer processor, coupled to the control 40. The control system 18 may also include a monitor 56 for displaying data and an input device 58, such as a keyboard or mouse, for inputting data. The operation of the radiation source 20 and the gantry 12 is controlled by the control 40, which provides power and timing signals to the radiation source 20 and controls the rotation speed and posture of the gantry 12 based on signals received from the processing unit 54. In some cases, the control 40 may also control the posture of the collimator system 22 and the patient support 14. In addition, in some embodiments, the control 40 can be configured to control the operation of the imager 80. Although the control 40 is shown as a separate component from the gantry 12 and the processor 54, in alternative embodiments, the control 40 may be part of the gantry 12 or the processing unit 54.

[0021] In some embodiments, the system 10 can be a treatment system configured to deliver a therapeutic radiation beam to the patient 28 at different gantry angles. During the treatment procedure, the source 20 rotates around the patient 28 and delivers the therapeutic radiation beam to the patient 28 from different gantry angles. When the source 20 is at different gantry angles, the collimator 22 is operated to change the shape of the beam to correspond to the shape of the target tissue structure. For example, the collimator 22 can be operated so that the shape of the beam is similar to the cross-sectional shape of the target tissue structure. In another example, the collimator 22 can be operated so that different portions of the target tissue structure receive different amounts of radiation (such as in an IMRT procedure).

[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, the system 10 also includes an imaging device 150 having an imaging source 152 and an imager 154. The imaging device 150 is configured to obtain one or more images of an internal portion of the patient 28. The (multiple) images obtained by the imaging device 150 can be used to set up the patient 28, monitor the posture of the patient 28, track a target within the patient 28, or any combination of the foregoing. In some cases, the imaging device 150 can be configured to obtain an image of an internal reference 90 of the patient 28. The internal reference 90 can be an internal structure within the patient 28. In some embodiments, the internal structure can move in correspondence with (e.g., synchronously with) the target of the patient 28 that is desired to be treated. In this case, the internal structure can be used as a surrogate for determining the posture and / or motion of the target during treatment of the patient 28, and in some cases motion management based on the surrogate can be adopted. Therefore, the internal reference 90 can be imaged by the imaging device 150 (and / or by the radiation source 20 and the imager 80) used as a posture monitoring system during treatment of the patient 28. By way of non-limiting example, the internal fiducial 90 may be an anatomical surrogate, such as a bone structure, a blood vessel, a natural calcification, or any other item in the body. As discussed, the imaging device 150 and / or the imager 80 may also be used for target tracking and / or patient positioning. In some embodiments, the control 40 may be configured to control the operation of the imaging device 150 and / or the patient support 14. For example, the control 40 may provide one or more control signals to activate the imaging source 152, and / or the readout and control circuits in the imager 154. The control 40 may also operate a positioner to move the patient support 14 and / or the imaging device 150.

[0023] In some embodiments, the imaging device 150 may be an x-ray device. In this case, the imaging source 152 includes a radiation source (e.g., a kV source). In other embodiments, the imaging device 150 may have other configurations and may be configured to generate images using other imaging techniques. For example, in other embodiments, the imaging device 150 may be an ultrasound imaging device, an MRI device, a tomosynthesis imaging device, or any other type of imaging device. Moreover, in the above embodiments, the imaging device 150 is illustrated as being integrated with the treatment machine. In other embodiments, the imaging device 150 may be a separate device separated from the treatment machine. In addition, in some embodiments, the imaging device 150 may be a room-based imaging system or a recliner-based imaging system. In either case, the imaging device 150 may provide any form of imaging, such as x-ray imaging, ultrasound imaging, MRI, etc. In addition, in other embodiments, the imaging device 150 may provide online imaging, in the sense that it may be configured to acquire images along the same direction as the treatment beam. For example, a dual energy source (integrating the treatment source 20 and the imaging source 152) may be provided to provide imaging energy for generating images and provide treatment energy to treat the patient along the same direction. In this case, imager 154 can replace imager 80, or can be integrated with imager 80 to form a hybrid imager that is configured to provide kV and MV imaging. In further embodiments, imaging device 150 and / or imaging device 80 can be configured to provide dual energy imaging and any form of energy resolved imaging to improve the contrast of the x-ray image. For example, a first portion of an image can be generated using a first energy, and a second portion of the same image (e.g., a more relevant portion including a target) can be generated using a second energy that is higher than the first energy. Thus, the second portion of the image may have a higher contrast than the first portion. However, the total dose involved in generating the entire image can be reduced compared to where the entire image is generated using the second energy.

[0024] Figure 2 An example of an imager 200 is shown. In some embodiments, the imager 200 may be implemented as Figure 1The imager 154 or imager 80 of the present invention. The imager 200 is configured to receive imaging radiation from an imaging source (e.g., source 152 or 20) and to generate an image signal in response to the imaging radiation. The imager 200 includes a scintillator layer 202 (or scintillator layer 202) configured to receive imaging radiation and to generate light in response to the imaging radiation. The scintillator layer 202 may be pixelated or non-pixelated. The imager 200 also includes an array 204 of imager elements 206. Each imager element 206 is configured to generate (multiple) image signals in response to light received from the scintillator layer 202. Scintillators for imagers are known in the art, and any such scintillator may be used to implement the imager 200.

[0025] In some embodiments, each imager element 206 may include one or more amorphous silicon (a:Si) detectors. Moreover, in some embodiments, the imager element 206 may be implemented using a photodiode. In this specification, the term "photodiode" refers to one or more (multiple) circuit elements on a detector pixel that are associated with converting photon energy into an electrical signal. This may include, but is not limited to (multiple) photodiodes, (multiple) switching transistors, (multiple) amplifying transistors, direct conversion elements, indirect conversion elements, photon counting elements, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the (multiple) circuit elements of the imager element 206 are designed to be (e.g., made of radiation-resistant materials, and / or have a configuration) radiation-resistant. The scintillator layer 202 is configured to receive radiation and generate photons in response to the radiation. The photodiode element of the imager element 206 is configured to generate an electrical signal in response to the photons provided from the scintillator layer 202. The electrical signal is then read out by the readout and control circuit 230 and digitized to form an image. In the illustrated embodiment, the readout and control circuit 230 is designed to be radiation-resistant (e.g., made of radiation-resistant materials and / or having a configuration). In some embodiments, the readout and control circuit 230 is communicatively connected to the control 40 or another separate control for controlling the operation of the readout and control circuit 230.

[0026] In some embodiments, the signal from each photodiode of each imager element 206 forms a pixel in the image. In other embodiments, a binning circuit is optionally provided to combine the signals from two or more photodiodes of two or more corresponding imager elements 206 to form each pixel in the image. For example, the binning circuit of the imager 200 can be configured to provide 2X2 binning, 3X3 binning, 4X4 binning, 1X2 binning, 1X4 binning, or other number of binning of pixels. In some embodiments, the binning circuit can be designed to be radiation-resistant (e.g., made of radiation-resistant material, and / or having a configuration). For example, the binning circuit may include circuit components configured to withstand radiation. In some embodiments, the binning circuit can be implemented as part of the access and control circuit 230.

[0027] like Figure 2 As shown, the imager 200 also includes a glass substrate 220, wherein the array 204 of imager elements 206 is fixed to the glass substrate 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the glass substrate 220 has a first side 222 and an opposing second side 224, wherein the first side 222 is closer to the radiation source than the second side 224. In some embodiments, the array 204 of imaging elements 206 is closer to the first side 222 of the glass substrate 220 than the second side 224. In other embodiments, the substrate 220 can be made of other materials other than glass. For example, in other embodiments, the substrate 220 can be made of plastic.

[0028] Figure 3 An exemplary configuration of electrical components for imager 200 is depicted in accordance with some embodiments. Imager 200 includes a plurality of imager elements 304 (i.e., 304a through 304d) having corresponding photodiodes 306 (i.e., 306a through 306d). Photodiodes 306 form Figure 2304. The photodiodes 306 are each configured to generate an electrical signal in response to an optical input. The photodiodes 306 receive an optical input from the scintillator layer 202, which generates light in response to x-rays. The photodiodes 306 are connected to an array bias voltage 322 to supply a reverse bias voltage to the imager elements 304. Transistors 308 (such as thin film N-type FETs) are used as switching elements for each imager element 304. When it is desired to capture image data from the imager element 304, a control signal 314 is sent to a gate driver 312 to "select" the gate(s) of the transistor 308. The gate driver 312 is connected to a low gate voltage 327 and a high gate voltage source that drives the gate control rows 326a, 326b. Specifically, the gate driver 312 provides a drive signal to the gate control rows 326a, 326b. In response to the drive signal, the electrical signal from the photodiode 306 is passed through rows 316 (i.e., 316a to 316d) to corresponding charge amplifiers 310a to 310d, which are connected to a reference voltage via rows 370a to 370d, respectively. The output of the charge amplifier 310 is sent to a "sample and hold" stage via output 320 (e.g., 320a to 320d) for further image processing / display. In one embodiment, the gate driver 312 is Figure 2 The readout and control circuit 230 may be located along one or more sides of the imager 200. The readout and control circuit 230 may include Figure 3 One or more components shown, such as gate driver 312, charge amplifier 310, output 320, gate control row 326, row 316, row 370, reference voltage source and / or conductors for reference voltage, array bias voltage and / or conductors for array bias voltage, high and low gate voltage sources and / or conductors for high and low gate voltages, digital control circuitry, or any combination of the foregoing. In some embodiments, one or more (e.g., all) of the above components of readout and control circuitry 230 may be radiation hardened. Additionally, in some embodiments, readout and control circuitry 230 may be part of an integrated circuit, wherein part or all of the integrated circuit may be radiation hardened. Such circuitry may include any of the components of readout and control circuitry 230 described above, including, but not limited to, gate driver 312, charge amplifier 310, digital control circuitry, and the like.

[0029] Although Figure 3Only four imager elements 304a to 304d are shown, but those skilled in the art understand that the imager 200 may include many such imager elements 304, depending on the size and resolution of the imaging device. In addition, although only two gate control rows 326a and 326b for accessing image signals from the imager elements 304 are shown, the imager 200 may include more than two gate control rows 326. In the illustrated embodiment, the gate driver 312 has multiple outputs 362 to access corresponding gate control rows 326, one row at a time. In other embodiments, the gate driver 312 can be configured to access multiple (e.g., two, four, six, etc.) gate control rows 326 simultaneously. For example, each output 362 of the gate driver 312 can be connected to multiple gate control rows 326 for accessing multiple gate control rows 326 simultaneously. This configuration allows image signals to be collected from two or more rows of imager elements 304 simultaneously, thereby increasing the signal collection process. For a given configuration of the imager 200, the signal readout time for each gate-controlled row 326 of the imager elements 304 depends on the time it takes to turn on the pixel and release the corresponding image signal. Therefore, by configuring the imager 200 to allow image signals from two or more rows of imager elements 304 to be read simultaneously or in parallel, the time it takes to read out image signals from all rows of the imager 200 can be reduced. This in turn increases the frame rate of the imager 200 (i.e., the number of image frames that can be generated by the imager 200 per second).

[0030] It should be noted that the electrical components and electrical layout of the imager 200 should not be Figure 3 The example limitations shown, and in other embodiments, the imager 200 may have Figure 3 Different electrical component(s) and / or electrical layouts are shown.

[0031] It should be noted that the imager 200 described herein is not limited to withstand the radiation generated by the treatment beam generated by the electron impact target. In other embodiments, the imager 200 described herein can be used to withstand the radiation generated by other types of particle beams (such as proton beams). For example, the imager 200 described herein can be used with a proton therapy machine. In this case, the features described herein can allow the imager 200 to withstand the radiation generated by the delivery of the proton therapy beam.

[0032] In addition, the imager 200 is not limited to having a scintillator layer 202. In other embodiments, the imager 200 may be other types of imagers, such as those that may not require any scintillator layer. For example, as discussed, in other embodiments, the imager 200 may include a conversion layer configured to generate electron-hole pairs in response to radiation. In this case, the image signal is generated directly by the conversion layer, and the imager 200 may not include any scintillator layer. And as similarly discussed, in other embodiments, the imager 200 may include a photon counter configured to generate (multiple) images based on photon counting. Imagers with conversion layers and photon counters are known in the art, and any such imagers may be used to implement the imager 200. In other embodiments, the imager 200 may be any other type of imager.

[0033] Imagers in radiation therapy systems and diagnostic radiation systems are well known in the art, and any such imager may be used to implement imager 200 .

[0034] Figure 4 FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an image acquisition device 400 according to some embodiments. The image acquisition device 400 may be Figure 1 The image acquisition device 400 is implemented in the treatment system 10 of the present invention. For example, the image acquisition device 400 can be implemented as part of the processing unit 54, or as a separate component that is communicatively coupled to the processing unit 54 and / or the control 40. The image acquisition device 400 includes: a positioner controller 402 that is communicatively coupled to the positioner 404, wherein the positioner controller 402 is configured to generate control signals to cause the positioner 404 to linearly translate the patient support 14 relative to the imager 154 and the imaging source 152, and / or to linearly translate the imager 154 and the imaging source 152 relative to the patient support 14. The image acquisition device 400 also includes an imaging controller 410 that is configured to operate the imager 154 to generate a plurality of first two-dimensional images 420 for the patient when the patient is supported by the patient support 14. The image acquisition device 400 also includes an image processing unit 430 that is configured to obtain the plurality of first two-dimensional images 420, and to arrange the two-dimensional images 420 relative to each other to obtain a first composite image 440.

[0035] In some embodiments, the positioner controller 402 is configured to operate the positioner 404 to linearly translate the patient support 14 or the imaging device 150 in a direction corresponding to (parallel to) the longitudinal axis of the patient 28. In one embodiment, when the patient support 14 is linearly translated, the imaging device 150 remains stationary (e.g., the imaging source 152 and the imager 154 do not rotate or translate). In another embodiment, when the imaging device 150 is linearly translated, the patient support 14 remains stationary. In yet another embodiment, the patient support 14 and the imaging device 150 can be linearly translated in opposite directions. In some cases, the positioner controller 402 is configured to generate control signals to cause the positioner 404 to translate the patient support 14 at a rate of at least 80% of the maximum speed of the patient support 14, and / or to translate the imaging device 150 at a rate of at least 80% of the maximum speed of the imaging device 150. This allows different portions of a patient supported by the patient support 14 to be quickly imaged by the imaging device 150. In other embodiments, the positioner 404 may translate the patient support 14 at other speeds, which may be less than 80% of the maximum speed of the patient support 14. Also, in other embodiments, the positioner 404 may translate the imaging device 150 at other speeds, which may be less than 80% of the maximum speed of the imaging device 150.

[0036] The positioner controller 402 may also operate the positioner 404 to rotate the imaging device 150 (imaging source 152 and imager 154) around the patient so that the imaging device 150 can image the patient from different angles. As used herein, the term "positioner" may refer to one or more mechanical movers. For example, the positioner 404 may be a first mechanical assembly attached to the patient support 14 to move the patient support, may be a second mechanical assembly attached to the imaging device 150 to move the imaging device 150 or a portion thereof, or may be a first mechanical assembly and a second mechanical assembly.

[0037] The imaging controller 410 is configured to operate the imaging source 152 and / or the imager 154 to generate a two-dimensional image 420 for the patient when the patient is supported by the patient support 14. The imaging controller 410 may be communicatively coupled to a readout and control circuit (e.g., the readout and control circuit 230) of the imager 154. The imaging controller 410 may also be communicatively coupled to the imaging source 152. In some embodiments, when the positioner 404 linearly translates the imaging source 152 and the imager 154 relative to the patient support 14, the imaging controller 410 generates signals to operate the imaging source 152 and the imager 154 to image different portions of the patient along the longitudinal axis of the patient. In other embodiments, when the positioner 404 linearly translates the imaging source 152 and the imager 154 relative to the patient support 14, the imaging controller 410 generates signals to operate the imaging source 152 and the imager 154 to image different portions of the patient along the longitudinal axis of the patient. In either case, imaging of the patient results in a plurality of two-dimensional images of different portions of the patient, the two-dimensional images being along the longitudinal axis of the patient. The imaging planes of the corresponding two-dimensional images are parallel to each other and are all located in the same plane. In some embodiments, this allows the image processing unit 430 to stitch the two-dimensional images together to form a composite image 440.

[0038] In some embodiments, the imaging controller 410 is configured to operate the imager 154 to generate the plurality of two-dimensional images 420 in 20 seconds or less. Thus, the patient only needs to be imaged for 20 seconds or less, and the image acquisition device 400 will have sufficient image data to create a composite image 440 for the patient. Due to the advantage of this short imaging time, the patient can be instructed to perform a breath hold while the imager 154 generates the two-dimensional images 420. Moreover, in some embodiments, the two-dimensional images 420 generated in 20 seconds or less (e.g., within 15 seconds, within 12 seconds, within 10 seconds, etc.) collectively cover at least 50 cm or more, 60 cm or more, 70 cm or more, 80 cm or more, 90 cm or more, or 100 cm or more of the patient's length. In some embodiments, the plurality of first two-dimensional images 420 includes at least 50 images, at least 60 images, at least 70 images, at least 80 images, at least 90 images, at least 100 images, or more. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the imaging controller 410 is configured to operate the imager 154 to generate the plurality of first two-dimensional images 420 at 10 frames per second or more, 20 frames per second or more, 30 frames per second or more, or 40 frames per second or more.

[0039] In some embodiments, the image acquisition device 400 can be configured to operate the imager 154 in a full resolution imaging mode (i.e., without binning of image data). In this case, the imager 154 operates at a first frame rate (e.g., 10 frames / second) that is less than the maximum frame rate. In such an example, for example, the patient travel distance per frame can be 1 cm / frame. In other embodiments, the image acquisition device 400 can be configured to operate the imager 154 at a reduced longitudinal resolution (e.g., 1x4 binning). This can allow a higher readout mode to be implemented. In some cases, a shorter travel distance of 0.33 cm / frame can be achieved with a higher frame rate (e.g., 30 frames / second). In other embodiments, the imaging acquisition device 400 can operate the imager 154 in a full resolution imaging mode for the higher frame rate.

[0040] Moreover, in the illustrated embodiment, the imaging controller 410 is configured to control the imaging source 152 to deliver imaging energy (e.g., radiation) in pulses. In some cases, the imaging source 152 may deliver imaging energy in pulses that are synchronized with the frame rate of the imager 154. In other embodiments, the imaging controller 410 is further configured to control the imaging source 152 to deliver imaging energy (e.g., radiation) continuously—e.g., continuously for at least 2 seconds, at least 4 seconds, at least 5 seconds, or at least 6 seconds. When the imaging source 152 is continuously “on,” the patient support 14 translates relative to the imaging source 152 and the imager 154 to allow the imager 154 to image different portions of the patient. Alternatively, when the imaging source 152 is continuously “on,” the imaging source 152 and the imager 154 translate relative to the patient support 14 to allow the imager 154 to image different portions of the patient. In other embodiments, the imaging source 152 may selectively operate in a pulsed mode (wherein the imaging energy is delivered in pulses) or a continuous mode (wherein the imaging energy is delivered continuously).

[0041] The image processing unit 430 is configured to obtain a plurality of two-dimensional images 420, and arrange the two-dimensional images 420 relative to each other to obtain a first composite image 440. In some embodiments, the image processing unit 430 is configured to obtain the composite image 440 by performing image stitching using the two-dimensional images 420. In one embodiment, the image processing unit 430 is configured to identify an overlapping area of ​​at least two adjacent two-dimensional images 420. In this case, the stitching of the two adjacent two-dimensional images 420 can be performed based on the identified overlapping area. Moreover, in some embodiments, the image processing unit 430 is configured to obtain a couch posture of the patient support 14 or an imager posture of the imager 154, and arrange the two-dimensional images 420 relative to the reference coordinates of the composite image 440 to be formed using the couch posture and / or the imager posture. As used in this specification, the term "couch posture" refers to the posture of a patient support (e.g., a bed) for supporting a patient, wherein the posture may be the position and / or orientation of the patient support. The image processing unit 430 may also be configured to obtain metadata of the corresponding two-dimensional image 420, and utilize the metadata to map the two-dimensional image 420 to reference coordinates of the composite image 440 to be formed. By way of non-limiting example, the metadata may be a pose of the imager 154 corresponding to the corresponding two-dimensional image 420, a pose of the patient support 14 corresponding to the corresponding two-dimensional image 420, a relative pose between the patient support 14 and the imager 154 corresponding to the corresponding two-dimensional image 420, a timestamp of the corresponding two-dimensional image 420 indicating when they were generated, or any combination of the foregoing. In some embodiments, the composite image 440 created from the two-dimensional image 420 may cover (span) at least a portion of a patient that is at least 50 cm or more, 60 cm or more, 70 cm or more, 80 cm or more, 90 cm or more, or 100 cm or more in length.

[0042] In some embodiments, an arbitrary reference recliner pose may be specified. In this case, all metadata of the acquired two-dimensional images 420 may be set relative to the specified reference recliner pose. For example, for each acquired two-dimensional image 420, the imager pose of the imager 154 relative to the reference recliner pose at the time of acquisition may be used to determine the relative pose of the two-dimensional image 420 relative to the reference recliner pose. In other embodiments, any arbitrary reference pose or reference coordinate system may be set instead of the reference recliner pose. In this case, the pose of the two-dimensional image 420 may be determined relative to such an arbitrary reference pose or reference coordinate system. In some embodiments, the pose of the two-dimensional image 420 may be used to stitch the two-dimensional images 420 to create a composite image 440. In other embodiments, the determination of the pose of the two-dimensional image 420 may itself be considered as a stitching of the two-dimensional images 420. In some embodiments, the reference coordinate system may have a width and height defined for the composite image 440 to be formed, wherein such width and height are selected to span the maximum range of all acquired two-dimensional images 420. The image information of each two-dimensional image 420 is copied or placed into the reference coordinate system at a corresponding relative position within the reference coordinate system. Redundant image information in the overlap region between adjacent images 420 may be combined to produce a continuous image.

[0043] In some embodiments, the composite image 440 may include a left side view or a right side view of the patient. In other embodiments, the composite image 440 may include a top view or a bottom view of the patient. In other embodiments, the image acquisition device 400 may be configured to create two or more composite images 440. For example, the image acquisition device 400 may operate the positioner 404 to place the imaging device 150 in a first orientation relative to the patient to image from the left side or the right side of the patient. The image acquisition device 400 may then operate the imaging device 150 to create a plurality of first two-dimensional images having a side view of the patient. The image processing unit 430 may then create a first composite image 440 based on the plurality of first two-dimensional images. For example, the image processing unit 430 may arrange the two-dimensional images 420 in the plurality of first two-dimensional images 420 relative to each other to obtain the first composite image 440. The image acquisition device 400 may then operate the positioner 404 to place the imaging device 150 in a second orientation relative to the patient to image from the top side or the bottom side of the patient. The image acquisition device 400 may then operate the imaging device 150 to create a plurality of second two-dimensional images having a top view or a bottom view of the patient. The image processing unit 430 then creates the second composite image 440 based on the plurality of second two-dimensional images. For example, the image processing unit 430 may arrange the two-dimensional images 420 in the plurality of second two-dimensional images 420 relative to each other to obtain the second composite image 440.

[0044] In some cases, the plurality of two-dimensional images 420 are acquired at the same isocenter location associated with a treatment machine, such as Figure 1 This is advantageous because bending of the patient support due to the patient's weight may not need to be taken into account.

[0045] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the image acquisition device 400 can implement an imager readout mode that allows readout of a region of interest (ROI) with a reduced height to achieve a higher frame rate (e.g., 30fps) at native pixel size resolution. This technique can reduce or eliminate merging artifacts. In one embodiment, the imaging source 152 can be vertically collimated to provide only an imaging radiation band with a reduced height corresponding to the desired height of the region of interest (ROI). This has the benefit of reducing the dose delivered to the patient. Furthermore, in some embodiments, information from overlapping scans can be used to reduce noise and / or increase spatial resolution to improve image quality. In other embodiments, an automatic exposure mechanism can be employed to improve or optimize image contrast and / or reduce excessive dose.

[0046] like Figure 4 As shown, the image acquisition device 400 includes a non-transitory medium 450 for storing (multiple) composite images 440. The non-transitory medium 450 can also store different sets of two-dimensional images 420 corresponding to the corresponding composite images 440. In some embodiments, the two-dimensional images 420 can be stored in the non-transitory medium 450 in association with their corresponding metadata, such as a timestamp indicating when the image 420 was created, the position of the imager 154 and / or the patient support 14 when the corresponding image 420 was created, etc. The non-transitory medium 450 can include one or more (multiple) storage devices and is not limited to a single storage device. In some embodiments, the two-dimensional image 420 and / or (multiple) composite image 440 can also be output by the image acquisition device 400 for display and presentation to the user.

[0047] After the (multiple) composite image 440 has been generated by the image processing unit 430, the (multiple) composite image 440 can be used for various purposes. In some embodiments, the (multiple) composite image 440 can be used to align the patient relative to the treatment system 10. In one embodiment, the alignment of the patient relative to the treatment system 10 can be performed based on a comparison of at least a portion of the composite image 440 with at least a portion of a reference image. As used in this specification, the term "reference image" refers to any image that is generated in advance for use as a reference (e.g., for comparison with another later generated image, for processing together with a later generated image, etc.). The reference image can be a CT image, a segment of a CT image, an x-ray image, or any other type of image generated during treatment planning. The reference image is registered with the treatment plan, and it indicates the desired positioning of the patient relative to the treatment plan. As Figure 4 As shown, the image acquisition device 400 further includes an image comparator 460 configured to compare at least a portion of the composite image 440 with at least a portion of the reference image to align at least a portion of the composite image 440 with at least a portion of the reference image. In some embodiments, the positioner controller 402 is configured to move the patient support 14 based on the alignment between at least a portion of the composite image 440 and at least a portion of the reference image to place the patient in a desired position relative to the treatment system 10.

[0048] In some embodiments, the composite image(s) 440 may also be used to form the volume image(s). Figure 4 As shown, the image acquisition device 400 also includes a volume image processor 470 configured to construct a volume image based on the composite image 440. For example, in some embodiments, the composite image 440 may contain information (such as the geometry of the anatomical structure, including the size and shape of various anatomical structures of the patient, etc.), which is useful in the generation of the volume image. In this case, the volume image processor 470 will obtain the composite image 440 (from the image processing unit 430 or from the medium 450) and consider the information in the composite image 440 when constructing the volume image. The volume image generated by the volume image processor 470 based on the multiple two-dimensional images 420 can be a CT image or a tomosynthesis image.

[0049] Moreover, in some embodiments, the (multiple) composite images 440 can be used as a priori information for generating a stitched cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) image. For example, the volume image processor 470 can be configured to use the composite image 440 as a map for stitching different CBCT images together to form a composite CBCT image (e.g., a super CBCT image). Techniques for stitching CBCT images are known in the art and are therefore not described in further detail herein.

[0050] Figure 5 The imaging scheme is illustrated. The imaging scheme can be implemented using an image acquisition device 400. As shown in the accompanying drawings, in one embodiment, the patient support 14 is linearly translated when the patient is supported thereon. The movement of the patient support 14 can be achieved by a positioner mechanically coupled to the patient support 14. The patient support 14 translates in one direction so that different parts of the patient can be imaged by the imaging device 150 (including an imaging source 152 and an imager 154). In the illustrated example, the translation direction corresponds to (e.g., parallel to or relative to an angle less than 10°) the longitudinal axis 500 of the patient / patient support 14. In other examples, the translation direction can be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 500, or form other angles (different from 0°, 90°, and 180°) relative to the longitudinal axis 500. Moreover, in the illustrated example, the imager 154 is on the right side of the patient, which allows the imager 154 to image the patient from the right side. Alternatively, the imager 154 can be placed on the left side of the patient to image the patient from the left side. Additionally, in some embodiments, the imager 154 can be placed above the patient to image the patient from the front of the patient. Alternatively, the imager 154 can be placed below the patient to image the patient from the back of the patient. In other embodiments, instead of translating the patient support 14, the imaging device 150 can be translated linearly relative to the patient to image different portions of the patient. In this case, movement of the imaging device 150 can be achieved by a positioner mechanically coupled to the imaging device 150. In other embodiments, both the patient support 14 and the imaging device 150 can be moved relative to each other to image different portions of the patient.

[0051] exist Figure 5 In the illustrated example shown, when the imaging device 150 is in different imaging postures relative to the patient, the image acquisition device 400 generates control signals to operate the imaging source 152 and the imager 154 to image different parts of the patient 14 along the axis 500 to create multiple two-dimensional images. The image acquisition device 400 can then create a composite image based on the two-dimensional images. In one embodiment, the two-dimensional images are stitched together to form a composite image.

[0052] In some embodiments, the image acquisition device 400 may be configured to operate the imaging device 150 so that it creates two composite images of the patient. For example, the image acquisition device 400 may be based on Figure 5The imaging scheme shown creates a first composite image. The image acquisition device 400 can also operate the positioner to rotate the imaging device 150 to place the imager 154 and the imaging source 152 in another posture relative to the patient. For example, the imager 154 and the imaging source 152 can be rotated 90° around the axis 500 so that the imager 154 can image the patient from the front or back of the patient. After the imaging device 150 has been moved, the image acquisition device 400 can then linearly translate the imaging device 150 (imaging source 152 and detector 154), linearly translate the patient support 14, or both the imaging device 150 and the patient support 14 to generate a plurality of second two-dimensional images. The image acquisition device can then generate a second composite image based on the plurality of second two-dimensional images.

[0053] The imaging scheme described herein produces a series of overlapping images. Figure 6 A sequence 600 of overlapping two-dimensional images 602 is illustrated. The two-dimensional images 602 together form a composite image 610. The two-dimensional images 602 may be reference images. Figure 4 The examples of the discussed images 420 and the composite image 610 may be referenced Figure 4 An example of a composite image is discussed. Figure 6As shown, each of the images 602 has one or more regions 620 that overlap with the adjacent image(s). In some embodiments, the image processing unit 430 of the image acquisition device 400 is configured to identify the overlapping regions 620 between the adjacent image pairs 602 and align the adjacent image pairs 602 relative to each other based on the identified overlapping regions 620. The alignment of the adjacent images 602 can be achieved by moving the images 602 in one or more directions within the plane of the images 602 (e.g., along the x-axis and / or along the y-axis). Moreover, in some embodiments, the image processing unit 430 is configured to stitch the adjacent images 602 so that they together form a composite image 610. The stitching of the images 602 can involve removing a portion of the image 602 that overlaps with the adjacent image 602. In some cases, the stitching of the images 602 can include blending two overlapping portions of the adjacent images 602. Moreover, in some embodiments, the stitching of the images 602 can be accomplished by arranging (e.g., placing) each image 602 in a coordinate system 630 of the composite image to be formed. The arrangement of the images 602 in the coordinate system 630 may be done graphically. Alternatively or additionally, the arrangement of the images 602 in the coordinate system 630 may be accomplished by assigning poses (e.g., X, Y coordinates) to the images 602 relative to the coordinate system 630. In one embodiment, the poses assigned to the images 602 may be based on the overlap of the images 602 with adjacent images 602. For example, if the first image 602 is assigned (X1, Y1) in the coordinate system 630 of the composite image 620 to be formed, then the adjacent image (e.g., the second image 602) may be assigned coordinates (X2, Y2) in the coordinate system 630, where the coordinates (X2, Y2) may be determined based on the area in the second image 602 that overlaps with the area in the first image 602. This is performed for each of the images 602 until all of the images 602 are placed in the coordinate system 630 of the composite image 610.

[0054] Figure 7 An imaging method 700 is illustrated. In some embodiments, the imaging method 700 can be performed by the image acquisition device 400. The imaging method 700 includes generating a control signal by a positioner controller that is communicatively coupled to the positioner, wherein the control signal is generated to cause the positioner to linearly translate a patient support relative to the imager and / or to linearly translate the imager relative to the patient support (item 702). The imaging method 700 also includes operating the imager to generate a plurality of first two-dimensional images for the patient while the patient is supported by the patient support (item 704). The imaging method 700 also includes arranging, by the image processing unit, the two-dimensional images relative to each other to obtain a first composite image (item 706).

[0055] Optionally, in method 700 , the first composite image is obtained by performing image stitching using two-dimensional images.

[0056] Optionally, the method 700 further includes identifying an overlapping area of ​​at least two of the two-dimensional images.

[0057] Optionally, in method 700, the first composite image covers at least a portion of the patient that is 50 cm or more, 60 cm or more, 70 cm or more, 80 cm or more, 90 cm or more, or 100 cm or more in length.

[0058] Optionally, in method 700, the imager is operated by an imaging controller to generate a plurality of second two-dimensional images for the patient; and wherein the image processing unit is configured to obtain the plurality of second two-dimensional images and arrange the two-dimensional images in the plurality of second two-dimensional images relative to each other to obtain a second composite image.

[0059] Optionally, in method 700, the first composite image comprises a left side view or a right side view of the patient, and wherein the second composite image comprises a top view or a bottom view of the patient.

[0060] Optionally, the method 700 further comprises comparing, by an image comparator, at least a portion of the first composite image with at least a portion of the reference image to align at least a portion of the first composite image with at least a portion of the reference image. The image comparator may be part of the image processing unit 430, or alternatively may be a unit separate from the image processing unit 430.

[0061] Optionally, in method 700, the patient support is moved by a positioner controller based on an alignment between at least a portion of the first composite image and at least a portion of the reference image.

[0062] Optionally, in method 700, the imager is operated by the imaging controller to generate the plurality of first two-dimensional images in 20 seconds or less.

[0063] Optionally, in method 700, two-dimensional images 420 generated in 20 seconds or less collectively cover at least 50 cm or more, 60 cm or more, 70 cm or more, 80 cm or more, 90 cm or more, or 100 cm or more of a patient length.

[0064] Optionally, in method 700, the plurality of first two-dimensional images includes at least 50 images, at least 60 images, at least 70 images, at least 80 images, at least 90 images, at least 100 images, or more.

[0065] Optionally, in method 700, the imager is operated by the imaging controller to generate the plurality of first two-dimensional images at 10 frames per second or more, 20 frames per second or more, 30 frames per second or more, or 40 frames per second or more.

[0066] Optionally, in method 700, the image acquisition device is communicatively coupled to an image energy source, wherein the image energy source is coupled to a treatment machine in a half-fan configuration, and wherein the patient support is positioned off-isocenter with respect to the treatment machine.

[0067] Optionally, in method 700, the plurality of first two-dimensional images are acquired at a same isocenter position associated with the treatment machine.

[0068] Optionally, in method 700, a control signal is generated by the positioner controller to cause the positioner to translate the patient support at a rate that is at least 80% of its maximum speed.

[0069] Optionally, in method 700, the image acquisition device includes a CT image processor, and method 700 further includes constructing, by the CT image processor, a volume image based on the first composite image.

[0070] Optionally, the method 700 further includes generating, by the image processing unit, a volume image (eg, a tomosynthesis image / CT image) based on the plurality of first two-dimensional images.

[0071] Optionally, method 700 further comprises controlling, by the imaging controller, the radiation source to deliver radiation continuously for at least 2 seconds, at least 4 seconds, at least 5 seconds, or at least 6 seconds.

[0072] Optionally, method 700 further includes controlling the radiation source to deliver the radiation in pulses.

[0073] Optionally, in method 700, arranging the two-dimensional image includes obtaining a couch pose of a patient support or an imager pose of an imager, and arranging the two-dimensional image relative to reference coordinates of the composite image using the couch pose and / or the imager pose.

[0074] Optionally, in method 700 , the arranging of the two-dimensional images includes obtaining metadata of the corresponding two-dimensional images, and mapping the two-dimensional images to reference coordinates of the composite image using the metadata.

[0075] In some embodiments, when the image acquisition device 400 operates the imaging device 150 to image the patient, the patient support 14 can be positioned to align the patient with the isocenter of the treatment system 10. For example, the patient can be aligned laterally with respect to the isocenter axis so that the center or reference position of the patient is laterally centered with respect to the isocenter axis (while the patient can translate along the isocenter axis). In other embodiments, the patient support can be positioned to align the patient off-center with respect to the treatment system 10. This configuration may be desirable when the imaging device 150 is not vertically aligned with the isocenter of the treatment system 10 (e.g., in a half-fan configuration). Figure 8The imaging source 152 of the imaging device 150 in a half-fan configuration is illustrated. When in the half-fan configuration, the imaging source 152 is configured to provide a beam having a fan angle of approximately half (e.g., 0.5±0.1) of the full fan angle. Imaging devices in a half-fan configuration and imaging techniques using half-fan geometry are well known in the art and will not be described in further detail. As shown in the accompanying drawings, the patient support 14 is positioned away from the isocenter of the treatment system 10. In this case, different patient support postures can be used when acquiring the top / bottom and side composite images 440 of the patient. For example, when the imager 154 images the patient from below the patient support 14, the patient support 14, the imaging source 152, and the imager 154 can be positioned as shown in the accompanying drawings. The imaging source 152 and the imager 154 can then be rotated by approximately 90° (e.g., 90° plus or minus 15°) to image the patient from one side of the patient. The patient support 14 can then be moved to different postures to allow the imager 154 to image the patient from the side of the patient. It is advantageous to move the patient support 14 to different postures to obtain top / bottom and side scans because it allows the field of view of each projection to be optimized (e.g., by moving the patient support 14 as close as possible to the imager 154 to obtain a larger field of view). In other embodiments, the top / bottom and side scans can be performed at the same lateral and vertical postures of the patient support 14. This has the advantage of reducing or minimizing the total image acquisition time and movement of the patient support 14. In addition, in some embodiments, in order to improve the patient positioning posture and make the center posture of the top / bottom and side images represent the vertical and horizontal projections of the center of the patient (such as in the AP and LAT views of a CT reconnaissance scan), the gantry angle can be offset to compensate for the lateral offset of the imager 154 in the half-sector configuration.

[0076] In some embodiments, the rack angle can be selected so that the total viewing angle (in Figure 8 It is defined as Alpha 1 + Alpha 2 = Alpha T ) are evenly distributed on both sides of the vertical direction. In the example of the geometric shape shown in the figure, the positioning posture parameters may be based on the following relationship:

[0077] Alpha 2 + Beta = Alpha 1 - Beta (Equation 1)

[0078] Therefore, Beta = (Alpha 1 - Alpha 2) / 2 (Equation 2)

[0079] alpha T =Arctan((D / 2+d) / SID)+Arctan((D / 2-d) / SID) (Equation 3)

[0080] D = SAD*sin(beta) (Equation 4)

[0081] As an example, for an imager with D=430 mm, d=175 mm, and SID=154 mm, then alpha T can be calculated as 15.7° based on Equation 3. Also, Beta may be determined to be 6.36° and the delta calculated as 11.08 cm based on Equation 4. This delta represents the lateral offset to "move" the isocenter to place it below the imaging source 152. In some embodiments, the isocenter "shift" direction may be based on the following scheme:

[0082]

[0083] In some embodiments, two-dimensional image 420 and composite image 400 created using the techniques described herein have different projection characteristics. For example, in the landscape direction, the image may correspond to a point projection, and in the portrait direction, the image may correspond to a parallel projection. Fig. 9 Different types of projection geometries are illustrated. In some embodiments, if the images have different projection characteristics, processing of the images (eg involving 2D / 3D matching algorithms, digitally reconstructed radiographs (DRR), etc.) may be implemented in a manner that takes such different characteristics into account.

[0084] The image acquisition apparatus 400 and image acquisition scheme disclosed herein are advantageous because they enable whole body treatment to be performed by the treatment system 10. In some cases, using the techniques described herein, two full-length two-dimensional scans can be acquired in the time of a single CBCT, and the dose required for the two two-dimensional scans (to create the corresponding two composite images) is comparable to the dose required for conventional planar kV images.

[0085] The image acquisition scheme described herein is also superior to the technology in which the patient's target treatment area is split into different treatment plans, which will require image-guided alignment to be performed for each plan. For example, using the "plan splitting" technique, up to five separate plans (or more) must be created and managed to cover the full length of the patient. This workflow is laborious in planning and execution. In some cases, multiple cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) volumes can be stitched together to cover a longer range. However, each volume image requires many projection images to be generated, resulting in a large amount of dose being delivered to the patient. Moreover, it may take a long time to generate projection images for each CBCT image (e.g., it takes more than 20 seconds to cover 20 cm of the patient in length). Therefore, for a length of 100 cm, the image acquisition time may exceed 100 seconds so that the combined volume image covers the desired length of the patient.

[0086] Embodiments of the image acquisition techniques described herein significantly reduce image acquisition time and the amount of imaging dose delivered to a patient. For example, in some embodiments, the image acquisition techniques described herein can allow imaging of a patient length of more than 100 cm to be completed in less than 12 seconds.

[0087] Although the image acquisition device 400 and the imaging acquisition scheme have been described with reference to the treatment system 10, in other embodiments, the image acquisition device 400 and the imaging acquisition scheme may be implemented in other types of treatment systems, such as a proton treatment system, an ultrasound treatment system, etc.

[0088] Moreover, in other embodiments, the image acquisition device 400 and image acquisition scheme described herein can be implemented in an imaging system (rather than a treatment system). The imaging system can be a CT system, a tomosynthesis system, a radiograph system, an x-ray system, a diagnostic system, a simulator, etc. The image acquisition device 400 can enhance the functionality of such an imaging system by operating different components of the imaging system (e.g., imaging source, imager, etc.) to acquire multiple two-dimensional images according to the imaging acquisition scheme described herein. The two-dimensional images can then be stitched to form a composite two-dimensional image (super 2D image) that is used as a reconnaissance image, a scan, a topographic map, etc.

[0089] It should be noted that in other embodiments, the image acquisition device 400 may not include all of the components 402, 410, 430, 450, 460, 470. For example, in other embodiments, the image acquisition device 400 may not include the image comparator 460 and / or the volumetric image processor 470. Also, in other embodiments, the non-transitory medium 450 may not be part of the image acquisition device 400. In this case, the image acquisition device 400 may be communicatively coupled to the non-transitory medium 450 and may be configured to output information (e.g., the two-dimensional image 420, the (multiple) composite image 440, metadata of the image, etc.) for storage at the non-transitory medium 450 and / or for presentation to a user via a display. Furthermore, in some embodiments, two or more of the components 402, 410, 430, 450, 460, 470 of the image acquisition device 400 may be combined. For example, in some embodiments, the localizer controller 402 and / or the imaging controller 410 may be combined into the same module. The image acquisition device 400 (or one or more components thereof) may be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination of both.

[0090] Dedicated processing system

[0091] Fig.10is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a dedicated processing system 1600 that can be used to implement various features described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the processing system 1600 can be used to implement the image acquisition device 400 or one or more of its components. Also, in some embodiments, the processing system 1600 can be used to implement Figure 1 The processing unit 54. The processing system 1600 may also be used to implement controls that control the operation of the imager 200 and / or controls that control the operation of the treatment machine.

[0092] The processing system 1600 includes a bus 1602 or other communication mechanism for communicating information and a processor 1604 coupled to the bus 1602 for processing information. The processor system 1600 also includes a main memory 1606, such as a random access memory (RAM) or other dynamic storage device, which is coupled to the bus 1602 for storing information and instructions to be executed by the processor 1604. The main memory 1606 may also be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions to be executed by the processor 1604. The processor system 1600 also includes a read-only memory (ROM) 1608 or other static storage device, which is coupled to the bus 1602 for storing static information and instructions for the processor 1604. A data storage device 1610, such as a magnetic disk, solid state disk, or optical disk, is provided and coupled to the bus 1602 for storing information and instructions.

[0093] The processor system 1600 may be coupled to a display 167, such as a flat screen monitor, via a bus 1602 for displaying information to a user. An input device 1614, including alphanumeric and other keys, is coupled to the bus 1602 for communicating information and command selections to the processor 1604. Another type of user input device is a cursor control 1616, such as a mouse, trackball, or cursor direction keys, for communicating direction information and command selections to the processor 1604 and controlling cursor movement on the display 167. The input device typically has two degrees of freedom in two axes, a first axis (e.g., x) and a second axis (e.g., y), which allows the device to specify a pose in a plane.

[0094] In some embodiments, the processor system 1600 can be used to perform various functions described herein. According to some embodiments, this use is provided by the processor system 1600 in response to the processor 1604 executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained in the main memory 1606. Those skilled in the art will know how to prepare such instructions based on the functions and methods described herein. Such instructions can be read into the main memory 1606 from another processor-readable medium (such as a storage device 1610). The execution of the instruction sequence contained in the main memory 1606 causes the processor 1604 to perform the process steps described herein. One or more processors in a multi-processing arrangement may also be employed to execute the instruction sequence contained in the main memory 1606. In alternative embodiments, hard-wired circuitry can be used in place of software instructions or in combination with them to implement various embodiments described herein. Therefore, the embodiments are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.

[0095] The term "computer-readable medium" as used herein refers to any medium that participates in providing instructions to processor 1604 for execution. Such media can take many forms, including, but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical, solid-state, or magnetic disks, such as storage device 1610. Non-volatile media can be considered examples of non-transitory media. Volatile media include dynamic memory, such as main memory 1606. Volatile media can be considered examples of non-transitory media. Transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wire, and optical fiber, including the wires that make up bus 1602. Transmission media can also take the form of acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during radio wave and infrared data communications.

[0096] Common forms of computer readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a hard disk, magnetic tape or any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, any other optical medium, any other physical medium with a pattern of holes, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a Flash EPROM, a solid state disk, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave described below, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

[0097] Various forms of processor-readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to the processor 1604 for execution. For example, the instructions may initially be carried to a disk or solid-state disk of a remote computer. The remote computer can load the instructions into its dynamic memory and send the instructions over a network (such as the Internet). The processing system 1600 can receive data on a network line. The bus 1602 carries the data to the main memory 1606, from which the processor 1604 retrieves and executes the instructions. The instructions received by the main memory 1606 may optionally be stored on the storage device 1610 before or after execution by the processor 1604.

[0098] The processing system 1600 also includes a communication interface 1618 coupled to the bus 1602. The communication interface 1618 provides a bidirectional data communication coupling to a network link 1620 connected to a local network 1622. For example, the communication interface 1618 can be a local area network (LAN) card to provide a data communication connection to a compatible LAN. A wireless link can also be implemented. In any such implementation, the communication interface 1618 sends and receives electrical, electromagnetic, or optical signals that carry data streams representing various types of information.

[0099] The network link 1620 typically provides data communication to other devices through one or more networks. For example, the network link 1620 can provide a connection to a host computer 1624 or a device 1626, such as a radiation beam source and / or an imaging device or a switch operably coupled to the radiation beam source and / or the imaging device, through a local network 1622. The data stream conveyed by the network link 1620 may include electrical signals, electromagnetic signals, or optical signals. The signals through the various networks and the signals on the network link 1620 and through the communication interface 1618 (carrying data to and from the processing system 1600) are exemplary forms of carrier waves conveying information. The processing system 1600 can send messages and receive data, including program code, through the (multiple) networks, network link 1620, and communication interface 1618.

[0100] As used in this specification, terms such as "first", "second", etc. are used to identify different items and do not necessarily refer to the order of the items. For example, "first composite image" and "second composite image" refer to two different composite images (not that "first composite image" is first in order, etc.).

[0101] Moreover, as used in this specification, the term "image" may refer to a displayed image and / or an image in electronic form that is not displayed. Similarly, (multiple) actions (such as stitching, arranging, moving, etc.) performed on such an image may be performed graphically and / or electronically. For example, the stitching of two images may be performed and / or completed by assigning two corresponding poses to the two images in a coordinate system (wherein when the two images are placed in the two assigned poses, the two images will be combined so that their overlapping areas are aligned).

[0102] Exemplary imaging acquisition apparatus and methods are set forth in the following items:

[0103] An image acquisition device includes: a positioner controller, which is communicatively coupled to a positioner, wherein the positioner controller is configured to generate control signals to cause the positioner to linearly translate a patient support relative to an imager and / or linearly translate the imager relative to the patient support; an imaging controller, which is configured to operate the imager to generate a plurality of first two-dimensional images for the patient when the patient is supported by the patient support and when the positioner linearly translates the patient support and / or the imager; and an image processing unit, which is configured to obtain the plurality of first two-dimensional images and arrange the two-dimensional images relative to each other to obtain a first composite image.

[0104] Optionally, the image processing unit is configured to obtain the first composite image by performing image stitching using the two-dimensional images.

[0105] Optionally, the image processing unit is configured to identify an overlapping area of ​​at least two of the two-dimensional images.

[0106] Optionally, the first composite image covers at least a portion of the patient, the at least a portion of the patient being at least 100 cm in length.

[0107] Optionally, the imaging controller is further configured to operate the imager to generate a plurality of second two-dimensional images for the patient; and wherein the image processing unit is configured to obtain the plurality of second two-dimensional images and arrange the two-dimensional images in the plurality of second two-dimensional images relative to each other to obtain a second composite image.

[0108] Optionally, the first composite image comprises a left side view or a right side view of the patient, and wherein the second composite image comprises a top view or a bottom view of the patient.

[0109] Optionally, the image acquisition device further comprises an image comparator configured to compare at least a portion of the first composite image with at least a portion of the reference image to align at least a portion of the first composite image with at least a portion of the reference image.

[0110] Optionally, the positioner controller is configured to move the patient support based on an alignment between at least a portion of the first composite image and at least a portion of the reference image.

[0111] Optionally, the imaging controller is configured to operate the imager to generate the plurality of first two-dimensional images in 20 seconds or less.

[0112] Optionally, the two-dimensional images generated in 20 seconds or less collectively cover a length of at least 100 cm of the patient.

[0113] Optionally, the plurality of first two-dimensional images comprises at least 50 images.

[0114] Optionally, the imaging controller is configured to operate the imager to generate the plurality of first two-dimensional images at 10 frames per second or higher.

[0115] Optionally, the image acquisition device is communicatively coupled to the image energy source, wherein the image energy source is coupled in a half-fan configuration with respect to the treatment machine, and wherein the patient support is positioned off-isocenter with respect to the treatment machine.

[0116] Optionally, the plurality of first two-dimensional images are acquired at a same isocenter position associated with the treatment machine.

[0117] Optionally, the positioner controller is configured to generate the control signal to cause the positioner to translate the patient support at a rate of at least 80% of its maximum speed.

[0118] Optionally, the image acquisition device further comprises a CT image processor configured to construct a volume image based on the first composite image.

[0119] Optionally, the image processing unit is further configured to obtain a volume image based on the plurality of first two-dimensional images.

[0120] Optionally, the imaging controller is further configured to control the radiation source to deliver radiation continuously for at least 2 seconds.

[0121] Optionally, the imaging controller is further configured to control the radiation source to deliver the radiation in pulses.

[0122] Optionally, the image processing unit is configured to obtain a couch pose or an imager pose of the imager for the patient support and to arrange the two-dimensional image relative to reference coordinates of the composite image using the couch pose and / or the imager pose.

[0123] Optionally, the image processing unit is further configured to obtain metadata for the corresponding two-dimensional image, and utilize the metadata to map the two-dimensional image to reference coordinates for the composite image.

[0124] An imaging method performed by an image acquisition device, comprising: generating a control signal by a positioner controller that is communicatively coupled to a positioner, wherein the control signal is generated to cause the positioner to linearly translate a patient support relative to the imager and / or to linearly translate the imager relative to the patient support; operating the imager to generate a plurality of first two-dimensional images for the patient when the patient is supported by the patient support and when the positioner linearly translates the patient support and / or the imager; and arranging the two-dimensional images relative to each other by an image processing unit to obtain a first composite image.

[0125] Although specific embodiments have been shown and described, it is to be understood that this is not intended to limit the claimed invention to the preferred embodiments, and it is apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed invention. Therefore, the description and drawings are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. The claimed invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents.

Claims

1. An image acquisition device, comprising: a positioner controller communicatively coupled to the positioner, wherein the positioner controller is configured to generate control signals to cause the positioner to linearly translate a patient support relative to the imager and / or to linearly translate the imager relative to the patient support; an imager comprising a gate control circuit, wherein the gate control circuit is configured to simultaneously collect image signals from two or more rows of imager elements; an imaging controller configured to operate the imager to generate a plurality of first two-dimensional images of the patient while the patient is supported by the patient support in a horizontal position and while the positioner linearly translates the patient support and / or the imager, the plurality of first two-dimensional images comprising three or more images generated from the image signals; as well as An image processing unit, wherein the image processing unit is configured to obtain the multiple first two-dimensional images, and arrange the two-dimensional images relative to each other to obtain a first composite image, and compare the first composite image with a reference image generated before the first composite image to determine a desired positioning posture of the patient for treatment. 2 . The image acquisition device according to claim 1 , wherein the image processing unit is configured to obtain the first composite image by performing image stitching using the two-dimensional image. 3 . The image acquisition device according to claim 1 , wherein the image processing unit is configured to identify an overlapping area of ​​at least two of the two-dimensional images.

4. The image acquisition device of claim 1, wherein the first composite image covers at least a portion of the patient, the at least a portion of the patient being at least 100 cm in length.

5. The image acquisition device according to claim 1, wherein the imaging controller is further configured to operate the imager to generate a plurality of second two-dimensional images for the patient; and Wherein the image processing unit is configured to obtain the plurality of second two-dimensional images and to arrange the two-dimensional images of the plurality of second two-dimensional images relative to each other to obtain a second composite image. 6 . The image acquisition device of claim 5 , wherein the first composite image comprises a left side view or a right side view of the patient, and wherein the second composite image comprises a top view or a bottom view of the patient.

7. The image acquisition device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of first two-dimensional images includes at least 50 images. 8 . The image acquisition device according to claim 1 , wherein the imaging controller is configured to operate the imager to generate the plurality of first two-dimensional images at 10 frames per second or higher.

9. The image acquisition device of claim 1, wherein the image acquisition device is communicatively coupled to an image energy source, wherein the image energy source is coupled in a half-fan configuration relative to a treatment machine, and wherein the patient support is positioned offset from the isocenter relative to the treatment machine.

10. The image acquisition apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of first two-dimensional images are acquired at a same isocenter position associated with a treatment machine. 11 . The image acquisition apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a CT image processor configured to construct a volumetric image based on the first composite image. 12 . The image acquisition device according to claim 1 , wherein the image processing unit is further configured to obtain a volume image based on the plurality of first two-dimensional images.

13. The image acquisition device of claim 1, wherein the imaging controller is further configured to control the radiation source to deliver radiation continuously for at least 2 seconds.

14. The image acquisition device of claim 1, wherein the imaging controller is further configured to control the radiation source to deliver radiation in pulses.

15. The image acquisition device according to claim 1, wherein the image processing unit is configured to obtain a couch posture for the patient support or an imager posture for the imager, and to arrange the two-dimensional image with respect to reference coordinates for the composite image using the couch posture and / or the imager posture. 16 . The image acquisition device according to claim 1 , wherein the image processing unit is further configured to obtain metadata for the corresponding two-dimensional image, and use the metadata to map the two-dimensional image to a reference coordinate for the composite image.

17. An image acquisition device, comprising: a positioner controller communicatively coupled to the positioner, wherein the positioner controller is configured to generate control signals to cause the positioner to linearly translate a patient support relative to the imager and / or to linearly translate the imager relative to the patient support; an imager comprising a gate control circuit, wherein the gate control circuit is configured to simultaneously collect image signals from two or more rows of imager elements; an imaging controller configured to operate the imager to generate a plurality of first two-dimensional images of the patient while the patient is supported by the patient support in a horizontal position and while the positioner linearly translates the patient support and / or the imager, the plurality of first two-dimensional images comprising three or more images generated from the image signals; an image processing unit configured to obtain the plurality of first two-dimensional images and to arrange the two-dimensional images relative to each other to obtain a first composite image; as well as An image comparator configured to compare at least a portion of the first composite image with at least a portion of a reference image to align the at least a portion of the first composite image with the at least a portion of the reference image to determine a desired positioning posture of the patient for treatment.

18. The image acquisition apparatus of claim 17, wherein the positioner controller is configured to move the patient support relative to a treatment system based on an alignment between the at least a portion of the first composite image and the at least a portion of the reference image.

19. An image acquisition device, comprising: a positioner controller communicatively coupled to the positioner, wherein the positioner controller is configured to generate control signals to cause the positioner to linearly translate a patient support relative to the imager and / or to linearly translate the imager relative to the patient support; an imager comprising a gate control circuit, wherein the gate control circuit is configured to simultaneously collect image signals from two or more rows of imager elements; an imaging controller configured to operate the imager to generate a plurality of first two-dimensional images of the patient while the patient is supported by the patient support in a horizontal position and while the positioner linearly translates the patient support and / or the imager, the plurality of first two-dimensional images comprising three or more images generated from the image signals; as well as an image processing unit configured to obtain the plurality of first two-dimensional images and arrange the two-dimensional images relative to each other to obtain a first composite image, and compare the first composite image with a reference image generated before the first composite image to determine a desired positioning posture of the patient for treatment, Wherein the imaging controller is configured to operate the imager to generate the plurality of first two-dimensional images in 20 seconds or less.

20. The image acquisition device of claim 19, wherein the two-dimensional images generated in 20 seconds or less collectively cover a length of at least 100 cm of the patient.

21. An image acquisition device, comprising a positioner controller communicatively coupled to the positioner, wherein the positioner controller is configured to generate control signals to cause the positioner to linearly translate a patient support relative to the imager and / or to linearly translate the imager relative to the patient support; an imager comprising a gate control circuit, wherein the gate control circuit is configured to simultaneously collect image signals from two or more rows of imager elements; an imaging controller configured to operate the imager to generate a plurality of first two-dimensional images of the patient while the patient is supported by the patient support in a horizontal position and while the positioner linearly translates the patient support and / or the imager, the plurality of first two-dimensional images comprising three or more images generated from the image signals; as well as an image processing unit configured to obtain the plurality of first two-dimensional images and arrange the two-dimensional images relative to each other to obtain a first composite image, and compare the first composite image with a reference image generated before the first composite image to determine a desired positioning posture of the patient for treatment, Wherein the positioner controller is configured to generate the control signal to cause the positioner to translate the patient support at a rate of at least 80% of its maximum speed.

22. An imaging method performed by an image acquisition device, comprising: generating control signals by a positioner controller communicatively coupled to the positioner, wherein the control signals are generated to cause the positioner to linearly translate a patient support relative to an imager and / or to linearly translate the imager relative to the patient support; operating the imager to generate a plurality of first two-dimensional images of the patient while the patient is supported by the patient support in a horizontal position and while the positioner linearly translates the patient support and / or the imager, the plurality of first two-dimensional images comprising three or more images, the imager comprising a gate control circuit, wherein the gate control circuit is configured to simultaneously collect image signals from two or more rows of imager elements to generate the three or more images; arranging, by an image processing unit, the two-dimensional images relative to each other to obtain a first composite image; as well as The first composite image is compared by the image processing unit with a reference image generated before the first composite image to determine a desired positioning pose of the patient for treatment.

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