Computed tomography apparatus and computed tomography method using multiple light sources

Abstract

A computed tomography apparatus according to various embodiments can include a gantry including a first rotating device and a second rotating device in a ring shape sharing one rotation axis and capable of rotating independently from each other, a plurality of light sources configured at the first rotating device at intervals and configured to irradiate X-rays toward an object, a detecting device configured at the second rotating device and configured to detect X-rays that have penetrated the object, and one or more processors. The one or more processors according to various embodiments can be configured to rotate the first rotating device in a first rotation direction by a rotation angle determined based on the number of the plurality of light sources, irradiate X-rays toward the object by at least one of the plurality of light sources during rotation of the first rotating device in the first rotation direction, detect X-rays that have penetrated the object by the detecting device, and rotate the first rotating device in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction by the determined rotation angle.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a computed tomography apparatus and a computed tomography method using a plurality of light sources. BACKGROUND

[0002] Computed tomography (CT) is a non-invasive bio-imaging scanning method. A computed tomography apparatus irradiates X-rays to an object from a plurality of directions, detects a portion of the X-rays that have penetrated the object using a detecting device, converts output data of the detecting device into an electrical signal and reconstructs an image, thereby obtaining a computed tomography image of the object. In general, with respect to the computed tomography apparatus, the object is located inside a ring-shaped scanning gantry in which an X-ray source is disposed, and X-rays are irradiated to the object during rotation of the scanning gantry, thereby obtaining a cross-sectional image of the object, reconstructing the cross-sectional image of the object, and obtaining a three-dimensional stereoscopic image of the object. SUMMARY

[0003] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0004] With respect to a computed tomography apparatus using one light source (for example, an X-ray source), in order to obtain a computed tomography image of an object, X-rays need to be irradiated in a case where 360 degrees of rotation is performed around the object. When the rotation angle of the scanning gantry in which one light source is disposed is increased, a winding phenomenon of a wire (for example, a wire for supplying power to the light source) connected to the scanning gantry occurs.

[0005] The light source needs high power to irradiate X-rays, and thus, when a computed tomography apparatus using a plurality of light sources is used, the plurality of light sources cannot be simultaneously driven. At this time, only when the disposition of the plurality of light sources and the order of irradiating X-rays are appropriately set, a computed tomography image of the object can be obtained.

[0006] TECHNICAL SOLUTION

[0007] A computed tomography apparatus according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can include a gantry including a first rotating device and a second rotating device in a ring shape sharing one rotation axis and capable of rotating independently from each other, a plurality of light sources configured at the first rotating device at intervals and configured to irradiate X-rays toward an object, a detecting device configured at the second rotating device and configured to detect X-rays that have penetrated the object, and one or more processors. The one or more processors according to various embodiments can be configured to rotate the first rotating device in a first rotation direction by a rotation angle determined based on a number of the plurality of light sources, irradiate X-rays toward the object by at least one of the plurality of light sources during rotation of the first rotating device in the first rotation direction, and detect X-rays that have penetrated the object by the detecting device, and rotate the first rotating device in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction by the determined rotation angle.

[0008] Effects of Invention

[0009] A computed tomography apparatus according to various embodiments of the present disclosure includes a plurality of light sources capable of irradiating X-rays toward an object, and thus can reduce a rotation angle range of a gantry. Since the rotation angle range of the gantry can be reduced, stability of the computed tomography apparatus can be improved.

[0010] A computed tomography apparatus according to various embodiments of the present disclosure sets an X-ray irradiation sequence of a plurality of light sources according to a number and a configuration position of the light sources and the detecting device, and thus can obtain a computed tomography image of an object using an optimal scanning method according to a structure of the computed tomography apparatus. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a computed tomography apparatus according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0013] Figure 3a and 3b is a diagram illustrating a method of obtaining a circular computed tomography image of an object according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating a method of obtaining a spiral computed tomography image of an object according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 5is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography apparatus according to a first embodiment configuration, Figure 6 is an x-y plane cross-sectional view of a gantry according to the first embodiment configuration.

[0016] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the first embodiment configuration.

[0017] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the first embodiment configuration.

[0018] Figure 9 is a flowchart of an operation of a computed tomography apparatus according to the first embodiment configuration.

[0019] Figure 10 is an x-y plane cross-sectional view of a gantry of a computed tomography apparatus according to a second embodiment configuration.

[0020] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the second embodiment configuration.

[0021] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the second embodiment configuration.

[0022] Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the second embodiment configuration.

[0023] Figure 14 is a flowchart of an operation of a computed tomography apparatus having the second embodiment configuration.

[0024] Figure 15a is an x-y plane cross-sectional view of a gantry of a computed tomography apparatus according to a third embodiment configuration, Figure 15b is a y-z plane cross-sectional view of a gantry according to the third embodiment configuration.

[0025] Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the third embodiment configuration.

[0026] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating an x-y plane view of a gantry of a computed tomography apparatus according to a fourth embodiment configuration.

[0027] Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the fourth embodiment configuration.

[0028] Figure 19 is a chart illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the fourth embodiment configuration.

[0029] Figure 20 is a chart illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the fourth embodiment configuration.

[0030] Figure 21 is an action flowchart of a computed tomography apparatus having the fourth embodiment configuration.

[0031] Figure 22 is an x-y plane cross-sectional view of a scan stand of a computed tomography apparatus according to the fifth embodiment configuration.

[0032] Figure 23 is a chart illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the fifth embodiment configuration.

[0033] Figure 24 is a chart illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the fifth embodiment configuration.

[0034] Figure 25 is a chart illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the fifth embodiment configuration.

[0035] Figure 26 is an action flowchart of a computed tomography apparatus having the fifth embodiment configuration.

[0036] Figure 27a is an x-y plane cross-sectional view of a scan stand of a computed tomography apparatus according to the sixth embodiment configuration, Figure 27b is a y-z plane cross-sectional view of a scan stand according to the sixth embodiment configuration.

[0037] Figure 28 is a chart illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the sixth embodiment configuration.

[0038] Figure 29 is a chart illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus according to the sixth embodiment configuration.

[0039] Figure 30 is an action flowchart of a computed tomography apparatus having the sixth embodiment configuration.

[0040] Figure 31a and Figure 31b is a chart illustrating a method of adjusting a viewable area of a computed tomography apparatus.

[0041] Figure 32is a diagram illustrating a method of adjusting a visible region using a plurality of light sources.

[0042] Figure 33 is a diagram of a computed tomography apparatus according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 34a is an x-y plane sectional view of a scan gantry of a computed tomography apparatus according to various embodiments, Figure 34b is a diagram of a y-z sectional view of a scan gantry.

[0044] Figure 35a is an x-y plane sectional view of a scan gantry of a computed tomography apparatus according to various embodiments, Figure 35b is a diagram of a y-z sectional view of a scan gantry. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Embodiments of the present disclosure are illustratively presented for the purpose of explaining the technical idea of the present disclosure. The scope of the rights of the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments or specific descriptions of the embodiments.

[0046] All technical and scientific terms used in the present disclosure have meanings generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains, unless otherwise defined differently. All terms used in the present disclosure are selected for the purpose of more clearly explaining the present disclosure, and are not selected for the purpose of limiting the scope of the rights of the present disclosure.

[0047] The expressions such as “include”, “have”, “possess”, etc. used in the present disclosure, unless mentioned differently in the sentence or article including the expression, should be understood as open-ended terms having the possibility of including other embodiments.

[0048] The singular expressions described in the present disclosure, unless mentioned differently, can include the meaning of the plural, and the same applies to the singular expressions recited in the claims.

[0049] The expressions “first”, “second”, etc. used in the present disclosure are used to distinguish a plurality of constituent elements from each other, and do not limit the order or importance of the corresponding constituent elements.

[0050] The term "unit" used in the present disclosure means a software or a hardware constituent element such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array), an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit). However, the "unit" is not limited to the hardware and the software. The "unit" can be constituted so as to be located in an addressable storage medium or so as to make one or more processors operate. Therefore, as one example, the "unit" includes constituent elements such as a software constituent element, an object-oriented software constituent element, a cluster constituent element, and a task constituent element, and a processor, a function, an attribute, a program, a subprogram, a program code segment, a driver, firmware, a microcode, a circuit, data, a database, a data structure, a table, an array, and a variable. The constituent elements and the functions provided in the "unit" can be combined with a smaller number of constituent elements and "units" or further separated into additional constituent elements and "units".

[0051] The expression "based on" used in the present disclosure is used to describe one or more factors that affect a decision, a judgment, a behavior, or an action described in a word or a sentence including the expression, and such an expression does not exclude an additional factor that affects the decision, the judgment, the behavior, or the action.

[0052] In the present disclosure, when it is mentioned that a certain constituent element is "connected to" or "linked to" another constituent element, it is understood that the certain constituent element can be directly connected or linked to the other constituent element or can be connected or linked through a new other constituent element as a medium.

[0053] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding constituent elements are given the same reference numerals. Also, in the description of the following embodiments, repeated descriptions of the same or corresponding constituent elements can be omitted. However, even if the description of the constituent elements is omitted, it does not mean that the constituent elements are not included in a certain embodiment.

[0054] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0055] Referring to Figure 1 , the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can include a processor 110 and a scan gantry 120. The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can further include a transfer unit 150 and a power supply apparatus 160. Figure 1 Some of the illustrated constituents can be omitted or replaced without causing hindrance to the implementation of various embodiments disclosed in the present document.

[0056] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can be configured to perform operations or data processing related to control and / or communication of each constituent element of the computed tomography apparatus 100. The processor 110 can be operatively connected with the constituent elements of the computed tomography apparatus 100, for example. The processor 110 can load commands or data received from other constituent elements of the computed tomography apparatus 100 into a memory (not shown), process the commands or data stored in the memory, and store the result data. The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can include more than one processor 110.

[0057] The gantry 120 according to various embodiments can be a structure configured with a plurality of light sources 130 and a detection apparatus 140. The gantry 120 can be a structure in a ring shape (or a tunnel shape) that enables the plurality of light sources 130 and the detection apparatus 140 to rotate about a certain axis.

[0058] The light source 130 according to various embodiments can be an X-ray source capable of emitting X-rays. The light source 130 can irradiate X-rays to an object under the control of the processor 110. The object can be located in a bore (or an internal hole, an internal cavity) of the gantry 120, for example. The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can include a plurality of light sources 130. The plurality of light sources 130 can be X-ray light sources using carbon nanotubes (CNT), for example.

[0059] The detection apparatus 140 according to various embodiments can be an X-ray detector that detects the amount (or intensity) of X-rays. The detection apparatus 140 can detect the amount of X-rays that have penetrated an object from among X-rays irradiated to the object by the light source 130. When the internal density of the object is not uniform, the amount of X-rays absorbed by the object can vary depending on the direction of X-ray irradiation. The detection apparatus 140 can measure the amount of X-rays that have decreased in the case of penetrating the object, which are irradiated from various angles, and the processor 110 can determine the internal density of the object based on the data measured by the detection apparatus 140 and reconstruct a detailed cross-section of the inside of the object and generate a three-dimensional image using the determined internal density of the object. The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can include at least one detection apparatus 140.

[0060] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to an embodiment can include a gantry 120, a plurality of light sources 130, and a detector 140. The gantry 120 can include a first rotating device and a second rotating device in a ring shape that share a rotation axis and can rotate independently of each other. The plurality of light sources 130 can be disposed at intervals on the first rotating device, and the detector 140 can be disposed on the second rotating device. For example, the plurality of light sources 130 can be disposed at intervals on an inner side of the first rotating device, and can irradiate X-rays toward an object located inside the gantry 120. For example, the detector 140 can be configured in a shape that surrounds the entire inner side of the second rotating device. In the above case, the detector 140 can detect X-rays that have penetrated the object even if X-rays are irradiated from any one of the plurality of light sources 130.

[0061] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to an embodiment can include a gantry 120, a plurality of light sources 130, and a plurality of detectors 140. The gantry 120 can include a rotating device in a ring shape that can rotate about a rotation axis. The plurality of light sources 130 can be disposed at intervals on the rotating device. The plurality of detectors 140 can be disposed at positions corresponding to the plurality of light sources 130, respectively, facing each other. The plurality of light sources 130 can irradiate X-rays toward an object carried on a conveyance unit 150, and the plurality of detectors 140 can detect X-rays that have penetrated the object. The positions of the plurality of light sources 130 on the rotation axis of the rotating device can be the same. For example, the positions of the plurality of light sources 130 on the z-axis can be the same as each other.

[0062] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to an embodiment can include a gantry 120, a plurality of light sources 130, and a plurality of detectors 140. The gantry 120 can include a rotating device in a ring shape that can rotate about a rotation axis. The plurality of light sources 130 can be disposed at intervals on the rotating device. The plurality of detectors 140 can be disposed at positions corresponding to the plurality of light sources 130, respectively, facing each other. The positions of the plurality of light sources 130 on the rotation axis of the rotating device can be disposed at intervals. For example, the positions of the plurality of light sources 130 on the z-axis can be different from each other.

[0063] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to an embodiment can include a gantry 120, a plurality of light sources 130, and a detector 140. The gantry 120 can include a rotating device in a ring shape that can rotate about a rotation axis. The gantry 120 can be divided into a first partial device and a second partial device. The plurality of light sources 130 can be disposed at intervals on the first partial device. The detector 140 can be disposed on the second partial device.

[0064] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to an embodiment can include a gantry 120, a plurality of light sources 130, and a detection apparatus 140. The gantry 120 can include a first rotating device and a second rotating device in a ring shape that share a rotating shaft and are rotatable independently of each other. The plurality of light sources 130 can be disposed at intervals on the first rotating device. The detection apparatus 140 can be disposed in an area of the second rotating device.

[0065] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to an embodiment can include a gantry 120, a plurality of first light sources 130, a plurality of second light sources 130, and a detection apparatus 140. The gantry 120 can include a first rotating device, a second rotating device, and a third rotating device in a ring shape that share a rotating shaft and are rotatable independently of each other. The plurality of first light sources 130 can be disposed at intervals on the first rotating device. The plurality of second light sources 130 can be disposed at intervals on the second rotating device. The detection apparatus 140 can be disposed in an area of the third rotating device.

[0066] The transfer unit 150 according to various embodiments can be a device that is movable in the direction of the rotating shaft of the gantry 120 in the aperture of the gantry 120 in a ring shape. The transfer unit 150 can carry an object to be a subject of computed tomography.

[0067] The power supply apparatus 160 according to various embodiments can supply power required for each component of the computed tomography apparatus 100 to operate. The power supply apparatus 160 can supply power required for the plurality of light sources 130 to output X-rays.

[0068] Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments. For example, Figure 2 FIG. 2 is a diagram briefly illustrating only components necessary to explain a method of operating the computed tomography apparatus 100.

[0069] Referring to Figure 2 The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can include a plurality of light sources and at least one detection apparatus, irradiate X-rays to an object O using the plurality of light sources, and detect X-rays that have passed through the object O using the at least one detection apparatus.

[0070] The object O according to various embodiments can be located on the transfer unit 150, and the transfer unit 150 can be movable in the direction of the rotating shaft of the gantry 120 through the aperture of the gantry 120.

[0071] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a circular computed tomography image of the object body O by rotating the plurality of light sources 130 around the object body O, and can obtain a spiral computed tomography image of the object body O by rotating the plurality of light sources 130 around the object body O while moving the object body O in a direction of the rotation axis of the gantry 120.

[0072] Figure 3a and 3b is a diagram illustrating a method of obtaining a circular computed tomography image of an object body according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

[0073] Referring to Figure 3a and 3b , the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain circular computed tomography images of different parts of the object body O, combine the obtained circular computed tomography images, and generate an image of the entire object body O. The processor 110 of the computed tomography apparatus 100 can move the transfer part 150 carrying the object body O by a predetermined distance and repeatedly perform the operation of obtaining a computed tomography image of the object body O by a predetermined number of times.

[0074] As Figure 3a illustrated, the processor 110 can stop the transfer part 150 carrying the object body O while moving the transfer part 150 in a direction of the rotation axis of the gantry 120 so that the head of the object body O is positioned in the aperture. The processor 110 can obtain a circular computed tomography image of the head of the object body O using the plurality of light sources 130 and the at least one detector 140 while the transfer part 150 is stopped. Then, the processor 110 can move the transfer part 150 by a predetermined distance and stop it. In the above case, as Figure 3b illustrated, the chest of the object body O can be positioned in the aperture. The processor 110 can obtain a circular computed tomography image of the chest of the object body O using the plurality of light sources 130 and the at least one detector 140. The processor 110 can repeatedly perform the above operation a plurality of times to obtain circular computed tomography images of different parts of the object body O, and can combine the obtained circular computed tomography images to generate an image of the entire object body O.

[0075] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating a method of obtaining a spiral computed tomography image of an object body according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

[0076] Referring to Figure 4According to various embodiments, the computed tomography apparatus 100 can obtain a helical computed tomography image of the object body O, and generate an image of the entire object body O using the helical computed tomography image. For example, the processor 110 of the computed tomography apparatus 100 can cause the transfer unit 150 carrying the object body O to move at a predetermined speed. The processor 110 can obtain a helical computed tomography image of the object body O using the plurality of light sources 130 and the at least one detection apparatus 140 while the transfer unit 150 moves at the predetermined speed. The processor 110 can generate an image of the entire object body O using the helical computed tomography image of the object body O.

[0077] <First embodiment structure>

[0078] Figures 5 to 9 FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a computed tomography apparatus 100 having a first embodiment structure and a computed tomography method thereof.

[0079] Figure 5 FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography apparatus according to the first embodiment structure, Figure 6 FIG. 3 is an x-y plane sectional view of a gantry according to the first embodiment structure.

[0080] Referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6 According to various embodiments, the computed tomography apparatus 100 can include a gantry, a plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535, and one detection apparatus 540. The gantry can include a first rotating device 521 and a second rotating device 523 in a ring shape that share one rotation axis and can rotate independently of each other. The plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 can be disposed at a certain interval on the first rotating device 521. The detection apparatus 540 can be configured in a shape that entirely surrounds the inner side surface of the second rotating device 523. The plurality of light sources can irradiate X-rays to the object body O carried in the transfer unit 550, and the detection apparatus 540 can detect the X-rays that have passed through the object body O. In this diagram, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the number of the plurality of light sources is three, but the number of the plurality of light sources is not limited thereto, and can be two or more than three.

[0081] According to various embodiments, the processor 110 can determine an angle interval in which the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 are disposed within the first rotating means 521 and an angle by which the first rotating means 521 rotates, based on the number of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535. The processor 110 can determine a value obtained by dividing 360 degrees by the number of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 as the angle interval in which the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 are disposed within the first rotating means 521, and can determine a value obtained by dividing 360 degrees by the number of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 as the angle by which the first rotating means 521 rotates. For example, when the number of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 is three, the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 can be disposed at an interval of 120 degrees within the first rotating means 521, and the angle by which the first rotating means 521 rotates can be determined as 120 degrees. In the above case, even though the first rotating means 521 rotates only 120 degrees, since the light sources disposed at an interval of 120 degrees are three, a three-dimensional image of the object O can be generated.

[0082] When the detection means 540 according to various embodiments is configured in a form in which all of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 surround the inner side surface of the second rotating means 523, the processor can detect the X-rays that have penetrated the object O by the detection means 540 even though the X-rays are irradiated to the object O from only one of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535.

[0083] Figure 7 FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a computer tomography method of the computer tomography apparatus 100 configured according to the first embodiment. Specifically, Figure 7 FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a computer tomography method of the computer tomography apparatus 100 configured according to the first embodiment. Specifically,

[0084] In the diagram 700 for the first rotating means 521, the action state 1 can mean a state of rotating in a first rotating direction, the action state 0 can mean a state of not rotating, and the action state -1 can mean a state of rotating in a second rotating direction opposite to the first rotating direction. In the diagrams 700 for the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535, the action state 1 can mean a state of irradiating X-rays, and the action state 0 can mean a state of not irradiating X-rays. In the diagram 700 for the transfer unit 550, the action state 1 can mean a state of moving in a positive direction (+ direction) of the rotation axis, and the action state -1 can mean a state of moving in a negative direction (- direction) of the rotation axis.

[0085] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain circular computed tomography images of different parts of an object, combine the obtained circular computed tomography images, and generate an image of the entire object using the action method illustrated in the graph 700.

[0086] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction by a degree of a rotation angle determined based on the number of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535. For example, when the number of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 is 3, the rotation angle of the first rotating device 521 can be determined as 120 degrees. Referring to the graph for the first rotating device 521 of the graph 700, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction by a degree of 120 degrees from t1 to t2.

[0087] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object by at least one of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction. The processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources so that the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in a predetermined order per unit angle during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction. For example, the light source to which X-rays are to be irradiated can be changed in a predetermined order every time the first rotating device 521 rotates by 1 degree.

[0088] Referring to the graph for the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 700, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 so that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in a predetermined order during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction from 0 degrees to 1 degree, that is, from t1 to t 13 Referring to the graph for the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 700, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 so that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in a predetermined order during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction from 0 degrees to 1 degree, that is, from t1 to t 11 Referring to the graph for the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 700, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 so that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in a predetermined order during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction from 0 degrees to 1 degree, that is, from t1 to t 11 Referring to the graph for the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 700, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 so that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in a predetermined order during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction from 0 degrees to 1 degree, that is, from t1 to t 12 Referring to the graph for the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 700, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 so that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in a predetermined order during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction from 0 degrees to 1 degree, that is, from t1 to t 12 Referring to the graph for the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 700, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 so that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in a predetermined order during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction from 0 degrees to 1 degree, that is, from t1 to t 13The processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in a manner that the third light source 535 among the plurality of light sources irradiates X-rays to the object body. Then, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in a manner that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 are alternately irradiated to the object body in the order of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 again. If a case in which the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 are sequentially irradiated to the object body during the first rotating device 521 rotates by 1 degree in the first rotating direction is assumed as one sequence, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in a manner that the sequence is repeatedly performed 120 times at intervals of 1 degree during the first rotating device 521 rotates from 0 degree to 120 degrees, so that the plurality of light sources are alternately irradiated to the object body in the predetermined order.

[0089] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can detect X-rays that penetrate the object body through the detecting device 540 during the first rotating device 521 rotates in the first rotating direction. In the above case, the processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object body based on the X-rays detected through the detecting device 540. The processor 110 can generate a three-dimensional image of the object body based on the at least one low image of the object body. In the above case, the three-dimensional image of the object body can be a circular computed tomography image. The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the second rotating device 523 in which the detecting device 540 is disposed in the same direction as the first rotating device 521 rotates, or can not rotate the second rotating device 523 during the first rotating device 521 rotates.

[0090] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can stop the first rotating device 521 after the first rotating device 521 rotates in the first rotating direction by the determined degree of rotation, and can move the moving part 550 by a predetermined distance. Referring to the graph of the moving part 550 in the graph 700, the processor 110 can move the moving part 550 by a predetermined distance from t2 to t3. Between t2 and t3, the processor 110 can not operate the plurality of light sources 531, 533, and 535, and can not rotate the first rotating device 521.

[0091] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the first rotating device 521 in a second rotating direction opposite to the first rotating direction by the determined degree of rotation. Referring to the graph of the first rotating device 521 in the graph 700, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating device 521 in the second rotating direction by a degree of 120 degrees from t3 to t4.

[0092] According to various embodiments, the processor 110 can irradiate an object with X-rays through at least one of a plurality of light sources 531, 533, and 535 during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the second rotating direction. The processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 531, 533, and 535 to alternately irradiate the object with X-rays in a predetermined sequence per unit angle during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the second rotating direction. For example, whenever the first rotating device 521 rotates 1 degree, the light source to be irradiated with X-rays can be changed in a predetermined sequence.

[0093] Referring to the diagram of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 in Table 700, the processor 110 can rotate in the second rotation direction from 120 degrees to 119 degrees during the first rotation device 521's rotation, i.e., from t3 to t... 33 During rotation, the third light source 535, the second light source 533, and the first light source 531 are controlled to alternately irradiate the object with X-rays in sequence. For example, the processor 110 can control the rotation of the first rotating device 521 from 120 degrees to... During the rotation in the second rotation direction, that is, from t3 to t 31 During rotation in the second direction, X-rays are irradiated onto the object via a third light source 535 among multiple light sources. The processor 110 can be located from the first rotating device 521. rotate to During the period of t, that is, from t 31 To t 32 During rotation, X-rays are irradiated onto the object via a second light source 533 of a plurality of light sources. The processor 110 can be positioned from the first rotating device 521... During the rotation from 119 degrees, i.e. from t 32 To t 33The processor 110 controls multiple light sources by irradiating the object with X-rays through the first light source 531. Then, the processor 110 can control the multiple light sources to irradiate the object with X-rays alternately in the order of the third light source 535, the second light source 533, and the first light source 531. If we assume that the sequential irradiation of X-rays by the third light source 535, the second light source 533, and the first light source 531 during the first rotation of the rotating device 521 in the second rotation direction (rotating 1 degree) is a sequence, then the processor 110 can repeatedly execute this sequence 120 times at 1-degree intervals during the first rotation of the rotating device 521 from 120 degrees to 0 degrees in the second rotation direction, thereby controlling the multiple light sources to irradiate the object with X-rays alternately in a pre-set order. This figure illustrates the case where X-rays are alternately irradiated onto the object in the order of the third light source 535, the second light source 533, and the first light source 531 during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the second rotation direction. However, it is also possible to alternately irradiate the object with X-rays in the order of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535.

[0094] According to various embodiments, the processor 110 can repeatedly execute a cycle including the following actions a preset number of times: rotating the first rotating device 521 in a first rotation direction by a determined rotation angle; moving the transfer unit 550 in the direction of rotation axis by a predetermined distance after the first rotating device 521 has rotated in the first rotation direction by the determined rotation angle; rotating the first rotating device 521 in a second rotation direction by the determined rotation angle; and moving the transfer unit 550 in the direction of rotation axis by a predetermined distance after the first rotating device 521 has rotated in the second rotation direction by the determined rotation angle. When the cycle is repeatedly executed a preset number of times, circular computed tomographic images of different parts of an object can be obtained. The processor 110 can combine the obtained circular computed tomographic images to obtain a three-dimensional image of the entire object.

[0095] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography (CT) scanning method using a CT scanner 100 according to the structure of the first embodiment. Specifically, Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the operational status of the multiple light sources 531, 533, 535, the first rotating device 521, and the transfer unit 550 over time when there are three light sources.

[0096] In the graph of the first rotating device 521 in the graph 800, the action state 1 can mean a state of rotating in a first rotating direction, the action state 0 can mean a state of not rotating, and the action state -1 can mean a state of rotating in a second rotating direction opposite to the first rotating direction. In the graphs of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 in the graph 800, the action state 1 can mean a state of irradiating X-rays, and the action state 0 can mean a state of not irradiating X-rays. In the graph of the moving part 550 in the graph 800, the action state 1 can mean a state of moving in a positive direction (+ direction) of the rotating axis, and the action state -1 can mean a state of moving in a negative direction (- direction) of the rotating axis.

[0097] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a helical computed tomography image of an object body using an action method illustrated in the graph 800, and can generate a three-dimensional image of the entire object body using the obtained helical computed tomography image.

[0098] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction by a degree of a rotating angle determined based on the number of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535. For example, when the number of the plurality of light sources is three, the rotating angle of the first rotating device 521 can be determined as 120 degrees. Referring to the graph of the first rotating device 521 of the graph 800, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction by a degree of 120 degrees from t1 to t2.

[0099] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the moving part 550 to move in the rotating axis direction at a predetermined speed in response to the first rotating device 521 starting to rotate in the first rotating direction. Referring to the graph of the moving part 550 in the graph 800, the processor 110 can control the moving part 550 to move in the positive direction of the rotating axis at a predetermined speed from t1.

[0100] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body by at least one of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction. The processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources so that the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object body in a predetermined order per unit angle during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the first rotating direction. For example, the light source to irradiate X-rays can be changed in a predetermined order every time the first rotating device 521 rotates by 1 degree.

[0101] Referring to the graph of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 800, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in sequence during a period in which the first rotating device 521 rotates from 0 degree to 1 degree in the first rotating direction, i.e., from t1 to t 13 Referring to the graph of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 800, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in sequence during a period in which the first rotating device 521 rotates from 0 degree to 1 degree in the first rotating direction, i.e., from t1 to t 11 Referring to the graph of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 800, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in sequence during a period in which the first rotating device 521 rotates from 0 degree to 1 degree in the first rotating direction, i.e., from t1 to t 11 Referring to the graph of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 800, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in sequence during a period in which the first rotating device 521 rotates from 0 degree to 1 degree in the first rotating direction, i.e., from t1 to t 12 Referring to the graph of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 800, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in sequence during a period in which the first rotating device 521 rotates from 0 degree to 1 degree in the first rotating direction, i.e., from t1 to t 12 Referring to the graph of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 800, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in sequence during a period in which the first rotating device 521 rotates from 0 degree to 1 degree in the first rotating direction, i.e., from t1 to t 13 Referring to the graph of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 of the graph 800, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in sequence during a period in which the first rotating device 521 rotates from 0 degree to 1 degree in the first rotating direction, i.e., from t1 to t

[0102] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can detect X-rays that penetrate the object by the detecting device 540 during a period in which the first rotating device 521 rotates in the first rotating direction. In this case, the processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object based on the X-rays detected by the detecting device 540. The processor 110 can generate a three-dimensional image of the object based on the at least one low image of the object. In this case, the three-dimensional image of the object can be a spiral-shaped computed tomography image of the object.

[0103] According to various embodiments, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating device 521 in a first rotation direction by a determined rotation angle, and then rotate the first rotating device 521 in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction by a determined rotation angle. Referring to the diagram of the first rotating device 521 in Figure 800, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating device 521 in the second rotation direction by 120 degrees from t2 to t3. In the above case, the processor 110 can keep the transfer unit 550 moving in the direction of the rotation axis at a certain speed.

[0104] According to various embodiments, the processor 110 can irradiate an object with X-rays through at least one of a plurality of light sources during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the second rotating direction. The processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources to irradiate the object with X-rays alternately in a predetermined order per unit angle during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the second rotating direction. For example, whenever the first rotating device 521 rotates 1 degree, the light source to be irradiated with X-rays can be changed in a predetermined order.

[0105] Referring to the diagram of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535 in Table 800, the processor 110 can rotate in the second rotation direction during the first rotating device 521 from 120 degrees to 119 degrees, i.e. from t2 to t... 23 During rotation in the second direction, the third light source 535, the second light source 533, and the first light source 531 are controlled to alternately irradiate the object with X-rays in sequence. For example, the processor 110 can control the first rotation device 521 from 120 degrees to... During the rotation in the second rotation direction, that is, from t2 to t 21 During rotation in the second direction, X-rays are irradiated onto the object via a third light source 535 among multiple light sources. The processor 110 can be located from the first rotating device 521. Rotate to During the period of t, that is, from t 21 To t 22 During rotation, X-rays are irradiated onto the object via a second light source 533 of a plurality of light sources. The processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources so that, from the first rotating device 521... During the rotation from 119 degrees, i.e. from t 22 To t 23The processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the plurality of light sources alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in the order of the third light source 535, the second light source 533, and the first light source 531 again. If the assumption that the third light source 535, the second light source 533, and the first light source 531 sequentially irradiate X-rays during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 by 1 degree in the second rotation direction is one sequence, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the sequence is repeatedly performed 120 times at 1 degree intervals during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 from 120 degrees to 0 degrees in the second rotation direction, and the plurality of light sources alternately irradiate X-rays to the object in the order of the third light source 535, the second light source 533, and the first light source 531. In the present drawing, a case in which X-rays are alternately irradiated to the object in the order of the third light source 535, the second light source 533, and the first light source 531 during the rotation of the first rotating device 521 in the second rotation direction is illustrated, but of course, X-rays can be alternately irradiated to the object in the order of the first light source 531, the second light source 533, and the third light source 535.

[0106] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can repeatedly perform a loop including the following actions a predetermined number of times: an action of rotating the first rotating device 521 in the first rotation direction by a determined rotation angle while the transfer unit 550 moves in the rotation axis direction at a predetermined speed; and an action of rotating the first rotating device 521 in the second rotation direction by the determined rotation angle while the transfer unit 550 moves in the rotation axis direction at the predetermined speed. When the loop is repeatedly performed a predetermined number of times, a spiral computed tomography image of the object can be obtained. The processor 110 can obtain a three-dimensional image of the entire object using the obtained spiral computed tomography image.

[0107] Figure 9 is an action flowchart of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0108] Referring to the action flowchart 900, the processor 110 of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can rotate the first rotating device 521 in the first rotation direction by a determined rotation angle in action 910. The plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 can be arranged at intervals in the first rotating device 521. The determined rotation angle can be a value obtained by dividing 360 degrees by the number of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535. For example, when the number of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 is 3, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating device 521 in the first rotation direction by 120 degrees.

[0109] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through at least one of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 while the first rotating device 521 rotates in the first rotating direction, and detect the X-rays that have penetrated the object body through the detecting device 540 in action 920. The processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 so that the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object body one by one in the order set in advance per unit angle while the first rotating device 521 rotates in the first rotating direction. The detecting device 540 can be configured in a form of surrounding the second rotating device 523. The processor 110 can rotate the second rotating device 523 in the first rotating direction by the determined rotating angle while the first rotating device 521 rotates in the first rotating direction by the determined rotating angle, or can not rotate the second rotating device 523. The processor 110 according to various embodiments can move the transfer part 550 that carries the object body in the direction of the rotating shaft of the first rotating device 521 by the set degree after the first rotating device 521 rotates in the first rotating direction by the determined rotating angle.

[0110] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the first rotating device 521 in the second rotating direction opposite to the first rotating direction by the determined rotating angle in action 930.

[0111] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through at least one of the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 while the first rotating device 521 rotates in the second rotating direction, and detect the X-rays that have penetrated the object body through the detecting device 540 in action 940. The processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 so that the plurality of light sources 531, 533, 535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object body one by one in the order set in advance per unit angle while the first rotating device 521 rotates in the second rotating direction. The processor 110 can rotate the second rotating device 523 in the second rotating direction by the determined rotating angle while the first rotating device 521 rotates in the second rotating direction by the determined rotating angle, or can not rotate the second rotating device 523. The processor 110 according to various embodiments can move the transfer part 550 that carries the object body in the direction of the rotating shaft of the first rotating device 521 by the set degree after the first rotating device 521 rotates in the second rotating direction by the determined rotating angle.

[0112] <Second Embodiment Structure>

[0113] Figures 10 to 14is a diagram for explaining a computed tomography apparatus 100 having a second embodiment structure and a computed tomography method thereof. Contents duplicated with those explained in the first embodiment structure are omitted.

[0114] Figure 10 is an x-y plane cross-sectional view of a gantry of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment structure.

[0115] Referring to Figure 10 , the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can include a gantry, a plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035, and a plurality of detection apparatuses 1041, 1043, 1045. The gantry can include a rotating apparatus 1020 in a ring shape capable of rotating about a rotation axis. The plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 can be disposed at intervals on the rotating apparatus 1020. The plurality of detection apparatuses 1041, 1043, 1045 can be disposed at positions corresponding to the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 on the rotating apparatus 1020, respectively. The plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 can irradiate X-rays to an object carried on a conveyance unit 1050, and the plurality of detection apparatuses 1041, 1043, 1045 can detect X-rays that have passed through the object. In the present diagram, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the number of the plurality of light sources is three, but the number of the plurality of light sources is not limited thereto, and can be two or more than three.

[0116] According to various embodiments, the processor 110 can determine an angular interval at which the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 are disposed in the rotating apparatus 1020 and an angle at which the rotating apparatus 1020 rotates, based on the number of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035. The processor 110 can determine a value obtained by dividing 360 degrees by the number of the plurality of light sources as the angular interval at which the plurality of light sources are disposed in the rotating apparatus 1020, and can determine a value obtained by dividing 360 degrees by the number of the plurality of light sources as the angle at which the rotating apparatus 1020 rotates.

[0117] When the plurality of detection devices 1041, 1043, 1045 according to various embodiments are respectively disposed at positions facing corresponding positions of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035, respectively, the processor 110 can detect X-rays that have penetrated the object even if any one of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 irradiates X-rays toward the object. For example, among X-rays that have been irradiated toward the object from the first light source 1031, X-rays that have penetrated the object can be detected by the first detection device 1041 disposed at the corresponding position, among X-rays that have been irradiated toward the object from the second light source 1033, X-rays that have penetrated the object can be detected by the second detection device 1043 disposed at the corresponding position, and among X-rays that have been irradiated toward the object from the third light source 1035, X-rays that have penetrated the object can be detected by the third detection device 1045 disposed at the corresponding position.

[0118] Figure 11 FIG. 1100 is a diagram illustrating a computer tomography method of the computer tomography apparatus 100 according to a second embodiment structure. Specifically, Figure 11 FIG. 1100 is a diagram illustrating a computer tomography method of the computer tomography apparatus 100 according to a second embodiment structure. Specifically,

[0119] In the diagram of the rotation device 1020 in the diagram 1100, the action state 1 can mean a state of rotating in a first rotation direction, the action state 0 can mean a state of not rotating, and the action state -1 can mean a state of rotating in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction. In the diagrams of the first light source 1031, the second light source 1033, and the third light source 1035 in the diagram 1100, the action state 1 can mean a state of irradiating X-rays, and the action state 0 can mean a state of not irradiating X-rays. In the diagram of the transfer part 1050 in the diagram 1100, the action state 1 can mean a state of moving in a positive direction (+ direction) of an axis of rotation, and the action state -1 can mean a state of moving in a negative direction (- direction) of the axis of rotation.

[0120] The computer tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a circular computer tomography image of the object using the action method illustrated in the diagram 1100.

[0121] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotation device 1020 in the first rotation direction by a rotation angle determined based on the number of light sources. For example, when the number of light sources is three, the rotation angle of the rotation device 1020 can be determined as 120 degrees. Referring to the diagram of the rotation device 1020 of the diagram 1100, the processor 110 can rotate the rotation device 1020 in the first rotation direction by 120 degrees from t1 to t2.

[0122] Referring to the graph for the moving section 1050 of the graph 1100, the processor 110 according to various embodiments can not move the moving section 1050 in order to obtain a computed tomography image of a circle of the object body.

[0123] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through at least one of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, and 1035 during the rotation of the rotating device 1020 in the first rotation direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that all of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, and 1035 irradiate X-rays to the object body during the rotation of the rotating device 1020 in the first rotation direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, and 1035 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object body one by one in a preset order per unit angle during the rotation of the rotating device 1020 in the first rotation direction.

[0124] For example, referring to the graph for the first light source 1031, the second light source 1033, and the third light source 1035 of the graph 1100, the processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using all of the first light source 1031, the second light source 1033, and the third light source 1035 during the rotation of the rotating device 1020 in the first rotation direction from 0 degrees to 120 degrees, i.e., during the rotation from t1 to t2.

[0125] For example, as shown in FIG. 11B, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the first light source 1031, the second light source 1033, and the third light source 1035 irradiate X-rays to the object body one by one in a preset order per unit angle during the rotation of the rotating device 1020 in the first rotation direction. Figure 7The processor 110 can also control the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, and 1035 in such a manner that the first light source 1031, the second light source 1033, and the third light source 1035 sequentially and alternately irradiate X-rays to the object body in order. If it is assumed that the first light source 1031, the second light source 1033, and the third light source 1035 sequentially and alternately irradiate X-rays during the first rotating means 1020 rotates 1 degree in the first rotating direction is one sequence, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, and 1035 in such a manner that the sequence is repeated 120 times at 1 degree intervals during the first rotating means 1020 rotates from 0 degree to 120 degrees, and the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, and 1035 sequentially and alternately irradiate X-rays to the object body in the preset order. The processor 110 according to various embodiments can detect X-rays that penetrate the object body through the plurality of detecting means 1041, 1043, and 1045 during the rotating means 1020 rotates in the first rotating direction. In the above case, the processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object body based on the X-rays detected by the plurality of detecting means 1041, 1043, and 1045. The processor 110 can generate a three-dimensional image of the object body based on the at least one low image of the object body. In the above case, the three-dimensional image of the object body can be a circular computed tomography image.

[0126] Figure 12 FIG. 1200 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography method of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment structure. Specifically, Figure 12 FIG. 1200 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography method of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment structure. Specifically,

[0127] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a spiral computed tomography image of the object body using the operation method illustrated in the diagram 1200.

[0128] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotating means 1020 in the first rotating direction by an angle determined based on the number of the plurality of light sources. For example, when the number of the plurality of light sources is three, the processor 110 can determine the rotation angle of the rotating means 1020 to be 120 degrees. Referring to the diagram of the rotating means 1020 of the diagram 1200, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating means 1020 by an angle of 120 degrees in the first rotating direction from t1 to t2.

[0129] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the moving part 1050 to move in the direction of the rotation axis for a predetermined distance at a predetermined time in response to the rotation device 1020 starting to rotate in the first rotation direction. Referring to the graph for the moving part 1050 in the graph 1200, the processor 110 can control the moving part 1050 to move in the positive direction of the rotation axis for a predetermined distance from t1 to t2.

[0130] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through one of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 during rotation of the rotation device 1020 in the first rotation direction. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using the first light source 1031 during rotation of the rotation device 1020 in the first rotation direction from t1 to t2. In the above case, the second light source 1033 and the third light source 1035 can not irradiate X-rays. The first detection device 1041 disposed at a position corresponding to the first light source 1031 during irradiation of X-rays by the first light source 1031 can detect X-rays that have penetrated the object body. The processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object body based on the X-rays detected using the first detection device 1041.

[0131] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotation device 1020 in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction. The processor 110 can control the rotation device 1020 to rotate in the second rotation direction by the determined rotation angle after the rotation device 1020 rotates in the first rotation direction by the determined rotation angle. Referring to the graph for the rotation device 1020 in the graph 1200, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotation device 1020 in the second rotation direction by 120 degrees from t2 to t3. That is, the processor 110 can return the position of the first rotation device 1020 to the state before rotation in the first rotation direction as it is.

[0132] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control in such a manner that the moving part 1050 does not move but stops in response to the rotation device 1020 starting to rotate in the second rotation direction. Referring to the graph for the moving part 1050 in the graph 1200, the processor 110 can control the moving part 1050 not to move from t2 to t3.

[0133] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the rotating device 1020 to rotate in the second rotation direction by the determined degree of rotation after rotating in the first rotation direction by the determined degree of rotation, repeatedly, by the number of the plurality of light sources.

[0134] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can repeatedly perform the operation of the rotating device 1020 rotating in the first rotation direction by the determined degree of rotation and then rotating in the second rotation direction by the determined degree of rotation, by the number of the plurality of light sources.

[0135] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotating device 1020 in the first rotation direction by the determined degree of rotation again. Referring to the graph of the rotating device 1020 of the graph 1200, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating device 1020 in the first rotation direction by the degree of 120 degrees again from t3 to t4.

[0136] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the moving part 1050 to move in the rotation axis direction by the degree of the preset distance within the preset time in response to the rotating device 1020 rotating in the first rotation direction again. Referring to the graph of the moving part 1050 of the graph 1200, the processor 110 can control the moving part 1050 to move in the positive direction of the rotation axis by the degree of the preset distance from t3 to t4.

[0137] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object by one of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 during the rotation of the rotating device 1020 in the first rotation direction. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object by the second light source 1033 during the rotation of the first rotating device 1020 in the first rotation direction from t3 to t4. For example, the second light source 1033 can be the light source located closest to the first light source 1031 in the first rotation direction. In the above case, the first light source 1031 and the third light source 1035 can not irradiate X-rays. The second detecting device 1043 disposed at a position corresponding to the second light source 1033 can detect X-rays penetrating the object during the irradiation of X-rays by the second light source 1033. The processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object based on the X-rays detected by the second detecting device 1043.

[0138] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the rotating device 1020 to rotate again in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction. Referring to the graph of the rotating device 1020 of the graph 1200, the processor 110 can control the first rotating device 1020 to rotate again by 120 degrees in the second rotation direction from t4 to t5.

[0139] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control in a manner that the transfer part 1050 does not move in response to the rotating device 1020 to start rotating again in the second rotation direction. Referring to the graph of the transfer part 1050 of the graph 1200, the processor 110 can control in a manner that the transfer part 1050 does not move from t4 to t5.

[0140] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control in a manner that the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 do not irradiate X-rays during the rotating device 1020 rotates again in the second rotation direction. Referring to the graph of the first light source 1031, the second light source 1033, and the third light source 1035 of the graph 1200, the processor 110 can control in a manner that the first light source 1031, the second light source 1033, and the third light source 1035 do not irradiate X-rays from t4 to t5.

[0141] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can repeatedly perform the action of the rotating device 1020 rotating in the second rotation direction after rotating in the first rotation direction from t5 to t7 once again. The processor 110 can control the third light source 1035 among the plurality of light sources to irradiate X-rays to the object during the first rotating device 1020 rotates in the first rotation direction from t5 to t6.

[0142] Through the above-described actions, the processor can generate at least one low image of the object, and can generate a spiral-shaped computed tomography image of the object based on the at least one low image.

[0143] Figure 13 is a graph illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus 100 according to a second embodiment structure. Specifically, Figure 13 is a graph illustrating an action state of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035, the first rotating device 1020, and the transfer part 1050 over time when the plurality of light sources is three.

[0144] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a spiral-shaped computed tomography image of the object using the action method illustrated in the graph 1300, and can generate a three-dimensional image of the entire object using the obtained spiral-shaped computed tomography image. The contents repeated with the contents explained in Figure 12 the contents explained in the above.

[0145] According to various embodiments, from t1 to t7, the action states of the rotating device 1020, the first light source 1031, the second light source 1033, and the third light source 1035 are the same as those of Figure 12 Referring to the graph of the rotating device 1020, the first light source 1031, the second light source 1033, and the third light source 1035 in the graph 1300, the processor 110 can control the rotating device 1020 in such a manner that the action of rotating in the first rotation direction by the determined degree of rotation and then rotating in the second rotation direction is repeatedly performed. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using one of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 during the rotation of the rotating device 1020 in the first rotation direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that X-rays are sequentially irradiated to the object body by the first light source 1031, the second light source 1033, and the third light source 1035 as illustrated in the graph 1300.

[0146] Referring to the graph of the moving section 1050 in the graph 1300, the processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the moving section 1050 in such a manner that the moving section 1050 is constantly moved in the positive direction of the rotation axis at a predetermined speed from t1 to t7. During the rotation of the rotating device 1020 in the second rotation direction, that is, during the return of the rotating device 1020 to the original position as it is, when the moving section 1050 is not stopped, a part of the data can be omitted in the spiral-shaped computed tomography image of the object body. In order to supplement the omitted data, the processor 110 can move the moving section 1050 in the negative direction of the rotation axis at a predetermined speed again. For example, the processor 110 can control the moving section 1050 in such a manner that the moving section 1050 is constantly moved in the negative direction of the rotation axis at a predetermined speed from t7 to t 13 The moving section 1050 is controlled in such a manner that the moving section 1050 is constantly moved in the negative direction of the rotation axis at a predetermined speed.

[0147] Referring to the graph of the rotating device 1020, the first light source 1031, the second light source 1033, and the third light source 1035 in the graph 1300, the processor 110 can control the rotating device 1020 in such a manner that the rotating device 1020 is rotated in the first rotation direction from t7 to t 13 The rotating device 1020 is controlled in such a manner that the action of rotating in the first rotation direction by the determined degree of rotation and then rotating in the second rotation direction is repeatedly performed. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using one of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 during the rotation of the rotating device 1020 in the first rotation direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the third light source 1035, the second light source 1033, and the first light source 1031 sequentially irradiate X-rays to the object body from t7 to t 13 The plurality of light sources are controlled in such a manner that X-rays are sequentially irradiated to the object body.

[0148] By the above-described action, the processor can generate at least one low image of the object body, and can generate a spiral-shaped computed tomography image of the object body based on the at least one low image.

[0149] Figure 14 is an action flowchart of the computed tomography apparatus 100 having the second embodiment structure.

[0150] Referring to the action flowchart 1400, the processor 110 of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotating device 1020 in a first direction by an extent of a rotation angle determined based on the number of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 in action 1410.

[0151] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through at least one of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 and detect the X-rays that have penetrated the object body through one of the plurality of detection devices 1041, 1043, 1045 during the rotation of the rotating device 1020 in the first rotation direction in action 1420. The processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object body based on the X-rays detected through one of the plurality of detection devices 1041, 1043, 1045. The processor 110 can generate a three-dimensional image of the object body using the at least one low image of the object body.

[0152] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotating device 1020 in a second rotation direction by an extent of a determined rotation angle in action 1430. The processor 110 can control such that none of the plurality of light sources 1031, 1033, 1035 irradiate X-rays during the rotation of the rotating device 1020 in the second rotation direction by the extent of the determined rotation angle.

[0153] <Third Embodiment Structure>

[0154] Figures 15a to 16 is a diagram for explaining a computed tomography apparatus 100 having a third embodiment structure and a computed tomography method thereof. Repetitive descriptions of the contents explained in the second embodiment structure are omitted.

[0155] Figure 15a is an x-y plane cross-sectional view of a gantry of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment structure, Figure 15b is a y-z plane cross-sectional view of the gantry according to the third embodiment structure. The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment structure is a case in which the z-axis arrangement positions of the plurality of light sources are changed from the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment structure.

[0156] Referring to Figure 15a The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can include a gantry, a plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, 1535, and a plurality of detection apparatuses 1541, 1543, 1545. The gantry can include a rotating device 1520 in a ring shape capable of rotating about a rotation axis. The plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, 1535 can be disposed at intervals on the rotating device 1520. The plurality of detection apparatuses 1541, 1543, 1545 can be disposed at positions facing the plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, 1535, respectively. The plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, 1535 can irradiate X-rays to an object carried on a transfer portion 1550, and the plurality of detection apparatuses 1541, 1543, 1545 can detect X-rays that have penetrated the object. In the present drawing, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the number of the plurality of light sources is three, but the number of the plurality of light sources is not limited thereto, and can be two or more than three.

[0157] According to various embodiments, the processor 110 can determine an angular interval at which the plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, 1535 are disposed in the rotating device 1520 and an angle at which the rotating device 1520 rotates, based on the number of the plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, 1535. The processor 110 can determine a value obtained by dividing 360 degrees by the number of the plurality of light sources as the angular interval at which the plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, 1535 are disposed in the rotating device 1520, and can determine a value obtained by dividing 360 degrees by the number of the plurality of light sources as the angle at which the rotating device 1520 rotates.

[0158] When the plurality of detection apparatuses 1541, 1543, 1545 according to various embodiments are disposed at positions facing the plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, 1535, respectively, the processor 110 can detect X-rays that have penetrated the object by the detection apparatuses at the corresponding positions even if any one of the plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, 1535 irradiates X-rays to the object. For example, X-rays that have penetrated the object among X-rays irradiated to the object from the first light source 1531 can be detected by the first detection apparatus 1541 disposed at the corresponding position, X-rays that have penetrated the object among X-rays irradiated to the object from the second light source 1533 can be detected by the second detection apparatus 1543 disposed at the corresponding position, and X-rays that have penetrated the object among X-rays irradiated to the object from the third light source 1535 can be detected by the third detection apparatus 1545 disposed at the corresponding position.

[0159] Referring to Figure 15bAccording to various embodiments, the positions of the plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, 1535 on the rotation axis of the rotation device 1520 can be spaced apart and arranged in the rotation device 1520. For example, the positions of the plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, 1535 on the z-axis can be different from each other. For example, the position of the first light source 1531 on the z-axis, the position of the second light source 1533 on the z-axis, and the position of the third light source 1535 on the z-axis can be different from each other. For example, the difference between the position of the first light source 1531 on the z-axis and the position of the second light source 1533 on the z-axis can be the same as the difference between the position of the second light source 1533 on the z-axis and the position of the third light source 1535 on the z-axis.

[0160] Figure 16 FIG. 1600 is a table illustrating a computer tomography method of the computer tomography apparatus 100 according to the structure of the third embodiment. Specifically, Figure 16 FIG. 1600 is a table illustrating the action states of the plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, 1535, the rotation device 1520, and the transfer unit 1550 with time when the number of the plurality of light sources is three.

[0161] In the table of the rotation device 1520 in the table 1600, the action state 1 can mean a state of rotating in a first rotation direction, the action state 0 can mean a state of not rotating, and the action state -1 can mean a state of rotating in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction. In the table of the first light source 1531, the second light source 1533, and the third light source 1535 in the table 1600, the action state 1 can mean a state of irradiating X-rays, and the action state 0 can mean a state of not irradiating X-rays. In the table of the transfer unit 1550 in the table 1600, the action state 1 can mean a state of moving in a positive direction (+ direction) of the rotation axis, and the action state -1 can mean a state of moving in a negative direction (- direction) of the rotation axis.

[0162] The computer tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a spiral computer tomography image of the object body using the action method illustrated in the table 1600.

[0163] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotation device 1520 in the first rotation direction by an angle determined based on the number of the plurality of light sources. For example, when the number of the plurality of light sources is three, the rotation angle of the rotation device 1520 can be determined as 120 degrees. Referring to the table of the rotation device 1520 of the table 1600, the processor 110 can rotate the rotation device 1520 in the first rotation direction by an angle of 120 degrees from t1 to t2.

[0164] Referring to the graph of the moving section 1550 of the graph 1600, the processor 110 according to various embodiments can move the moving section 1550 in the direction of the rotation axis at a preset speed from t1 to t2 in order to obtain a helical computer tomography image of the object body. The positions of the plurality of light sources of the computer tomography apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment structure on the z-axis are different from each other, and thus a helical computer tomography image of the object body can be obtained even if the moving section 1550 is moved together during the rotation of the rotating device 1520 in the first rotation direction.

[0165] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through at least one of the plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, and 1535 during the rotation of the rotating device 1520 in the first rotation direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, and 1535 irradiate X-rays to the object body during the rotation of the rotating device 1520 in the first rotation direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the plurality of light sources 1531, 1533, and 1535 alternately irradiate X-rays to the object body in a preset order per unit angle during the rotation of the rotating device 1520 in the first rotation direction.

[0166] For example, referring to the graph of the first light source 1531, the second light source 1533, and the third light source 1535 of the graph 1600, the processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using the first light source 1531, the second light source 1533, and the third light source 1535 during the rotation of the rotating device 1520 in the first rotation direction from 0 degrees to 120 degrees, that is, during the rotation from t1 to t2.

[0167] For example, as Figure 7 For example, as

[0168] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can detect X-rays penetrating the object body through the plurality of detection devices 1541, 1543, 1545 during rotation of the rotating device 1520 in the first rotation direction. In the above case, the processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object body based on the X-rays detected using the plurality of detection devices 1541, 1543, 1545. The processor 110 can generate a three-dimensional image of the object body based on the at least one low image of the object body. In the above case, the three-dimensional image of the object body can be a helical computed tomography image.

[0169] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotating device 1520 in the second rotation direction by the determined rotation angle. That is, the processor 110 can return the position of the rotating device 1520 to the state before rotation in the first rotation direction as it is. Referring to the graph of the rotating device 1520 of the graph 1600, the processor 110 can rotate the rotating device 1520 in the second rotation direction by the extent of 120 degrees from t2 to t3.

[0170] <Fourth Embodiment Structure>

[0171] Figures 17 to 21 FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a computed tomography apparatus 100 having a fourth embodiment structure and a computed tomography method thereof.

[0172] Figure 17 FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an x-y plane view of a gantry of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to the fourth embodiment structure.

[0173] Referring to Figure 17 The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can include a gantry, a plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737, and one detection device 1740. The gantry can include a rotating device 1720 in a ring shape capable of rotating about a rotation axis. The gantry can be divided into a first portion device 1721 and a second portion device 1723 along a separation line X. In the above case, the object body can be easily located inside the gantry after being located inside the first portion device 1721 of the rotating device 1720 of the gantry in combination with the second portion device 1723. For convenience of explanation, a case in which the rotating device 1720 is divided in half by the separation line X is explained, but the first portion device 1721 and the second portion device 1723 are not necessarily divided by 180 degrees with respect to the center of the rotating device 1720, but can be divided in various sizes. When the first portion device 1721 is combined with the second portion device 1723, the first portion device 1721 and the second portion device 1723 can rotate together with the rotating device 1720.

[0174] The plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 according to various embodiments can be arranged at intervals in the first part device 1721. The plurality of light sources can irradiate X-rays to an object carried on the transfer part 1750. In the present drawing, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the number of the plurality of light sources is four, but the number of the plurality of light sources is not limited thereto, and can be two or three, or more than four.

[0175] The detection device 1740 according to various embodiments can be arranged in the second part device 1723. For example, when the light source is assumed to be a point light source, the cone beam angle of the light source is about 30 degrees, and thus the second part device 1723 can be sized to occupy 210 degrees (180 degrees + 30 degrees) with respect to the center of the rotating device 1720, and the detection device 1740 can be configured in a form of entirely surrounding the inner side surface of the second part device 1723.

[0176] According to various embodiments, the processor 110 can determine an angular interval at which the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 are arranged in the first part device 1721 and an angle at which the rotating device 1720 rotates, based on the number of the plurality of light sources. The processor 110 can determine a value obtained by dividing 180 degrees by the number of the plurality of light sources as the angular interval at which the plurality of light sources 1733, 1735, 1737 are arranged in the first part device 1721, and can determine a value obtained by dividing 180 degrees by the number of the plurality of light sources as the angle at which the rotating device 1720 rotates. For example, when the number of the plurality of light sources is four, the plurality of light sources can be arranged at intervals of 45 degrees in the first part device 1721, and the angle at which the rotating device 1720 rotates can be determined as 45 degrees.

[0177] When the detection device 1740 according to various embodiments is configured in a form of entirely surrounding the second part device 1723, the processor 110 can detect X-rays that have penetrated an object from the detection device 1740, even when any one of the plurality of light sources arranged in the first part device 1721 irradiates X-rays to the object.

[0178] Figure 18 FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a computer tomography method of a computer tomography apparatus 100 according to a fourth embodiment structure. Specifically, Figure 18 FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an action state of the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737, the rotating device 1720, and the transfer part 1750 as time elapses, when the number of the plurality of light sources is four.

[0179] In the chart for the rotation device 1720 in the chart 1800, the action state 1 can mean a state of rotating in a first rotation direction, the action state 0 can mean a state of not rotating, and the action state -1 can mean a state of rotating in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction. In the charts for the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1737, and the fourth light source 1737 in the chart 1800, the action state 1 can mean a state of irradiating X-rays, and the action state 0 can mean a state of not irradiating X-rays. In the chart for the moving section 1750 in the chart 1800, the action state 1 can mean a state of moving in a positive direction (+ direction) of an axis of rotation, and the action state -1 can mean a state of moving in a negative direction (- direction) of the axis of rotation.

[0180] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a circular computed tomography image of an object body using the action method illustrated in the chart 1800.

[0181] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a circular computed tomography image of an object body using the action method illustrated in the chart 1800.

[0182] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotation device 1720 in a first rotation direction by a degree of a rotation angle determined based on the number of light sources. For example, when the number of light sources is 4, the rotation angle of the rotation device 1720 can be determined as 45 degrees. Referring to the chart for the rotation device 1720 of the chart 1800, the processor 110 can rotate the rotation device 1720 in the first rotation direction by a degree of 45 degrees from t1 to t2.

[0183] Referring to the chart for the moving section 1750 of the chart 1800, the processor 110 according to various embodiments can not move the moving section 1750 in order to obtain a circular computed tomography image of an object body.

[0184] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through at least one of the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 during rotation of the rotating device 1720 in the first rotation direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 in such a manner that all of the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 irradiate X-rays to the object body during rotation of the rotating device 1720 in the first rotation direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 in such a manner that the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 repeatedly perform a sequence of alternately irradiating X-rays to the object body one by one in the order set in advance per unit angle during rotation of the rotating device 1720 in the first rotation direction.

[0185] For example, referring to the graph for the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 of the graph 1800, the processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 during rotation of the rotating device 1720 in the first rotation direction from 0 degrees to 45 degrees, i.e., during rotation from t1 to t2.

[0186] For example, as described above, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 in such a manner that the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 repeatedly perform a sequence of alternately irradiating X-rays to the object body one by one in the order of the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 per unit angle. Figure 7 For example, referring to the graph for the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 of the graph 1800, the processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 during rotation of the rotating device 1720 in the first rotation direction from 0 degrees to 45 degrees, i.e., during rotation from t1 to t2.

[0187] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can detect X-rays that have passed through the object body through the detection device 1740 during rotation of the rotating device 1720 in the first rotation direction. In this case, the processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object body based on the X-rays detected through the detection device 1740. The processor 110 can generate a three-dimensional image of the object body based on the at least one low image of the object body. In this case, the three-dimensional image of the object body can be a circular computed tomography image.

[0188] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotating device 1720 in the second rotation direction by the determined rotation angle. That is, the processor 110 can return the position of the rotating device 1720 to the state before rotation in the first rotation direction as it is. Referring to the graph for the rotating device 1720 of the graph 1800, the processor 110 can rotate the rotating device 1720 in the second rotation direction by 45 degrees from t2 to t3.

[0189] Figure 19 is a graph illustrating a computer tomography method of the computer tomography apparatus 100 according to the fourth embodiment structure. Specifically, Figure 19 is a graph illustrating an action state of the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737, the rotating device 1720, and the transfer portion 1750 with time when the number of the plurality of light sources is four.

[0190] The computer tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a spiral computer tomography image of an object body using an action method illustrated in the graph 1900.

[0191] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotating device 1720 in the first rotating direction by a degree of a rotating angle determined based on the number of the plurality of light sources. For example, when the number of the plurality of light sources is four, the rotating angle of the rotating device 1720 can be determined as 45 degrees. Referring to the graph for the rotating device 1720 of the graph 1900, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating device 1720 in the first rotating direction by a degree of 45 degrees from t1 to t2.

[0192] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the transfer portion 1750 to move in the rotating axis direction for a preset time by a degree of a preset distance in response to the rotating device 1720 starting to rotate in the first rotating direction. Referring to the graph for the transfer portion 1750 of the graph 1900, the processor 110 can control the transfer portion 1750 to move in the positive direction of the rotating axis by a degree of a preset distance from t1 to t2.

[0193] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through one of the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 during the rotating of the rotating device 1720 in the first rotating direction. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using the first light source 1731 during the rotating of the rotating device 1720 in the first rotating direction from t1 to t2. In the above case, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 can not irradiate X-rays. The detecting device 1740 can detect the X-rays that have penetrated the object body during the irradiation of X-rays by the first light source 1731. The processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object body based on the X-rays detected using the detecting device 1740.

[0194] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotating device 1720 in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction. The processor 110 can control the rotating device 1720 in such a manner that the rotating device 1720 is rotated in the first rotation direction by a determined rotation angle and then rotated in the second rotation direction by the determined rotation angle. Referring to the graph for the rotating device 1720 of the graph 1900, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating device 1720 in the second rotation direction by 45 degrees from t2 to t3. That is, the processor 110 can return the position of the first rotating device 1720 to the state before being rotated in the first rotation direction as it is.

[0195] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control in such a manner that the moving device 1750 is not moved but stopped in response to the rotating device 1720 starting to rotate in the second rotation direction. Referring to the graph for the moving device 1750 of the graph 1900, the processor 110 can control in such a manner that the moving device 1750 is not moved from t2 to t3.

[0196] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control in such a manner that all of the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 do not emit X-rays during the rotating device 1720 is rotated in the second rotation direction. Referring to the graph for the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 of the graph 1900, the processor 110 can control in such a manner that all of the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, and the third light source 1735 do not emit X-rays from t2 to t3.

[0197] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can repeatedly perform the operation in which the rotating device 1720 is rotated in the first rotation direction by a determined rotation angle and then rotated in the second rotation direction by the determined rotation angle, according to the number of the plurality of light sources.

[0198] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotating device 1720 in the first rotation direction by a determined rotation angle again. Referring to the graph for the rotating device 1720 of the graph 1900, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating device 1720 in the first rotation direction by 45 degrees again from t3 to t4.

[0199] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the moving unit 1750 to move in the direction of the rotation axis for a preset distance at a preset time in response to the rotation device 1720 starting to rotate again in the first rotation direction. Referring to the graph for the moving unit 1750 in the graph 1900, the processor 110 can control the moving unit 1750 to move in the positive direction of the rotation axis for a preset distance from t3 to t4.

[0200] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object by one of the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 during rotation of the rotation device 1720 in the first rotation direction. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object by the second light source 1733 during rotation of the rotation device 1720 in the first rotation direction from t3 to t4. For example, the second light source 1733 can be the light source located closest to the first light source 1731 in the first rotation direction. In the above case, the first light source 1731, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 can not irradiate X-rays. The detection device 1740 can detect X-rays that have penetrated the object during irradiation of X-rays by the second light source 1733. The processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object based on the X-rays detected by the detection device 1740.

[0201] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the rotation device 1720 to rotate again in the second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction. Referring to the graph for the rotation device 1720 in the graph 1900, the processor 110 can control the first rotation device 1720 to rotate again in the second rotation direction by 45 degrees from t4 to t5.

[0202] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the moving unit 1750 to stop without moving in response to the rotation device 1720 starting to rotate again in the second rotation direction. Referring to the graph for the moving unit 1750 in the graph 1900, the processor 110 can control the moving unit 1750 not to move from t4 to t5.

[0203] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 not to irradiate X-rays during rotation of the rotation device 1720 again in the second rotation direction. Referring to the graphs for the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 in the graph 1900, the processor 110 can control the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 not to irradiate X-rays from t4 to t5.

[0204] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can repeatedly perform the action of rotating the rotating device 1720 from t5 to t9 in the first rotation direction and then in the second rotation direction. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using a third light source 1735 among the plurality of light sources during the rotation of the rotating device 1720 from t5 to t6 in the first rotation direction. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using a fourth light source 1737 among the plurality of light sources during the rotation of the rotating device 1720 from t7 to t8 in the first rotation direction.

[0205] Through the above-described actions, the processor can generate at least one low image of the object body, and can generate a spiral-shaped computed tomography image of the object body based on the at least one low image.

[0206] Figure 20 FIG. 1300 is a diagram illustrating a computed tomography method of a computed tomography apparatus 100 according to a fourth embodiment structure. Specifically, Figure 20 FIG. 2000 is a diagram illustrating an action state of the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737, the rotating device 1720, and the transfer unit 1750 as time elapses when the plurality of light sources is four.

[0207] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a spiral-shaped computed tomography image of the object body using the action method illustrated in FIG. 1300, and can generate a three-dimensional image of the entire object body using the obtained spiral-shaped computed tomography image. The contents repeatedly explained in the above-described Figure 19 are omitted.

[0208] According to various embodiments, the action states of the rotating device 1720, the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 from t1 to t9 are the same as those of Figure 19 Referring to the diagram of the rotating device 1720, the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 of FIG. 2000, the processor 110 can control the rotating device 1720 in such a manner that the rotating device 1720 repeatedly performs the action of rotating in the first rotation direction and then in the second rotation direction by the determined degree of rotation angle. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using one of the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 during the rotation of the rotating device 1720 in the first rotation direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 in such a manner that the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 irradiate X-rays to the object body in order as illustrated in FIG. 2000.

[0209] Referring to the graph for the moving section 1750 in the graph 2000, the processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the moving section 1750 to move at a constant speed in the positive direction of the rotation axis from t1 to t9. During the rotation of the rotating device 1720 in the second rotation direction, i.e., during the returning of the rotating device 1720 to the original position as it is, when the moving section 1750 is not stopped, a part of data can be missed in the spiral computed tomography image of the object. To supplement the missed data, the processor 110 can move the moving section 1750 again in the negative direction of the rotation axis at a constant speed. For example, the processor 110 can control the moving section 1750 to move in the negative direction of the rotation axis at a constant speed from t9 to t 17 The moving section 1750 is controlled to move in the negative direction of the rotation axis at a constant speed.

[0210] Referring to the graph for the rotating device 1720, the first light source 1731, the second light source 1733, the third light source 1735, and the fourth light source 1737 in the graph 2000, the processor 110 can control the rotating device 1720 to rotate in the first rotation direction by a degree of a rotation angle determined based on the number of the light sources from t9 to t 17 The rotating device 1720 is controlled to repeatedly perform the action of rotating in the first rotation direction by a degree of a rotation angle determined based on the number of the light sources and then rotating in the second rotation direction. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object using one of the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 during the rotation of the rotating device 1720 in the first rotation direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 1731, 1735, 1733, 1737 to irradiate X-rays to the object in the order of the fourth light source 1737, the third light source 1735, the second light source 1733, and the first light source 1731 as illustrated in the graph 2000.

[0211] Through the above-described actions, the processor can generate at least one low image of the object, and can generate a spiral computed tomography image of the object based on the at least one low image.

[0212] Figure 21 is an action flow diagram of the computed tomography apparatus 100 having the fourth embodiment structure.

[0213] Referring to the action flow diagram 2100, the processor 110 of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotating device 1720 in the first rotation direction by a degree of a rotation angle determined based on the number of the light sources in action 2110.

[0214] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through at least one of the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 during the rotation of the rotation device 1720 in the first rotation direction in action 2120.

[0215] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can detect X-rays penetrating the object body through the detection device 1740 during the rotation of the rotation device 1720 in the first rotation direction in action 2130. The processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object body based on the X-rays detected through the detection device 1740. The processor 110 can generate a three-dimensional image of the object body using the at least one low image of the object body.

[0216] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the rotation device 1720 in the second rotation direction by the determined degree of rotation angle in action 2140. The processor 110 can control so that none of the plurality of light sources 1731, 1733, 1735, 1737 irradiate X-rays during the rotation of the rotation device 1720 in the second rotation direction by the determined degree of rotation angle.

[0217] <5th Embodiment Structure>

[0218] Figures 22 to 26 is a diagram for explaining a computed tomography apparatus 100 having a 5th embodiment structure and a computed tomography method thereof. Repetitive contents explained in other embodiment structures are omitted.

[0219] Figure 22 is an x-y plane cross-sectional view of a gantry of a computed tomography apparatus 100 according to the 5th embodiment structure.

[0220] Referring to Figure 22 , the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can include a gantry, a plurality of light sources 2231, 2233, 2235, and one detection device 2240. The gantry can include a first rotation device 2221 and a second rotation device 2223 in a ring shape sharing one rotation axis and capable of rotating independently from each other. The plurality of light sources 2231, 2233, 2235 can be disposed at intervals on the first rotation device 2221. The plurality of light sources 2231, 2233, 2235 can irradiate X-rays to an object body carried on a transfer unit 2250. In this diagram, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the number of the plurality of light sources is three, but the number of the plurality of light sources is not limited thereto, and can be two or more than three.

[0221] The detection device 2240 according to various embodiments can be disposed at a region of the second rotating device 2223, and the detection device 2240 can detect X-rays that penetrate the object body. An initial position of the second rotating device 2223 can be set to a position at which the detection device 2240 can correspond to a specific light source disposed to first irradiate X-rays among the plurality of light sources 2231, 2233, and 2235. For example, when the first light source 2231 among the plurality of light sources 2231, 2233, and 2235 is initially disposed to first irradiate X-rays, the processor 110 can set a position at which the detection device 2240 can correspond to the first light source 2231 to be the initial position of the second rotating device 2223.

[0222] Figure 23 FIG. 2300 is a diagram illustrating a computer tomography method of the computer tomography apparatus 100 according to the fifth embodiment structure. Specifically, Figure 23 FIG. 2300 is a diagram illustrating a computer tomography method of the computer tomography apparatus 100 according to the fifth embodiment structure. Specifically,

[0223] In the diagram 2300, the action state 1 of the first rotating device 2221 and the second rotating device 2223 can mean a state of rotating in a first rotating direction, the action state 0 can mean a state of not rotating, and the action state -1 can mean a state of rotating in a second rotating direction opposite to the first rotating direction. In the diagram 2300, the action state 1 of the first light source 2231, the second light source 2233, and the third light source 2235 can mean a state of irradiating X-rays, and the action state 0 can mean a state of not irradiating X-rays. In the diagram 2300, the action state 1 of the transfer part 2250 can mean a state of moving in a positive direction (+ direction) of an axis of rotation, and the action state -1 can mean a state of moving in a negative direction (- direction) of the axis of rotation.

[0224] The computer tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a circular computer tomography image of the object body using the action method illustrated in the diagram 2300.

[0225] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the first rotating device 2221 in such a manner that the first rotating device 2221 repeatedly performs a first action of rotating by a degree of a rotation angle determined based on the number of the plurality of light sources in a first rotating direction and a second action of rotating by a degree of the determined rotation angle in a second rotating direction. For example, when the number of the plurality of light sources is 3, the processor 110 can determine a rotation angle of the first rotating device 2221 as 120 degrees. The processor 110 can determine a number of times the first rotating device 2221 repeatedly performs the first action and the second action based on the number of the plurality of light sources. For example, when the number of the plurality of light sources is 3, the processor 110 can determine the number of times the first rotating device 2221 repeatedly performs the first action and the second action as 3 times.

[0226] Referring to the graph for the moving section 2250 of the graph 2300, the processor 110 according to various embodiments can not move the moving section 2250 in order to obtain a circular computed tomography image of the object.

[0227] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the second rotating device 2223 in such a manner that the second rotating device 2223 rotates in the first rotating direction at the same rotation speed as the first rotating device 2221 during the first rotating device 2221 repeatedly performs the first action and the second action. Referring to the graph for the second rotating device 2223 of the graph 2300, the second rotating device 2223 can be rotated in the first rotating direction from t1 to t7. For example, the processor 110 can rotate the second rotating device 2223 in the first rotating direction at the same rotation speed as the first rotating device 2221.

[0228] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object by one of the plurality of light sources during the first rotating device 2221 rotates in the first rotating direction. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object by the first light source 2231 during the first rotating device 2221 rotates in the first rotating direction from t1 to t2. In the above case, the second light source 2233 and the third light source 2235 can not irradiate X-rays. The processor 110 can detect X-rays that penetrate the object by the detection device 2240 disposed at a position corresponding to the first light source 2231 during the first light source 2231 irradiates X-rays. The processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object based on the X-rays detected by the detection device 2240. As described above, the processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object by the second light source 2233 from t3 to t4 and by the third light source 2235 from t5 to t6.

[0229] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can rotate the first rotating means 2221 in the second rotating direction. The processor 110 can control the first rotating means 2221 in such a manner that the first rotating means 2221 is rotated in the second rotating direction by the determined rotating angle after being rotated in the first rotating direction by the determined rotating angle. Referring to the graph of the first rotating means 2221 of the graph 2300, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating means 2221 in the second rotating direction by the extent of 120 degrees from t2 to t3. That is, the processor 110 can make the position of the first rotating means 2221 return to the state before being rotated in the first rotating direction as it is. As described above, the processor 110 can rotate the first rotating means 2221 in the second rotating direction by the extent of 120 degrees from t4 to t5, and also rotate the first rotating means 2221 in the second rotating direction by the extent of 120 degrees from t6 to t7.

[0230] Through the above-described actions, the processor can generate at least one low image of the object body, and can generate a circular computed tomography image of the object body based on the at least one low image.

[0231] Figure 24 is a graph illustrating a computed tomography method of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to the fifth embodiment structure. Specifically, Figure 24 is a graph illustrating the action states of the plurality of light sources 2231, 2233, 2235, the first rotating means 2221, the second rotating means 2223, and the transfer portion 2250 with time when the plurality of light sources is three.

[0232] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a spiral computed tomography image of the object body using the action method illustrated in the graph 2400, and can generate a three-dimensional image of the entire object body using the obtained spiral computed tomography image. The contents repeatedly explained in the above-described Figure 23 are omitted.

[0233] According to various embodiments, from t1 to t7, the action states of the first rotating means 2221, the second rotating means 2223, the first light source 2231, the second light source 2233, and the third light source 2235 are the same as those of Figure 23The same. Referring to the chart 2400 for the first rotating device 2221, the second rotating device 2223, the first light source 2231, the second light source 2233, and the third light source 2235, the processor 110 can control the rotating device in such a manner that the first rotating device 2221 repeatedly performs the action of rotating in the first rotating direction by the determined degree of the rotating angle and then rotating in the second rotating direction. The processor 110 can control the second rotating device 2223 in such a manner that the second rotating device 2223 rotates in the first rotating direction at the same rotating speed as the first rotating device 2221 during the first rotating device 2221 repeatedly performs the action. The processor 110 can irradiate the object body with X-rays using one of the plurality of light sources during the first rotating device 2221 rotates in the first rotating direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources in such a manner that the object body is irradiated with X-rays in the order of the first light source 2231, the second light source 2233, and the third light source 2235 as illustrated in the chart 2400.

[0234] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the moving section 2250 in such a manner that the moving section 2250 moves by a predetermined distance in the positive direction of the rotating shaft during the first rotating device 2221 rotates in the first rotating direction. Referring to the chart 2400 for the moving section 2250, the processor 110 can move the moving section 2250 by a predetermined distance from t1 to t2, from t3 to t4, and from t5 to t6.

[0235] Through the above-described actions, the processor can generate at least one low image of the object body, and can generate a spiral-shaped computed tomography image of the object body based on the at least one low image. When using the method as illustrated in the chart 2400, the moving section 2250 is moved only during the object body is irradiated with X-rays by one of the plurality of light sources 2231, 2233, 2235, and thus a spiral-shaped computed tomography image of the object body can be obtained.

[0236] Figure 25 is a chart illustrating a computed tomography method of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to the fifth embodiment structure. Specifically, Figure 25 is a chart illustrating the action states of the plurality of light sources 2231, 2233, 2235, the first rotating device 2221, the second rotating device 2223, and the moving section 2250 with time when the plurality of light sources is three.

[0237] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a spiral-shaped computed tomography image of the object body using the action method illustrated in the chart 2500, and can generate a three-dimensional image of the entire object body using the obtained spiral-shaped computed tomography image. The description of the same will be omitted. Figure 24the contents described above are repeated.

[0238] According to various embodiments, from t1 to t7, the action states of the first rotating means 2221, the second rotating means 2223, the first light source 2231, the second light source 2233, and the third light source 2235 are the same as those of t1 to t7 of FIG. 25-1. Figure 24 Referring to the graph of the first rotating means 2221, the second rotating means 2223, the first light source 2231, the second light source 2233, and the third light source 2235 of the graph 2500, the processor 110 can control the first rotating means 2221 in such a manner that the first rotating means 2221 repeatedly performs the action of rotating in the first rotating direction by the determined degree of the rotating angle and then rotating in the second rotating direction. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using one of the plurality of light sources 2231, 2233, 2235 during the rotation of the first rotating means 2221 in the first rotating direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of light sources 2231, 2233, 2235 in such a manner that the X-rays are sequentially irradiated to the object body by the first light source 2231, the second light source 2233, and the third light source 2235 as illustrated in the graph 2500.

[0239] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the second rotating means 2223 in such a manner that the second rotating means 2223 rotates in the first rotating direction at the same rotating speed as the first rotating means 2221 during the action in which the first rotating means 2221 repeatedly performs the action of rotating in the first rotating direction by the determined angle and then rotating in the second direction. Referring to the graph of the second rotating means 2223 of the graph 2500, the processor 110 can control the second rotating means 2223 in such a manner that the second rotating means 2223 rotates in the first rotating direction at the same rotating speed as the first rotating means 2221 from t1 to t7. 13 The second rotating means 2223 rotates in the first rotating direction.

[0240] Referring to the graph of the moving means 2250 in the graph 2500, the processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the moving means 2250 in such a manner that the moving means 2250 moves in the positive direction of the rotating axis at a predetermined speed from t1 to t7. During the rotation of the first rotating means 2221 in the second rotating direction, that is, during the return of the first rotating means 2221 to the original position as it is, when the moving means 2250 is not stopped, a part of the data can be omitted in the spiral-shaped computed tomography image of the object body. In order to supplement the omitted data, the processor 110 can move the moving means 2250 in the negative direction of the rotating axis at a predetermined speed again. For example, the processor 110 can control the moving means 2250 in such a manner that the moving means 2250 moves in the negative direction of the rotating axis at a predetermined speed from t7 to t 13 The moving means 2250 moves in the negative direction of the rotating axis at a predetermined speed.

[0241] Referring to the chart 2500 of the first rotating device 2221, the second rotating device 2223, the first light source 2231, the second light source 2233, and the third light source 2235, the processor 110 can control the rotating devices in a manner that the first rotating device 2221 repeatedly performs the action of rotating in the first rotating direction by the determined degree of the rotating angle and then rotating in the second rotating direction, from t7 to t 13 The processor 110 can control the rotating devices in a manner that the first rotating device 2221 repeatedly performs the action of rotating in the first rotating direction by the determined degree of the rotating angle and then rotating in the second rotating direction, from t7 to t 13 The processor 110 can control the rotating devices in a manner that the first rotating device 2221 repeatedly performs the action of rotating in the first rotating direction by the determined degree of the rotating angle and then rotating in the second rotating direction, from t7 to t

[0242] Through the above action, the processor can generate at least one low image of the object, and can generate a spiral computer tomography image of the object based on the at least one low image.

[0243] Figure 26 is an action flowchart of the computer tomography device 100 having the fifth embodiment structure.

[0244] Referring to the action flowchart 2600, the processor 110 of the computer tomography device 100 according to various embodiments can control the first rotating device 2221 in a manner that the first rotating device 2221 repeatedly performs a first action of rotating in the first rotating direction by a determined degree of the rotating angle based on the number of the plurality of light sources and a second action of rotating in the second rotating direction by the determined degree of the rotating angle, in action 2610. The processor 110 can determine the number of times the first rotating device 2221 repeatedly performs the first action and the second action, for example, based on the number of the plurality of light sources.

[0245] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the second rotating device 2223 in a manner that the second rotating device 2223 rotates in the first rotating direction at the same rotating speed as the first rotating device 2221 during the first rotating device 2221 repeatedly performs the first action and the second action, in action 2620.

[0246] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through one of the plurality of light sources 2231, 2233, 2235 during the first rotation device 2221 performs the first action, and detect the X-rays that penetrate the object body through the detection device 2240 in action 2630. The processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object body based on the X-rays detected through the detection device 2240. The processor 110 can generate a three-dimensional image of the object body using the at least one low image of the object body.

[0247] <Structure of a sixth embodiment>

[0248] Figures 27a to 30 FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a computed tomography apparatus 100 having a structure of a sixth embodiment and a computed tomography method thereof. Repetitive descriptions of the contents explained in other embodiment structures are omitted.

[0249] Figure 27a FIG. 2 is an x-y plane cross-sectional view of a gantry of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to the structure of the sixth embodiment, Figure 27b FIG. 3 is a y-z plane cross-sectional view of the gantry according to the structure of the sixth embodiment.

[0250] Referring to Figure 27a The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can include a gantry, a plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733, a plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736, and one detection device 2740. The gantry can include a first rotation device 2721, a second rotation device 2723, and a third rotation device 2725 in a ring shape that share one rotation axis and can rotate independently of each other. The plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 can be disposed at intervals on the first rotation device 2721. The plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736 can be disposed at intervals on the second rotation device 2723. The plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 and the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736 can irradiate X-rays to an object body carried on a transfer unit 2750. In this diagram, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the number of the plurality of first light sources is three and the number of the plurality of second light sources is three, but the number of the plurality of first light sources and the number of the plurality of second light sources are not limited thereto.

[0251] The detection device 2740 according to various embodiments can be disposed at a region of the third rotating device 2725, and the detection device 2740 can detect X-rays that penetrate the object body. The initial position of the third rotating device 2725 can be set to a position at which the detection device 2740 can correspond to a specific light source disposed to first irradiate X-rays among the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 and the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736. For example, when the initial position is set to the light source 1 2731 that first irradiates X-rays, the processor 110 can set a position at which the detection device 2740 can correspond to the light source 1 2731 as the initial position of the third rotating device 2725.

[0252] Referring to Figure 27b The disposition planes of the first rotating device 2721, the second rotating device 2723, and the third rotating device 2725 according to various embodiments can be disposed in parallel with each other. For example, the positions of the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 on the z-axis can be different from the positions of the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736 on the z-axis. For example, the positions of the light source 1 2731, the light source 2 2732, and the light source 3 2733 on the z-axis can be different from the positions of the light source 2 2734, the light source b 2735, and the light source c 2736 on the z-axis.

[0253] Figure 28 FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a computer tomography method of the computer tomography apparatus 100 according to the sixth embodiment structure. Specifically, Figure 28 FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating the action states of the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733, the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736, the first rotating device 2721, the second rotating device 2723, the third rotating device 2725, and the transfer unit 2750 with time when the plurality of first light sources and the plurality of second light sources are each 3.

[0254] In the chart 2800 for the first rotating device 2721, the second rotating device 2723, and the third rotating device 2725, the action state 1 can mean a state of rotating in a first rotating direction, the action state 0 can mean a state of not rotating, and the action state -1 can mean a state of rotating in a second rotating direction opposite to the first rotating direction. In the chart 2800 for the light source 1 2731, the light source 2 2732, the light source 3 2733, the light source 2 2734, the light source b 2735, and the light source c 2736, the action state 1 can mean a state of irradiating X-rays, and the action state 0 can mean a state of not irradiating X-rays. In the chart 2800 for the transfer unit 2750, the action state 1 can mean a state of moving in a positive direction (+ direction) of an axis of rotation, and the action state -1 can mean a state of moving in a negative direction (- direction) of the axis of rotation.

[0255] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can obtain a circular computed tomography image of an object using an action method illustrated in the chart 2800.

[0256] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the first rotating device 2721 in such a manner that the first rotating device 2721 repeatedly performs a first action of rotating in a first rotating direction by a degree of a rotation angle determined based on the number of the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 and the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736, and a second action of rotating in a second rotating direction by the determined degree of the rotation angle. The processor 110 can determine the rotation angle of the first device as a value obtained by dividing 360 degrees by the number of the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 and the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736. For example, when the number of the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 is 3 and the number of the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736 is 3, the processor 110 can determine the rotation angle of the first rotating device 2721 as 60 degrees.

[0257] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can determine the number of times that the first rotating device 2721 repeatedly performs the first action and the second action based on the number of the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 and the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736. For example, when the number of the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 and the number of the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736 are each 3, the processor 110 can determine the number of times that the first rotating device 2721 repeatedly performs the first action and the second action as 3.

[0258] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the second rotating device 2723 in such a manner that the second rotating device 2723 repeatedly performs the third action of rotating by the determined degree of the rotation angle in the second rotation direction and the fourth action of rotating in the first rotation direction. The processor 110 can control in such a manner that the second rotating device 2723 rotates at the same rotation speed as the first rotating device 2721.

[0259] According to various embodiments, the first action of the first rotating device 2721 and the third action of the second rotating device 2723 can be performed at the same time as each other, and the second action of the first rotating device 2721 and the fourth action of the second rotating device 2723 can be performed at the same time as each other. That is, the first rotating device 2721 and the second rotating device 2723 can rotate in different directions from each other. For example, the processor 110 can rotate the second rotating device 2723 in the second rotation direction during rotating the first rotating device 2721 in the first rotation direction, and rotate the second rotating device 2723 in the first rotation direction during rotating the first rotating device 2721 in the second rotation direction.

[0260] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the third rotating device 2725 in such a manner that the third rotating device 2725 rotates in the first rotation direction at the same rotation speed as the first rotating device 2721 and the second rotating device 2723 during the first rotating device 2721 repeatedly performing the first action and the second action and the second rotating device 2723 repeatedly performing the third action and the fourth action. For example, when t1, the detection device 2740 disposed on the third rotating device 2725 can be disposed at a position corresponding to the light source 1 2731 in the opposite direction, and from t1 to t7, the third rotating device 2725 can rotate in the first rotation direction at the same rotation speed as the first rotating device 2721 and the second rotating device 2723. In the above case, even if the X-rays are irradiated in the order of the light source 1 2731, the light source 2 2734, the light source 2 2732, the light source b 2735, the light source 3 2733, and the light source c 2736, the detection device 2740 can be located at a position corresponding to a specific light source that always irradiates the X-rays. Accordingly, the detection device 2740 can detect the X-rays that penetrate the object from t1 to t7.

[0261] Referring to the graph of the moving section 2750 of the graph 2800, the processor 110 according to various embodiments can not move the moving section 2750 in order to obtain a circular computed tomography image of the object.

[0262] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through one of the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 during the rotation of the first rotating means 2721 in the first rotation direction, i.e., during the execution of the first action of the first rotating means 2721. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using the light source 1 2731 during the rotation of the first rotating means 2721 in the first rotation direction from t1 to t2. In the above case, the light source 2 2732 and the light source 3 2733 can not irradiate X-rays, and the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736 can also not irradiate X-rays. The processor 110 can detect X-rays that penetrate the object body using the detection means 2740 during the irradiation of X-rays by the light source 1 2731. The processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object body based on the X-rays detected using the detection means 2740. As described above, the processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using only the light source 2 2732 from t3 to t4 and using only the light source 3 2733 from t5 to t6.

[0263] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through one of the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736 during the rotation of the second rotating means 2723 in the first rotation direction, i.e., during the execution of the fifth action of the second rotating means 2723. The processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using the light source 2 2734 during the rotation of the first rotating means 2723 in the first rotation direction from t2 to t3. In the above case, the light source b 2735 and the light source c 2736 can not irradiate X-rays, and the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 can also not irradiate X-rays. The processor 110 can detect X-rays that penetrate the object body using the detection means 2740 during the irradiation of X-rays by the light source 2 2734. The processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object body based on the X-rays detected using the detection means 2740. As described above, the processor 110 can irradiate X-rays to the object body using only the light source b 2735 from t4 to t5 and using only the light source c 2736 from t6 to t7.

[0264] Through the above actions, the processor can generate at least one low image of the object body, and can generate a circular computed tomography image of the object body based on the at least one low image. When the method is illustrated using the graph 2800, the second rotating means 2723 can also be rotated in the first rotation direction during the rotation of the first rotating means 2721 in the second rotation direction, i.e., during the return of the first rotating means 2721 to the state before the rotation in the first rotation direction as it is, so as to irradiate X-rays using the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736.

[0265] Figure 29 is a chart illustrating a computer tomography method of the computer tomography apparatus 100 according to the sixth embodiment structure. Specifically, Figure 29 is a chart illustrating the action states of the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733, the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736, the first rotating device 2721, the second rotating device 2723, the third rotating device 2725, and the transfer section 2750 with time.

[0266] The computer tomography apparatus 100 according to the various embodiments can obtain a helical computer tomography image of the object body using the action method illustrated in the chart 2900, and can generate a three-dimensional image of the entire object body using the obtained helical computer tomography image. The contents repeated with the contents explained in Figure 29 will be omitted.

[0267] According to the various embodiments, from t1 to t7, the action states of the first rotating device 2721, the second rotating device 2723, the third rotating device 2725, the light source 1 2731, the light source 2 2732, the light source 3 2733, the light source 2 2734, the light source b 2735, and the light source c 2736 are the same as Figure 28 Referring to the charts of the first rotating device 2721, the second rotating device 2723, the third rotating device 2725, the light source 1 2731, the light source 2 2732, the light source 3 2733, the light source 2 2734, the light source b 2735, and the light source c 2736 of the chart 2900, the processor 110 can control the first rotating device 2721 in such a manner that the first rotating device 2721 repeatedly performs the action of rotating to the first rotating direction by the determined degree of the rotating angle and then rotating to the second rotating direction. The processor 110 can control the second rotating device 2723 in such a manner that the second rotating device 2723 repeatedly performs the action of rotating to the second rotating direction by the determined degree of the rotating angle and then rotating to the first rotating direction at the same rotating speed as the first rotating device 2721 during which the first rotating device 2721 repeatedly performs the action.

[0268] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body using one of the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 during rotation of the first rotating device 2721 in the first rotation direction, and irradiate X-rays to the object body using one of the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736 during rotation of the second rotating device 2723 in the first rotation direction. For example, the processor 110 can control the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 and the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736 in such a manner that X-rays are irradiated to the object body in the order of light source 1 2731, light source 2 2734, light source 2 2732, light source b 2735, light source 3 2733, and light source c 2736 as illustrated in the graph 2900.

[0269] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control in such a manner that the transfer portion 2750 moves in the positive direction of the rotation axis to the extent of a preset speed during rotation of the first rotating device 2721 and the second rotating device 2723. Referring to the graph for the transfer portion 2750 of the graph 2900, the processor 110 can move the transfer portion 2750 at a preset speed from t1 to t7.

[0270] Through the above-described actions, the processor can generate at least one low image of the object body, and can generate a spiral-shaped computed tomography image of the object body based on the at least one low image.

[0271] Figure 30 is an action flow diagram of the computed tomography apparatus 100 having the sixth embodiment structure.

[0272] Referring to the action flow diagram 300, the processor 110 of the computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can control the first rotating device 2721 in such a manner that the first rotating device 2721 repeatedly performs a first action of rotating in the first rotation direction to the extent of a rotation angle determined based on the number of the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 and the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736, and a second action of rotating in the second rotation direction to the extent of the determined rotation angle in action 3010.

[0273] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the second rotating device 2723 in action 3020 such that the second rotating device 2723 repeatedly performs a third action of rotating in a second rotating direction by a degree of a determined rotating angle and a fourth action of rotating in a first rotating direction by a degree of a determined rotating angle. The first action of the first rotating device 2721 and the third action of the second rotating device 2723 can be performed at the same time as each other, and the second action of the first rotating device 2721 and the fourth action of the second rotating device 2723 can be performed at the same time as each other.

[0274] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can control the third rotating device 2725 in action 3030 such that the third rotating device 2725 rotates in a first rotating direction at the same rotating speed as the first rotating device 2721 and the second rotating device 2723.

[0275] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can irradiate X-rays to the object body through one of the plurality of first light sources 2731, 2732, 2733 during the first action of the first rotating device 2721, and irradiate X-rays to the object body through one of the plurality of second light sources 2734, 2735, 2736 during the fourth action of the second rotating device 2723 in action 3040.

[0276] The processor 110 according to various embodiments can detect X-rays that penetrate the object body through the detecting device 2740 in action 3050. The processor 110 can generate at least one low image of the object body based on the X-rays detected through the detecting device 2740. The processor 110 can generate a three-dimensional image of the object body using the at least one low image of the object body.

[0277] <Other Embodiment Structures>

[0278] Figure 31a and Figure 31b is a diagram illustrating a method of adjusting a viewable region of a computed tomography device 100. Figure 32 is a diagram illustrating a method of adjusting a viewable region using a plurality of light sources. The viewable region can represent a region in which X-rays that penetrate an object body O can be detected.

[0279] Referring to Figure 31aAccording to various embodiments of the computer tomography apparatus 100, a visible region can be determined according to an irradiation angle of a light source 3133 among the plurality of light sources 3131, 3132, 3133, 3134, which is a currently operating light source. When an object body O is included in the irradiation angle of the light source, the visible region can be determined according to the irradiation angle of the light source. In this case, the detection apparatus 3140 can be located in the visible region and detect X-rays that have passed through the object body O. For example, when the computer tomography apparatus 100 is to obtain a computer tomography image of the object body O for a narrow region, the visible region can be narrowed.

[0280] Referring to Figure 31b When the computer tomography image of the object body O for a wide region is to be obtained, the visible region can be set to be wider than the irradiation angle of the light source. In this case, the X-rays that have passed through the object body O can be detected while the detection apparatus 3140 is moved from the first position 3140a to the second position 3140b. In this case, in order to obtain the computer tomography image of the object body O, the X-rays do not need to be irradiated repeatedly a plurality of times, and thus the amount of exposure of the object body O to the X-rays can be reduced.

[0281] Referring to Figure 32 According to various embodiments of the computer tomography apparatus 100, even when a part of the light sources is not located at a position at which the detection apparatuses 3140 face each other, the plurality of light sources 3131, 3132, 3133, 3134 can be all driven and the visible region can be adjusted. In this case, even without moving the detection apparatus 3140, the computer tomography image of the object body O can be obtained.

[0282] Figure 33 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a computer tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0283] The power supply apparatus 160 of the computer tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can be disposed outside the gantry 120. When the power supply apparatus 160 is disposed outside the gantry 120, the power supply apparatus 160 does not rotate together even when the gantry 120 rotates, and thus stability can be improved. The power supply apparatus 160 can be connected to the plurality of light sources 130 using a cable. The cable can be composed of a material that does not bend. The plurality of light sources 130 can receive power from the power supply apparatus 160 through the metal portion 135, and in order to improve stability, the metal portion 135 can be molded around using an insulating material. The insulating material can be, for example, insulating oil or silicone.

[0284] Figures 34a to 35b FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a structure of a computer tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0285] Figure 34a is an x-y plane cross-sectional view of a gantry 3420 of a computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments, Figure 34b is a diagram briefly illustrating a y-z cross-sectional view of the gantry 3420.

[0286] The computed tomography apparatus 100 according to various embodiments can include a gantry 3420 including a first rotating device 3421 and a second rotating device. A plurality of light sources 3430 can be disposed at intervals in the first rotating device 3421. A detecting device 3440 can be disposed in the second rotating device, and the detecting device 3440 can be configured in a form surrounding the second rotating device. In the present diagram, a case in which the plurality of light sources 3430 is 8 is illustrated, but the number of the plurality of light sources is not limited thereto. When the plurality of light sources is 8, the plurality of light sources can be disposed at 45-degree intervals in the first rotating device.

[0287] According to various embodiments, positions of the plurality of light sources 3430 in a z-axis direction can be different from each other. For example, the plurality of light sources 3430 can be disposed as illustrated in Figure 34b Figure 35a and 35b As illustrated in Figure 35a and 35b When the first rotating device 3421 having the structure illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B is used, the computed tomography apparatus 100 can obtain a spiral computed tomography image of an object.

[0288] In flowcharts, process steps, method steps, algorithms, etc. are sequentially illustrated in order, but these processes, methods, and algorithms can be configured to act in any suitable order. In other words, steps of the processes, methods, and algorithms illustrated in various embodiments of the disclosure do not need to be executed in the order described in the disclosure. In addition, although a case in which some steps are asynchronously executed is illustrated, in other embodiments, the steps can be simultaneously executed. In addition, examples of processes described in the drawings are not intended to exclude different variations or modifications of the example processes, are not intended to mean that the example processes or any one of the steps thereof are necessary for one or more of the various embodiments of the disclosure, and are not intended to mean that the example processes are preferred.

[0289] ​Although the method is described through specific embodiments, the method can be embodied in a computer-readable code in a computer-readable recording medium. The computer-readable recording medium includes all kinds of recording devices storing data readable by a computer system. The computer-readable recording medium can include, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), magnetic tapes, floppy disks, optical data storage devices, etc. In addition, the computer-readable recording medium can be distributed to computer systems connected by a network, thereby storing computer-readable codes in a distributed manner and operating. Also, the functional programs, codes, and code segments required to embody the embodiments can be easily deduced by programmers skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0290] The above examples illustrated by some embodiments and drawings explain the technical idea of the present disclosure, but it should be understood that various substitutions, modifications, and changes can be made within the limits of the technical idea and scope of the present disclosure that can be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. In addition, such substitutions, modifications, and changes should be considered to belong to the appended claims.

Claims

1. A computed tomography apparatus comprising: a gantry including a first rotating device and a second rotating device in a ring shape sharing one rotation axis and capable of rotating independently from each other; a plurality of light sources disposed at intervals on the first rotating device and configured to irradiate X-rays toward an object body; a detecting device disposed on the second rotating device and configured to detect X-rays that have penetrated the object body; a transfer portion on which the object body is carried; and one or more processors; wherein the one or more processors are configured to: rotate the first rotating device in a first rotation direction by a rotation angle determined based on a number of the plurality of light sources, irradiate X-rays toward the object body by at least one of the plurality of light sources during rotation of the first rotating device in the first rotation direction and detect X-rays that have penetrated the object body by the detecting device, rotate the first rotating device in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction by the determined rotation angle, control the plurality of light sources to alternately irradiate X-rays toward the object body by each unit angle in a predetermined order during rotation of the first rotating device in the first rotation direction or the second rotation direction, the one or more processors are configured to repeat a loop including the following actions by a predetermined number of times, an action of rotating the first rotating device in the first rotation direction by the determined rotation angle; an action of moving the transfer portion by a predetermined distance in a direction of the rotation axis after the first rotating device is rotated in the first rotation direction by the determined rotation angle; an action of rotating the first rotating device in the second rotation direction by the determined rotation angle; and an action of moving the transfer portion by a predetermined distance in a direction of the rotation axis after the first rotating device is rotated in the second rotation direction by the determined rotation angle. 2.The computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detecting device is configured in a shape surrounding an inner side surface of the second rotating device. 3.The computed tomography apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the one or more processors are configured to: generate at least one low image of the object body in response to detecting X-rays that have penetrated the object body by the detecting device, generate a three-dimensional image of the object body based on the at least one low image of the object body. 4.The computed tomography apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the one or more processors are configured to: rotate the second rotating device in a rotation direction identical to a rotation direction of the first rotating device by the determined rotation angle during rotation of the first rotating device in the first rotation direction or the second rotation direction by the determined rotation angle.

5. The computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determined rotation angle is a value obtained by dividing 360 degrees by the number of the plurality of light sources.

6. The computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the arrangement plane of the first rotation device and the arrangement plane of the second rotation device, which are perpendicular to the rotation axis, are arranged in parallel to each other.

7. The computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of light sources are X-ray light sources using carbon nanotubes.

8. The computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a power supply device is further included, the power supply device being configured to supply a voltage to the plurality of light sources, the power supply device is arranged outside the scan gantry.

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