Components for computer tomography (CT) systems and related methods

Abstract

A component for a system, the component comprising: a rotatable barrel, the rotatable barrel defining a hole and the rotatable barrel configured to rotate around an object located within the hole; a support structure configured to support the rotatable barrel during rotation of the barrel; a first radial air bearing, the first radial air bearing disposed between the rotatable barrel and the support structure and positioned adjacent to a first distal end of the rotatable barrel; and a second radial air bearing, the second radial air bearing disposed between the rotatable barrel and the support structure and positioned adjacent to a second opposite distal end of the rotatable barrel. The first radial air bearing and the second radial air bearing are positioned at different longitudinal positions along the longitudinal axis of the rotatable barrel, and the first radial air bearing and the second radial air bearing are configured to suspend the rotatable barrel relative to the support structure.

Description

[0001] Priority declaration

[0002] This application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 507,555, filed on Jul. 10, 2019, and entitled “Components and Related Methods for Computed Tomography (CT) Systems.” Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to the field of computer tomography (CT) imaging, and more particularly to the suspension of a rotatable gantry during operation. Background Art

[0004] In a conventional CT imaging system, a rotatable gantry is in physical contact with various components of the CT imaging system. For example, a motor drives the rotation of the gantry through a physical linkage (e.g., a belt, a chain, etc.). In addition, a conventional CT imaging system includes a mechanical bearing coupled to a fixed support. The bearing reduces the friction between the rotating gantry and the support. However, the friction generated by the rotation of the linkage and the bearing causes wear on the linkage and the bearing. This in turn requires undesirable maintenance and / or replacement of the linkage and the bearing. Summary of the invention

[0005] In some examples, a component for a CT system includes a rotatable cylindrical member, the rotatable cylindrical member defining a hole, and the rotatable cylindrical member is configured to rotate around an object located in the hole. A support structure is configured to support the rotatable cylindrical member during rotation of the rotatable cylindrical member. A first radial air bearing is disposed between the rotatable cylindrical member and the support structure and is positioned adjacent to the first distal end of the rotatable cylindrical member. The first radial air bearing is oriented toward a first radial surface of the rotatable cylindrical member, the first radial surface being positioned radially and longitudinally inward from a first annular flange at the first distal end of the rotatable cylindrical member. A second radial air bearing is disposed between the rotatable cylindrical member and the support structure and is positioned adjacent to the opposite second distal end of the rotatable cylindrical member. The second radial air bearing is oriented toward a second radial surface of the rotatable cylindrical member, the second radial surface being positioned radially and longitudinally inward from a second annular flange at the second distal end of the rotatable cylindrical member. The first radial air bearing and the second radial air bearing are positioned at different longitudinal positions along the longitudinal axis of the rotatable drum. The first radial air bearing and the second radial air bearing are configured to suspend the rotatable drum relative to the support structure.

[0006] In other examples, a component for a CT system includes a rotatable barrel, the rotatable barrel defining a hole, and the rotatable barrel is configured to rotate around an object located in the hole. The rotatable barrel includes a first annular flange located at a first distal end of the rotatable barrel and a second annular flange located at a second distal end of the rotatable barrel. A support structure is configured to support the rotatable barrel during rotation of the rotatable barrel. A first axial air bearing is disposed between the rotatable barrel and the support structure and is positioned adjacent to the first distal end of the rotatable barrel. The first axial air bearing is oriented toward a first at least substantially flat surface of the first annular flange at the first distal end of the rotatable barrel. A second axial air bearing is disposed between the rotatable barrel and the support structure and is positioned adjacent to the first distal end of the rotatable barrel. The second axial air bearing is oriented toward a second at least substantially flat surface of the first annular flange at the first distal end of the rotatable barrel. The first at least substantially planar surface is located on a side of the first annular flange opposite the second at least substantially planar surface. The linear motor includes a rotor portion adjacent to the first annular flange. An information transmission rotor is adjacent to the second annular flange.

[0007] In other examples, a method for examining an object with a CT scanner includes: rotating a rotatable barrel around the object during examination of the object. As the rotatable barrel rotates: a first gap between a rotor portion and a stator portion of an induction motor is maintained by a first axial air bearing, the first axial air bearing being disposed between the rotatable barrel and a support structure. The first axial air bearing is oriented toward a first at least substantially flat surface of a first annular flange at a first distal end of the rotatable barrel. A second gap between an information transmission rotor and an information transmission stator is maintained by a second axial air bearing, the second axial air bearing being disposed between the rotatable barrel and the support structure. The second axial air bearing is oriented toward a second at least substantially flat surface of a second annular flange at an opposite second distal end of the rotatable barrel. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The present application is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals generally indicate similar elements, and in which:

[0009] Figure 1 An example of a CT scanning environment is shown.

[0010] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a CT scanning system according to some embodiments.

[0011] Figure 2B is a perspective view of a CT scanning system according to some embodiments.

[0012] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of an air bearing according to some embodiments.

[0013] Figure 4 is a cutaway perspective view of an air bearing in a CT scanning system according to some embodiments.

[0014] Figure 5A is a cutaway perspective view of an air bearing in a CT scanning system according to some embodiments.

[0015] Figure 5B is a side perspective view of an air bearing in a CT scanning system according to some embodiments.

[0016] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a linear induction motor according to some embodiments.

[0017] Fig. 7A and 7B A contactless data link according to some embodiments is shown.

[0018] Figure 8 is a flow chart of a method for examining an object with a CT scanner, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The claimed technical solution is now described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals are generally used to refer to similar elements throughout. In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, in order to provide an understanding of the claimed technical solution, many specific details are described. However, it is obvious that the claimed technical solution can be implemented without these specific details. In other examples, in order to facilitate the description of the claimed technical solution, the structure and device are shown in the form of a block diagram.

[0020] The present disclosure relates to a non-contact rotatable gantry (or rotatable cylindrical member) in a computed tomography (CT) imaging system. In conventional systems, the rotatable gantry is in physical contact with one or more components (e.g., a motor, a chain drive mechanism, a belt drive mechanism, a bearing, etc.) during operation. During the rotation of the gantry, the friction of the physical contact between the components may cause undesirable wear to the CT imaging system. In various embodiments described in the present disclosure, the CT imaging system includes an air bearing that provides an air gap between the corresponding air bearing and the rotatable gantry during operation. Therefore, the rotatable gantry can be suspended while rotating during operation. The suspension of the rotatable gantry eliminates friction between the rotatable gantry and adjacent components. As a result, less energy may be required to rotate the gantry, and the life of the gantry and other components of the CT imaging system may be increased compared to CT imaging systems that use mechanical bearings or either experience some physical contact between rotating and fixed components. In addition, the air bearing creates a constant air gap between the air bearing and the gantry, and the constant air gap improves the axial alignment of the gantry. Air bearings reduce (or eliminate) gantry wobble / wobble during rotation compared to CT imaging systems that do not use bearings for axial alignment, and reduce friction compared to CT imaging systems that use mechanical bearings for axial alignment.

[0021] In various embodiments described in the present disclosure, a CT imaging system includes an induction motor that rotates a rotatable gantry without contact. The induction motor may include a rotor portion and a stator portion. As will be described in further detail below, a change in the magnetic field of the stator portion causes the non-contact rotation of the rotor portion. Thus, in various embodiments, the induction motor causes the non-contact rotation of the gantry.

[0022] In addition, in various embodiments described in the present disclosure, the CT imaging system includes a contactless communication system. For example, at least one of the components of the communication system is movable (e.g., rotatable) relative to another component, and the two components are separated by an air gap. The communication system includes at least a contactless data link (e.g., including at least two antennas or other media for information transmission) and a transceiver configured to send and / or receive information signals indicating information to be transmitted between the first component and the second component via the contactless data link.

[0023] It will be understood that "contactless", "non-contact" and / or similar descriptions are used in the present disclosure to refer to an air gap (or fluid gap) between a rotatable gantry and one or more fixed components of a CT scanning system. In addition, information can be transmitted to and from the rotatable gantry during rotation of the rotatable gantry without physical contact with the transmitting / receiving components. It will also be understood that "contactless", "non-contact" and / or similar descriptions should not be understood to necessarily exclude possible contact between these entities for other purposes, including, for example, electrostatic discharge, braking and safety mechanisms, etc. It will also be understood that in the present disclosure, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, "gap" and "air gap" and / or similar descriptions can be used more or less interchangeably, and are not intended to be limited to air. Vacuum, oil and / or other fluids and / or gases that allow relative motion can completely or partially fill such gaps or spaces.

[0024] Figure 1 An environment 100 of a non-contact CT imaging system is shown. More specifically, Figure 1 An example of a CT imaging mode is shown, which can be configured to acquire volume information about an object 102 under examination and generate an image from the volume information. It is understood that the environment 100 is merely an example and is not intended to be interpreted in a limiting manner, such as necessarily specifying the location, content, and / or relative arrangement of the components described in the environment. For example, Figure 1 The illustrated data acquisition component 122 may be part of the rotating member 104 of the object inspection apparatus 108 , or more specifically may be part of the detector array 106 , for example.

[0025] In environment 100, object inspection apparatus 108 is configured to inspect one or more objects 102 (e.g., a series of luggage at an airport, a human patient, etc.). Object inspection apparatus 108 may include a rotating member 104 (also referred to as a rotatable gantry or a rotatable drum) and a fixed member 110. During inspection of one or more objects 102, one or more objects 102 may be placed on a support 112, such as a bed or a conveyor belt, which is selectively positioned in an inspection region 114 (e.g., a hollow hole in rotating member 104), and rotating member 104 may be rotated around one or more objects 102 by a rotator 116 (e.g., a motor).

[0026] The rotating member 104 may surround a portion of an examination region 114 and may include one or more radiation sources 118 (e.g., x-ray sources, gamma ray sources, or other ionizing radiation sources) and a detector array 106 mounted on a substantially radially opposite side of the rotating member 104 relative to the one or more radiation sources 118. During examination of one or more objects 102, the one or more radiation sources 118 emit a fan-shaped, cone-shaped, wedge-shaped, and / or other shaped configuration of radiation 120 into the examination region 114 of the object inspection device 108. It will be appreciated that such radiation may be emitted substantially continuously and / or may be emitted intermittently (e.g., emitting short pulses of radiation followed by a rest period during which the one or more radiation sources 118 are not activated).

[0027] As the emitted radiation 120 passes through the one or more objects 102, the radiation 120 may be attenuated differently by different aspects of the one or more objects 102. Because different aspects may attenuate the radiation 120 by different percentages, one or more images may be generated based on changes in the attenuation or number of radiation photons detected by the detector array 106. For example, high-density aspects of the one or more objects 102 (such as bones or metal plates) may attenuate the radiation 120 more (e.g., causing fewer photons to be detected by the detector array 106) than low-density aspects (such as skin or clothing).

[0028] The detector array 106 is configured to directly convert (e.g., using amorphous selenium and / or other direct conversion materials) and / or indirectly convert (e.g., using one or more scintillators and photodetectors and / or other indirect conversion materials) the detected radiation using various techniques (e.g., integration, photon counting, etc.) into signals that can be transmitted from the detector array 106 to a data acquisition component 122 (e.g., typically located on the rotating member 104), which is configured to convert the analog signals output by the detector array 106 into digital signals and / or compiled signals that are transmitted within a predetermined time interval or measurement interval. It will be appreciated that such a measurement interval may be referred to as a "view" and that the measurement interval generally reflects a signal generated from radiation 120 emitted when the radiation source 118 is within a particular angular range relative to the object 102. For example, based on the compiled signal, the data acquisition component 122 may generate projection data indicative of the compiled signal.

[0029] Information can be transmitted between components that are physically attached to the rotating member 104 (e.g., such as the detector array 106 and / or the data acquisition component 122) and components that are not physically attached to the rotating member 104 (e.g., such as the image reconstructor 124) via a non-contact data link. As an example, the projection space data generated by the data acquisition component 122 can be transmitted to the image reconstructor 124 located on the fixed side of the imaging mode via a communication system. As described in more detail below, such a communication system can include, among other aspects: a first transceiver (e.g., mounted to the rotating member 104), a non-contact data link (e.g., including a first antenna mounted to the rotating member 104 and a second antenna mounted to the fixed member 110), and a second transceiver (e.g., mounted to the fixed member 110). In this way, information can be transmitted between the rotating member 104 and the fixed member 110. Additional description of the information transmitted between the rotating member 104 (e.g., the rotor) and the fixed member 110 (e.g., the stator) will be provided in more detail below.

[0030] Figure 2A and 2B One embodiment of a CT scanning system 200 is shown. Figure 2A A first isometric view of a CT scanning system 200 is shown and Figure 2B A second (and opposite) isometric view of the system 200 is depicted. The CT scanning system 200 includes a rotatable barrel 210 (also referred to as a rotatable gantry). In various embodiments, the barrel 210 is coupled to the Figure 1 The CT scanning system 200 includes a support 290 for supporting the cylindrical member 210. The support 290 is mounted on a base 295.

[0031] During the expected operation of the CT scanning system 200, the rotatable drum 210 rotates contactlessly relative to the support 290. That is, the rotatable drum 210 rotates relative to the support 290 without physical contact with the support 290 or any other components (e.g., motors, information receiver / transmitter components, etc.). It should be understood that in various embodiments, when the CT scanning system 200 is not operating (e.g., when the rotatable drum 210 is not rotating and no air gap is formed between the rotatable drum and the radial air bearing), the rotatable drum 210 is in contact with the radial air bearing.

[0032] The CT scanning system 200 includes an air bearing (also referred to as an air static pressure air bearing or an aerodynamic bearing) disposed between the support 290 and the rotatable drum 210. In the disclosed embodiment, the air bearing creates an air gap between the rotatable drum 210 and the corresponding air bearing, which enables the drum 210 to rotate without contact. Figure 2A and 2B As shown, system 200 includes radial air bearings 260 and 261 (see Figure 2A ) and radial air bearings 263 and 262 (see Figure 2B ), the radial air bearing radially supports the cylindrical member 210 by providing an air gap along the radial surface of the cylindrical member 210. The radial air bearing 260 is disposed on a first side of the bracket 290, and the radial air bearing 262 is disposed on a second opposite side of the bracket 290. Similarly, the radial air bearing 261 is disposed on a first side of the bracket 290, and the radial air bearing 263 is disposed on a second opposite side of the bracket 290.

[0033] In various embodiments, bracket 290 circumferentially surrounds barrel 210. In such embodiments, air bearings (eg, radial and / or axial air bearings) are spaced around the perimeter of the barrel.

[0034] Reference Figure 2A , radial air bearings 260 and 261 are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. For example, radial air bearing 260 is disposed adjacent to a first distal end of barrel 210, and radial air bearing 261 is disposed adjacent to a second opposite distal end of barrel 210. Similarly, radial air bearings 262 and 263 are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction.

[0035] like Figure 2A and 2B As shown, each of the radial air bearings 260-263 includes two independent air bearings. In various embodiments, the radial air bearings 260-263 can each include a single radial air bearing. In various embodiments, the radial air bearings 260-263 can each include two or more radial air bearings, which are aligned along corresponding radial surfaces 224 and 226.

[0036] When pressurized gas (e.g., air) is supplied to radial air bearings 260 and 262, an air gap exists along radial surface 224 of barrel 210, and when pressurized gas is supplied to radial air bearings 261 and 263, an air gap exists along radial surface 226 of barrel 210. The radial air bearings maintain a constant air gap between the radial surfaces (e.g., radial surfaces 224 and 226) of the corresponding radial air bearings and the rotatable barrel. The constant air gap eliminates any friction between the air bearings during rotation. In addition, the constant air gap creates a constant bearing surface between the barrel and the air bearing, which reduces or eliminates the swing / jitter of the barrel during rotation. In various embodiments, radial surfaces 224 and 226 are polished surfaces.

[0037] The CT scanning system 200 includes an axial air bearing 250 disposed at a first end adjacent to the cylindrical member 210 and an axial air bearing 252 disposed at a second opposite end of the cylindrical member 210. The axial air bearing aligns the cylindrical member 210 axially relative to the bracket 290 during operation. As will be described in further detail below, in various embodiments, the CT scanning system 200 includes one or more of an induction motor and an information transmission system, both of which generate axial forces on the cylindrical member. In some embodiments, the induction motor and the information transmission system are disposed on opposite ends of the cylindrical member 210, and each of the induction motor and the information transmission system generates an axial force on the cylindrical member. The axial forces may be opposite to each other, or may be in the same direction. Other factors may generate axial forces on the cylindrical member. For example, the CT scanning system 200 may not be horizontal, which may cause the CT scanning system 200 to be misaligned in the axial direction.

[0038] The axial air bearing generates a constant air gap that counteracts the externally generated axial force as described above. Thus, the barrel 210 remains aligned axially relative to the bracket 290 during operation. In one embodiment, the forces generated by the axial air bearings are opposite to each other. For example, the axial air bearing 250 (at the first distal end of the barrel 210) generates a force in a first direction (e.g., in the direction of the surface 231), while the axial air bearing 252 (at the second opposite distal end of the barrel 210) generates a force in a second opposite direction (e.g., in the direction of the surface 241).

[0039] The constant air gap eliminates any friction between the air bearings during rotation. In addition, the constant air gap creates a constant bearing surface between the air bearing and the barrel, which reduces or eliminates the wobble / jitter of the barrel during rotation. As will be described in further detail below, the axial air bearing is adjacent to a single flange or a corresponding annular flange. Therefore, the axial air bearing creates an air gap with the single flange or a corresponding annular flange.

[0040] Reference Figure 2A and Figure 2B , the barrel 210 includes a first annular flange 220 adjacent a first distal end of the barrel 210 and a second annular flange 222 disposed adjacent a second, opposite distal end of the barrel 210. The flanges 220 and 222 each protrude radially from an outer surface of the barrel.

[0041] The rotor 230 (e.g., ring) of the information transmission system is adjacent to (e.g., coupled to) the flange 220. Thus, the axial air bearing 250 creates an air gap between the annular surface 231 and the axial air bearing. The stator 232 of the information transmission system is adjacent to the rotor 230. In addition, there is an air gap between the rotor 230 and the stator 232 (created at least in part by the axial air bearing).

[0042] In one embodiment, the rotor 230 is embedded in the flange 220. That is, the combination of the rotor and the flange 220 is a single flange. Therefore, the axial air bearing 250 creates an air gap between the axial air bearing and the flange (e.g., the combination of the rotor and the flange 220). In another embodiment, the annular flange 220 is a rotor of an information system. In such an embodiment, the axial air bearing 250 creates an air gap between the annular flange 220 and the axial air bearing.

[0043] The rotor 240 (e.g., ring) of the induction motor is adjacent to (e.g., coupled to) the flange 222. Thus, the axial air bearing 252 creates an air gap between the annular surface 241 of the rotor 240. In one embodiment, the rotor 240 is embedded in the flange 222. That is, the combination of the rotor and the flange 222 is a single flange. Thus, the axial air bearing 252 creates an air gap between the axial air bearing and the flange (e.g., the combination of the rotor and the flange 222). In another embodiment, the annular flange 222 is the rotor of the induction motor. In such an embodiment, the axial air bearing 252 creates an air gap between the annular flange 222 and the axial air bearing. The stator 242 of the induction motor is adjacent to the rotor 240. In various embodiments, the axial air bearing is configured to resist the magnetic attraction of both (1) the stator and rotor of the motor, and (2) the information transmission stator. In addition, due to the attractive force at the inductive coupling of the rotor or stator, the axial air bearing cannot pitch, sway, and roll.

[0044] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an air bearing 300. Air bearing 300 is an example of an axial air bearing. Additionally, air bearing 300 is an example of a radial air bearing. However, radial air bearings are curved to accommodate the radial curvature of the rotatable barrel.

[0045] The air bearing 300 includes a housing 310. In one embodiment, the housing 310 is made of metal (e.g., aluminum, steel, etc.). A porous material 340 is disposed within the housing 310. The housing 310 includes a port 320 for receiving pressurized air. The pressurized air is provided by a compressor (e.g., compressor 298) or a pressurized air tank. The pressurized air is provided at a constant pressure. The pressurized air is directed into an area 330 within the housing 310. The pressurized air is then forced through the pores of the porous material 340. The pressurized air leaves the pores of the porous material (at a constant pressure) and forms an air gap 350 between the air bearing 300 and the surface 360. In one embodiment, the surface 360 ​​is a surface facing the axial air bearing, such as the surface 231 or the surface 241. In one embodiment, the surface 360 ​​is a convex surface facing the radial air bearing, such as the surface 224 or the surface 226. In such an embodiment, the housing 310 and the porous material 340 include a convex surface facing the convex surface 360.

[0046] Figure 4 One embodiment of a CT scanning system 400 is shown. As described in this example, the CT scanning system 400 is similar to the CT scanning system 200. The CT scanning system 400 includes a rotatable drum 410 and a support 490. The rotatable drum 410 can be suspended during operation via radial air bearings 460 and 461 and an axial air bearing 450. It should be understood that the CT scanning system 400 includes additional radial and axial air bearings (not shown) on opposite ends of the rotatable drum.

[0047] Radial air bearings 460 and 461 are arranged at about 90 degrees relative to each other. It should be understood that radial air bearings can be arranged at different angles relative to each other. For example, CT scanning system 400 may include two or more radial air bearings along distal end 412, wherein the radial air bearings are arranged at about 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0048] The CT scanning system 400 includes an axial air bearing 450. The CT scanning system 400 can include one or more axial air bearings adjacent the distal end 412. Likewise, the CT scanning system 400 can include one or more opposing axial air bearings adjacent the opposing distal end.

[0049] The CT scanning system 400 includes a hose 470. Pressurized air is directed from a compressor or an air pump to the corresponding air bearings through the hose 470.

[0050] Figure 5A One embodiment of a CT scanning system 500 is shown. In various embodiments, the CT scanning system 500 is similar to the CT scanning systems 200 and 300. The CT scanning system 500 includes a rotatable barrel 510. The barrel 510 includes an annular flange 520. In various embodiments, the annular flange 520 is similar to the flange 220 or the flange 222.

[0051] CT scanning system 500 includes radial air bearing 560 similar to radial air bearing 260 at least. CT scanning system 500 also includes axial air bearings 550 and 552 relative to each other. Axial air bearing 550 faces the first surface of flange 520, and axial air bearing 552 faces the second relative surface of flange 520. Therefore, axial air bearing 550 and axial air bearing 552 guide airflow in opposite directions to each other. In various embodiments, flange 520 is arranged at any distal end of rotatable cylindrical member. Alternatively, flange 520 can be arranged at any position (e.g., intermediate position) along the length of cylindrical member 510.

[0052] Figure 5B One embodiment of a CT scanning system 500 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, axial air bearings 550 and 552 are opposed to each other. Axial air bearing 550 is disposed adjacent to surface 530 of flange 520. In particular, axial air bearing 550 creates an air gap between the axial air bearing and surface 530. Similarly, axial air bearing 552 is disposed adjacent to surface 532 of flange 522. In particular, axial air bearing 552 creates an air gap between the axial air bearing and surface 532. Thus, axial air bearings 550 and 552 direct air in opposition to each other.

[0053] Figure 6 One embodiment of an induction motor 600 (eg, a linear arc motor) is shown. The motor 600 includes a rotor 640 (eg, Figure 2B The rotor 240 in FIG. 1 and the stator 642 in FIG. Figure 2B The rotor 640 is formed in an annular shape. The rotor 640 is adjacent to the distal end of the rotatable cylindrical member. For example, referring to Figure 2A and 2B , rotor 640 is attached to flange 222 .

[0054] The rotor 640 includes an array of magnets 641. The magnets 641 are arranged adjacent to each other to form the annular shape of the rotor.

[0055] In one embodiment, the stator 642 is adjacent to a bracket that supports the rotatable drum. Figure 2A and 2B , stator 642 (e.g., stator 242) is attached to bracket 290. In order to drive the rotation of the rotatable cylindrical member, an electric current (e.g., alternating current (AC)) is driven to stator 642. For example, a motor driver (not shown) is a current source that drives AC current to stator 642. Stator 642 includes a coil (not shown) that generates a changing magnetic field in response to receiving AC current. The changing magnetic field generates a force on magnet 641 that causes rotor 640 to rotate around the axis of the rotor. It is noted that rotor 640 and stator 642 are not physically in contact with each other during stationary or running periods. Therefore, the rotatable cylindrical member (connected to rotor 640) rotates contactlessly via motor 600.

[0056] In various embodiments, the magnetic field generated by the motor 600 generates an axial force on the rotatable barrel. For example, the motor 600 causes the rotatable barrel to move axially toward the motor 600. The axial force of the motor 600 is opposed by the force generated by the opposing axial air bearing. For example, the axial air bearing 252 generates a force that opposes the axial force generated by the motor 600.

[0057] As described in this example, during the operation of the CT scanning system, the rotatable cylindrical member is suspended by an axial air bearing and a radial air bearing. Therefore, the cylindrical member can be rotated without generating any frictional force. In one embodiment, to some extent, based on the frictional force that lacks the inertia of overcoming the rotatable cylindrical member, the motor 600 generates the necessary force to overcome the inertia of the rotatable cylindrical member. In one embodiment, the motor 600 rotates the rotatable cylindrical member at a speed of about 225RPM. It should be understood that the motor 600 rotates the cylindrical member at a speed less than or greater than 225RPM.

[0058] Fig. 7A An embodiment of a contactless data link 700 (which may also be described as a contactless information transmission system) is shown. The data link 700 includes a rotor 730 and a stator 732. The rotor 730 is formed in an annular shape. The rotor 730 is adjacent to the distal end of the rotatable cylindrical member. For example, referring to Figure 2A and 2B , the rotor 730 is attached to the flange 220. In one embodiment, the rotor 730 is embedded in the flange 220. In another embodiment, the rotor 730 is the flange 220.

[0059] In one embodiment, the stator 732 is adjacent to a bracket that supports the rotatable drum. Figure 2A and2B , the stator 732 is attached to the bracket 290.

[0060] In various embodiments, the data link 700 generates a magnetic field that induces an axial force on the rotatable barrel. For example, the data link 700 induces axial movement of the rotatable barrel toward the data link 700. The axial force of the data link 700 is opposed by a force generated by an opposing axial air bearing. For example, the axial air bearing 250 generates a force that opposes the axial force generated by the data link 700.

[0061] Figure 7B A cross-sectional view of the contactless data link 700 along line AA is shown. The contactless data link 700 includes a rotor 730 (eg, Figure 1 104 of them; Figure 2A 230) and the first antenna 740 adjacent to the stator 732 (eg, Figure 1 110 of them; Figure 2A The second antenna 742 of 232).

[0062] The rotor 730 is typically separated from the stator 732 by an air gap 750, which is defined by the space between the rotor 730 and the stator 732 and is configured to enable the rotor 730 to rotate relative to the stator 732. Typically, the first antenna 740 is mounted on the rotor 730 and is located within and / or adjacent to the air gap 750, and the second antenna 742 is mounted on the stator 732 and is located within and / or adjacent to the air gap 750, but other arrangements are also contemplated. Thus, the second antenna 742 can detect electromagnetic waves generated via the first antenna 740 that propagate through the air gap 750, and / or the first antenna 740 can detect electromagnetic waves generated via the second antenna 742 that propagate through the air gap.

[0063] Antennas 740 and 742 may each include one or more physical channels, each of which is configured to transmit information between the rotor 730 and the stator 732. In addition, as described in more detail below, one or more transceivers may be configured to create two or more logical channels through a physical channel (e.g., by logically subdividing the physical channel into two or more logical channels). In this way, for example, two or more types of information (e.g., represented by different signals, respectively) may be transmitted in a single direction and / or information may be transmitted bidirectionally through a single physical channel. As an example and not a limitation, in one embodiment, the contactless data link includes only (e.g., exactly) one physical channel (e.g., one wire or other physical transmission medium), and one or more transceivers may utilize the physical channel to create two or more logical channels.

[0064] Although the foregoing cross-sectional views depict radial air gap 750 (e.g., between the entire outer perimeter of rotor 730 and the entire inner perimeter of stator 732), it is understood that air gap 750, first antenna 740, and / or second antenna 742 may be arranged differently than the illustrated arrangement. For example, in another embodiment, air gap 750 may be planar. In one embodiment, rotor 730 and stator 732 face each other. In another embodiment, rotor 730 and stator 732 are concentric with each other.

[0065] It is to be understood that, although the communication system consisting of the first transceiver and the second transceiver is referred to in the present disclosure, each transceiver may not perform the functions of both the receiver and the transmitter. For example, the first transceiver may be used only as a transmitter configured to send information via a contactless data link, and the second transceiver may be used only as a receiver configured to receive information sent via a contactless data link, and / or vice versa. In another embodiment, the first transceiver and / or the second transceiver may exhibit behavior in the traditional sense, wherein one or more transceivers are configured to send and receive information. Therefore, as provided in the present disclosure, when a transceiver is explained and / or described, a transceiver may be only a receiver or a transmitter. Similarly, when a transmitter or a receiver is explained and / or described in the present disclosure, such a transmitter or a receiver may include a transceiver configured to send and receive.

[0066] Reference Figure 1 , the image reconstructor 124 is configured to receive the projection space data output by the data acquisition component 122 (e.g., or output from the communication system). The image reconstructor 124 is also configured to generate image space data based on the projection space data using appropriate analysis, iteration, and / or other reconstruction techniques (e.g., back-projection reconstruction, tomosynthesis reconstruction, iterative reconstruction, etc.). In this manner, the data is converted from the projection space to the image space, e.g., a domain that can be more easily understood by the user 130 viewing one or more images.

[0067] As used in the present disclosure, data or information representing an object may be referred to as imaging data in the present disclosure. That is, imaging data may generally be used to refer to data or information representing an object currently being examined and / or previously examined in a projection space domain and / or an image space domain.

[0068] The environment 100 also includes a terminal 126 or workstation (e.g., a computer) configured to receive one or more images that can be displayed to a user 130 (e.g., security personnel, medical personnel, etc.) on a monitor 128. In this manner, the user 130 can review the one or more images to identify regions of interest within the one or more objects 102. The terminal 126 can also be configured to receive user input that can indicate the operation of the object inspection device 108 (e.g., rotation speed, conveyor speed, etc.).

[0069] In the environment 100, the controller 132 is operably coupled to the terminal 126. In one example, the controller 132 is configured to receive input from the terminal 126, such as user input, and is configured to generate instructions for the object inspection device 108, the instructions indicating the operations to be performed. For example, the user 130 may wish to re-inspect one or more objects 102 at a different energy level, and the controller 132 may issue a command instructing the support 112 to reverse direction (e.g., to return the one or more objects 102 to the inspection area 114 of the object inspection device 108).

[0070] In one embodiment, the transceiver can be configured to create at least two logical channels, for transmitting information on the physical channel of the contactless data link. The first logical channel can be used to send the information of the first type in the first direction, and the second logical channel can be used to send the information of the first type in the second direction and / or send the information of the second type in the second direction and / or in the first direction. In this way, one or more types of information can be transmitted bidirectionally on the contactless data link, and / or two or more different types of information can be transmitted in the same and / or different directions on the contactless data link. Among other aspects, the information type transmitted on the contactless data link can include imaging data, control data and / or timing information. In some embodiments, the contactless data link can be configured to support only in the analog domain or only in the digital domain. Information transmission, and for example, the transceiver can be further configured to convert information between the analog domain and the digital domain, to facilitate the transmission on the contactless data link.

[0071] In order to create at least two logical channels for transmitting information on the physical channel, the transceiver may include a multiplexer and / or a demultiplexer. Such a multiplexer / demultiplexer may utilize multiplexing techniques such as frequency division multiplexing, time division multiplexing and / or code division multiplexing, for example, to create at least two logical channels.

[0072] Figure 8A method 800 for examining an object with a CT scanner is shown according to some embodiments. In step 810 of method 800, a rotatable barrel is rotated around the object during examination of the object. For example, a non-contact induction motor (e.g., motor 600) drives rotation of a rotatable barrel (e.g., rotatable barrel 210) during examination of the object (e.g., object 102) by a CT scanner.

[0073] At step 820, as the barrel rotates, a first gap between the rotor portion and the stator portion of the induction motor is maintained by a first axial air bearing disposed between the rotatable barrel and the support structure. For example, the axial air bearings 250 and 252 generate an air gap between the corresponding axial air bearings and the rotatable barrel. This constant air gap maintains the axial alignment of the rotatable barrel during operation. In particular, the constant air gap of the axial air bearing results in an air gap between the motor rotor (e.g., rotor 640) and the motor stator 642.

[0074] In step 830, a second gap between the information transmission rotor and the information transmission stator is maintained by a second axial air bearing disposed between the rotatable cylindrical member and the support structure. For example, the axial air bearings 250 and 252 generate an air gap between the corresponding axial air bearings and the rotatable cylindrical member. This constant air gap maintains the axial alignment of the rotatable cylindrical member during operation. In particular, the constant air gap of the axial air bearing results in an air gap between the information transmission rotor (e.g., rotor 640) and the information transmission stator 732.

[0075] Although the technical solution is described in a language specific to structural features or method actions, it should be understood that the technical solution of the attached claims is not necessarily limited to the above-mentioned specific features or behaviors. Instead, the above-mentioned specific features and actions are disclosed as forms of embodiments that implement at least some of the claims.

[0076] Various operations of the embodiments are provided in the present disclosure. The description of the order of some or all operations should not be interpreted as meaning that these operations must be order-dependent. Considering the benefits of this description, the order of replacement will be understood. In addition, it will be understood that not all operations must be present in each embodiment provided by the present disclosure. In addition, it will be understood that in some embodiments, not all operations are required.

[0077] In addition, "exemplary" is used here to represent that it is used as an example, instance, explanation, etc., and is not necessarily advantageous. As used in the present application, "or" is intended to represent an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or". In addition, "a" and "an" used in the present application are generally interpreted as meaning "one or more", unless otherwise specified or clearly pointed to the singular form from the context. In addition, at least one of A and B and / or similar descriptions generally mean A or B, or both A and B. In addition, for the scope of using "including (includes)", "having (having)", "having (has)", "having (with)" or its variant, these terms are intended to have inclusiveness in a manner similar to the term "including". The technical solution claimed for protection can be implemented as a method, device or product (for example, as software, firmware, hardware or any combination thereof).

[0078] Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, "first," "second," and / or similar descriptions are not intended to imply temporal aspects, spatial aspects, order, etc. Rather, these terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. of features, elements, items, etc. (e.g., "first channel and second channel" typically corresponds to "channel A and channel B" or two different (or two identical) channels or the same channel).

[0079] Although the present disclosure has been illustrated and described according to one or more embodiments, other technical personnel in the art will be able to think of equivalent changes and modifications based on the reading and understanding of this specification and the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure includes all such modifications and changes, and the present disclosure is limited only by the scope of the attached claims and their legal equivalents. In particular, with respect to the various functions performed by the above-mentioned components (e.g., elements, sources, etc.), unless otherwise indicated, the terms used to describe these components are intended to correspond to any component that performs a specified function (e.g., functionally equivalent), even if any of the components is not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure. In addition, although the specific features of the present disclosure may be disclosed only for one of several implementations, for any given or specific application, such features may be combined with one or more other features of other implementations, which may be expected and advantageous.

Claims

1. A component for a CT system, the component comprising: a rotatable barrel defining a bore and configured to rotate about an object positioned within the bore; a support structure configured to support the rotatable drum during rotation of the rotatable drum; a first radial air bearing disposed between the rotatable barrel and the support structure and positioned adjacent a first distal end of the rotatable barrel, the first radial air bearing being oriented toward a first radial surface of the rotatable barrel, the first radial surface being positioned radially and longitudinally inward from a first annular flange at the first distal end of the rotatable barrel; and and a second radial air bearing, wherein the second radial air bearing is disposed between the rotatable cylindrical member and the support structure and is positioned adjacent to an opposite second distal end of the rotatable cylindrical member, the second radial air bearing being oriented toward a second radial surface of the rotatable cylindrical member, the second radial surface being positioned radially and longitudinally inward from a second annular flange at the second distal end of the rotatable cylindrical member, wherein the first radial air bearing and the second radial air bearing are positioned at different longitudinal positions along the longitudinal axis of the rotatable cylindrical member, and wherein the first radial air bearing and the second radial air bearing are configured to suspend the rotatable cylindrical member relative to the support structure.

2. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 1, further comprising: a first axial air bearing disposed between the rotatable cylindrical member and the support structure; as well as A second axial air bearing is disposed opposite the first axial air bearing and between the rotatable cylindrical member and the support structure, wherein the first axial air bearing and the second axial air bearing are configured to cooperatively maintain the rotatable cylindrical member in axial alignment relative to the support structure.

3. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 2, wherein: The first axial air bearing is disposed adjacent the first distal end, and the second axial air bearing is disposed at the second distal end.

4. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 2, wherein: The first axial air bearing and the second axial air bearing are disposed adjacent one of the first distal end and the second distal end.

5. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 2, wherein: The first axial air bearing and the second axial air bearing direct air flow away from each other.

6. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 2, wherein: The first and second axial air bearings are configured to direct airflow toward each other when a portion of the rotatable cylinder is located between the axial air bearings.

7. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 2, wherein: One of the first axial air bearing and the second axial air bearing is configured to direct airflow onto a first surface of the first annular flange.

8. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 7, wherein: The other of the first axial air bearing and the second axial air bearing is configured to direct air onto a second surface of the first annular flange.

9. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 7, further comprising: A second annular flange is axially aligned with the rotatable drum, wherein the other of the first axial air bearing and the second axial air bearing is configured to direct airflow onto a surface of the second annular flange.

10. The assembly for a CT system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising: An induction motor is configured to rotate the rotatable drum, the induction motor comprising a stator portion and a rotor portion, wherein the rotor portion is configured to move relative to the stator portion when the induction motor rotates the rotatable drum.

11. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 10, further comprising: Information transmission rotor; as well as An information transmitting stator, wherein the information transmitting rotor is configured to move relative to the information transmitting stator when the induction motor rotates the rotatable drum.

12. The assembly for a CT system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The support structure only partially circumferentially surrounds the rotatable drum.

13. The assembly for a CT system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising: a radiation source operably coupled to the rotatable drum; as well as A radiation detector is operably coupled to the rotatable drum.

14. The assembly for a CT system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising: a third radial air bearing disposed between the rotatable barrel and the support structure and positioned adjacent the first distal end of the rotatable barrel; as well as A fourth radial air bearing is disposed between the rotatable barrel and the support structure and is positioned adjacent to the second distal end of the rotatable barrel, wherein the third radial air bearing and the fourth radial air bearing are separated from each other relative to the longitudinal axis of the rotatable barrel, and wherein the third radial air bearing and the fourth radial air bearing are configured to suspend the rotatable barrel relative to the support structure.

15. A component for a CT system, the component comprising: a rotatable barrel defining a bore and configured to rotate about an object positioned within the bore, the rotatable barrel comprising a first annular flange at a first distal end of the rotatable barrel and a second annular flange at a second distal end of the rotatable barrel; a support structure configured to support the rotatable drum during rotation of the rotatable drum; a first axial air bearing disposed between the rotatable barrel and the support structure and positioned adjacent the first distal end of the rotatable barrel, the first axial air bearing oriented toward a first at least generally planar surface of a first annular flange at the first distal end of the rotatable barrel; a second axial air bearing disposed between the rotatable barrel and the support structure and positioned adjacent the first distal end of the rotatable barrel, the second axial air bearing being oriented toward a second at least generally planar surface of a first annular flange at the first distal end of the rotatable barrel, the first at least generally planar surface being on a side of the first annular flange opposite the second at least generally planar surface; a linear motor including a rotor portion adjacent to the first annular flange; as well as An information transmitting rotor is adjacent to the second annular flange.

16. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 15, wherein: The linear motor also includes a stator portion disposed between the support structure and the rotatable drum.

17. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 15, wherein: The rotor portion of the linear motor is attached to a surface of the first annular flange opposite the rotatable cylinder.

18. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 15, further comprising: An information transmission stator is disposed between the support structure and the rotatable cylindrical member.

19. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 15, wherein: The information transmitting rotor is attached to a surface of the second annular flange opposite to the rotatable cylinder.

20. The assembly for a CT system according to claim 15, wherein: The first annular flange has a diameter greater than a diameter of the rotatable barrel at the first distal end, and the second annular flange has a diameter greater than a diameter of the rotatable barrel at the second distal end.

21. The assembly for a CT system according to any one of claims 15 to 20, further comprising: a first radial air bearing; as well as A second radial air bearing, wherein the first radial air bearing and the second radial air bearing are spaced apart from one another relative to a longitudinal axis of the rotatable drum.

22. The assembly for a CT system according to any one of claims 15 to 20, further comprising: a radiation source operably coupled to the rotatable drum; as well as A radiation detector is operably coupled to the rotatable drum.

23. The assembly for a CT system according to any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein: One of the first and second axial air bearings is configured to oppose a magnetic force generated by the information transmission rotor, and the other of the first and second axial air bearings is configured to oppose a magnetic force generated by the rotor portion of the linear motor.

24. A method for examining an object by means of a CT scanner, the method comprising: rotating a rotatable cylinder about the object during examination of the object; as well as When the rotatable cylinder rotates: maintaining a first gap between a rotor portion and a stator portion of the induction motor by a first axial air bearing disposed between the rotatable barrel and the support structure, the first axial air bearing being oriented toward a first at least generally planar surface of a first annular flange at a first distal end of the rotatable barrel; as well as A second gap between the information transmitting rotor and the information transmitting stator is maintained by a second axial air bearing disposed between the rotatable cylindrical member and the support structure, the second axial air bearing being oriented toward a second at least substantially flat surface of a second annular flange at an opposite second distal end of the rotatable cylindrical member.

25. The method according to claim 24, further comprising: The object is placed in the bore of the rotatable barrel.

26. A method of examining an object using a CT system assembly, the method comprising: The examination of the object is performed by means of the assembly for a CT system according to claim 1 .

27. A method of examining an object using a CT system assembly, the method comprising: The examination of the object is performed by means of the assembly for a CT system according to claim 15 .

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