Radiographic image acquisition device, radiographic image acquisition method for three-dimensional imaging

Abstract

The present application belongs to the technical field of ray imaging, and particularly relates to a ray image acquisition device and a ray image acquisition method for three-dimensional imaging. The ray image acquisition device comprises a mounting frame, a ray source, a detector, and at least two arc-shaped rotating pieces. Each of the arc-shaped rotating pieces is partially overlapped, and the ray source and the detector are arranged on each of the arc-shaped rotating pieces. The arc-shaped rotating pieces can drive the ray source and the detector to move together, thereby reducing the number of devices that need to be controlled. While ensuring the quality of the acquired ray image, the efficiency of acquiring the image can also be improved. The ray image acquisition method uses the ray image acquisition device to acquire multiple two-dimensional ray images at different positions of a to-be-detected object, thereby ensuring the clarity of the reconstructed three-dimensional image. The number of times of exposure required is greatly less than the number of times of exposure required by traditional computed tomography, thereby greatly reducing the radiation dose.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of X-ray imaging technology, and particularly relates to a X-ray image acquisition device and a X-ray image acquisition method for three-dimensional imaging. Background Technology

[0002] Radiation therapy, along with surgery and chemotherapy, is considered one of the three cornerstones of modern cancer treatment. The essence of radiation therapy is to use photons to treat the lesion site, killing tumor cells. Through continuous development, radiation therapy has evolved from "bombardment" to "sniper rifle spot firing," with increasingly precise treatment points leading to improved accuracy and effectiveness while reducing the impact on normal cells. This precision in treatment point location relies heavily on accurate localization of the lesion site before treatment. Radiation therapy requires multiple sessions. Before each treatment, tumor localization is necessary to determine the positional relationship between the tumor and the radiation therapy equipment, and then the beam treatment route is planned based on the tumor's shape and depth.

[0003] Traditionally, tumor localization is achieved using CT or MRI. However, the large size of MRI equipment often limits the flexibility of radiotherapy route planning. Furthermore, the magnetization of surrounding metal during MRI operation not only restricts the choice of materials for radiotherapy equipment but can also affect the therapeutic effect of radiotherapy. Therefore, CT is increasingly chosen for tumor localization. However, current CT methods also present several challenges when used in conjunction with proton therapy. Firstly, CT uses slice imaging, and slice precision affects the accuracy of tumor boundary localization. Too low a precision fails to accurately determine the tumor boundary, while too high a precision increases imaging time and the risk of excessive radiation exposure. Secondly, CT's motion imaging method is prone to motion artifacts. Although post-construction algorithms can reduce motion artifacts, the process itself may compromise image fidelity. Thirdly, CT imaging results in high radiation levels, and multiple CT scans for radiotherapy can easily cause excessive radiation exposure to non-lesion tissues of the patient being examined.

[0004] It should be noted that the above description of the technical background is only for the purpose of providing a clear and complete explanation of the technical solutions of the present invention and facilitating understanding by those skilled in the art. It should not be assumed that the above technical solutions are known to those skilled in the art simply because they have been described in the background section of this invention. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The applicant discovered that three-dimensional images could be reconstructed from two-dimensional X-ray image data acquired from multiple angles, replacing CT scans. However, the two-dimensional X-ray image data used to create three-dimensional images requires strict control over the position and angle of each acquisition, demanding high acquisition accuracy. This results in slow acquisition speed and extremely high requirements for equipment precision and imaging control. To improve acquisition speed, traditional CBCT uses a uniform speed to control the imaging module to rotate at least one revolution and controls the imaging module to perform exposure imaging at an extremely high frequency. The orientation at each exposure is estimated by the total number of revolutions and the imaging frequency, and the estimated value is used for three-dimensional imaging. This method reduces the reliability of the resulting three-dimensional images, while the radiation dose to the object being examined is high and difficult to reduce.

[0006] To at least partially solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application proposes a X-ray image acquisition device and a X-ray image acquisition method for three-dimensional imaging. The device and method provide multiple arc-shaped rotating plates that can drive the X-ray source and detector on them to move together to different positions of the object to be detected for imaging. The X-ray source and detector move together, which reduces the number of devices that need to be controlled and saves time. In addition, each arc-shaped rotating plate can be controlled independently, avoiding mutual interference between the arc-shaped rotating plates and making the imaging control simpler. By combining imaging timing and movement timing control, the acquisition time of three-dimensional X-ray images can be further reduced.

[0007] The technical solution of the present invention is as follows:

[0008] In one aspect, the present invention provides a radiation image acquisition device, including a mounting frame, a radiation source, a detector, and at least two arc-shaped rotating plates mounted on the mounting frame; each of the arc-shaped rotating plates is partially overlapped, and each of the arc-shaped rotating plates is provided with the radiation source and the detector.

[0009] Furthermore, it also includes a drive mechanism for driving the rotation of each of the arc-shaped rotating plates, the drive mechanism being mounted on the mounting bracket.

[0010] Furthermore, the arc-shaped rotating plate includes a plate body, on which tooth segments extending along its arc direction are provided for meshing with the drive gear of the drive mechanism. The plate body is also provided with a limiting guide groove opened along its arc direction, the limiting guide groove being used for corresponding installation with the mounting column on the mounting bracket.

[0011] Furthermore, multiple mounting posts are arranged on the mounting frame with the same radius, centered on the arc center of the arc-shaped rotating plate; the limiting guide groove on one of the arc-shaped rotating plates is fitted with at least three mounting posts, and the mounting posts fitted with adjacent arc-shaped rotating plates do not completely overlap.

[0012] Furthermore, multiple limiting guide grooves are formed on the sheet along its length, and each limiting guide groove is respectively installed corresponding to at least one mounting post.

[0013] Furthermore, the X-ray source emitted by the X-ray source mounted on the arc-shaped rotating plate emits a beam toward the detector mounted on the arc-shaped rotating plate.

[0014] Furthermore, it also includes a longitudinal support, a transverse bogie mounted on the longitudinal support, and a mounting bracket mounted at the end of the transverse bogie; the end of the transverse bogie is provided with a rotatable rotating head.

[0015] In another aspect of the present invention, a method for acquiring X-ray images for three-dimensional imaging is provided, wherein multiple two-dimensional X-ray images are acquired using the X-ray source and the detector on the arc-shaped rotating plate of the X-ray image acquisition device as described in any of the preceding claims, and the X-ray source and the detector for acquiring each two-dimensional X-ray image are located at different positions of the object to be detected.

[0016] Furthermore, the arc-shaped rotating plate, the radiation source mounted on it, and the detector constitute a radiation imaging group. Each radiation imaging group has a fixed-point imaging state and a motion state rotating around the object to be detected. Each radiation imaging group has at least two fixed-point imaging positions, and the motion state is that the radiation imaging group moves from one fixed-point imaging position to another. During the acquisition of multiple two-dimensional radiation images, when one radiation imaging group is in the fixed-point imaging state, at least one other radiation imaging group is in the motion state; and when one radiation imaging group is in the motion state, at least one radiation imaging group is in the fixed-point imaging state.

[0017] Furthermore, the first, second, and third X-ray imaging groups are mounted on the mounting frame in a partially overlapping manner; when the first X-ray imaging group is in motion, the second or third X-ray imaging group is in a fixed-point imaging state; when the second X-ray imaging group is in motion, the first or third X-ray imaging group is in a fixed-point imaging state; when the third X-ray imaging group is in motion, the first or second X-ray imaging group is in a fixed-point imaging state.

[0018] The X-ray image acquisition device of the present invention employs a design including a mounting frame, an X-ray source, a detector, and at least two arc-shaped rotating plates mounted on the mounting frame. Each of the arc-shaped rotating plates partially overlaps, and each arc-shaped rotating plate is equipped with both the X-ray source and the detector. The positional relationship between the detector and the X-ray source on each arc-shaped rotating plate remains unchanged. The arc-shaped rotating plate can drive the X-ray source and the detector to move together, reducing the number of devices that need to be controlled. While ensuring the quality of the acquired X-ray images, it also improves the efficiency of image acquisition. Especially when it is necessary to acquire images of the object to be detected at multiple angles, the individual time required for movement can be minimized or even eliminated by controlling the imaging timing and movement timing.

[0019] The X-ray image acquisition method for three-dimensional imaging of the present invention utilizes the X-ray source and detector on the arc-shaped rotating plate of the X-ray image acquisition device to acquire multiple two-dimensional X-ray images. The design ensures that the X-ray source and detector for each acquired two-dimensional X-ray image are positioned at different locations on the object to be inspected. By using multiple X-ray sources and detectors on the arc-shaped rotating plate to obtain two-dimensional X-ray images, and then using the acquired two-dimensional X-ray images from multiple angles and orientations for three-dimensional reconstruction, the clarity of the reconstructed three-dimensional image can be ensured, facilitating the clear identification of the boundaries of the areas of interest in the three-dimensional image. Using two-dimensional images covering most or all of the object to be inspected for three-dimensional reconstruction requires significantly fewer exposures than traditional computed tomography (CT) imaging, thus greatly reducing the overall radiation dose.

[0020] The present invention provides a ray image acquisition method for three-dimensional imaging. This method employs an arc-shaped rotating plate, a ray source mounted on it, and a detector to form a ray imaging group. Each ray imaging group has a fixed-point imaging state and a motion state rotating around the object to be detected. Each ray imaging group has at least two fixed-point imaging positions, and the motion state involves the ray imaging group moving from one fixed-point imaging position to another. During the acquisition of multiple two-dimensional ray images, when one ray imaging group is in a fixed-point imaging state, at least one other ray imaging group is in a motion state; conversely, when one ray imaging group is in a motion state, at least one ray imaging group is in a fixed-point imaging state. By integrating the time required for the motion state into the fixed-point imaging state, each ray imaging group performs fixed-point two-dimensional imaging at different orientations of the object to be detected, ensuring that each exposure is a static image. This effectively eliminates motion artifacts and saves the separate time required for the ray imaging group's motion, enabling rapid acquisition of the image data required for three-dimensional reconstruction. Simultaneously, the motion of each ray imaging group allows for the acquisition of exposure images from multiple orientations, reducing the number of ray imaging groups required and saving hardware costs. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The accompanying drawings, which are provided to further illustrate the invention and form part of this application, are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0022] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the X-ray image acquisition device of the present invention is shown.

[0023] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the X-ray image acquisition device of the present invention is shown.

[0024] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of the arc-shaped rotating plate (the first arc-shaped rotating plate) is shown in one embodiment of the X-ray image acquisition device of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the arc-shaped rotating plate (the second arc-shaped rotating plate) is shown in one embodiment of the X-ray image acquisition device of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of the arc-shaped rotating plate (the third arc-shaped rotating plate) is shown in one embodiment of the X-ray image acquisition device of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 6 A schematic diagram (front view) of the frame of one embodiment of the X-ray image acquisition device of the present invention is shown.

[0028] Figure 7 A schematic diagram (right view) of the frame of the X-ray image acquisition device of the present invention is shown in one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 8 A schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the ray image acquisition method for three-dimensional imaging of the present invention is shown.

[0030] Figure 9 A schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the ray image acquisition method for three-dimensional imaging of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are merely some examples or embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, these drawings can be applied to other similar scenarios without creative effort. Unless obvious from the context or otherwise specified, the same reference numerals in the drawings represent the same structures or operations.

[0032] It should be understood that the terms “system,” “device,” “unit,” and / or “module” used herein are one way to distinguish different components, elements, parts, sections, or assemblies at different levels. However, if other terms can achieve the same purpose, they may be replaced by other expressions.

[0033] As indicated in this application and claims, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the words "a," "an," "an," and / or "the" do not specifically refer to the singular and may also include the plural. Generally speaking, the terms "comprising" and "including" only indicate the inclusion of explicitly identified steps and elements, which do not constitute an exclusive list, and the method or apparatus may also include other steps or elements.

[0034] While this application makes various references to certain modules or units in the systems according to embodiments of this application, any number of different modules or units may be used and run on clients and / or servers. The modules described are merely illustrative, and different aspects of the systems and methods may use different modules.

[0035] Flowcharts are used in this application to illustrate the operations performed by the system according to embodiments of this application. It should be understood that the preceding or following operations are not necessarily performed precisely in sequence. Instead, the steps can be processed in reverse order or simultaneously. Furthermore, other operations can be added to these processes, or one or more steps can be removed from them.

[0036] As used herein, the phrase “reconstructed image” is not intended to exclude the data that generates the image representation but only the visual image. Therefore, as used herein, the term “image” broadly refers to both the visual image and the data that represents the visual image.

[0037] This application utilizes the principle that a single X-ray imaging can obtain a two-dimensional projection image covering most or even all of the area to be detected, and that multiple two-dimensional projection images from different angles can be used to reconstruct a three-dimensional image. Multiple imaging structures based on arc-shaped rotating plates are designed. The rotation of these plates drives the X-ray source and detector, performing two-dimensional projections at different locations on the object to be detected. The obtained two-dimensional projections from multiple locations can then be used for three-dimensional reconstruction. The design of multiple arc-shaped rotating plates driving the X-ray source and detector allows imaging of the X-ray source and detector in a stationary state, avoiding motion artifacts. It also allows for precise knowledge of the position parameters at each imaging time, solving the problem of questionable accuracy of three-dimensional images caused by estimating position parameters for 3D reconstruction. Simultaneously, each arc-shaped rotating plate can move independently. By rationally allocating the timing of movement and imaging, the time required for individual movement can be reduced or eliminated. This allows for the acquisition of the data needed to reconstruct a three-dimensional image in a shorter time while ensuring image quality.

[0038] See Figures 1 to 7 This is a schematic diagram of the X-ray image acquisition device provided in this embodiment. (The attached diagram is not included.) Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the structure when each of the aforementioned arc-shaped rotating pieces is in its respective fixed imaging position; (See attached diagram) Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing the structure when each of the aforementioned arc-shaped rotating pieces is in its respective other fixed-point imaging position; (See attached diagram) Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first arc-shaped rotating plate after the radiation source and the detector have been installed, with corresponding appendices. Figure 1 The arc-shaped rotating plate on the left side; attached Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second arc-shaped rotating plate after the radiation source and the detector have been installed, with corresponding appendices. Figure 1 The arc-shaped rotating plate in the middle; attached Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the third arc-shaped rotating plate after the radiation source and the detector have been installed, with corresponding appendices. Figure 1 The arc-shaped rotating plate on the right side of the middle; attached Figure 6 and attached Figure 7 These are the front view and right view of the rack described in this embodiment.

[0039] See Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, the X-ray image acquisition device provided in this embodiment includes a mounting frame 53, multiple X-ray sources 301, multiple detectors 302, and at least two arc-shaped rotating plates mounted on the mounting frame 53. Each of the arc-shaped rotating plates partially overlaps, and each arc-shaped rotating plate is equipped with at least one X-ray source and at least one detector. The arc-shaped rotating plates are used to drive the X-ray sources and detectors mounted thereon to move. The arc-shaped rotating plates can rotate relative to each other, and the movements of each arc-shaped rotating plate do not affect each other. X-ray sources and detectors mounted on the same arc-shaped rotating plate are matched, meaning that the irradiation range of the X-ray beam emitted by the X-ray source is within the detection area of ​​the detector.

[0040] During 3D reconstruction, the more angular orientations of the acquired 2D images corresponding to the object under test, the richer the 3D image and the closer it is to the real anatomical structure. To acquire more angular orientations of 2D images and reduce the number of required X-ray sources and detectors, the X-ray image acquisition device provided in this embodiment also includes a drive mechanism for driving the rotation of each of the arc-shaped rotating plates, and the drive mechanism is mounted on the mounting frame.

[0041] In this embodiment, the driving mechanism can drive each of the arc-shaped rotating plates to rotate around the object to be detected, enabling the X-ray source and detector on each arc-shaped rotating plate to image at least two azimuth angles of the object to be detected, thus increasing the number of azimuth angles that the X-ray image acquisition device can acquire. Simultaneously, the movement of each X-ray source and detector is achieved by the arc-shaped rotating plates. Driving the arc-shaped rotating plates to rotate them synchronously drives the X-ray source and detector on them, reducing the number of motion devices that need to be controlled, lowering the control difficulty, and saving time required for movement. The arc-shaped rotating plates also ensure the relative positions between the X-ray sources and detectors on them, guaranteeing the correspondence between each detection unit of the detector and the X-ray source, providing a good parameter basis for reconstructing the 3D image. Compared to a setup without overlapping areas, the partial overlap of the arc-shaped rotating plates allows each arc-shaped rotating plate to move a larger range, enabling more imaging positions to be arranged for X-ray image acquisition, facilitating the free arrangement of imaging positions and obtaining X-ray image data with richer angular and azimuth angles.

[0042] In this embodiment, the arc-shaped rotating plate, driven by the driving mechanism, can drive the X-ray source and the detector to rotate around the object to be detected. Each arc-shaped rotating plate has at least two preset imaging positions for the X-ray source and detector, serving as fixed-point imaging positions. The line connecting the center point of the X-ray beam emitted by the X-ray source on the arc-shaped rotating plate and the center point of the detector is the detection line. The acute angle between two adjacent fixed-point imaging positions of the detection line corresponding to the arc-shaped rotating plate is the turning angle. The turning angle corresponding to each arc-shaped rotating plate is greater than 1° and does not exceed 90°. Preferably, the turning angle corresponding to each arc-shaped rotating plate is greater than 15° and less than 45°. More preferably, the turning angles corresponding to each arc-shaped rotating plate are the same, and when an arc-shaped rotating plate has three or more fixed-point imaging positions, the turning angles of each arc-shaped rotating plate are the same.

[0043] In this embodiment, the design of having the same turning angle for each of the arc-shaped rotating plates is adopted to achieve uniform imaging around the object to be detected, which helps to improve the imaging quality. Of course, to accommodate the parts of interest located at different positions on the object to be detected, the turning angles of each of the arc-shaped rotating plates can also be designed to be different. For example, one of the arc-shaped rotating plates can use a larger turning angle, while the other arc-shaped rotating plates can use a smaller turning angle. The angle of the turning angle can be set by those skilled in the art as needed, and will not be elaborated on here.

[0044] See Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the arc-shaped rotating plate in this embodiment includes an arc-shaped plate body. The plate body is provided with tooth segments extending along its arc direction for meshing with the drive gear 532 of the drive mechanism. The plate body is also provided with a limiting guide groove opened along its arc direction. The limiting guide groove is used for corresponding installation with the mounting post 531 on the mounting bracket.

[0045] See Figures 1 to 5As shown, the X-ray image acquisition device provided in this embodiment is equipped with three arc-shaped rotating plates. The first arc-shaped rotating plate includes a first plate body 41, on which a first toothed segment 411 extending along its arc direction is provided on the side wall. A first limiting guide groove 412 is formed on the first plate body along its length direction. The first toothed segment 411 meshes with a driving gear 532. The first limiting guide groove 412 is correspondingly inserted into multiple mounting posts 531. The X-ray source 301 and the detector 302 are respectively mounted at both ends of the first plate body. The second of the three arc-shaped rotating plates includes a second plate body 42. A second toothed segment 421 extending along its arc direction is provided on the side wall of the second plate body 42. A second limiting guide groove 422 is formed on the second plate body 42 along its length direction. The second toothed segment 421 meshes with one of the driving gears 532. The second limiting guide groove 422 is correspondingly inserted into a plurality of mounting posts 531. The radiation source 301 and the detector 302 are respectively installed at both ends of the second plate body. The third of the three arc-shaped rotating plates includes a third plate body 43. A third tooth segment 431 extending along its arc direction is provided on the side wall of the third plate body 43. A third limiting guide groove 432 is formed on the third plate body along its length direction. The third tooth segment 431 meshes with a driving gear 532. The third limiting guide groove 432 is inserted into a plurality of mounting posts 531. The radiation source 301 and the detector 302 are respectively installed at both ends of the third plate body.

[0046] In this embodiment, multiple mounting posts 531 are arranged on the mounting frame 53 with the arc center of the arc rotating plate as the center and the same radius; the limiting guide groove on one of the arc rotating plates is inserted into at least three mounting posts, and the mounting posts inserted into adjacent arc rotating plates do not completely overlap.

[0047] In this embodiment, multiple mounting posts are used to fix the arc-shaped rotating piece, which ensures both the stability of the arc-shaped rotating piece installation and that each arc-shaped rotating piece can rotate around the center.

[0048] In this embodiment, the design of the limiting guide groove reduces the overall mass of the arc-shaped rotating piece, lowers the strength requirements of the mounting bracket, ensures the flexibility of the arc-shaped rotating piece's movement, and eliminates the influence of mass inertia on the accuracy of movement. However, it also reduces the strength of the arc-shaped rotating piece. To ensure the strength of the arc-shaped rotating piece, the limiting guide groove on the arc-shaped rotating piece is divided into multiple parts, reducing the length of each limiting guide groove.

[0049] See Figures 1 to 5As shown, in this embodiment, multiple limiting guide grooves are formed along the length of the sheet body, and each limiting guide groove is respectively installed corresponding to at least one mounting post 531. Preferably, in this embodiment, three first limiting guide grooves 412 are evenly distributed along the length of the first sheet body 41. The three first limiting guide grooves 412 are installed one-to-one with three adjacent mounting posts 531 on the mounting frame. Three second limiting guide grooves 422 are evenly distributed along the length of the second sheet body 42. The three second limiting guide grooves 422 are installed one-to-one with three adjacent mounting posts 531 on the mounting frame. Three third limiting guide grooves 432 are evenly distributed along the length of the third sheet body 43. The three third limiting guide grooves 432 are installed one-to-one with three adjacent mounting posts 531 on the mounting frame.

[0050] See Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in this embodiment, the mounting frame 53 is provided with five mounting posts 531. The three first limiting guide slots 412 of the first piece are aligned and inserted into the three mounting posts 531 located on the left side of the mounting frame; the three second limiting guide slots 422 of the second piece are aligned and inserted into the three mounting posts 531 located at the top of the mounting frame; the first piece and the second piece share two mounting posts, and the first piece and the second piece overlap in the area corresponding to the limiting guide slot of the shared mounting post. The three third limiting guide slots 432 of the third piece are aligned and inserted into the three mounting posts 531 located on the right side of the mounting frame; the second piece and the third piece share two mounting posts, and the second piece and the third piece overlap in the area corresponding to the limiting guide slot of the shared mounting post. The first piece, the second piece, and the third piece share one mounting post 531, and the shared mounting post is the middle mounting post among the five mounting posts. In this embodiment, the three drive gears 532 on the mounting bracket 53 respectively mesh with the first tooth segment 411 on the outer side of the first plate, the second tooth segment 421 on the outer side of the second plate, and the third tooth segment 431 on the outer side of the third plate.

[0051] This embodiment utilizes the principle of triangle stability, employing three mounting posts to define each slice, thus achieving stable mounting of each slice on the mounting frame. Based on the principle of triangle stability and the principle of three points determining a plane, the arc-shaped limiting guide groove engages with the teeth of the drive gear, ensuring that the planes containing each slice are parallel, thereby effectively controlling the movement of each slice. Simultaneously, the overlapping of the three slices in certain areas, along with the toothed areas on each slice, ensures that each slice can move freely without affecting the imaging or movement of the X-ray source and detector on other slices. The arrangement of the five mounting posts also ensures the direction of movement of each slice, enabling the three arc-shaped rotating slices to rotate along the same axis. This facilitates controlling the rotation of the X-ray source and detector on each arc-shaped rotating slice around the same axis, reducing the difficulty of 3D reconstruction.

[0052] In this embodiment, the tooth segments on each of the plates are located at different positions. This design avoids the problem that the drive gear, being too long in the axial direction, would mesh not only with the corresponding tooth segment of the plate but also with the tooth segments of other plates, making it impossible to accurately control the movement of a single arc-shaped rotating plate. This ensures the independence of the movement of each arc-shaped rotating plate and improves the design freedom of the drive gear. It also facilitates minimizing the distance between each plate, keeping the detection lines of each X-ray source and detector intersecting at a single point, and ensuring that the central beams of each X-ray source intersect at a single point in the object to be detected. Of course, those skilled in the art can increase or decrease the length of the tooth segments on each plate as needed, and adjust the distance between adjacent plates, etc., which will not be elaborated further here. Those skilled in the art can set the length of the tooth segments on each plate to be the same or different, and the size and density of the teeth of each segment can also be set as needed, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0053] In this embodiment, the lengths of the limiting guide grooves are similar, and each limiting guide groove is fitted with a corresponding mounting post, so that the triangle formed by the mounting posts fitted with the arc-shaped rotating piece is large enough. A larger triangle can ensure that the mounting posts are distributed more evenly, thereby enabling the arc-shaped rotating piece to be stably installed on the mounting frame, reducing the possibility of slippage, and ensuring that the arc-shaped rotating piece can rotate smoothly and be stably positioned at various angles, reducing the difficulty of control and helping to improve control accuracy.

[0054] See Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the X-ray image acquisition device provided in this embodiment also includes a longitudinal support 51, a transverse bogie 52 mounted on the longitudinal support 51, and a mounting bracket 53 mounted at the end of the transverse bogie 52; the end of the transverse bogie 52 is provided with a rotatable rotating head (not shown in the figure). Each of the drive gears 532 is connected to a drive motor.

[0055] See Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the mounting frame 53 is provided with an entry port 533 for the object to be tested to enter the detection space enclosed by each of the arc-shaped rotating plates. The entry port is located between two adjacent arc-shaped rotating plates.

[0056] The design of the inlet and the rotating head in this embodiment not only facilitates the entry of the object to be detected into the detection space, but also enables the X-ray image acquisition system for three-dimensional imaging to be used in various scanning modes such as vertical scanning and horizontal scanning. It can also be used in conjunction with a traditional scanning bed, greatly increasing the ease of use of this system.

[0057] In this embodiment, the size of the beam emitted by each of the X-ray sources is adjustable. Using beams with adjustable irradiation range, the technician can adjust the beam size for each exposure imaging according to the size and orientation of the area of ​​interest, in order to reduce radiation to non-tumor areas.

[0058] In another embodiment of this application, the beam size emitted by the X-ray imaging group towards the object to be detected at each of the fixed imaging positions can be different. Preferably, the beam during the first imaging corresponds to a larger part of the object to be detected. After analyzing the first obtained two-dimensional X-ray image, the beam size during subsequent imaging is adjusted based on the region and size of the tumor in the two-dimensional X-ray image to reduce radiation to non-tumor areas.

[0059] In this embodiment, the X-ray source is a X-ray tube that emits a conical X-ray beam. The beam passes through the object being detected, where some energy is absorbed before it enters the detector, forming a two-dimensional image. Alternatively, the X-ray source can comprise multiple X-ray tubes emitting conical X-ray beams, each tube corresponding to a specific detector. The X-ray source can also emit X-rays arranged in a matrix, with all X-rays parallel to each other. When the X-ray source emits matrix-distributed X-rays, the number and density of the X-rays affect the imaging accuracy. Higher X-ray density results in higher imaging accuracy but also increases radiation, while sparse X-rays may affect imaging resolution. This requires careful configuration by those skilled in the art. The type of X-ray source can be configured as needed, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0060] In this embodiment, the X-ray beams emitted by the X-ray sources on each of the arc-shaped rotating plates can be received by the detectors on that arc-shaped rotating plate, without requiring detectors on other arc-shaped rotating plates to receive them. The X-ray sources and detectors on adjacent arc-shaped rotating plates do not interfere with each other during exposure, ensuring independence and freedom. This prevents other arc-shaped rotating plates from being unable to move during imaging due to two or more arc-shaped rotating plates sharing detectors or X-ray sources. The relatively small number of X-ray sources and detectors, and the limited fixed-point imaging positions of each arc-shaped rotating plate in this embodiment, provide a basis for planning movement routes and timing. This ensures that the moving arc-shaped rotating plates and their X-ray sources and detectors do not affect the imaging of the X-ray sources and detectors in the fixed-point imaging state, and that the movement of each arc-shaped rotating plate does not affect the movement or imaging of other arc-shaped rotating plates.

[0061] Another embodiment of this application provides a method for acquiring X-ray images for three-dimensional imaging. This method uses an X-ray source and a detector on the arc-shaped rotating plate of the X-ray image acquisition device described above to acquire multiple two-dimensional X-ray images, and the X-ray source and the detector for acquiring each two-dimensional X-ray image are located at different positions of the object to be detected.

[0062] See Figure 8 , Figure 9 As shown, in this embodiment, the arc-shaped rotating plate, the radiation source mounted on it, and the detector constitute a radiation imaging group. Each radiation imaging group has a fixed-point imaging state and a motion state that rotates around the object to be detected. Each radiation imaging group has at least two fixed-point imaging positions, and the motion state is that the radiation imaging group moves from one fixed-point imaging position to another. During the acquisition of multiple two-dimensional radiation images, when one radiation imaging group is in a fixed-point imaging state, at least one other radiation imaging group is in a motion state; and when one radiation imaging group is in a motion state, at least one radiation imaging group is in a fixed-point imaging state.

[0063] In this embodiment, each of the X-ray imaging groups images the object to be detected at its respective fixed-point imaging position in a preset order; and when each of the X-ray imaging groups is in motion, at least one of the X-ray imaging groups is in a fixed-point imaging state.

[0064] In this embodiment, the fixed-point imaging state involves X-ray detection of the object to be detected at the fixed-point imaging location. The X-ray beam emitted from the X-ray source passes through the object to be detected, is partially absorbed by the object, and is then absorbed by the detector. The detector forms two-dimensional X-ray image data based on the remaining X-rays absorbed by each photosensitive unit. Preferably, the X-ray beam emitted by the X-ray imaging group at the fixed-point imaging location completely covers the radiotherapy area of ​​the object to be detected.

[0065] This application provides a method for acquiring X-ray images for three-dimensional imaging. The X-ray imaging group includes a first X-ray imaging group, a second X-ray imaging group, and a third X-ray imaging group arranged at circumferential intervals along the object to be detected. The first X-ray imaging group, the second X-ray imaging group, and the third X-ray imaging group are mounted on the mounting frame with partial overlap.

[0066] When the first X-ray imaging group is in motion, the second X-ray imaging group or the third X-ray imaging group is in a fixed-point imaging state.

[0067] When the second ray imaging group is in motion, the first ray imaging group or the third ray imaging group is in a fixed-point imaging state.

[0068] When the third ray imaging group is in operation, the first ray imaging group or the second ray imaging group is in fixed-point imaging mode.

[0069] See Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the acquisition of X-ray images using the first X-ray imaging group, the second X-ray imaging group, and the third X-ray imaging group includes the following steps:

[0070] S101: The first ray imaging group performs imaging at one of its fixed imaging positions; the other ray imaging groups remain closed, and the ray imaging groups not at their fixed imaging positions move to their respective fixed imaging positions.

[0071] S102: The second ray imaging group performs imaging, the other ray imaging groups are turned off, and the first ray imaging group moves to its other fixed-point imaging position;

[0072] S103: The third ray imaging group performs imaging, the other ray imaging groups are turned off, and the second ray imaging group moves to its other fixed-point imaging position;

[0073] …

[0074] S104: The first ray imaging group performs imaging at its last fixed-point imaging position, and the other ray imaging groups are turned off;

[0075] S105: The second ray imaging group performs imaging at its last fixed-point imaging position, and the other ray imaging groups are turned off;

[0076] S106: The third ray imaging group performs imaging at its last fixed-point imaging position, and the other ray imaging groups are turned off.

[0077] To reduce image data acquisition time, the ray imaging acquisition method for 3D imaging provided in this embodiment rationally allocates motion time and imaging time, ensuring that the time required for each ray imaging group to move from one fixed-point imaging position to another is limited to the time required for a single fixed-point imaging session of any other ray imaging group. Furthermore, the motion states of all participating ray imaging groups are set within the time frame of the fixed-point imaging states of other ray imaging groups, thereby eliminating the time individually required for each participating ray imaging group to move between fixed-point imaging positions. This allows for the acquisition of 2D projection data from multiple angles and orientations using only a small number of ray imaging groups, such as three groups, providing a data foundation for obtaining high-quality 3D reconstructed images. It also saves motion time, effectively reducing the image data acquisition time required for 3D reconstruction.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment of the X-ray image acquisition method for three-dimensional imaging, the first X-ray imaging group includes a X-ray source and a detector, the second X-ray imaging group includes a X-ray source and a detector, and the third X-ray imaging group includes a X-ray source and a detector. The centers of the lines connecting the detectors of the first, second, and third X-ray imaging groups to the beam center point of the X-ray source intersect at a single point. With this intersection point as the center, the detectors and X-ray sources of each X-ray imaging group are arranged with the same radius. The first X-ray imaging group has two fixed-point imaging positions, and the corresponding turning angles of the two fixed-point imaging positions are 15° to 45°, preferably 30°. The second X-ray imaging group has two fixed-point imaging positions, and the corresponding turning angles of the two fixed-point imaging positions are 15° to 45°, preferably 30°. The third X-ray imaging group has two fixed-point imaging positions, and the corresponding turning angles of the two fixed-point imaging positions are 15° to 45°, preferably 30°.

[0079] See Figure 9 As shown, during imaging, if the first X-ray imaging group, the second X-ray imaging group, and the third X-ray imaging group all participate in imaging, imaging can be performed in the following order:

[0080] S111: The first ray imaging group performs imaging at the first fixed-point imaging position; the other ray imaging groups remain closed, and the ray imaging groups not at the fixed-point imaging position move to their respective fixed-point imaging positions.

[0081] S112: After the first ray imaging group completes imaging, the second ray imaging group performs imaging, the other ray imaging groups are turned off, and at the same time, the first ray imaging group moves from the first fixed-point imaging position to the second fixed-point imaging position.

[0082] S113: After the second ray imaging group completes imaging, the third ray imaging group performs imaging, the other ray imaging groups are turned off, and at the same time, the second ray imaging group moves to its other fixed-point imaging position.

[0083] S114: After the third ray imaging group completes imaging, the first ray imaging group performs imaging at the second fixed-point imaging position, the other ray imaging groups are turned off, and at the same time, the third ray imaging group moves to its other fixed-point imaging position.

[0084] S115: After the first X-ray imaging group completes imaging, the second X-ray imaging group performs imaging, and the other X-ray imaging groups are turned off;

[0085] S116: After the second ray imaging group completes imaging, the third ray imaging group performs imaging, and the other ray imaging groups are turned off.

[0086] In this embodiment, the two-dimensional projection data collected by each ray imaging group at its two fixed imaging positions, combined with parameters such as projection position, can be used to establish a three-dimensional image.

[0087] In this embodiment, all three ray imaging groups participate in imaging. Alternatively, only two of the ray imaging groups can be used for exposure imaging. Each of the two ray imaging groups performs imaging at at least two fixed-point imaging positions to establish a three-dimensional image. Each of the three ray imaging groups has two fixed-point imaging positions, but it is also possible to set three, four, or more fixed-point imaging positions for each ray imaging group. The number of fixed-point imaging positions for each ray imaging group can be the same or different. Naturally, the more times data is collected and the richer the angular distribution, the higher the quality of the reconstructed three-dimensional image data. Those skilled in the art can choose according to their needs, and further details are omitted here.

[0088] The more diverse the angles of the acquired rays, the larger the circumferential angular range of the object under test, and the more accurate the 3D image. To improve the circumferential angular coverage of the object under test, the fixed-point imaging positions of the first, second, and third ray imaging groups are located at different orientations of the object under test. The sum of the rotation angles of each ray imaging group as it moves between its respective fixed-point imaging positions is not less than 30°. Preferably, the sum of the rotation angles of each ray imaging group around the object under test is not less than 90°, that is, the sum of the turning angles of each ray imaging group is not less than 90°.

[0089] The X-ray image acquisition method provided in this embodiment uses a two-dimensional image acquisition device to acquire two-dimensional images covering most or all of the object to be detected with each exposure, ensuring the coverage area of ​​a single exposure. When the area corresponding to the object to be detected for each X-ray image is determined to be sufficiently large, only a small number of X-ray images are needed for three-dimensional reconstruction, effectively reducing the number of exposures and achieving radiation reduction. Simultaneously, reconstructing a three-dimensional image using two-dimensional images covering the object to be detected eliminates the problem in CT imaging where the "thickness" of a unit slice is affected by the axial movement speed of the device. The accuracy of the reconstructed three-dimensional image is sufficient to determine the boundaries of the tissue of interest, ensuring the usability of the three-dimensional image information. Based on the aforementioned, the X-ray image acquisition method in this embodiment also designs the exposure timing and movement timing. The required number of X-ray images is combined with the exposure timing and movement timing, so that the movement of the X-ray imaging group does not consume separate imaging time, effectively reducing the overall time requirement for acquiring X-ray images, reducing the time spent on examination for the examinee, reducing the possibility of examinee anxiety, and improving the overall time efficiency of "localization-treatment," which is beneficial for treating more patients in the same amount of time.

[0090] In this embodiment, to allow for more flexible combinations of the motion and imaging states of each of the X-ray imaging groups, the time required for any motion state of any X-ray imaging group is less than the time required for a single fixed-point imaging state of any X-ray imaging group. Preferably, the time required for a single imaging session of each X-ray imaging group is the same, the time required for a single motion state of each X-ray imaging group is the same, and the time for a single motion state of each X-ray imaging group is less than the time required for a single imaging session of the X-ray imaging group.

[0091] This X-ray image acquisition device and method for 3D imaging can rapidly acquire static images. The X-ray image data is artifact-free, and the 3D images reconstructed from the position and exposure parameters acquired in this embodiment have high reliability and clear boundaries, making it particularly suitable for proton therapy. Proton therapy is a relatively advanced radiotherapy technology. Essentially, it utilizes hydrogen nuclei (protons) accelerated to a high-energy state by an accelerator to form a proton beam. Through its unique Bragg peak, the ions release maximum energy at the lesion. By adjusting the maximum energy of the radiation to the lesion, it can concentrate the irradiation on the lesion without excessively damaging normal cells, achieving precise and targeted killing of tumor cells. Of course, this system can also be used for 3D image acquisition of lesion structures and locations before conventional radiotherapy, and can also be used for 3D image acquisition for other purposes.

[0092] Those skilled in the art will understand that the exemplary components, systems, and methods described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both. Whether implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this invention. When implemented in hardware, it can be, for example, electronic circuits, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), appropriate firmware, plug-ins, function cards, etc. When implemented in software, the elements of this invention are programs or code segments used to perform the desired tasks. Programs or code segments can be stored on a machine-readable medium or transmitted over a transmission medium or communication link via data signals carried in a carrier wave. "Machine-readable medium" can include any medium capable of storing or transmitting information. Examples of machine-readable media include electronic circuits, semiconductor memory devices, ROM, flash memory, erasable ROM (EROM), floppy disks, CD-ROMs, optical disks, hard disks, fiber optic media, radio frequency (RF) links, etc. Code segments can be downloaded via computer networks such as the Internet, intranets, etc.

[0093] It should also be noted that the exemplary embodiments mentioned in this invention describe methods or systems based on a series of steps or apparatus. However, this invention is not limited to the order of the steps described above; that is, the steps can be performed in the order mentioned in the embodiments, or in a different order, or several steps can be performed simultaneously.

[0094] In this invention, features described and / or illustrated for one embodiment may be used in the same or similar manner in one or more other embodiments, and / or combined with or in place of features of other embodiments.

[0095] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. For those skilled in the art, various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments of the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A radiation image acquisition device, characterized by, The device comprises a mounting frame, a radiation source, a detector, at least two arc-shaped rotating plates mounted on the mounting frame, and a driving mechanism for driving the rotating plates to rotate; the rotating plates are partially overlapped and each is provided with the radiation source and the detector; the rotating plate comprises an arc-shaped plate body, a tooth segment extending along the arc-shaped plate body for engaging with a driving gear of the driving mechanism, and a limiting guide slot formed along the arc-shaped plate body for corresponding mounting on a mounting column of the mounting frame; a plurality of the mounting columns are arranged on the mounting frame with the same radius and with the arc center of the rotating plate as the center; The limiting guide slot on one of the rotating plates is correspondingly mounted on at least three mounting columns, and the mounting columns corresponding to adjacent rotating plates do not completely coincide; the rotating plates drive the radiation source and the detector to rotate around the object to be detected under the driving of the driving mechanism; the radiation source and the detector on each rotating plate are provided with at least two imaging positions as fixed-point imaging positions; the rotating plates rotate around the arc center of the mounting columns, and the movements of the rotating plates do not affect each other.

2. The radiographic image acquisition apparatus of claim 1, wherein, A plurality of limiting guide slots are formed along the length direction of the plate body, and each limiting guide slot is correspondingly mounted on at least one mounting column.

3. The radiological image acquisition apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The radiation beam emitted by the radiation source mounted on the rotating plate is directed to the detector mounted on the rotating plate.

4. The radiographic image acquisition apparatus of claim 3, wherein, The device further comprises a vertical support, a horizontal steering frame mounted on the vertical support, and the mounting frame mounted on the end of the horizontal steering frame; the end of the horizontal steering frame is provided with a rotatable rotating head.

5. A method for ray image acquisition for three-dimensional imaging, characterized in that, The radiation source and the detector on the rotating plate of the radiation image acquisition device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 acquire a plurality of two-dimensional radiation images, and the radiation source and the detector acquiring each two-dimensional radiation image are at different positions of the object to be detected; the rotating plate and the radiation source and the detector mounted thereon form a radiation imaging group, each radiation imaging group has a fixed-point imaging state and a motion state of rotating around the object to be detected, the fixed-point imaging positions of each radiation imaging group are at least two, and the motion state is that the radiation imaging group moves from one fixed-point imaging position to another fixed-point imaging position; each radiation imaging group images the object to be detected at the respective fixed-point imaging positions in a predetermined order; in the imaging process, when one radiation imaging group is in the fixed-point imaging state, at least one other radiation imaging group is in the motion state; and when one radiation imaging group is in the motion state, there is at least one radiation imaging group in the fixed-point imaging state.

6. The method for ray image acquisition for three-dimensional imaging according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first, second, and third radiation imaging groups are partially overlapped and mounted on the mounting frame; When the first radiation imaging group is in the motion state, the second or third radiation imaging group is in the fixed-point imaging state. When the second radiographic group is in a moving state, the first radiographic group or the third radiographic group is in a fixed-point imaging state; When the third radiographic group is in a moving state, the first radiographic group or the second radiographic group is in a fixed-point imaging state.

Images