Signal acquisition method and device, imaging method and device, and positron emission tomography system

Abstract

The application relates to a signal acquisition method and device, an imaging method and device, and a positron emission tomography system. The method is applied to the positron emission tomography system. The positron emission tomography system comprises a detection module, the detection module comprises a silicon photomultiplier array, the silicon photomultiplier array comprises at least two silicon photomultiplier units, the method comprises the following steps: acquiring initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier unit, comparing each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result; and in the case that the comparison result is that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, acquiring a target photon signal from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier unit. The signal acquisition method provided by the application can improve the time resolution.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of imaging technology, and in particular to a signal acquisition method, apparatus, imaging method, apparatus and positron emission tomography system. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of imaging technology, time-of-flight positron emission tomography (TOF-PET) has become a widely used PET imaging technology in clinical practice due to its advantages such as high imaging quality and wide applicability.

[0003] Temporal resolution is one of the key performance indicators of TOF-PET; however, due to dark noise, a high trigger threshold results in low temporal resolution. Therefore, there is an urgent need to provide a signal acquisition method that can improve temporal resolution. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a signal acquisition method, device, imaging method, device, and positron emission tomography system that can improve temporal resolution to address the aforementioned technical problems.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a signal acquisition method applied to a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging system. The PET imaging system includes a detection module, which includes a silicon photomultiplier tube array. The silicon photomultiplier tube array includes at least two silicon photomultiplier tube units. The method includes:

[0006] The initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit is acquired, and each initial photon signal is compared with a preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result;

[0007] If the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, the target photon signal is collected from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit.

[0008] In one embodiment, when the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than a preset trigger threshold, the target photon signal is acquired from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit, including:

[0009] If the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, a signal acquisition command is generated.

[0010] Based on the signal acquisition command, the target photon signal is acquired from the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit according to the preset trigger time window.

[0011] In one embodiment, each initial photon signal is compared with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result, including:

[0012] Each initial photon signal is amplified to obtain an amplified photon signal;

[0013] Each amplified photon signal is compared with a preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result.

[0014] In one embodiment, the preset trigger threshold is greater than the mechanical vibration amplitude of the initial photon signal.

[0015] Secondly, one embodiment of this application provides an imaging method, the method comprising:

[0016] Acquire the target photon signal; the target photon signal is acquired according to the method provided in the first aspect above;

[0017] Image reconstruction is performed based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0018] In one embodiment, image reconstruction is performed based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image, including:

[0019] Determine the photon signal pair based on the target photon signal;

[0020] The response lines are determined based on the photon signal pairs, and the image is reconstructed based on the response lines to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0021] Thirdly, one embodiment of this application provides a positron emission tomography (PET) system, including a detection module, an electronics module, and a data acquisition module. The detection module is connected to the electronics module, and the electronics module is connected to the data acquisition module. The detection module includes a silicon photomultiplier tube array, which includes at least two silicon photomultiplier tube units.

[0022] The detection module is used to acquire the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit and transmit the initial photon signal to the electronics module;

[0023] The electronics module is used to compare each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold, obtain the comparison result, and send an indication signal to the data acquisition module when the comparison result is that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold.

[0024] The data acquisition module is used to acquire the target photon signal from the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit based on the indication signal.

[0025] In one embodiment, the electronics module includes an amplification component and a comparison component;

[0026] An amplification component is used to amplify each initial photon signal to obtain an amplified photon signal;

[0027] The comparison component is used to compare each amplified photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result.

[0028] Fourthly, one embodiment of this application provides a signal acquisition device applied to a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging system. The PET imaging system includes a detection module, which includes a silicon photomultiplier tube array. The silicon photomultiplier tube array includes at least two silicon photomultiplier tube units. The device includes:

[0029] The first acquisition module is used to acquire the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit, and compare each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result;

[0030] The acquisition module is used to acquire the target photon signal from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit when the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than a preset trigger threshold.

[0031] Fifthly, one embodiment of this application provides an imaging apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

[0032] The second acquisition module is used to acquire the target photon signal; the target photon signal is acquired by the signal acquisition device provided in the fourth aspect above;

[0033] The reconstruction module is used to reconstruct the image based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0034] Sixthly, this application also provides a computer device, including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the steps of the methods provided in the first or second aspect above.

[0035] In a seventh aspect, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the method provided in the first or second aspect above.

[0036] Eighthly, this application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the methods provided in the first or second aspect above.

[0037] The aforementioned signal acquisition method, apparatus, imaging method, apparatus, and positron emission tomography (PET) system are described above. The method is applied to a PET system. The PET system includes a detection module, which comprises a silicon photomultiplier tube (SiP) array, and the SiP array includes at least two SiP units. The method acquires the initial photon signal received by each SiP unit and compares each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result. If the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, a target photon signal is acquired from the initial photon signals received by each SiP unit. In this embodiment, signal acquisition is triggered by comparing the initial photon signals received by at least two SiP units with the preset trigger threshold, which lowers the preset trigger threshold and improves temporal resolution. Furthermore, the dark noise of the silicon photomultiplier array is area-dependent. In this embodiment, the use of a silicon photomultiplier array including at least two silicon photomultiplier units will not enhance the overall dark noise event rate. Moreover, the scintillation light generated by the crystal can simultaneously excite all silicon photomultiplier units, and the probability of dark noise matching on different silicon photomultiplier units is very small, which can improve the accuracy of the acquired target photon signal. Attached Figure Description

[0038] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or related technologies, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments of this application or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a positron emission tomography (PET) system in one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the detection module in one embodiment;

[0041] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a signal acquisition method in one embodiment;

[0042] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a signal acquisition method in another embodiment;

[0043] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a signal acquisition method in another embodiment;

[0044] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a signal acquisition method in another embodiment;

[0045] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture for processing the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit in one embodiment;

[0046] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit in one embodiment;

[0047] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the steps of an imaging method in one embodiment;

[0048] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of an imaging method in another embodiment;

[0049] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronics module in one embodiment;

[0050] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the signal acquisition device in one embodiment;

[0051] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the imaging device in one embodiment;

[0052] Figure 14 This is an internal structural diagram of a computer device in one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0053] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0054] It should be noted that the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, as used in this application, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The term "at least two" as used in this application refers to two or more.

[0055] Before detailing the technical solutions of the embodiments disclosed in this application, the background technology or technological evolution on which the embodiments of this application are based will be introduced first. With the development of imaging technology, Time-of-Flight Positron Emission Tomography (TOF-PET) has become a widely used PET imaging technology in clinical practice due to its advantages such as high imaging quality and wide applicability. Temporal resolution is one of the important indicators of TOF-PET. The optimal temporal resolution of laboratory-grade TOF-PET is 100 ps, ​​and its optimal temporal resolution trigger threshold is about 1 photoelectric effect (PE) - 2 PE. Due to the limitations of dark noise, the trigger threshold of the chip cannot actually be achieved at the optimal level, and a higher trigger threshold needs to be set. However, a higher trigger threshold leads to a lower temporal resolution. In response, this application provides a signal acquisition method that can improve temporal resolution.

[0056] The signal acquisition method provided in this application embodiment is applied to, for example, Figure 1 The positron emission tomography (PET) system shown includes a detection module 11 and a signal processing device 12. The signal processing device 12 includes an electronics module 121 and a data acquisition module 122. The detection module 11 is connected to the electronics module 121, and the electronics module 121 is connected to the data acquisition module 122. The structure of the detection module 11 is as follows: Figure 2 As shown, the detection module 11 includes a crystal 111 (scintillation crystal array) and a photodetector 112 attached to the crystal. The photodetector 112 can be a micro silicon photomultiplier (uSiPM) array, which includes at least two silicon photomultiplier units 1120. During TOF-PET imaging, when... After photons enter the crystal, they generate scintillation light through the photoelectric effect or Compton scattering, and then enter the photodetector 112. The photodetector 112 converts the scintillation light into an electrical signal. The electronics module 121 amplifies, compares, and processes the received electrical signal before sending it to the data acquisition module 122. The data acquisition module 122 records the received signal to provide raw data for TOF-PET imaging.

[0057] The technical solution of this application and how the technical solution of this application solves the technical problem are described in detail below with specific embodiments.

[0058] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3 As shown, a signal acquisition method is provided, which can be applied to, for example... Figure 1The method will be described using the signal processing equipment in the positron emission tomography (PET) system shown as an example. In this embodiment, the method includes the following steps:

[0059] Step 300: Obtain the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit, and compare each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result.

[0060] The silicon photomultiplier tube array in the detection module of the positron emission tomography (PET) system comprises multiple silicon photomultiplier tube units. Each silicon photomultiplier tube unit can receive scintillation light generated by the crystal adjacent to it and convert the received scintillation light into an electrical signal, i.e., an initial photon signal. The signal processing module can receive the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit.

[0061] The preset trigger threshold can be set by the user according to the actual application. The signal processing module can receive the initial photon signals transmitted by at least two silicon photomultiplier tube units. For each initial photon signal, the initial photon signal is compared with the preset trigger threshold; that is, the amplitude of the initial photon signal is compared with the preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result. The comparison result includes whether the amplitude of the initial photon signal is greater than the preset trigger threshold, or whether the amplitude of the initial photon signal is less than or equal to the preset trigger threshold.

[0062] Step 310: If the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, the target photon signal is collected from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit.

[0063] If the signal processing device determines that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold by comparing each initial photon signal with the preset trigger threshold, it means that the initial photon signal received from the silicon photomultiplier tube unit is a valid signal. Then, the target photon signal is collected from the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit. The target photon signal collected at this time is a valid photon signal.

[0064] Understandably, when the silicon photomultiplier array includes two silicon photomultiplier tube units, the signal processing device compares the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit with a preset trigger threshold. If the comparison result shows that both initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, then the target photon signal is collected from the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit. Similarly, when the silicon photomultiplier array includes three silicon photomultiplier tube units, the signal processing device compares the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit with a preset trigger threshold. If the comparison result shows that both initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, or all three initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, then the target photon signal is collected from the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit.

[0065] This application provides a signal acquisition method applied to a positron emission tomography (PET) system. The PET system includes a detection module comprising a silicon photomultiplier tube (SPT) array, which includes at least two SPT units. The method acquires the initial photon signal received by each SPT unit and compares each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result. If the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, a target photon signal is acquired from the initial photon signals received by each SPT unit. In this embodiment, signal acquisition is triggered by comparing the initial photon signals received by at least two SPT units with the preset trigger threshold, which lowers the preset trigger threshold and improves temporal resolution. Furthermore, the dark noise of the silicon photomultiplier array is area-dependent. In this embodiment, the use of a silicon photomultiplier array including at least two silicon photomultiplier units will not enhance the overall dark noise event rate. Moreover, the scintillation light generated by the crystal can simultaneously excite all silicon photomultiplier units, and the probability of dark noise matching on different silicon photomultiplier units is very small, which can improve the accuracy of the acquired target photon signal.

[0066] In one embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown, this relates to an implementation method for acquiring a target photon signal from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit when the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than a preset trigger threshold. The steps of this implementation method include:

[0067] Step 400: If the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, generate a signal acquisition command.

[0068] If the signal processing device compares each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold and determines that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, it indicates that the initial photon signals currently received from the silicon photomultiplier tube unit are valid signals and do not contain dark noise, and then generates a signal acquisition command. The signal acquisition command is used to instruct the signal processing device to perform signal acquisition.

[0069] Step 410: Based on the signal acquisition command, acquire the target photon signal from the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit according to the preset trigger time window.

[0070] The preset trigger time window can be set by the user according to the actual application and stored in the signal processing device. The initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit changes over time, and the preset trigger time window moves gradually relative to the received initial photon signal. After receiving the signal acquisition command, the signal processing device acquires the target photon signal from the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit according to the preset trigger time window. That is, after obtaining the signal acquisition command, the signal processing device determines the start and end times of the current trigger time window relative to the received initial photon signal; and acquires the target photon signal from the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit within the start and end times.

[0071] In an optional embodiment, the signal processing device includes an electronics module and a data acquisition module. The electronics module acquires the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit, compares each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold, and obtains a comparison result. If the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, the electronics module generates a signal acquisition command and sends the signal acquisition command to the data acquisition module. The data acquisition module, based on the received signal acquisition command, acquires the target photon signal from the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit according to a preset trigger time window.

[0072] In this embodiment, a signal acquisition command is generated only when the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than a preset trigger threshold. Based on the signal acquisition command, the target photon signal is acquired from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit according to a preset trigger time window. This can maximize the effectiveness of the acquired target photon signal, that is, the acquired target photon signal has no dark noise, thereby improving the reliability of the signal acquisition method.

[0073] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5As shown, one implementation method involves comparing each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result. The steps of this implementation method include:

[0074] Step 500: Amplify each initial photon signal to obtain an amplified photon signal.

[0075] The signal processing device amplifies each obtained initial photon signal to obtain amplified photon signals, thereby obtaining multiple amplified photon signals. This embodiment does not limit the specific amplification factor, as long as the function is achieved.

[0076] Step 510: Compare each amplified photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result.

[0077] After obtaining multiple amplified photon signals, the signal processing device compares each amplified photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result. The comparison result includes any one of the following: at least two amplified photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, one amplified photon signal is greater than the preset trigger threshold, or multiple amplified photon signals are all less than or equal to the preset trigger threshold.

[0078] In an optional embodiment, the electronic module of the signal processing device includes an amplification component (amplifier) ​​and a comparison component (comparator). For each initial photon signal, the amplification component amplifies the initial photon signal to obtain an amplified photon signal, thereby obtaining multiple amplified photon signals. For each amplified photon signal, the comparison component compares the amplified photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result.

[0079] In this embodiment, each initial photon signal is first amplified to obtain an amplified photon signal, and then the amplified photon signal is compared with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result. By amplifying the acquired initial photon signal before proceeding with subsequent processing, the received small signal can be amplified for processing, which facilitates subsequent processing and improves the reliability of signal processing, thereby making the signal acquisition method more practical and reliable.

[0080] In one embodiment, the preset trigger threshold is greater than the mechanical vibration amplitude of the initial photon signal.

[0081] The mechanical vibration amplitude of the initial photon signal refers to the maximum displacement of the mechanical vibration generated by the detection module or other mechanical structure in a positron emission tomography (PET) system during photon detection; that is, the maximum distance the vibrating object deviates from its equilibrium position. The preset trigger threshold needs to be set greater than the mechanical vibration amplitude of the initial photon signal. Typically, the mechanical vibration amplitude of the initial photon signal is relatively small, thus eliminating the need for a high preset trigger threshold. This improves temporal resolution and the effectiveness of the acquired target photon signal, thereby enhancing the practicality of the signal acquisition method.

[0082] Please see Figure 6 One embodiment of this application provides a signal acquisition method applied to a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging system. The method includes the following steps:

[0083] Step 600: Obtain the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit;

[0084] Step 610: Amplify each initial photon signal to obtain an amplified photon signal;

[0085] Step 620: Compare each amplified photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result; the preset trigger threshold is greater than the mechanical vibration amplitude of the amplified photon signal;

[0086] Step 630: If the comparison result shows that at least two amplified photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, generate a signal acquisition command;

[0087] Step 640: Based on the signal acquisition command, according to the preset trigger time window, acquire the target photon signal from the amplified photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit.

[0088] In an optional embodiment, the architecture for processing the initial photon signal received by each cell of the silicon photomultiplier tube is as follows: Figure 7 As shown in the diagram. A schematic diagram of the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit is shown below. Figure 8 As shown. From Figure 8 As can be seen, within the trigger time window, the comparison results of multiple initial photon signals show that the amplitude of the initial photon signal is greater than the preset trigger threshold.

[0089] In one embodiment, such as Figure 9 As shown, an imaging method is provided, and the method is illustrated using a signal processing device in a positron emission tomography (PET) system as an example. In this embodiment, the method includes the following steps:

[0090] Step 900: Acquire the target photon signal; the target photon signal is acquired according to the method provided in the above embodiments.

[0091] The signal processing device acquires the collected target photon signal. The specific method for acquiring the target photon signal is described in the detailed description of the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0092] Step 910: Reconstruct the image based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0093] After obtaining the target photon signal, the signal processing device performs image reconstruction based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image. This embodiment does not limit the specific process of image reconstruction, as long as the function can be achieved.

[0094] The imaging method provided in this application acquires a target photon signal and performs image reconstruction based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image. In this embodiment, the target photon signal is acquired using the signal acquisition method provided in the above embodiment. Therefore, this imaging method has all the beneficial effects of the above signal acquisition method, namely, the imaging method has a high temporal resolution; and the accuracy of the acquired target photon signal is high, resulting in a higher quality PET image obtained after image reconstruction.

[0095] In one set of embodiments, such as Figure 10 As shown, this relates to an implementation method for reconstructing an image based on a target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image. The steps of this implementation method include:

[0096] Step 1001: Determine the photon signal pair based on the target photon signal.

[0097] In a positron emission tomography (PET) system, detection modules appear in pairs. After receiving the target photon signal, the signal processing equipment identifies the photon signal pairs within the target photon signal. Essentially, within a set time window, the signal processing equipment searches for target photon signals simultaneously detected by two detection modules and identifies them as photon signal pairs. Multiple target photon signals are acquired, resulting in multiple photon signal pairs.

[0098] Step 1002: Determine the response lines based on the photon signal pairs, and reconstruct the image based on the response lines to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0099] After obtaining the photon signal pair, the signal processing device determines the response line based on the photon signal pair. The response line (LOR) is a straight line connecting the centers of the two detection modules where the coincidence event occurred; this line represents the propagation path of the annihilated photon pair. After obtaining the response line, the signal processing device determines the projection data based on the response line, that is, it generates a sine curve based on the response line and reconstructs it using an image reconstruction method to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image. The image reconstruction method can be a filtered back-projection reconstruction method, an iterative reconstruction method, or a TOF-PET reconstruction method. This embodiment does not limit the specific image reconstruction method used, as long as it can achieve its function.

[0100] In an optional embodiment, the imaging method further includes: after obtaining the positron emission tomography (PET) image, performing post-processing (filtering, quantification, and three-dimensional visualization, etc.) on the PET image.

[0101] In this embodiment, photon signal pairs are determined based on the target photon signal; response lines are determined based on the photon signal pairs; and image reconstruction is performed based on the response lines to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image. This method of obtaining a PET image through image reconstruction is easy to implement, can improve the accuracy of the obtained PET image, and makes the imaging method more practical.

[0102] It should be understood that although the steps in the flowcharts of the embodiments described above are shown sequentially according to the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless explicitly stated herein, there is no strict order restriction on the execution of these steps, and they can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least some steps in the flowcharts of the embodiments described above may include multiple steps or multiple stages. These steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times. The execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but can be performed alternately or in turn with other steps or at least some of the steps or stages in other steps. It is understood that the steps in different embodiments can be freely combined as needed, and all non-contradictory solutions formed by such combinations are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0103] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1As shown, one embodiment of this application provides a positron emission tomography (PET) system, including a detection module 11, an electronics module 121, and a data acquisition module 122. The detection module 11 is connected to the electronics module 121, and the electronics module 121 is connected to the data acquisition module 122. The detection module 11 includes a silicon photomultiplier tube array, which includes at least two silicon photomultiplier tube units 1120. The description of the detection module 11, electronics module 121, and data acquisition module 122 can be found in the detailed description of the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0104] The detection module 11 is used to acquire the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit 1120 and transmit the initial photon signal to the electronics module 121.

[0105] The silicon photomultiplier array of the detection module 11 includes multiple silicon photomultiplier units 1120. Each silicon photomultiplier unit 1120 can receive the scintillation light generated by the crystal in close proximity to it and convert the received scintillation light into an electrical signal, i.e., an initial photon signal. The detection module 11 transmits the initial photon signal to the electronics module 121.

[0106] The electronics module 121 is used to compare each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold, obtain the comparison result, and send the comparison result to the data acquisition module 122.

[0107] After receiving the initial photon signal from each silicon photomultiplier tube unit 1120, the electronics module 121 compares each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result. The comparison result includes whether the amplitude of the initial photon signal is greater than the preset trigger threshold, or whether the amplitude of the initial photon signal is less than or equal to the preset trigger threshold. The preset trigger threshold can be set by the user according to the actual application. If the electronics module 121 determines that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, it sends an indication message to the data acquisition module 122. The indication message is used to instruct the data acquisition module 122 to start signal acquisition.

[0108] The data acquisition module 122 is used to acquire the target photon signal based on the indication information received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit 1120 from the initial photon signal.

[0109] After receiving the instruction information, the data acquisition module 122 acquires the target photon signal from the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit 1120. At this time, the acquired target photon signal is a valid photon signal.

[0110] This application provides a positron emission tomography (PET) system including a detection module 11, an electronics module 121, and a data acquisition module 122. The detection module 11 is connected to the electronics module 121, and the electronics module 121 is connected to the data acquisition module 122. The detection module 11 includes a silicon photomultiplier tube array, which includes at least two silicon photomultiplier tube units 1120. The detection module 11 is used to acquire the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit 1120 and transmit the initial photon signal to the electronics module 121. The electronics module 121 is used to compare each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold, obtain a comparison result, and send an indication signal to the data acquisition module 122 if the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold. The data acquisition module 122 is used to acquire a target photon signal from the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit 1120 based on the indication signal. In this embodiment, the data acquisition module 122 is triggered to acquire signals by comparing the initial photon signals received by at least two silicon photomultiplier tube units 1120 with a preset trigger threshold. This reduces the preset trigger threshold and improves the temporal resolution. Furthermore, the dark noise of the silicon photomultiplier tube array is area-dependent. Using a silicon photomultiplier tube array with at least two units in this embodiment does not increase the overall dark noise event rate. Moreover, the scintillation light generated by the crystal can simultaneously excite all silicon photomultiplier tube units, making the probability of dark noise matching on different units very small. This improves the accuracy of the acquired target photon signals.

[0111] In an optional embodiment, the detection module 11 includes an amplification component. After acquiring the photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit 1120, the detection module 11 amplifies the photon signal to obtain an initial photon signal and transmits the initial photon signal to the electronics module 121. The electronics module 121 compares the initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result.

[0112] In one embodiment, such as Figure 11 As shown, the electronics module 121 includes an amplification component 1211 and a comparison component 1212. The amplification component 1211 amplifies each initial photon signal to obtain an amplified photon signal; the comparison component 1212 compares each amplified photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result. The amplification process performed by the amplification component 1211 and the comparison performed by the comparison component 1212 can be described in the specific description of the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0113] In this embodiment, each initial photon signal is first amplified by the amplification component 1211 to obtain an amplified photon signal. Then, the amplified photon signal is compared with a preset trigger threshold by the comparison component 1212 to obtain a comparison result. By amplifying the acquired initial photon signal before proceeding with subsequent processing, the received small signal can be amplified for processing, which facilitates subsequent processing and improves the reliability of signal processing. This makes the signal acquisition method more practical and reliable.

[0114] Based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides a signal acquisition device for implementing the signal acquisition method and an imaging device for the imaging method described above. The solution provided by this device is similar to the solution described in the above method; therefore, the specific limitations of one or more signal acquisition devices and imaging devices provided below can be found in the limitations of the signal acquisition method and imaging method described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0115] In one embodiment, such as Figure 12 As shown, a signal acquisition device is provided for use in a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging system. The PET imaging system includes a detection module, which includes a silicon photomultiplier tube array. The silicon photomultiplier tube array includes at least two silicon photomultiplier tube units. The device includes:

[0116] The first acquisition module 20 is used to acquire the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit, and compare each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result;

[0117] Acquisition module 21 is used to acquire target photon signals from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit when the comparison result is that at least two initial photon signals are greater than a preset trigger threshold.

[0118] In one embodiment, the acquisition module 21 is specifically used to generate a signal acquisition command when the comparison result is that at least two initial photon signals are greater than a preset trigger threshold; based on the signal acquisition command, the target photon signal is acquired from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit according to a preset trigger time window.

[0119] In one embodiment, the first acquisition module 20 is configured to amplify each initial photon signal to obtain an amplified photon signal; and to compare each amplified photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result.

[0120] In one embodiment, the preset trigger threshold is greater than the mechanical vibration amplitude of the initial photon signal.

[0121] In one embodiment, such asFigure 13 As shown, an imaging device is provided, the device comprising:

[0122] The second acquisition module 30 is used to acquire the target photon signal; the target photon signal is acquired by the signal acquisition device provided in the above embodiment;

[0123] The reconstruction module 31 is used to reconstruct the image based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0124] In one embodiment, the reconstruction module 31 is specifically used to determine photon signal pairs based on the target photon signal; determine response lines based on the photon signal pairs; and perform image reconstruction based on the response lines to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0125] Each module in the aforementioned signal acquisition and imaging devices can be implemented entirely or partially through software, hardware, or a combination thereof. These modules can be embedded in or independent of the processor in a computer device, or stored in the computer device's memory as software, so that the processor can call and execute the corresponding operations of each module.

[0126] In one embodiment, a computer device is provided, which may be a signal processing device, and its internal structure diagram may be as follows: Figure 14 As shown, the computer device includes a processor, memory, input / output interface, communication interface, display unit, and input device. The processor, memory, and input / output interface are connected via a system bus, and the communication interface, display unit, and input device are also connected to the system bus via the input / output interface. The processor provides computing and control capabilities. The memory includes non-volatile storage media and internal memory. The non-volatile storage media stores the operating system and computer programs. The internal memory provides an environment for the operation of the operating system and computer programs stored in the non-volatile storage media. The input / output interface is used for exchanging information between the processor and external devices. The communication interface is used for wired or wireless communication with external terminals; wireless communication can be achieved through Wi-Fi, mobile cellular networks, Near Field Communication (NFC), or other technologies. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements a signal acquisition method and an imaging method. The display unit is used to form a visually visible image and can be a display screen, a projection device, or a virtual reality imaging device. The display screen can be an LCD screen or an e-ink screen. The input device of the computer device can be a touch layer covering the display screen, or buttons, trackballs, or touchpads set on the casing of the computer device, or external keyboards, touchpads, or mice, etc.

[0127] Those skilled in the art will understand that Figure 14 The structure shown is merely a block diagram of a portion of the structure related to the present application and does not constitute a limitation on the computer device to which the present application is applied. Specific computer devices may include more or fewer components than those shown in the figure, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0128] In one embodiment, a computer device is provided, including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to perform the following steps:

[0129] The initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit is acquired, and each initial photon signal is compared with a preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result;

[0130] If the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, the target photon signal is collected from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit.

[0131] In one embodiment, when the processor executes the computer program, it further performs the following steps: if the comparison result is that at least two initial photon signals are greater than a preset trigger threshold, a signal acquisition instruction is generated; based on the signal acquisition instruction, a target photon signal is acquired from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit according to a preset trigger time window.

[0132] In one embodiment, when the processor executes the computer program, it further performs the following steps: amplifying each initial photon signal to obtain an amplified photon signal; comparing each amplified photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result.

[0133] In one embodiment, the preset trigger threshold is greater than the mechanical vibration amplitude of the initial photon signal.

[0134] In one embodiment, the processor, when executing a computer program, also performs the following steps:

[0135] Acquire the target photon signal; the target photon signal is acquired by performing the steps according to the above embodiments;

[0136] Image reconstruction is performed based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0137] In one embodiment, when the processor executes the computer program, it further performs the following steps: determining a photon signal pair based on the target photon signal; determining a response line based on the photon signal pair; and reconstructing an image based on the response line to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0138] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon, the computer program performing the following steps when executed by a processor:

[0139] The initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit is acquired, and each initial photon signal is compared with a preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result;

[0140] If the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, the target photon signal is collected from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit.

[0141] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by the processor, it further performs the following steps: if the comparison result is that at least two initial photon signals are greater than a preset trigger threshold, a signal acquisition instruction is generated; based on the signal acquisition instruction, a target photon signal is acquired from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit according to a preset trigger time window.

[0142] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by the processor, it further performs the following steps: amplifying each initial photon signal to obtain an amplified photon signal; comparing each amplified photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result.

[0143] In one embodiment, the preset trigger threshold is greater than the mechanical vibration amplitude of the initial photon signal.

[0144] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0145] Acquire the target photon signal; the target photon signal is acquired by performing the steps according to the above embodiments;

[0146] Image reconstruction is performed based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0147] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by the processor, it further performs the following steps: determining a photon signal pair based on the target photon signal; determining a response line based on the photon signal pair; and reconstructing an image based on the response line to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0148] In one embodiment, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0149] The initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit is acquired, and each initial photon signal is compared with a preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result;

[0150] If the comparison result shows that at least two initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, the target photon signal is collected from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit.

[0151] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by the processor, it further performs the following steps: if the comparison result is that at least two initial photon signals are greater than a preset trigger threshold, a signal acquisition instruction is generated; based on the signal acquisition instruction, a target photon signal is acquired from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit according to a preset trigger time window.

[0152] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by the processor, it further performs the following steps: amplifying each initial photon signal to obtain an amplified photon signal; comparing each amplified photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result.

[0153] In one embodiment, the preset trigger threshold is greater than the mechanical vibration amplitude of the initial photon signal.

[0154] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0155] Acquire the target photon signal; the target photon signal is acquired by performing the steps according to the above embodiments;

[0156] Image reconstruction is performed based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0157] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by the processor, it further performs the following steps: determining a photon signal pair based on the target photon signal; determining a response line based on the photon signal pair; and reconstructing an image based on the response line to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

[0158] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. Any references to memory, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include at least one of non-volatile memory and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), phase change memory (PCM), graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM can take many forms, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM). The databases involved in the embodiments provided in this application may include at least one type of relational database and non-relational database. Non-relational databases may include, but are not limited to, blockchain-based distributed databases. The processors involved in the embodiments provided in this application may be general-purpose processors, central processing units, graphics processing units, digital signal processors, programmable logic devices, quantum computing-based data processing logic devices, artificial intelligence (AI) processors, etc., and are not limited to these.

[0159] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this application.

[0160] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A signal acquisition method, characterized in that, An application is made in a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging system, the PET imaging system including a detection module, the detection module including a silicon photomultiplier tube array, the silicon photomultiplier tube array including at least two silicon photomultiplier tube units, the method including: The initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit is acquired, and each initial photon signal is compared with a preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result; If, in the case that at least two of the initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, the target photon signal is collected from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the comparison result shows that at least two of the initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, the process of acquiring the target photon signal from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit includes: If the comparison result shows that at least two of the initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold, a signal acquisition command is generated; Based on the signal acquisition command, the target photon signal is acquired from the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit according to the preset trigger time window.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of comparing each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result includes: Each of the initial photon signals is amplified to obtain an amplified photon signal; Each amplified photon signal is compared with the preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The preset trigger threshold is greater than the mechanical vibration amplitude of the initial photon signal.

5. An imaging method, characterized in that, The method includes: Acquire the target photon signal; the target photon signal is acquired by the method according to any one of claims 1-4; Image reconstruction is performed based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The step of reconstructing the image based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image includes: Based on the target photon signal, determine the photon signal pair; The response lines are determined based on the photon signal pairs, and the image is reconstructed based on the response lines to obtain the positron emission tomography (PET) image.

7. A positron emission tomography (PET) system, characterized in that, It includes a detection module, an electronics module, and a data acquisition module. The detection module is connected to the electronics module, and the electronics module is connected to the data acquisition module. The detection module includes a silicon photomultiplier tube array, and the silicon photomultiplier tube array includes at least two silicon photomultiplier tube units. The detection module is used to acquire the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit and transmit the initial photon signal to the electronics module; The electronics module is used to compare each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result, and send an indication signal to the data acquisition module when the comparison result is that at least two of the initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold; The data acquisition module is used to acquire the target photon signal based on the indication signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit from the initial photon signal.

8. The positron emission tomography (PET) system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The electronics module includes: an amplification component and a comparison component; The amplification component is used to amplify each of the initial photon signals to obtain an amplified photon signal; The comparison component is used to compare each of the amplified photon signals with the preset trigger threshold to obtain the comparison result.

9. A signal acquisition device, characterized in that, An apparatus for use in a positron emission tomography (PET) system, the PET system comprising a detection module, the detection module comprising a silicon photomultiplier tube array, the silicon photomultiplier tube array comprising at least two silicon photomultiplier tube units, the apparatus comprising: The first acquisition module is used to acquire the initial photon signal received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit, and compare each initial photon signal with a preset trigger threshold to obtain a comparison result; The acquisition module is used to acquire a target photon signal from the initial photon signals received by each silicon photomultiplier tube unit when the comparison result is that at least two of the initial photon signals are greater than the preset trigger threshold.

10. An imaging device, characterized in that, The device includes: The second acquisition module is used to acquire the target photon signal; the target photon signal is acquired by the signal acquisition device according to claim 9; The reconstruction module is used to reconstruct the image based on the target photon signal to obtain a positron emission tomography (PET) image.

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