Adjustable Phantom for Contrast Agent Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for simulating and testing contrast-enhanced imaging in medical scanners are time-consuming, non-repeatable, and poorly suited for training or manufacturing, as they require manual intervention and are not easily replicable or adaptable to varying conditions.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable phantom system that can be placed on a medical imaging scanner's object support, moved by an actuator to simulate the presence and movement of a contrast agent, allowing for controlled scanning and data collection to determine physical characteristics over time, mimicking the behavior of contrast agents in the scanner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual testing methods are used to simulate contrast agent movement, then the testing can be performed, but the process becomes time-consuming and non-repeatable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a phantom object that copies the physical characteristics and movement behavior of a contrast agent through a mechanical actuator system. The actuator moves the phantom through the scanner's examination region in a controlled manner that replicates how contrast agents naturally flow through vessels, enabling repeatable simulation without manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an automated actuator mechanism that self-regulates the phantom's movement through the scanner region. The actuator controls the position and speed of the phantom autonomously based on programmed parameters, eliminating the need for continuous manual operation while maintaining realistic simulation conditions
2Ease of operation
If manual testing with a string-pulled contrast material is used, then simulation can be achieved, but the complexity of operation increases and requires tester presence near the scanner
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an actuator as an intermediary device between the control system and the phantom object. This actuator mechanism mediates the movement control, translating electrical or electronic commands into precise mechanical motion of the phantom through the scanner region, thereby simplifying the overall operation while managing the complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical string-pulling method with an automated actuator system. The actuator uses controlled mechanical or electromechanical means to move the phantom, substituting the simple but imprecise string method with a more sophisticated yet automated system that reduces operational complexity through automation
3Reliability
If repeated testing under various operating conditions is performed, then design robustness improves, but the time and resources required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic testing system where the actuator can vary the phantom's movement parameters (speed, position, trajectory) to simulate different operating conditions and contrast agent flow rates. This dynamic capability allows repeated testing under various conditions without requiring physical reconfiguration, thereby improving design robustness while maintaining testing efficiency through programmable versatility
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable phantom (36) includes a base (202), an actuator (204) and a phantom (210). The phantom includes first (210a) and second portions (210b), each having a different value of a physical characteristic measured by a scanner (10). The phantom (210) is movable with respect to the base (202). In one embodiment, the phantom is well suited to simulating the arrival of contrast agent in a contrast enhanced imaging examination.