Alternating High Voltage X-Ray Source for Spectral Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spectral X-ray imaging technologies are limited in their ability to perform high-resolution, 3D capture and visualization of dynamic objects and processes, particularly in medical and industrial applications, due to high costs, complexity, and limitations in real-time imaging and patient positioning requirements.
Innovation Solution
A scanning imaging system utilizing a distributed X-ray source with an array of emitters and a controller to generate X-ray beams with adjustable energy spectra through alternating high voltage, allowing for synchronized emission and filtering to produce multiple energy spectra for tomographic reconstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If spectral CT machines are used to perform spectral imaging, then spectral imaging capability is achieved, but system cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spectral imaging function by separating the X-ray source modulation (done sequentially at different kV levels) from the detector (which remains a standard single-energy detector). This allows spectral imaging capability to be achieved without requiring complex spectral detectors, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes a standard single-energy X-ray detector perform spectral imaging functions by combining it with kV switching capability. The same detector is used across multiple kV levels, allowing it to capture spectral information without requiring specialized spectral detector hardware, thus reducing device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If kV switching is used to adjust high voltage for different energy exposures, then spectral imaging at different energies is achieved, but switching time introduces motion artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic kV switching between different voltage levels (e.g., 80 kVp and 140 kVp) in a controlled sequence. By alternating between low and high kV exposures systematically, the system achieves spectral separation while managing the timing to minimize motion artifacts through synchronized acquisition and reconstruction algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary kV switching and exposure setup before actual imaging begins. The controller pre-configures the appropriate kV levels and timing sequences, ensuring that when imaging starts, the switching is already optimized to minimize motion artifacts during the critical data acquisition phase.
3Measurement precision
If spectral CT is used for imaging, then spectral capability is achieved, but real-time imaging and patient access during imaging are not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging process into rapid sequential kV-switched exposures that can be acquired in real-time, followed by computational spectral reconstruction. This allows real-time data acquisition comparable to conventional radiography while achieving spectral imaging through post-processing, thus maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical complexity of spectral CT (rotating gantry, multiple detectors) with a simpler kV switching approach combined with computational imaging. This substitution enables real-time imaging capabilities similar to conventional radiography while achieving spectral imaging through software-based spectral decomposition.
4Measurement precision
If photon counting X-ray detectors are used for spectral imaging, then spectral detection capability is improved, but charge sharing reduces image resolution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces kV switching as an intermediary mechanism that enables spectral imaging without relying on photon counting detectors. By modulating the X-ray source energy before it reaches the detector, the system achieves spectral separation at the source level, avoiding the charge sharing problem entirely while maintaining image resolution.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid, high-resolution 3D spectral imaging capable of capturing dynamic processes without the need for complex high-voltage switching, reducing costs and motion artifacts, and facilitating applications like breast cancer screening and real-time imaging.
Implementation Method 1
The electrons decelerate in the anode material and produce Bremsstrahlung ('braking radiation') X-rays, which form a continuous spectrum that is distributed across a range of energies
Implementation Method 2
The continuous Bremsstrahlung spectrum may also carry additional peaks of characteristic emission of the anode material
Implementation Method 3
The power source is configured to provide an alternating high voltage. The scanning imaging system includes a single or distributed X-ray source coupled to the power source. The distributed X-ray sources is configured to generate an X-ray beam with an energy spectrum based on the alternating high voltage
Implementation Method 4
The controller is also configured to drive a scanning mechanism that physically moves the X-ray source through a pre-planned trajectory around the object
Implementation Method 5
X-ray imaging is typically performed by producing X-ray radiation, directing it onto the object of examination and capturing the X-ray radiation that passes through the object using various detection technologies
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus for performing scanning spectral tomographic reconstruction of an object. The imaging system includes a power source that is configured to provide an alternating high voltage. The imaging system includes an X-ray source. The X-ray source includes an array of X-ray emitters that allow fast switching “ON” and “OFF” using a grid electrode. The source is configured to generate an X-ray beam with an energy spectrum based on the alternating high voltage and uses X-ray filters. The imaging system includes a controller configured to operate synchronously with the alternating high voltage. The controller is also configured to drive an actuator to position the X-ray source with respect to an object and drive the source in a pre-defined trajectory about the object. At each position in the trajectory, the controller is configured to control the exposure timing of the emitters based on a predefined firing pattern.