Anti-scatter Grid Manufacturing via Mold Orientation Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current anti-scatter grid devices in imaging systems, such as CT and PET scanners, face challenges in effectively absorbing scattered radiation, which degrades image quality due to the limited geometric structure and material distribution of highly absorbing materials.
Innovation Solution
A method for manufacturing an anti-scatter grid device involving a mold with orientation structures to constrain plates made of highly absorbing materials, where a second material, such as resin or composite materials, is injected to form the grid, allowing for precise positioning and enhanced radiation absorption capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional anti-scatter grid structures are used, then the device is simple to manufacture, but the radiation absorption capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-scatter grid is divided into multiple segments or sections, each with specific geometric structures (such as parallel plates, focused plates, or crossed structures). This segmentation allows optimization of radiation absorption in different regions while maintaining manufacturability through modular construction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite structures combining highly absorbing materials (such as lead, tungsten, or bismuth) with supporting materials of lower density. This composite approach enhances radiation absorption capability while managing the overall device complexity and weight
2Reliability
If highly absorbing materials are distributed uniformly, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the scatter radiation absorption is ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The highly absorbing materials are strategically positioned in specific locations within the grid structure rather than uniformly distributed. For example, plates are arranged in parallel or focused configurations at specific angles and positions to target scattered radiation paths, optimizing absorption effectiveness while guiding manufacturing precision requirements
3Reliability
If the geometric structure is optimized for radiation absorption, then the absorption efficiency improves, but the manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pre-formed geometric structures (such as pre-fabricated plates, bars, or modular components) that are subsequently assembled into the final grid configuration. This preliminary preparation of components simplifies the overall manufacturing process while maintaining the optimized geometric structure necessary for effective radiation absorption
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
The solution improves the absorption of scattered radiation, leading to enhanced image quality by optimizing the geometric structure and material distribution within the anti-scatter grid, effectively reducing artifacts caused by scattered radiation.
Implementation Method 1
The first material may be capable of absorbing a first amount of at least one type of radiation. The second material may be capable of absorbing a second amount of the at least one type of radiation. The first amount may be greater than the second amount.
Implementation Method 2
Some of the high-energy beams may be deflected by the scanned object and influence image quality. Anti-scatter grids (ASGs) are widely used to limit the amount of radiation scatter created in such radiography processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for making an anti-scatter grid device is provided. The method may include providing a mold including one or more orientation structures arranged in first positions. The method may also include placing a plurality of plates including a first material into at least one of the orientation structures, and injecting a second material into a first cavity in the mold formed by the plurality of plates and the orientation structures. The method may further include separating the plurality of plates and the hardened second material from the mold to generate a first module.