Array Radiation Source Imaging for Faster ROI Scans
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional medical imaging techniques face challenges such as long scanning times, motion artifacts due to voluntary or involuntary object movement, and reduced image resolution and accuracy, especially when imaging objects with complex structures or regions of interest obscured by other tissues.
Innovation Solution
The use of an array radiation source with cold cathode point radiation sources, which are arranged based on the object's region of interest, emitting radiation beams in controlled patterns to generate scan data and improve image quality by reducing motion artifacts and radiation dose.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional hot cathode radiation source is used, then radiation beams can be generated, but scanning time is relatively long and motion artifacts are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation source is segmented into multiple point radiation sources arranged in an array configuration, allowing parallel scanning of different regions simultaneously. This segmentation enables the system to cover the entire region of interest faster by distributing the scanning task across multiple sources, thereby reducing total scanning time and minimizing motion artifacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional hot cathode mechanism with a cold cathode field emission mechanism. This substitution eliminates the need for thermal heating, enabling instantaneous activation of radiation sources. The field emission cold cathode can be turned on and off rapidly, allowing for faster scanning sequences and reducing the time window for patient motion to occur.
2Measurement precision
If traditional scanning method is used, then complete object coverage is achieved, but image resolution and accuracy are reduced due to motion artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification of the region of interest using a preliminary image before conducting the main scanning. Based on this preliminary information, the array radiation source is configured to focus scanning efforts precisely on the ROI, using multiple point sources to acquire data from different angles and positions. This preliminary planning enables optimized scanning parameters and positioning, reducing the need for repeated scans and minimizing motion-related degradation of image quality.
3Productivity
If array radiation source with multiple point sources is used, then scanning time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The array radiation source is designed with multiple point radiation sources that can be selectively activated based on the specific imaging requirements. The system can adaptively choose which point sources to use depending on the region of interest, scan protocol, and patient anatomy. This multi-functionality allows a single array configuration to handle various imaging scenarios, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices while maintaining high imaging efficiency.
4Measurement precision
If conventional imaging approach is used, then simple structures are imaged well, but complex structures with obscured ROIs produce artifacts and reduced quality
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by concentrating scanning resources specifically on the region of interest rather than uniformly scanning the entire object. Multiple point radiation sources are positioned and activated to target the ROI from various angles, with adjusted scanning parameters optimized for the specific characteristics of the ROI. This localized approach enhances the visualization of complex structures within the ROI while reducing unnecessary scanning of surrounding areas, improving both image quality and scanning efficiency.
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
This approach enables flexible, high-resolution imaging with reduced scanning time and improved accuracy by using cold cathode point radiation sources to generate high-quality images of complex structures with minimal motion artifacts.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the plurality of point radiation sources of the at least one array radiation source may include a cold cathode
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method for generating an image. The method may include obtaining a preliminary image of an object. The method may include determining a plurality of point radiation sources of at least one array radiation source at least partially based on an ROI of the object. The method may include determining at least one scanning parameter associated with the plurality of point radiation sources based on the preliminary image. The method may include causing the plurality of point radiation sources to emit radiation beams to the ROI to generate scan data relating to the ROI based on the at least one scanning parameter. The method may include obtaining scan data relating to the ROI. The method may further include generating a target image of the ROI based on the scan data relating to the ROI.