Backscattering X-ray Imager with Central Detector Aperture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional x-ray imaging techniques face challenges in capturing accurate images of human breast tissue, particularly when the x-ray source and detector cannot be placed on opposing sides of the tissue, leading to issues with patient positioning, comfort, and exposure, and conventional backscattering techniques lose signal gaps and are not suitable for anatomical structures like the rib cage.
Innovation Solution
An x-ray imaging system where the x-ray source and detector are on the same side of the subject, with the detector having a hole for the x-ray beam to pass through, allowing for backscatter x-ray imaging that captures reflections and absorptions, enabling imaging of breast tissue and other challenging areas by emitting an x-ray beam through the detector and detecting backscattered signals to generate images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the x-ray source and detector are placed on opposing sides of the breast tissue, then conventional x-ray imaging can be performed, but it becomes challenging to image tissue in difficult-to-access areas such as adjacent to the armpit, upper breast, and ribcage regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional x-ray imaging geometry by placing both the x-ray source and detector on the same side of the breast tissue. The x-ray source emits beams that penetrate the tissue, and backscattered x-rays are detected by the detector positioned on the same side. This inversion enables imaging of previously inaccessible areas such as the armpit, upper breast, and ribcage regions without requiring challenging patient positioning.
2Device complexity
If conventional backscattering techniques are used with the x-ray source at the detector center, then signal detection is simplified, but gaps in the detected signal occur that are not suitable for imaging anatomical structures like the rib cage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional one-dimensional backscatter detection to a two-dimensional detector array positioned at an angle to the x-ray source. This dimensional change allows the detector to capture backscattered x-rays across a broader angular range, eliminating signal gaps and providing complete coverage for imaging anatomical structures such as the rib cage while maintaining reliable and comprehensive signal detection.
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 system provides a complete set of mammographic images, including areas inaccessible with conventional techniques, enhancing diagnostic capabilities and routine breast cancer screening by accurately imaging breast tissue adjacent to the armpit, ribcage, and upper chest areas, and can be used as an accessory to existing mammography systems.
Implementation Method 1
BACKSCATTERING x-ray imager with x-ray source at detector center
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including an x-ray source and detector where the source is disposed behind the detector and the detector is configured with a hole through which an x-ray beam emitted by the source can be transmitted to target tissue is provided. During operation, the source emits an x-ray beam through the hole in the detector. The x-ray beam may then be incident on an area of a subject to be imaged and cause various reflections and/or absorptions. The detector can detect signals reflected by the subject and an x-ray image can be generated accordingly.