CBCT System Using Wireless Battery-Powered Detector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CT systems with slip ring technology are bulky and expensive, making them unsuitable for rapid stroke evaluation in emergency rooms, and require multiple scans with contrast agents to assess stroke severity, which is time-consuming and inconvenient for patients.
Innovation Solution
A Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) system with a ring of x-ray sources and a battery-powered digital detector that can perform rapid volumetric imaging without slip ring technology, allowing for simultaneous acquisition of CT scans with and without contrast agents, and adjusting the field of view to focus on specific regions of interest.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If slip ring technology is used in CT systems, then continuous rotation and stable power supply are achieved, but the system becomes bulky and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the slip ring component from the rotating assembly, extracting the problematic element that caused bulkiness and complexity. The detector is now battery-powered and wirelessly communicates data, eliminating the need for slip rings while maintaining rotational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical slip ring connection is replaced with wireless communication technology. The detector uses a battery-powered design with wireless data transmission to the stationary component, substituting mechanical electrical contact with electromagnetic communication.
2Measurement precision
If multiple CT scans with contrast agents are performed, then stroke severity assessment is comprehensive, but the examination time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging functions into a single scan protocol. The CBCT system captures both non-contrast and contrast-enhanced images in one examination session, merging what were previously separate scanning procedures into a unified workflow that maintains diagnostic comprehensiveness while reducing total examination time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous imaging during the contrast agent circulation through rapid sequential scanning. Multiple phases of contrast enhancement are captured in continuous succession without requiring the patient to leave the scanner or undergo separate scheduling, maintaining uninterrupted diagnostic data collection.
3Measurement precision
If a smaller field of view is used to focus on the plane of interest, then image resolution is improved, but the coverage area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the field of view based on the imaging phase and clinical needs. The CBCT scanner can switch between a larger FOV for initial survey and a smaller FOV for detailed evaluation of specific structures, with the ability to reposition and re-scan different regions of interest within the same examination.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging process is segmented into different phases: initial comprehensive scanning with larger FOV, followed by targeted high-resolution scanning of specific planes or regions of interest with smaller FOV. This segmentation allows the system to optimize resolution where needed while maintaining overall anatomical context.
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 and accurate evaluation of stroke severity within the emergency room, reducing the need for multiple scans and minimizing patient movement, while providing a smaller and more cost-effective imaging solution with improved diagnostic capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
performing a first scan at a first speed using the plurality of x-ray sources and the detector to acquire first CT projection data of a first field of view (FOV) of an object using first emissions by the plurality of x-ray sources that impinge the detector
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of methods and/or apparatus for a radiographic imaging can include a plurality of x-ray sources disposed in a curve and a detector configured to revolve relative thereto. In one embodiment, a CBCT imaging method and/or apparatus can include performing a first scan at a first speed using stationary angularly distributed x-ray sources to acquire first CBCT projection data that impinge a detector of a first field of view (FOV), identifying an area of interest within the first FOV, and performing a second scan at a second speed using the x-ray sources acquire second CBCT projection data that impinge a portion of the detector of a second smaller FOV including the area of interest within the first FOV using second emissions by the x-ray sources, where the second speed is greater than the first speed.