X-ray Collimator Aperture Segmentation for Beam Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray tomographic imaging systems face challenges in maintaining an ideal X-ray beam shape and reducing radiation exposure, particularly when using arc-shaped blades, which limit the application of beam tracking techniques due to difficulties in forming penumbra regions at maximum aperture widths.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a collimator with a novel aperture structure featuring arc-shaped blocking members that define the X-ray beam's extent, allowing for the creation of penumbra regions on the X-ray detector even at maximum aperture widths, enabling beam tracking while maintaining an ideal beam shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If arc-shaped blades are used to match the detector shape, then the projected region forms an ideal rectangular shape, but penumbra regions cannot be formed on the detector when aperture width is maximized
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture is divided into multiple independent segments (first aperture segment, second aperture segment, third aperture segment, fourth aperture segment) that can be adjusted relative to each other. This segmentation allows the aperture width to be maximized for ideal rectangular projection while still enabling penumbra formation through selective positioning of segments, thus resolving the contradiction between shape quality and beam tracking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The aperture structure is made dynamically adjustable, allowing the aperture width to be changed according to imaging requirements. When maximum aperture width is needed for ideal rectangular projection, the aperture can be positioned accordingly. When beam tracking is required, the aperture can be adjusted to create penumbra regions, thus adapting between different operational modes to resolve the contradiction.
2Area of stationary object
If the aperture width is maximized to cover the entire detector, then the projected region achieves full coverage, but beam tracking cannot be applied due to lack of penumbra regions
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture is segmented into multiple independently adjustable parts. When full detector coverage is needed, all segments are positioned to maximize aperture width. When beam tracking is required, specific segments can be adjusted to create penumbra regions at detector corners, thus maintaining both full coverage capability and beam tracking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the aperture have different functional characteristics. The main aperture area is optimized for maximum coverage, while specific localized regions can be adjusted to create penumbra zones. This local differentiation allows simultaneous optimization of both coverage area and beam tracking functionality.
3Device complexity
If flat plates are used in the collimator, then the structure is simple, but the X-ray beam shape varies significantly with plate-to-plate spacing
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture segments are designed with curved surfaces that correspond to the arc-shaped detector geometry. This curvature ensures that the X-ray beam maintains a consistent ideal rectangular shape on the detector regardless of aperture width adjustments, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and shape stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The aperture segments are designed to change their effective parameters (position, orientation) in a controlled manner that maintains beam shape stability. By adjusting segments along curved paths rather than linear movements, the beam shape remains consistent across different aperture widths while keeping the overall structure relatively simple.
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 configuration allows for effective beam tracking and reduced radiation exposure by ensuring the X-ray beam maintains an ideal rectangular shape on the detector, enhancing imaging quality and safety.
Implementation Method 1
The aperture comprises a first blocking member for blocking X-rays and a second blocking member for blocking X-rays
Data Source
AI summary
An aperture comprises blocking members and for blocking X-rays. The blocking member has: an edge formed on an arc A1 lying on a circumference CF2 of a circle with radius r2 around a focal spot f in an XY-plane; an edge connected to one endpoint of the edge, the edge being formed to lie on the side of the X-ray detector with respect to an arc A11 contiguous to the arc A1; and an edge connected to the other endpoint of the edge, the edge being formed to lie on the side of the X-ray detector with respect to an arc A12 contiguous to the arc A1. The blocking member has: an edge formed on an arc A2 lying on the circumference CF2 of the circle with radius r2 around the focal spot f in the XY-plane; an edge connected to one endpoint of the edge, the edge being formed to lie on the side of the X-ray detector with respect to an arc A21 contiguous to the arc A2; and an edge connected to the other endpoint 23b of the edge, the edge being formed to lie on the side of the X-ray detector with respect to an arc A22 contiguous to the arc A2.