Collimator Plate Support for X-ray CT Detectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
In X-ray CT apparatuses, increasing the number of detection element arrays and rotation speed leads to collimator plate deformation, making it difficult to engage collimator plates in grooves, resulting in artifact generation on tomographic images.
Innovation Solution
Radiation detection element arrays are arranged in two directions with collimator plates along one direction and grooved support members along the orthogonal direction to facilitate easy arrangement and support of collimator plates, reducing deformation and artifact generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the number of detection element arrays is increased, then the productivity and image quality are improved, but the collimator plate length increases causing reduced strength and increased deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator plate support structure is segmented into multiple support members distributed along the rotation axis direction. Each support member provides localized support to the collimator plate, preventing overall deformation while allowing the collimator plate to extend in length to accommodate more detection element arrays.
Solution Approach 2:
Collimator plate support members are introduced as intermediary structures between the collimator plate and the detector arrays. These support members transfer and distribute mechanical loads, preventing the collimator plate from deforming under its own weight and centrifugal forces during high-speed rotation.
2Loss of time
If the rotation speed is increased, then the examination time is shortened, but the centrifugal force on the collimator plate increases causing deformation
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple collimator plate support members are strategically positioned to counterbalance the centrifugal forces acting on the collimator plate during high-speed rotation. The support members provide structural reinforcement that offsets the outward pull of centrifugal force, maintaining collimator plate stability even at increased rotation speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is designed to dynamically withstand varying centrifugal forces during rotation. The collimator plate support members are positioned and dimensioned to provide adequate support under rotational conditions, allowing the system to operate at higher speeds without compromising collimator plate stability.
3Length of stationary object
If the collimator plate length is increased, then more detection element arrays can be supported, but the collimator plate becomes more prone to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is segmented across multiple collimator plate support members distributed along the rotation axis direction. This segmentation allows the collimator plate to extend in length while maintaining precision, as each support member independently maintains the local collimator plate position and prevents deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
Collimator plate support members are positioned at specific locations along the collimator plate length where support is most needed. This localized support approach maintains manufacturing precision at critical points while allowing the overall collimator plate length to extend to accommodate more detection element arrays.
4Productivity
If the groove length is increased to accommodate more detection element arrays, then the arrangement capacity is improved, but the engagement difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement function is segmented across multiple collimator plate support members rather than requiring a single long groove engagement. Each support member provides a localized engagement point, allowing the collimator plate to be arranged and engaged in shorter, more manageable sections while still accommodating the full length of multiple detection element arrays.
Solution Approach 2:
Collimator plate support members serve as intermediary structures that facilitate engagement. Instead of requiring direct engagement of a long collimator plate with a single groove, the support members provide intermediate engagement points that simplify the arrangement process while maintaining the capacity to support extended detection element arrays.
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 easy arrangement of collimator plates, reducing deformation and improving image quality by preventing collimator plate deformation and enhancing the mechanical strength of the collimator plate support members.
Implementation Method 1
collimator plate support members having grooves supporting the collimator plate and arranged along the second direction between the radiation detection elements
Implementation Method 2
collimator plates arranged along the first direction on the radiation source side of the radiation detection element arrays to remove scattered radiations
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray detector and an X-ray CT apparatus that facilitate collimator plate arrangement are characterized by comprising radiation detection element arrays in which a plurality of radiation detection elements detecting a radiation generated from a radiation source are arranged in a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, collimator plates that are arranged along the first direction on the radiation source side of the radiation detection element arrays to remove scattered radiations, and collimator plate support members that have grooves supporting the collimator plate and are arranged along the second direction between the radiation detection elements.