Compton Scatter Imaging Volumetric CT Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray CT imaging systems are inefficient in utilizing Compton scatter information, leading to suboptimal dose efficiency and radiation exposure, particularly in medical imaging, where they use more ionizing radiation than traditional X-rays, and lack effective methods for accurate electron density distribution and radiation dose calculation.
Innovation Solution
A volumetric CT system employing two detectors, with a primary detector in-line with the X-ray path and a secondary detector positioned normal to the path, utilizing a pin-hole collimator to measure Compton scatter photons, allowing for efficient data acquisition and improved imaging by maximizing the use of Compton scatter information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional X-ray CT imaging systems are used, then imaging data can be obtained, but dose efficiency is suboptimal and radiation exposure is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection process by using multiple detectors positioned at different angles (0 degrees and 90 degrees relative to the X-ray source), allowing separate measurement of primary and scattered photons. This segmentation enables selective utilization of Compton scatter information while maintaining image quality, thereby improving dose efficiency and reducing required radiation exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the previously harmful Compton scatter photons (which were considered noise and discarded) into useful information. By positioning a detector at 90 degrees to detect Compton scattered photons and using a pin-hole collimator for spatial encoding, the system transforms radiation scattering (a harmful effect) into a beneficial source of additional imaging information that improves dose efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If conventional CT systems are used, then imaging can be performed, but accurate electron density distribution and radiation dose calculation are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple detectors at different angular positions, with one detector specifically positioned to capture Compton scattered photons. This segmentation preserves Compton scatter information that would otherwise be lost, enabling accurate electron density distribution measurement and precise radiation dose calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin-hole collimator acts as an intermediary device that spatially encodes the scattered photons before they reach the detector. This intermediary component enables the system to distinguish and preserve Compton scatter information, which is essential for accurate electron density distribution and radiation dose calculation.
3Measurement precision
If specialized Compton scatter imaging systems are used, then accurate electron density distribution can be obtained, but system complexity and cost increase due to energy-sensitive detectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, complex energy-sensitive detectors with conventional large-area detectors that are already available on clinical CT systems. By using the pin-hole collimator for spatial encoding instead of energy discrimination, the system achieves Compton scatter imaging functionality using simpler, more affordable detector technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the CT system multi-functional by enabling it to perform both conventional CT imaging and Compton scatter imaging using the same detector hardware. The pin-hole collimator allows the conventional detector to serve dual purposes: detecting primary photons for standard imaging and detecting spatially-encoded scattered photons for electron density measurement, without requiring specialized detectors.
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 enhances dose efficiency and provides accurate electron density distributions, enabling precise radiation dose calculation and contrast enhancement, while being more practical and applicable on clinical CT systems with conventional large-area detectors.
Implementation Method 1
a Compton scattering subsystem positioned generally normal to path x... The Compton scattering subsystem comprises a second detector and a pin-hole collimator... Compton scattering is measured for lower energy passing through the at least one pin-hole collimator measured by the second detector
Implementation Method 2
a portion of the energy undergoes Compton effect upon interaction with the object to create a plurality of Compton scatter photons
Data Source
AI summary
Briefly described, in an exemplary form, the present invention discloses a system, method and apparatus for X-ray Compton scatter imaging. In one exemplary embodiment, the present invention uses two detectors in a volumetric CT system. A first detector is positioned generally in-line with the angle of attack of the incoming energy, or, generally in-line of path x, where x is the path of the incoming energy. The first, or primary, detector detects various forms of radiation emanating from an object undergoing testing. In some embodiments, the present invention further comprises a Compton scattering system positioned generally normal to path x. In some embodiments, the Compton scattering subsystem comprises a second detector and a pin-hole collimator. The second detector detects Compton scattering energy from the object being tested.