Compton Scattered X-ray Imaging via Time of Flight Depth Resolution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray visualization and imaging technologies face challenges in providing detailed, high-resolution images of internal structures without causing harm or requiring complex processing, especially for diagnosing conditions like cancer or tumors, due to limitations in depth penetration and resolution.
Innovation Solution
The development of a Compton scattered X-ray visualizer and imager system that uses Compton scattering events to generate images by detecting scattered X-rays, allowing for visualization and imaging within specific depth ranges and providing information on tissue and organ structures with improved resolution and accuracy through techniques like deconvolution and image processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional X-ray imaging is used, then imaging speed is fast, but resolution and depth penetration are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical X-ray imaging systems with a Compton scattering-based imaging system that uses photon-electron interactions to generate images. This substitution enables depth-resolved imaging with high resolution by detecting scattered photons from different depths, overcoming the limitations of traditional projection radiography while avoiding complex mechanical scanning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental imaging parameter from direct transmission detection to Compton scattering detection. By measuring the energy and angular distribution of scattered photons, the system achieves depth penetration and resolution simultaneously, transforming the imaging mechanism to resolve the contradiction between penetration depth and image quality.
2Length of stationary object
If higher energy X-rays are used to improve depth penetration, then penetration increases, but resolution and tissue contrast decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging process by depth, using the energy spectrum of scattered photons to distinguish contributions from different tissue depths. By analyzing the energy distribution of Compton-scattered photons, the system achieves depth-resolved imaging that maintains both penetration and contrast, effectively segmenting the information from different depth layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces Compton scattering as an intermediary process between X-ray transmission and detection. The scattering interaction serves as a mediator that provides depth information through energy loss, allowing the system to achieve both deep penetration and high contrast resolution by measuring the scattered photon spectrum rather than direct transmission.
3Measurement precision
If Compton scattering detection is implemented, then depth resolution is improved, but device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional imaging system that simultaneously provides depth-resolved imaging, tissue characterization, and contrast enhancement using a single Compton scattering detection mechanism. The system performs multiple imaging functions by analyzing different aspects of the scattered photon spectrum, reducing the need for multiple separate imaging systems and associated complexity.
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 high-resolution, non-invasive visualization and imaging of internal structures with improved depth penetration, facilitating better diagnosis and treatment planning by providing clear images of tissues and organs, similar in quality to MRI or CAT scans, while reducing the need for complex processing.
Implementation Method 1
at least one Compton scattered X-ray receiving assembly can be configured to detect at least some Compton scattered X-rays scattered from the at least some matter
Implementation Method 2
The visualization, imaging, or information providing can be based at least partially on a time of flight computation
Data Source
AI summary
One aspect relates to locating an at least one scattering event at least partially within an at least some matter of an at least a portion of an individual at least partially by directing an at least one pulse-type applied X-ray at the at least some matter of the at least the portion of the individual to create an at least one corresponding pulse-type Compton scattered X-ray, wherein the locating the at least one scattering event is based at least in part on an at least one time of flight computation derived at least in part from a combination of an at least one applied duration and an at least one scattered duration, wherein the at least one applied duration corresponds to a time for the at least one pulse-type applied X-ray to reach the at least one scattering event within the at least some matter of the at least the portion of the individual, and further wherein the at least one scattered duration corresponds to a time for the at least one corresponding pulse-type Compton scattered X-ray to thereupon travel from the at least one scattering event within the at least some matter of the at least the portion of the individual to be detected.