CT Image Processing Calibration Data Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer tomography systems face challenges in maintaining image quality due to uncertainties in the position of the axis of rotation, which can be affected by changes in the measurement environment and the exchange of reference objects, leading to potential shifts and errors in image reconstruction.
Innovation Solution
An image processing device and method that determines calibration data by recording a first set of X-ray recordings during a rotation run and a second set from different angles in subsequent runs, allowing for accurate reconstruction without the need for additional reference objects or pre-scans, thereby reducing errors and improving reproducibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If calibration data is determined using reference objects and pre-scans, then measurement precision can be maintained, but the measurement time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by determining calibration data during the first rotation run before the main measurement process. The calibration data is determined from X-ray recordings obtained during a preliminary rotation of the object, allowing the reconstruction process to start immediately without requiring additional reference objects or pre-scans afterward.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the calibration process with the measurement process by using the same X-ray recordings and rotation mechanism for both calibration data determination and subsequent image reconstruction. This eliminates the need for separate calibration steps using reference objects, thereby reducing total measurement time while maintaining precision.
2Measurement precision
If additional reference objects are used for calibration, then calibration data accuracy improves, but device complexity and measurement time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by using the object itself as the source for calibration data determination. Instead of requiring external reference objects, the system determines calibration data from X-ray recordings of the object during its rotation, allowing the object to serve dual purposes: both calibration and measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the object multi-functional by using it for both calibration and measurement purposes. The same object that is being examined also serves as the reference for determining calibration data, eliminating the need for separate reference objects and reducing system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple rotation runs are performed for calibration, then measurement precision improves, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs calibration data determination during the first rotation run as a preliminary action, so that calibration data is ready before the main measurement process begins. This allows the subsequent reconstruction to proceed without interruption, effectively maintaining productivity while achieving high precision through the preliminary calibration step.
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 enables faster and more accurate reconstruction of computer tomography images by directly determining calibration data during the measurement process, reducing the need for additional interactions and minimizing artifacts, thus enhancing image quality and reducing the time required for the CT process.
Implementation Method 1
a radiation source 12, like e.g. an x-ray tube, and a radiation detector 14 associated with the radiation source
Implementation Method 2
The absorption of the radiation by the object 16 may be detected by means of the radiation detector 14 in the form of an x-ray recording 16′
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing device of a computer tomography system includes an interface and a calibration data determiner. The interface is implemented to receive a first set of X-ray recordings of an object to be examined from first discrete recording angles and to receive a second set of X-ray recordings of the object to be examined from second discrete recording angles. The calibration data determiner is implemented to determine calibration data for the computer tomography system on the basis of the first set. The first set is further recorded during a first rotation run wherein the computer tomography system and the object to be examined rotate relative to each other, wherein the second set is recorded during at least a further rotation run after the first rotation run. On the basis of the calibration data and the first and second sets a computer tomography recording is reconstructable.