Computed Tomography X-ray Collimator Plate Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray collimators for computed tomography systems face challenges in achieving high precision and uniformity due to low precision in manufacturing methods, complexity in structure, and inefficiency in blocking scattered rays while allowing primary rays to pass through, leading to image distortion and reduced detection efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The X-ray collimator is designed with a simple structure comprising intersecting first and second plates that form through holes with side walls extending to the focal spot, allowing primary rays to pass straight and effectively blocking scattered rays, using a method that simplifies assembly and manufacturing by inserting and engaging plates with each other, and optionally using slits and positioning grooves for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conventional X-ray collimator with stamped and adhered grid members is used, then the collimator can be manufactured, but the manufacturing precision is low due to springback during stamping
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator is divided into multiple independent plates, each containing some of the grid members. These plates are then assembled together to form the complete collimator structure. This segmentation allows each plate to be manufactured separately with standard stamping processes, and the final precision is achieved through the assembly of pre-manufactured components rather than attempting to create the entire complex structure in one piece.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple plates manufactured separately are merged together through assembly to form the complete collimator. The grid members from different plates are combined to create the full array of through holes, achieving the required precision through the integration of multiple components rather than relying on a single complex manufacturing process.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the collimator structure is designed to effectively block scattered rays, then the anti-scattering effect is improved, but the structure becomes complex and assembly becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The complex collimator structure is segmented into multiple simpler plates that can be manufactured and assembled independently. Each plate contains a subset of the grid members needed for scattered ray blocking, and the complete anti-scattering effect is achieved through the combination of these segmented components.
Solution Approach 2:
The plates are designed with universal features that allow them to serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, contain the grid members for scattered ray blocking, and can be assembled in a standardized manner. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining effective anti-scattering performance.
3Productivity
If the through holes are precisely aligned with the focal spot, then the primary ray transmission is maximized, but the manufacturing and assembly precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The grid members are pre-assembled onto the plates during the manufacturing process, establishing the correct geometric relationships and alignments before the final collimator assembly. This preliminary action ensures that the through holes are properly positioned relative to each other on each plate, and the subsequent assembly of plates maintains this precision through standardized connection methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates self-aligning features where the plates and grid members are configured to automatically position themselves correctly during assembly. The geometric constraints and tolerances are designed so that the components guide each other into the correct alignment, reducing the need for high-precision manual positioning and external alignment tools.
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 design enhances the collimation effect, improves detection precision, and simplifies the assembly and manufacturing process, ensuring that X-rays pass through in a straight line with minimal attenuation, effectively reducing scattered ray interference and maintaining image quality.
Implementation Method 1
A conventional X-ray collimator consists of a structure array which can absorb X-rays
Implementation Method 2
The extensions of the side walls of each through hole intersect at the focal spot of the X-ray source, making the X-ray pass through the through hole in a straight line
Data Source
AI summary
A computed tomography system and an X-ray collimator thereof are provided, which have a good collimator effect. The X-ray collimator includes a plurality of first plates extending in the circumferential direction of the computed tomography system and a plurality of second plates extending in the axial direction of the computed tomography system. The first plates and the second plates are inserted and engaged. Two adjacent first plates and two adjacent second plates define a through hole, and the extensions of the side walls of the through hole intersect at the focal spot of an X-ray source, so that the X-rays can pass through the through hole in a straight line. Since the extensions of the side walls of the through holes intersect at the focal spot of the X-ray source, the through holes are aligned with the radiation direction of corresponding X-rays.