3D-Printed CT Collimator With Integrated Scintillator Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing post-patient collimator assemblies in CT imaging systems are separate components, leading to alignment errors and inefficiencies in data acquisition due to the separation of collimator and scintillator elements.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a collimator array with tapered cavities and scintillator pixels through additive manufacturing, where each pixel is positioned within a cavity, and a reflective coating is applied to enhance light collection efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If separate collimator and scintillator components are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to alignment errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the collimator and scintillator into a single integrated component manufactured via additive manufacturing. The collimator array and scintillator pixels are formed as one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate assembly operations and ensuring precise alignment between components without requiring additional alignment procedures
2Device complexity
If separate collimator and scintillator components are used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to alignment errors
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated design merges the collimator and scintillator into a single reliable unit. By forming both components in one additive manufacturing process, the patent eliminates alignment errors that would compromise reliability, while the overall device complexity remains manageable through the streamlined monolithic structure
3Manufacturing precision
If integrated additively manufactured collimator and scintillator are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes additive manufacturing parameters and material properties to achieve precise integration of the collimator and scintillator. By controlling manufacturing parameters such as layer thickness, infill patterns, and material composition during the additive process, precise alignment and geometric accuracy are achieved while maintaining a relatively simple integrated device structure
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
Reduces alignment errors and enhances data acquisition efficiency by integrating the collimator and scintillator into a single component, improving focal alignment and light collection.
Implementation Method 1
A scintillator includes a plurality of pixels, each positioned with one of the plurality of cavities of the collimator
Implementation Method 2
A reflector positioned on a top of each of the plurality of pixels
Data Source
AI summary
Post-patient collimators and methods of manufacturing post-patient collimators are provided. An example method includes additively manufacturing a collimator array having a plurality of tapered cavities, positioning a plurality of scintillator pixels within the tapered cavities of the collimator array, and hardening the pixels within the tapered cavities. An example post-patient collimator includes a collimator array including a plurality of cavities, wherein each of the plurality of cavities includes tapered walls, a scintillator including a plurality of pixels, each of the plurality of pixels positioned with one of the plurality of cavities of the collimator, and a reflector positioned on a top of each of the plurality of pixels.