CT Tube Current Feedback During Fast kV Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tube current modulation control becomes challenging when performed in parallel with kV switching due to fluctuations in tube voltage, making it difficult to maintain stable tube current modulation.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray computed tomography imaging apparatus with a memory to store characteristic data on filament current and tube current relationships, and circuitry to synchronize tube voltage and current settings, allowing for synchronized feedback control during switching between high and low tube voltages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If tube current modulation control is performed in parallel with kV switching, then radiation exposure can be reduced, but tube current stability deteriorates due to voltage fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by measuring the actual tube current and comparing it with the target tube current, then adjusting the filament current based on the difference to maintain stable tube current despite voltage fluctuations during kV switching
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the filament current parameter in response to tube voltage changes during kV switching, compensating for voltage fluctuations to maintain stable tube current output
2Productivity
If high-speed kV switching is performed between high and low tube voltages, then imaging efficiency is improved, but tube current control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback control system continuously monitors tube current and adjusts filament current in real-time during high-speed kV switching, enabling precise tube current control to be maintained even during rapid voltage transitions
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary adjustment of filament current in anticipation of tube voltage changes during kV switching, compensating for upcoming voltage fluctuations before they affect tube current stability
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
Stabilizes tube current modulation by synchronizing tube current feedback control with tube voltage switching, ensuring consistent radiation exposure during CT imaging.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray tube configured to generate X-rays
Implementation Method 2
a relationship between a filament current value and a tube current output value
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray CT apparatus stores characteristic data representing a relationship between a filament current value and a tube current value in a case of switching between a first tube voltage and a second tube voltage. The apparatus sets a first tube current setting value at a time of application of the first tube voltage, and sets a second tube current setting value based on characteristic data and the first tube current setting value at a time of application of the second tube voltage. The apparatus switches between tube current feedback control based on the first tube current setting value at the time of application of the first tube voltage, and tube current feedback control based on the second tube current setting value at the time of application of the second tube voltage.