X-ray CT Data Transfer Buffer Overflow Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray CT apparatuses face challenges in scanning subjects efficiently due to buffer storage capacity limitations, leading to potential data overflow and interruptions in scanning processes, especially when the data acquisition rate exceeds the transfer rate, necessitating techniques to manage data transfer without increasing buffer storage capacity.
Innovation Solution
The X-ray CT apparatus employs a data transfer method that generates a scan plan and transfer plan based on the available buffer capacity, adjusting the order of data transfer to prevent overflow, using a processing circuitry to determine optimal transfer timing and prioritize data transfer, thereby allowing continuous scanning without exceeding buffer capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the data acquisition rate is increased to improve scanning efficiency, then productivity is improved, but the buffer storage capacity is exceeded causing data overflow
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the data acquisition rate based on the current buffer usage status. When the buffer usage exceeds a predetermined threshold, the acquisition rate is reduced to prevent overflow. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to maintain high productivity when buffer capacity is sufficient while preventing data loss when buffer capacity is limited.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device continuously monitors the buffer usage status and provides feedback to adjust the data acquisition rate. This feedback mechanism ensures that the acquisition rate is optimized in real-time based on the actual buffer capacity and usage, preventing data overflow while maximizing scanning efficiency.
2Reliability
If the buffer storage capacity is increased to prevent data overflow, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing the buffer storage capacity, the system changes the operational parameter (data acquisition rate) to adapt to the fixed buffer capacity. By dynamically adjusting the acquisition rate based on buffer usage, the system achieves reliable data transfer without requiring a larger buffer, thereby avoiding increased device complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system predicts potential buffer overflow conditions by monitoring usage status and takes preliminary action by reducing the acquisition rate before overflow occurs. This preventive approach ensures data reliability without requiring excessive buffer capacity, maintaining system simplicity.
3Productivity
If the data transfer rate is increased to match the acquisition rate, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the data acquisition rate to match the actual transfer capacity and buffer status, rather than attempting to continuously increase transfer rate. This dynamic balancing act maintains productivity by preventing data loss while avoiding the complexity of high-speed transfer infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray CT apparatus according to an embodiment includes a buffer and a processing circuitry. The buffer temporarily stores therein data detected by an X-ray detector. The processing circuitry controls transfer of the data in units of a scan, the data being acquired by each scan of a scan plan constituted of a plurality of scans.