CT Detector Multi-Row Readout for Motion Artifact Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing CT imaging systems face challenges with patient comfort due to prolonged data collection times and mechanical limitations, as well as high manufacturing costs associated with increasing detector resolution, which results in motion artifacts and suboptimal slice thickness.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a CT image acquisition system with a detector configured for simultaneous multi-row readout, utilizing a plurality of imagers with a pixilated x-ray conversion layer and photo detector array, allowing for faster data collection and improved resolution without increasing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the gantry rotation rate is increased to reduce data collection time, then patient comfort is improved, but motion artifacts between slices are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The detector array is segmented into multiple independent rows that can be read out simultaneously. This segmentation allows the system to capture multiple slices in parallel during a single gantry rotation, effectively reducing data collection time without requiring faster rotation speeds that would cause motion artifacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from sequential single-row detection to simultaneous multi-row detection by adding the row dimension to the detection architecture. This dimensional expansion enables parallel data acquisition across multiple slices, resolving the time-quality tradeoff by acquiring data in multiple dimensions simultaneously rather than sequentially.
2Measurement precision
If the number of detectors in the Z-axis is increased to improve resolution between slices, then image quality is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each detector row is designed with multi-functionality, capable of detecting x-rays across multiple energy ranges and providing both attenuation and energy discrimination data. This universal design allows the same detector hardware to serve multiple imaging functions, achieving high resolution between slices without requiring specialized expensive detector configurations for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves improved slice resolution by changing the operational parameters of existing detectors rather than increasing detector quantity. By utilizing energy discrimination capabilities and adjusting detection parameters, the system can differentiate between adjacent slices more effectively, maintaining manufacturing cost constraints while improving measurement precision.
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 configuration enhances frame rate and resolution, reducing data collection time and motion artifacts while lowering the cost of detector manufacturing, thereby improving patient comfort and diagnostic image quality.
Implementation Method 1
a pixilated x-ray conversion layer and photo detector array
Implementation Method 2
a pixilated x-ray conversion layer and photo detector array
Data Source
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AI summary
An imaging system includes a first image element in a first row, a second image element in the first row, a third image element in a second row, the third image element and the first image element being in a first column, a gate driver, a first electrical line extending from the gate driver, wherein the first and the second image elements are connected to the first electrical line, a second electrical line, wherein the first image element is connected to the second electrical line, and a third electrical line, wherein the third image element is connected to the third electrical line.