X-ray CT Energy Band Segmentation for Substance Discrimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) apparatuses using photon-counting-method detectors face challenges in reconstructing images that discriminate between substances with similar X-ray transmissivity levels, such as iodine and calcium, leading to increased data transfer and processing loads, which delays image reconstruction.
Innovation Solution
The X-ray CT apparatus configures the data acquiring unit to divide energy bands into smaller sections, count photons for each section, and aggregate counts based on the image taking mode, reducing the number of energy bands and data transferred, while ensuring discriminative image reconstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If photon-counting-method detectors count photons for each of multiple predetermined energy bands to discriminate between substances, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and data processing load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the energy spectrum into multiple energy bands and counts photons separately for each band. This segmentation allows discrimination between substances (e.g., iodine and calcium) that have similar overall transmissivity but different energy-dependent attenuation characteristics, thereby improving measurement precision while managing data complexity through structured energy-bin organization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of energy band configuration dynamically based on image taking conditions. By adjusting the number, width, and position of energy bands according to the specific imaging task, the system optimizes the balance between substance discrimination capability and data processing load, avoiding unnecessary complexity when full spectral resolution is not required
2Measurement precision
If photon counting is performed for each of multiple energy bands, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to increased data transfer and processing loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the energy band configuration based on image taking conditions and substance discrimination requirements. When substance discrimination is needed, multiple narrow energy bands are used; when it is not critical, fewer or wider bands are employed, thereby reducing data transfer and processing time while maintaining adequate measurement precision for the given task
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different energy band configurations to different regions or imaging scenarios. By tailoring the energy band structure to specific imaging needs (e.g., contrast-enhanced imaging versus bone imaging), the system optimizes the local data processing requirements and reduces overall reconstruction time while maintaining precision where needed
3Measurement precision
If the number of energy bands is increased to improve substance discrimination, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to increased processing load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary configuration of energy bands based on pre-defined image taking conditions and expected imaging scenarios. By preparing appropriate energy band configurations in advance and selecting the suitable configuration before actual imaging, the system avoids real-time complex processing while maintaining the ability to discriminate substances when needed, thus improving productivity without sacrificing 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 approach allows for efficient reconstruction of images that distinguish between substances of interest and those of less interest, reducing data transfer and processing loads, thereby shortening the time to reconstruct the X-ray CT image.
Implementation Method 1
a detector 13, a data acquiring unit 14, an acquisition controlling unit 38b, and an image reconstructing unit 35. The detector 13 detects X-rays that have passed through a subject P
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray CT apparatus includes: a detector that detects X-rays that have passed through a subject; a data acquiring unit that, for each of predetermined energy bands, counts photons having an energy level included in the predetermined energy band, from among photons derived from the X-rays detected by the detector; an acquisition controlling unit that controls the data acquiring unit in such a manner that energy bands including energy levels which the photons representing substances that are not of interest have are each larger than an energy band including an energy level which the photons representing a substance of interest have, in accordance with an image taking condition under which an image taking process is performed on the subject; and an image reconstructing unit that reconstructs an X-ray CT image by using a counting result obtained by the data acquiring unit controlled by the acquisition controlling unit.