CT Apparatus Flat Detector Reconstruction Gap Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
CT apparatuses with flat detectors face challenges in accurately determining the effective reconstruction gap and removing band artifacts in reconstructed images, which affects image quality and medical diagnosis accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A method for automatically determining the best effective reconstruction gap by scanning a phantom with different gap values, calculating band artifact parameters, and selecting the best image to reconstruct images without artifacts, using a CT apparatus with a detector consisting of multiple modules with physical gaps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If flat detector modules with physical gaps are used to reduce cost, then detector cost is reduced, but band artifacts are generated in reconstructed images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent measures the physical gap dimensions and uses this harmful gap information to calculate an effective reconstruction gap parameter. By converting the gap measurement from a problem source into a corrective parameter, the system compensates for the band artifact through adjusted reconstruction algorithms, thereby transforming the harmful effect into a beneficial solution
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an effective reconstruction gap parameter that differs from the physical gap dimension. By changing the parameter used in reconstruction from the raw physical gap to a corrected effective gap (calculated based on measured physical gaps and geometric factors), the system optimizes image quality while maintaining the cost benefits of flat detectors
2Measurement precision
If manual visual evaluation is used to select the best reconstruction gap, then subjective image quality assessment is possible, but automation and objectivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated feedback mechanism where the system measures physical gaps, calculates effective reconstruction gaps, performs reconstructions with different gap values, and automatically evaluates the results using band artifact parameters. This closed-loop feedback system replaces manual visual evaluation with objective automated assessment, improving both automation extent and measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-evaluation by automatically calculating band artifact parameters and selecting the optimal reconstruction gap without requiring external expert intervention. The CT apparatus autonomously measures, calculates, evaluates, and selects parameters, making the entire process self-service and fully automated
3Measurement precision
If multiple gap values are tested to find the best effective reconstruction gap, then image quality is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurement of the physical gap dimensions before the actual reconstruction process. By measuring and storing the physical gap parameters in advance, the system prepares the necessary data for calculating effective reconstruction gaps, thereby reducing the time required during the actual reconstruction and evaluation phase
Data Source
AI summary
A method for automatically determining the best effective reconstruction gap, the method including scanning a phantom to collect image data of the phantom, using a plurality of different gap values to reconstruct image of the phantom respectively, based on the image data, thus obtaining a plurality of images respectively associated with different gap values, selecting the best image from the plurality of images, and automatically determining the gap value associated with the best image, and save it as the best effective reconstruction gap.