Multi-Source CT Gantry Segmentation for Line Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing CT apparatuses using a single X-ray source face challenges in stability and image acquisition due to the need for high power and the twisting of lines connected to the gantry as it rotates.
Innovation Solution
A CT apparatus with a gantry featuring two independent rotation devices, one for the X-ray sources and another for the detector, allowing for simultaneous rotation and X-ray emission, thereby reducing the angle of rotation and enhancing stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a single X-ray source is used in a CT apparatus, then the power supply lines connected to the gantry become twisted during rotation, but the system structure remains relatively simple
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the gantry into two independent rotation devices: one for rotating the X-ray source and another for rotating the detector. This segmentation allows each component to rotate independently, preventing the twisting of power supply lines that would occur if all components were rigidly connected in a single rotating assembly.
2Power
If multiple light sources are used simultaneously, then X-ray emission capability is enhanced, but the power required becomes too high to operate all sources at once
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by sequentially activating multiple light sources in a predetermined order during gantry rotation, rather than operating all sources simultaneously. This allows the system to achieve enhanced X-ray emission capability through cumulative data acquisition from multiple sources while keeping power consumption within acceptable limits by timing the activation of each source.
3Reliability
If the gantry rotates through a large angle to capture all subject data, then complete CT imaging is achieved, but the stability of the apparatus decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data acquisition process by using multiple light sources positioned at different angular locations. Each light source captures data for a specific angular range, allowing the gantry to rotate through a reduced total angle while still achieving complete CT imaging through the combined data from all sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by having each light source illuminate and capture data for only a portion of the subject or a specific angular range, rather than requiring a single light source to complete a full 360-degree rotation. This partial coverage from multiple sources collectively achieves complete imaging with reduced gantry rotation angle.
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
The solution enables efficient X-ray emission from multiple sources, reduces the range of gantry rotation, and improves the stability and quality of CT images acquired.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of light sources arranged on the first rotation device at regular intervals and configured to emit X-rays to a subject
Implementation Method 2
a detector arranged on the second rotation device and configured to detect X-rays passing through the subject
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A computed tomography (CT) apparatus includes a gantry with a first rotation device and a second rotation device, a plurality of light sources configured to emit X-rays to a subject, a detector configured to detect X-rays passing through the subject, and one or more processors. The one or more processors may be configured to rotate the first rotation device in a first rotation direction by an angle of rotation determined based on a total number of the plurality of light sources, emit X-rays to the subject by using at least one of the plurality of light sources and detect X-rays passing through the subject during the rotation of the first rotation device in the first rotation direction, and rotate the first rotation device by the determined angle of rotation in a second rotation direction.