Indirect Current Measurement in CT Imaging Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Evaluating the operating current of imaging systems, such as CT imaging systems, is costly and time-consuming due to the need for connecting external equipment like digital voltmeters or oscilloscopes.
Innovation Solution
The method involves generating a scan dataset by transmitting radiation from a radiation source to a detector, calculating the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and determining the radiation source current using a calibration curve based on the SNR, allowing for indirect evaluation of the operating current without additional equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external equipment (digital voltmeter or oscilloscope) is connected to measure operating current, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using the detector signal as a mediator to indirectly measure the operating current. Instead of directly connecting measurement equipment to the current testing point, the system uses the detector's signal response (which is proportional to the current) as an intermediary to infer the current value, thereby eliminating the need for direct external equipment connection while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical connection-based measurement system (direct connection of voltmeter or oscilloscope to current testing point) with a signal-based indirect measurement system. By substituting the physical connection approach with a signal processing approach using the detector output, the system achieves current measurement without requiring external measurement equipment to be physically connected to the imaging system
2Measurement precision
If external equipment is connected for current evaluation, then measurement accuracy is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the imaging system to evaluate its own operating current using its existing detector and signal processing capabilities. The system uses its own detector signal to indirectly measure the current, eliminating the need for external measurement equipment and associated setup/time consumption. This self-evaluation capability significantly reduces the time required for current verification while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing the relationship between the detector signal and operating current through calibration or known system characteristics. This preliminary characterization allows the system to perform rapid current evaluation without requiring complex real-time measurement setups, thereby reducing evaluation time while maintaining accuracy
3Reliability
If external measurement equipment is used, then measurement reliability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the imaging system to perform its own current measurement using its existing detector and processing electronics, eliminating the need to purchase and maintain external measurement equipment. This self-service approach reduces operational costs while maintaining measurement reliability through the use of the detector's inherent signal-response characteristics that are already calibrated for the system
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 enables automatic and cost-effective evaluation of the operating current, reducing the need for external equipment and streamlining the process while maintaining accurate measurements.
Implementation Method 1
generating a scan dataset by transmitting a radiation from a radiation source directly to a detector
Implementation Method 2
transmitting a radiation from a radiation source directly to a detector
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for indirectly measuring a current of a radiation source. In one embodiment, a method comprises generating a scan dataset by transmitting a radiation from a radiation source directly to a detector; calculating a signal to noise ratio of the scan dataset; and determining a current that was used to generate the scan dataset based on the calculated signal to noise ratio. In this way, current of the radiation source may be evaluated without connecting extra equipment to the radiation source.