X-ray CT Reconstruction Function Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current X-ray CT systems face challenges in achieving optimal image reconstruction, particularly in varying subject sizes, where larger subjects result in poorer signal-to-noise ratios and granularity due to inconsistent X-ray detection, leading to suboptimal image quality.

Innovation Solution

The X-ray CT apparatus incorporates a reconstruction function setting part that calculates a weight coefficient based on the statistical dispersion of detected X-rays, adjusting the reconstruction function to optimize image quality by weighting a reference function, thereby improving signal-to-noise ratios and granularity across different subject sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single reconstruction function is used for all subjects, then the device complexity is reduced, but the image quality (signal-to-noise ratio and granularity) deteriorates for larger subjects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconstruction function selectionVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static single reconstruction function to a dynamic adaptive reconstruction function that automatically adjusts its parameters based on the statistical dispersion of detected X-rays. The reconstruction function is modified in real-time according to the subject characteristics, enabling optimal image quality for varying subject sizes without increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the reconstruction function parameters based on the statistical properties of detected X-rays. Specifically, the standard deviation of detected X-ray intensities is calculated and used to adjust the reconstruction function parameters, allowing the system to adapt to different subject sizes and maintain high image quality without requiring multiple pre-defined functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If the reconstruction function is adjusted for each subject size, then the image quality is improved, but the operation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidreconstruction function adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by implementing an automatic reconstruction function adjustment mechanism that calculates the statistical dispersion of detected X-rays and modifies the reconstruction function parameters without operator intervention. The system autonomously adapts to different subject sizes by computing the standard deviation and applying the appropriate corrections, eliminating the need for manual parameter adjustment while maintaining high image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by using the statistical properties of detected X-rays (standard deviation) as feedback signals to continuously adjust the reconstruction function parameters. This closed-loop approach ensures that the reconstruction function automatically adapts to the actual imaging conditions, maintaining optimal image quality without requiring operator input or complex manual adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple reconstruction functions are provided for different conditions, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconstruction function adaptabilityVSAvoidreconstruction function management
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by creating a single reconstruction function that can adapt to multiple different imaging conditions through parameter modification. Instead of providing separate reconstruction functions for different subject sizes and conditions, the system uses one universal reconstruction function whose parameters are dynamically adjusted based on the statistical properties of detected X-rays, thereby achieving multi-functionality without increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Measurement precision

If the X-ray amount is increased to improve signal-to-noise ratio, then the image quality is improved, but the radiation dose to the subject increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal-to-noise ratioVSAvoidradiation dose
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the reconstruction function parameters based on the statistical dispersion of detected X-rays rather than increasing the X-ray amount. By adjusting the reconstruction parameters according to the standard deviation of detected signals, the system can improve the signal-to-noise ratio in the reconstructed images without requiring additional radiation exposure to the subject.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 the production of images with improved signal-to-noise ratios and granularity, ensuring consistent image quality regardless of subject size by dynamically adjusting the reconstruction function based on detected X-ray variance.

Implementation Method 1

an X-ray generating part (11) which generates X-rays

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray generation: X-Ray

Implementation Method 2

an X-ray detector (12) which detects the X-rays transmitted through the subject (E)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray detection: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS9226715B2X-ray CT apparatus
Publication Date: 2016.01.05 TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYST CORP
  • US9226715B2 patent drawing
  • US9226715B2 patent drawing
  • US9226715B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The X-ray CT apparatus of the embodiment includes an X-ray generating part, an X-ray detector, a reconstruction function setting part, and a reconstruction processor. The X-ray generating part generates X-rays while rotating in a circuital orbit around the subject. The X-ray detector has a plurality of channels and detects the X-rays transmitted through the subject in each channel. The reconstruction function setting part sets the reconstruction function using statistics representing the statistical dispersion of the X-ray amount of the detected X-rays and a predetermined reference reconstruction function. The reconstruction processor carries out the reconstructing the projection data based on the detected X-rays based on the reconstruction function and produces image data.