CT Scan Image Restoration Using Inclined Slit Intermediary
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computed tomography (CT) reconstruction images suffer from limited resolution due to blurring caused by the penumbral effect of the focal point, resulting in a minimally expressed interface of the subject.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for restoring scan images by measuring and synthesizing blurring functions using slit images inclined at specific angles, generating line spread functions, and applying Fourier transforms to increase the resolution of the interface, allowing for accurate expression of the original subject interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional focal point is used in CT imaging, then the image acquisition process is simple and cost-effective, but the resolution of the interface is limited due to the penumbral effect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a slit as an intermediary element placed between the focal point and the subject. This slit acts as a spatial filter that restricts the X-ray beam to a narrow width, thereby reducing the penumbral effect and improving interface resolution without requiring a micro-focus generator. The slit serves as a mediator that allows conventional focal points to achieve high-resolution imaging results.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the imaging system by introducing a slit with specific dimensions (width and inclination angle). By adjusting the slit width to be smaller than the focal point size and setting specific inclination angles (e.g., 45 degrees), the system transforms the beam geometry to minimize penumbral blurring while maintaining compatibility with conventional focal points.
2Measurement precision
If a micro-focus generator is used to improve interface resolution, then the resolution is enhanced, but the equipment cost increases and exposure risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The slit serves as an intermediary that enables conventional focal points to achieve micro-focus imaging results. By placing the slit in the beam path, the system effectively creates a restricted beam geometry similar to what would be achieved with a micro-focus generator, but without the associated costs and exposure risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual micro-focus effect by using the slit to shape the beam from a conventional focal point. The slit copies the geometric benefits of a micro-focus generator (narrow beam width, reduced penumbra) without requiring the actual micro-focus hardware, thereby achieving the same imaging quality with safer exposure conditions.
3Measurement precision
If the slit width is decreased to improve resolution, then the interface resolution increases, but the signal intensity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent compensates for the signal loss from narrow slit width by utilizing the inclination angle dimension. By setting the slit at specific angles (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the beam direction, the system increases the effective path length and collects more photons, thereby compensating for the reduced beam width and maintaining adequate signal intensity while achieving high resolution.
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 enhances the resolution of CT images without the need for expensive micro-focus generators, enabling precise image restoration for diagnostic purposes without additional equipment or exposure risks.
Implementation Method 1
A blurring model of this image system is expressed by Equation 1. A subject of an original shape passes through the image system, and the image system outputs a final result influenced by its characteristic function, noise, and so on. This blurring function produces an effect of blurring an interface of the subject as in FIG. 2 due to a penumbral effect caused by a size of a focal point
Implementation Method 2
The sub-step of measuring the MTF may include transforming the LSFs to optical transfer functions (OTFs) using Fourier transform, and measuring the MTF using the transformed OTFs
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for restoring a scan image. The method includes the steps of: measuring a blurring function oversampled with respect to a slit image obtained through a slit inclined at a predetermined angle in a vertical or horizontal direction according to the predetermined angle; and restoring a scan image to increase a resolution of an interface of a subject in the scan image obtained by obtaining the subject using the measured blurring function. Computed tomography (CT) that applies image restoration by increasing sampling can secure a precise image for computer-aided design (CAD)/computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) additionally used in a system used when actually diagnosing a patient, and thus does not require additional expenses and equipment.