CT Scanner Control System Dynamic Pitch Mode Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computed tomography (CT) scanning systems face challenges in dynamically adjusting operating parameters to adapt to real-time changes in scanning priorities, such as varying object complexity and throughput demands, which can impact image resolution and system wear.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a control system that automatically and dynamically adjusts the conveyor speed and gantry rotational rate within scanning systems to switch between finer and coarser pitch modes based on real-time feedback, such as initial scanning results, passenger throughput, and wear thresholds, allowing for optimized image resolution and system performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the conveyor speed and gantry rotational rate are kept fixed at constant pitch, then the system operation is simple and stable, but the system cannot adapt to real-time changes in scanning priorities and object complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of conveyor speed and gantry rotational rate based on real-time feedback from initial scanning and throughput monitoring. The control system automatically transitions between finer pitch mode (higher rotor rate, lower conveyor rate) and coarser pitch mode (lower rotor rate, higher conveyor rate) to adapt to varying object complexity and demand conditions, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where initial scanning results and throughput metrics are continuously monitored. Based on this feedback, the control system dynamically adjusts operating parameters - switching to finer pitch mode when higher resolution is needed and coarser pitch mode when throughput is prioritized, enabling real-time adaptation without manual intervention.
2Measurement precision
If the rotor moves faster and conveyor moves slower in finer pitch mode, then image resolution improves, but throughput decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between finer pitch mode (prioritizing image resolution with higher rotor rate and lower conveyor rate) and coarser pitch mode (prioritizing throughput with lower rotor rate and higher conveyor rate). This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize for either resolution or throughput based on real-time conditions, resolving the contradiction between these two opposing objectives.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system changes operating parameters (rotor rate and conveyor rate) based on scanning mode requirements. In finer pitch mode, parameters are adjusted to favor resolution; in coarser pitch mode, parameters are adjusted to favor throughput. This parameter adjustment strategy enables the system to resolve the contradiction between image resolution and throughput by selecting appropriate parameter sets.
3Reliability
If the system operates continuously at high rotor rates for fine pitch scanning, then image quality is maintained, but system wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts rotor rate based on operational mode and wear thresholds. Rather than operating continuously at high rates, the system switches to coarser pitch mode with lower rotor rates when appropriate, reducing wear while maintaining image quality through mode switching. This resolves the contradiction between maintaining consistent image quality and preserving component lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system monitors system state and switching decisions based on feedback from initial scanning and throughput metrics. By making intelligent switching decisions rather than continuous high-rate operation, the system reduces cumulative wear while maintaining image quality through selective use of finer pitch mode, resolving the contradiction between reliability and component durability.
4Device complexity
If manual adjustment of belt speed is used to switch between scanning modes, then system complexity is reduced, but response time to changing demands increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically adjusts conveyor speed and gantry rotational rate based on feedback from initial scanning and throughput monitoring, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The system self-manages the transition between finer and coarser pitch modes, resolving the contradiction between automation (reducing response time) and simplicity by implementing autonomous control that responds immediately to changing conditions.
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 solution enables scanning systems to adapt performance in real-time, improving image quality and system longevity by matching scanning parameters to current demands without human intervention, thus enhancing both throughput and image resolution.
Implementation Method 1
scanning systems configured to perform computed tomography scanning
Implementation Method 2
a rotor supporting at least one radiation source and at least one radiation detector
Data Source
AI summary
Scanning systems for performing computed tomography scanning may include a stator, a rotor supporting at least one radiation source and at least one radiation detector rotatable with the rotor, and a rotator operatively connected to the rotor to rotate the rotor relative to the stator. A conveyor system may include a respective conveyor extending through the rotor of the scanning system. A control system operatively connected to the scanning system and the conveyor system may be configured to cause the rotor, the respective conveyor, or both to operate at a first operating speed when a wear threshold of the at least one scanning system and the respective conveyor system has not been reached and to cause the rotor, the respective conveyor, or both to operate at a second, lower operating speed when the wear threshold of the at least one scanning system and the respective conveyor system has been reached.