CT Scanner Speed Adjustment for Faulty Detector Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computed tomography (CT) scanning systems face inefficiencies due to faulty X-ray detectors, leading to reduced image resolution and increased scanner downtime, as well as the challenge of maintaining scanning speed without compromising component lifespan.
Innovation Solution
Adjusting conveyor speed and gantry speed in response to detector failures and high-volume scanning demands, allowing for increased image resolution and efficient operation by compensating for faulty detectors and optimizing scanner usage during peak times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the scanning rate of the X-ray scanner is increased to reduce scanning backlog, then productivity is improved, but the lifespan of the scanner and its components deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic speed adjustment of the conveyor system based on detector functionality. When detectors are faulty, the conveyor speed is automatically reduced to allow sufficient data acquisition time for image reconstruction, preventing further stress on scanner components while maintaining operational continuity. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by adjusting operational parameters in real-time based on system conditions.
2Measurement precision
If a faulty detector is replaced to maintain image resolution, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time occurs due to scanner downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous operation of the CT scanner despite detector failures by implementing compensation algorithms and adjusting scanning parameters. The system continues to acquire and reconstruct images using functional detectors, maintaining scanner productivity without requiring immediate detector replacement. This approach eliminates scanner downtime while managing image quality through parameter adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (conveyor speed, gantry speed, pitch) in response to detector failures. By reducing scanning speed and adjusting pitch, the system compensates for reduced detector functionality and maintains adequate image resolution without requiring detector replacement, thus avoiding scanner downtime.
3Productivity
If interpolation is performed to compensate for bad detectors, then productivity is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates due to approximate image reconstruction
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using interpolation, the patent changes fundamental scanning parameters (reducing pitch, slowing conveyor speed) to ensure sufficient data acquisition from functional detectors. This approach maintains image quality by gathering adequate projection data at adjusted speeds, avoiding the need for approximate interpolation while keeping the scanner operational.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, computer-readable mediums, and systems are provided. In one embodiment, a method detects at least one faulty X-ray detector signal and adjusts a conveyor speed and/or a gantry speed in accordance with the detection to increase information for image reconstruction. In another embodiment, a method detects a high volume time. Upon detection of the high volume time conveyor speed and gantry speed is increased during the high volume time. After expiration of the high volume time, the conveyor speed and gantry speed is reduced. In yet other embodiments, the computer-readable mediums and systems are also provided which perform similar features recited by the above methods.