Dynamic CT Scanning Dosage Adjustment for Consistent Image Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CT scanning methods face challenges in maintaining consistent image noise levels when scanning different body parts or the same part from varying angles due to inconsistent X-ray attenuation, leading to inconsistent image quality.
Innovation Solution
A scanning method and device that adjust scanning dosages based on regular trigger conditions and attenuation fluctuations, allowing the dosages to vary with the target position and scanning angle to ensure consistent image noise, using equations to calculate dosage values for optimal image congruence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a constant high scanning dosage or a constant low scanning dosage is used in scanning, then the scanning process is simple to operate, but image noises generated from scanning different parts of the body or scanning a same part with different scanning angles are inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from constant scanning dosage to dynamically adjustable scanning dosage. The system automatically adjusts the scanning dosage based on real-time attenuation fluctuations detected during the scanning process, allowing the dosage to vary adaptively rather than remaining fixed. This dynamic adjustment ensures consistent image noise levels across different body parts and scanning angles while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the scanning dosage parameter in response to detected attenuation fluctuations. The system continuously monitors attenuation variations and adjusts the scanning dosage parameter accordingly, changing it from a static constant value to a dynamic value that adapts to the specific scanning conditions. This parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction by ensuring image noise consistency without complicating the operation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the scanning dosage is reduced to protect patient organs, then the harmful radiation exposure is decreased, but the image quality may deteriorate due to increased image noises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing spatially and temporally varying scanning dosages based on detected attenuation fluctuations. Instead of using a uniform low dosage throughout the scanning process, the system identifies regions with different attenuation characteristics and adjusts the dosage locally for each region. This allows the use of lower dosages in less attenuating areas while maintaining higher dosages in highly attenuating areas, thereby reducing overall radiation exposure while preserving image quality where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring attenuation fluctuations during scanning and using this information to adjust the scanning dosage in real-time. The system creates a closed-loop control where the detected attenuation serves as feedback to optimize the dosage setting. This feedback mechanism ensures that the lowest possible dosage is used while maintaining adequate image quality, as the system automatically increases dosage only when attenuation fluctuations indicate a need for higher exposure.
3Manufacturing precision
If the scanning dosage is increased to improve image quality, then the image noises are reduced, but the total scanning dosage increases and patient organs are exposed to more radiation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using high scanning dosage only partially and only when necessary, rather than applying high dosage throughout the entire scanning process. The system identifies specific regions or time periods where attenuation fluctuations require higher dosages for adequate image quality, and applies elevated dosage only to those specific portions. This partial application of high dosage minimizes overall radiation exposure while maintaining image quality where it is critically needed.
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
The method ensures relatively low scanning dosages and consistent image noise levels, improving image quality by adapting dosages dynamically to the scanning conditions.
Implementation Method 1
when a radiation tube is facing directly to the thyroids or the eyes, a predetermined constant low scanning dosage should be used in the scanning; and when the radiation tube deflects from the direction straightly towards the thyroids or the eyes, a predetermined constant high scanning dosage is used in the scanning
Implementation Method 2
when scanning different parts of a body or scanning a same part from different scanning angles, attenuation of X-rays is different
Data Source
AI summary
A scanning method and device are provided. The method includes: determining values for a first scanning dosage and a second scanning dosage used in a scanning process based on a trigger condition which varies regularly and attenuation fluctuations of an object to be scanned, wherein the first scanning dosage is higher than the second scanning dosage, and at least one of the first scanning dosage and the second scanning dosage has an inconstant value; and scanning a target position with the determined values. In the present disclosure, a scanning dosage may be reduced and different image noises may be kept consistent.