Dynamic X-ray CT Separation Map Formation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dual energy X-ray CT systems face challenges in achieving accurate separation of materials with similar X-ray attenuation coefficients, leading to reduced separation accuracy and increased dose due to suboptimal X-ray conditions and the need for numerous pre-prepared separation maps.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray CT system that dynamically forms an optimal separation map based on inputted X-ray irradiation conditions, using a map formation unit to calculate existing probabilities and determine the most accurate boundary for material separation, thereby enhancing separation accuracy while reducing the dose.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple pre-prepared separation maps are used for different imaging conditions, then separation accuracy is improved, but device complexity and operation difficulty increase due to the enormous number of required maps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic map formation by calculating separation maps in real-time based on actual imaging conditions rather than using pre-prepared static maps. The map formation unit dynamically adjusts separation parameters according to the specific X-ray conditions and imaging scenario, transforming the system from static to dynamic operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes separation map parameters dynamically based on imaging conditions including X-ray tube voltage, tube current, and imaging mode. By adjusting these parameters in real-time, the system adapts to different imaging scenarios without requiring separate pre-prepared maps for each condition.
2Device complexity
If representative separation maps are used as substitutes for different imaging conditions, then device complexity is reduced, but separation accuracy deteriorates due to inappropriate map selection
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the map formation unit receives information about actual imaging conditions and uses this feedback to calculate appropriate separation maps. The separation accuracy is continuously optimized based on feedback from the imaging process, ensuring accurate material separation for each specific condition.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically forming separation maps based on its own imaging conditions without requiring external selection or substitution of representative maps. The map formation unit autonomously calculates the appropriate separation parameters based on the actual imaging scenario.
3Ease of operation
If conventional X-ray conditions are used without optimization, then operation is simpler, but separation accuracy deteriorates and dose increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically optimizes X-ray conditions through the map formation unit without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by calculating optimal X-ray parameters based on the imaging task, maintaining ease of operation while improving separation accuracy and reducing dose.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes X-ray parameters including tube voltage and tube current based on imaging conditions and material separation requirements. This automatic parameter optimization improves separation accuracy while minimizing the required dose, without complicating the operation for the user.
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 system achieves highly accurate material separation with reduced dose by forming an optimal separation map in response to specific X-ray conditions, improving separation accuracy and minimizing errors.
Implementation Method 1
density of the image represents an X-ray attenuation coefficient (hereinafter, referred to as "attenuation coefficient")
Data Source
AI summary
The dual energy X-ray CT apparatus automatically optimizes a map for separation to achieve a high degree of separation accuracy and a reduction of dose.An X-ray attenuation coefficient acquired in the dual energy X-ray CT system is applied to a map for separation which represents a relationship between the X-ray attenuation coefficient and a composition of an object, thereby separating the composition of the object. The map formation unit for separation calculates an existing probability of each composition for each combination of multiple types of X-ray attenuation coefficients, and determines the composition having the largest existing probability as the composition corresponding to the combination of the X-ray attenuation coefficients, thereby forming the map for separation. This configuration allows a formation of the map for separation with respect to each imaging condition, and high degree of accuracy in separating composition can be achieved.