CT Scan Table Calibration Phantom for Simultaneous Scanning Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
CT scanning accuracy is compromised by geometric inconsistencies in the CT platform, leading to a trade-off between productivity and accuracy, as frequent calibration with phantoms delays the system but infrequent calibration results in less accurate scans.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus where a calibration phantom is operably coupled to the CT scan table, allowing for simultaneous calibration information gathering during object scanning without interfering with the imaging process, using annular-shaped, pin-shaped, or spherically-shaped members attached to the table, enabling regular calibration without non-productive scans.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If calibration is performed frequently using calibration phantoms, then scanning accuracy is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to system downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the calibration function and scanning function into a single integrated process. The calibration phantom is attached to the scan table alongside the object of interest, allowing both calibration data collection and object scanning to occur simultaneously during the same scan operation, thereby eliminating the need for separate calibration scans that cause downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The scan table is designed to serve multiple functions: it can hold either a calibration phantom or an object of interest, or both simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows the system to perform calibration and scanning operations without requiring separate dedicated setups, thereby maintaining accuracy while improving productivity.
2Productivity
If calibration is performed infrequently to maintain productivity, then productivity is improved, but scanning accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous calibration by incorporating the calibration phantom into the regular scanning workflow. Since the phantom is attached to the scan table and scanned together with objects of interest, calibration data is collected continuously with every scan operation, ensuring scanning accuracy is maintained without interrupting productivity.
3Measurement precision
If calibration phantoms are placed on the scan table to the exclusion of other objects, then calibration accuracy is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to exclusive usage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the calibration phantom and the object of interest into a single scan setup. Both are attached to the scan table and scanned together in the same operation, allowing calibration data to be collected without excluding the object of interest, thereby maintaining calibration accuracy while eliminating the need for exclusive phantom scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration phantom is attached to the scan table in advance along with the object of interest, before the scanning operation begins. This preliminary setup ensures that calibration data will be collected during the subsequent scan without requiring separate calibration scans, thereby maintaining accuracy while improving productivity.
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 maintains high scanning accuracy by allowing regular calibration without downtime, reducing delays and operating costs, and improving scan-to-scan productivity by integrating calibration into the scanning process.
Implementation Method 1
Computed tomography comprises a known area of endeavor. CT scanning and processing typically provides a three-dimensional image (or images) of the inside of an object as typically derived from a large series of two-dimensional X-ray images
Data Source
AI summary
These various embodiments serve to facilitate improving the accuracy of a computed tomography (CT) process. This can comprise operably coupling at least one calibration phantom to a CT scan table and then, during a CT scan of an object that is disposed on the scan table, also gathering calibration information using that calibration phantom(s). By one approach, this calibration phantom can comprise one or more annular-shaped members. When using a plurality of annular-shaped members, at least some of the annular-shaped members can be disposed concentrically with one another. By one approach, in lieu of the foregoing or in combination therewith, this calibration phantom can comprise one or more pins and/or spherically-shaped members (and/or other shapes of geometric interest). If desired, such spherically-shaped members can be combined with the aforementioned pins.