X-ray CT Tube Current Control via Preliminary Scan
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray CT imaging techniques require operators to manually adjust tube current settings based on object size and voltage, which is time-consuming and complex, especially when considering contrast variations, leading to suboptimal image quality and increased radiation exposure.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray CT apparatus that simplifies the process by allowing operators to input a single image quality level, which automatically calculates and sets the target image noise standard deviation and tube current, considering both object size and contrast, to achieve high diagnostic image quality while minimizing radiation exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the operator manually adjusts tube current settings based on object size and voltage to achieve desired image quality, then the image quality can be optimized, but the operation becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines the tube current by having the object itself provide the necessary information through a preliminary scan. The scan information acquisition unit acquires attenuation information from the object, and the tube current determination unit uses this information to automatically set the tube current, eliminating the need for manual operator adjustment while optimizing image quality
Solution Approach 2:
A preliminary scan is performed before the actual CT imaging to acquire attenuation information about the object. This preliminary action provides the necessary data for determining the appropriate tube current, allowing the system to prepare the optimal imaging parameters in advance without requiring manual intervention during the actual imaging process
2Measurement precision
If the operator manually checks and adjusts contrast variation settings, then the diagnostic accuracy can be improved, but the process becomes extremely time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines the tube current based on attenuation information acquired from the object itself during a preliminary scan. This self-service approach eliminates the need for operators to manually check and adjust contrast variation settings, thereby maintaining diagnostic accuracy while significantly reducing time consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical process of checking and adjusting contrast settings is replaced by an automated computational system. The tube current determination unit uses the acquired attenuation information to automatically calculate and set the optimal tube current, replacing the operator's manual judgment and adjustment process
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple parameters (object size, tube voltage, contrast) are manually input and adjusted, then the imaging conditions can be optimized, but the device complexity and operability are degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the necessary attenuation information directly from the object through a preliminary scan, removing the need for operators to manually input multiple parameters such as object size, tube voltage, and contrast settings. This extraction approach simplifies the interface while maintaining optimized imaging conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The preliminary scan serves multiple functions: it acquires attenuation information for tube current determination, provides contrast information for optimization, and eliminates the need for separate manual parameter inputs. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity while maintaining imaging optimization
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 apparatus ensures high diagnostic image quality with improved operability by automatically adjusting tube current based on object size and contrast, reducing the complexity of manual parameter input and optimizing radiation usage.
Implementation Method 1
An X-ray CT apparatus irradiates an object with X-rays from an X-ray tube and collects X-rays, which are detected by an X-ray detector disposed at a position opposite to the X-ray tube and are transmitted through the object
Data Source
AI summary
In order to provide a technique of obtaining an image having high diagnosability without degrading the operability in an X-ray CT apparatus that suppresses the amount of exposure of an object by controlling the amount of radiation by setting a target image SD and determining the imaging conditions (tube current) satisfying the target image SD, there is provided an X-ray CT apparatus that controls the amount of radiation according to the size of an object in consideration of the contrast by simply inputting one image quality level as a reference of the image quality level that the operator desires. The input image quality level is set as a target image SD when scanning an object having a standard size with a standard tube voltage.