Curved-Path Radiation Source for Intra-Operative 3D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current intra-operative 3D x-ray imaging systems are cumbersome, lengthen procedure time, and pose safety risks due to exposed moving parts, while requiring navigation systems for real-time imaging.
Innovation Solution
An imaging system with multiple radiation sources moving along curved paths, allowing for fast 3D reconstructions in near real-time without the need for navigation systems, and featuring an open geometry for user access and enclosed gantries to prevent exposure of moving parts during imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If intra-operative 3D x-ray scanners are used, then 3D visualization quality is improved, but procedure time increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic movement of the radiation source along a curved path rather than static positioning, enabling continuous data acquisition from multiple angles. This dynamic approach allows fast 3D reconstruction in near real-time, resolving the contradiction between improved visualization quality and increased procedure time
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous scanning with the radiation source moving along a curved path while continuously acquiring projection data. This continuous action eliminates idle time between measurements, achieving both high-quality 3D visualization and reduced procedure time compared to traditional step-by-step scanning methods
2Measurement precision
If intra-operative 3D x-ray scanners are used, then 3D visualization quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the radiation source movement mechanism from the detector assembly, with the source moving along a curved path while the detector remains stationary or moves independently. This segmentation simplifies the overall device structure by eliminating the need for complex coordinated movement mechanisms found in traditional CT scanners
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a curved path trajectory for the radiation source that exists in a different spatial dimension compared to traditional linear or rotational movements. This dimensional change enables 3D data acquisition with a simplified mechanical structure, reducing device complexity while maintaining visualization quality
3Ease of operation
If open geometry is used, then ease of operation is improved, but safety risks increase due to exposed moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the radiation source from a traditional enclosed gantry structure and positions it on an external curved path. This extraction eliminates the need for large open gantries that expose moving parts, while still providing easy user access to the anatomy. The source moves along a predetermined curved trajectory outside the patient area, removing safety hazards associated with exposed moving components
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
Enables efficient, real-time 3D imaging with improved workflow and safety by reducing procedure time and eliminating exposure risks, while providing precise anatomical visualization.
Implementation Method 1
acquiring radiation absorption images of the object region of interest by moving a plurality of radiation sources through one or more paths
Data Source
AI summary
Imaging systems and methods for rapidly generating reconstruction image data of an object while allowing access to the object during imaging. In some embodiments, the system may comprise at least one radiation source that moves along a path, which path may be defined by an enclosed gantry, and emits radiation toward at least one radiation detector. The radiation source(s) and the radiation detector may be positioned such that at least a portion of an object, such as a portion of a patient's anatomy, can be positioned in between the plurality of radiation sources and the radiation detector to facilitate generation of the reconstruction image data.