Distributed X-ray Emitter Array for 3D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing x-ray imaging systems face challenges such as the inability to provide 3D information without mechanical motion, large and heavy equipment, high capital costs, and limited ability to control radiation exposure selectively.
Innovation Solution
A distributed planar source of x-rays with a fixed array of emitters and detectors, allowing for 3D imaging without component movement, reduced dose requirements, and selective control of radiation exposure through individually addressable emitters and collimation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a conventional x-ray tube is used, then x-ray generation is achieved, but the system becomes heavy and requires large mechanical components for positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the conventional single x-ray tube into multiple distributed micro-emitters arranged in an array. Each micro-emitter is a lightweight component that can be individually controlled, replacing the heavy single-point source with a distributed lightweight array system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical positioning systems (gantries, large mechanical arms) with electronically controlled emitter arrays. The x-ray source distribution is achieved through electronic activation of specific emitters rather than physical movement of heavy components.
2Loss of information
If mechanical motion gantries are used to obtain 3D information, then 3D imaging capability is achieved, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a segmented array of micro-emitters that can be independently activated. By selectively turning on different emitters in the array, 3D information is acquired through electronic switching rather than mechanical movement, simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic emitter array where individual emitters can be activated or deactivated electronically. This dynamic control allows the system to achieve 3D imaging capabilities through temporal switching of emitters rather than spatial movement of mechanical components.
3Power
If conventional x-ray tubes are used, then x-ray production is achieved, but the power supply becomes large and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power requirement into multiple low-power micro-emitters. Each micro-emitter requires minimal power compared to a conventional tube, allowing the use of smaller, lighter power supply units that can be distributed or integrated closer to the emitter array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable or replaceable micro-emitter tips that consume minimal power and can be replaced rather than maintaining expensive, large conventional x-ray tubes with complex power supplies.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional x-ray sources are used, then x-ray emission is achieved, but selective control of radiation exposure is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the x-ray source into individually addressable micro-emitters in an array. This segmentation enables selective activation of specific emitters to target different regions of interest, providing precise spatial control of radiation exposure while reducing unnecessary exposure to surrounding areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality control by allowing different emitters to be activated based on the specific imaging region required. Each emitter can be controlled independently to provide localized radiation exposure matching the diagnostic needs of specific anatomical regions.
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 3D imaging with reduced radiation dose and improved mobility and usability of the imaging system, addressing the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
When these electrons strike a target (typically the anode), x-rays are produced through Bremsstrahlung ('Braking Radiation').
Implementation Method 2
Each emitter has associated collimators that restrict the x-ray beams to cones covering only a portion of the object to be imaged
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The disclosed system includes an emitter array for generating x-rays, a detector array for sensing a flux of x-rays transmitted through a region of interest; apparatus for holding, moving and aligning the emitter array relative to the region of interest and the detector array; electronic means for controlling the emitters and for reading and analyzing the output from the detectors and converting it to image data, and a display for displaying and manipulating the image data. The individual emitters are operated in multiple groups each illuminating a region of interest between the emitter array and the detector array such that the cone of radiation rays projected on the detector array from any single emitter in any one such group is substantially spatially separated from the corresponding projected cones from all other emitters in that same group.