Dual-Axis CT Volume of Projection Simulation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Dual-axis computed tomography systems face challenges in accurately estimating the volume of projection, leading to unpredictable imaging of the object of interest, which can result in misdiagnosis or repeated scans, especially when using shutters to limit X-ray dose to sensitive organs.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that determine the volume of projection by simulating different positions of the detector and shutters along a dual-axis trajectory, ensuring the volume of interest is completely imaged by varying shutter positions to match the volume of projection, using an interface unit, projection module, and position determination module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a dual-axis trajectory is used for detector and X-ray tube rotation, then mathematically exact reconstruction in the entire volume of interest is achieved, but the volume of projection becomes increasingly difficult to estimate in advance
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary simulation of the dual-axis trajectory to determine the volume of projection before actual image acquisition. This allows the irregular VOP to be calculated in advance, enabling proper positioning of the volume of interest and avoiding the need for trial-and-error scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a simulated or virtual model of the dual-axis trajectory and calculates the resulting volume of projection from this copy. This virtual simulation allows accurate prediction of the irregular VOP shape without requiring physical trial scans, resolving the contradiction between achieving exact reconstruction and managing trajectory complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If shutters are used to limit X-ray dose to sensitive organs, then radiation exposure is reduced, but the volume of projection may no longer cover the complete volume of interest
Solution Approach 1:
The system simulates shutter positions in advance to determine their impact on the volume of projection before actual imaging. This preliminary calculation allows optimization of shutter positioning to reduce X-ray dose while ensuring complete coverage of the volume of interest, avoiding the need for repeated scans.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the simulated volume of projection information as feedback to adjust shutter positions and trajectory parameters. This feedback loop enables optimization of the balance between radiation dose reduction and complete volume coverage, ensuring reliable imaging while minimizing harmful exposure.
3Ease of operation
If the volume of projection is not accurately estimated in advance, then imaging setup is simplified, but parts of the object of interest may be unintentionally omitted from the image
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a virtual copy or simulation of the imaging trajectory to calculate the volume of projection in advance. This virtual model provides accurate prediction of the irregular VOP shape and extent, ensuring complete coverage of the volume of interest while maintaining ease of operation through pre-planning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calculation of the volume of projection based on the planned dual-axis trajectory before actual imaging. This advance determination ensures that the complete volume of interest will be covered, preventing omission of any parts of the object while keeping the operational process straightforward.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~4
Figure 5a~5c
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for determining a volume of projection of a dual-axis computed tomography system with at least one shutter, the device (1) comprising: an interface unit (2); a projection module (3); and a position determination module (4); wherein the interface unit (2) is configured to receive a volume of interest (44) for a computed tomography image showing an object (22); wherein the projection module (3) is configured to determine a volume of projection (41, 42, 46) of a detector (16) based on different simulated positions of the detector (16) on a trajectory around the object (22) and based on a variable simulated position of at least one shutter (15); and wherein the position determination module (4) is configured to determine the simulated position of the at least one shutter (15) for each determined simulated position of the detector (16) such that the volume of projection (41, 42, 46) corresponds to the volume of interest (44). The present invention avoids that parts of an object of interest are unintentionally not imaged in dual-axis computed tomography imaging whilst reducing x-ray absorption to parts of the object outside the volume of interest (44) and provides improved insight in the volume of projection (41, 42, 46) of a dual-axis trajectory acquisition.