Dual-Layer PET/CT Detector Array for Single Gantry Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current PET/CT imaging systems face challenges with patient movement-induced miss-registration of images and increased scan time due to separate gantries, leading to higher manufacturing and service complexity and costs.
Innovation Solution
A dual-layer PET/CT detector array with concentric rings, where one layer detects both gamma and X-ray radiation and the other only gamma radiation, allowing for simultaneous detection and reduced data loss, and a method for generating and displaying PET and CT image data separately and combined.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate PET and CT gantries are used, then PET and CT imaging functions are provided, but patient movement causes miss-registration of combined images and scan time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines PET and CT detector arrays into a single integrated gantry system with a shared support structure and positioning mechanism. The PET detector array and CT detector array are mounted on the same rotating gantry, allowing simultaneous acquisition of PET and CT data from identical patient positions, thereby eliminating misregistration caused by patient movement between separate scanners and reducing total scan time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate PET and CT gantries are used, then PET and CT imaging functions are provided, but manufacturing and service complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal gantry system that performs both PET and CT imaging functions through shared mechanical structures, including a common support structure, positioning mechanism, and control system. The PET detector array and CT detector array are both mounted on the same gantry, allowing the system to acquire PET data, CT data, or both simultaneously using a single integrated platform, thereby reducing manufacturing and service complexity while maintaining full imaging versatility.
3Device complexity
If a single detector detects both gamma and X-ray radiation, then device complexity is reduced, but detection precision for each modality may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detector system into distinct PET detector modules and CT detector modules, each optimized for their respective radiation types. The PET detector array uses detectors configured for gamma ray detection, while the CT detector array uses detectors optimized for X-ray detection. This segmentation allows each detector type to maintain high detection precision for its specific modality while both arrays are integrated on a single gantry system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by configuring different detector regions with properties optimized for their specific detection tasks. PET detectors are positioned and configured to detect 511 keV gamma rays from positron annihilation, while CT detectors are configured to detect lower energy X-rays. Each detector region has tailored characteristics (such as detector material, thickness, and geometry) that are locally optimized for its specific radiation type, ensuring high detection precision for both modalities within the integrated system.
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 configuration improves image alignment, reduces scan time, and simplifies manufacturing and service by using a single gantry system, while maintaining image quality and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a first layer configured to detect gamma radiation and X-ray radiation and generate signals indicative thereof
Implementation Method 2
a second layer configured to detect only gamma radiation and generate a signal indicative thereof
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system (102) includes a detector array (104) with a ring (106) with a first layer (110i) that detects gamma radiation and X-ray radiation and a second layer (110N) that detects only gamma radiation, wherein the first and second layers are concentric closed rings. A method includes detecting gamma radiation with a first layer of a dual layer detector in response to imaging in PET mode, detecting gamma radiation with a second layer of the dual layer detector in response to imaging in PET mode, and generating PET image data with the radiation detected with the first and second layers. The method further includes detecting X-ray radiation with the first layer in response to imaging in CT mode and generating CT image data the radiation detected with the first layer. The method further includes displaying the image data. The imaging system allows a single gantry for both PET/CT imaging.