Dynamic Collimator Plates for X-ray ROI Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multiple frames imaging (MFI) systems, there is a need to control x-ray radiation distribution dynamically to minimize exposure to medical teams while maintaining image quality, as existing collimators are typically static and do not effectively adjust to changing radiation geometries during long exposure periods.
Innovation Solution
A collimator system comprising multiple non-overlapping plates that can move in perpendicular directions, allowing for dynamic adjustment of x-ray radiation distribution by creating fully transparent or opaque areas to focus radiation on specific regions of interest (ROI), with motorized movement and image processing to optimize image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a static collimator is used to block redundant x-ray radiation, then radiation exposure to medical team is reduced, but image quality in non-ROI areas deteriorates due to insufficient radiation intensity
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator system transitions from a static configuration to a dynamic one where multiple plates can be independently moved in perpendicular directions. This allows the collimator to adapt its geometry in real-time during MFI procedures, adjusting the blocked and transparent areas according to the specific imaging requirements of each frame, thereby maintaining both radiation protection and image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The collimator is divided into multiple separate plates instead of a single solid structure. These plates can be independently positioned to create variable transparent and opaque areas. This segmentation enables selective radiation transmission - blocking radiation in areas where medical team exposure needs to be minimized while allowing sufficient radiation to reach the detector in ROI areas for maintaining image quality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If collimator plates are moved dynamically during MFI, then radiation distribution is optimized for different ROIs, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator incorporates movable plates that can be dynamically repositioned during MFI procedures. Each plate can be moved independently in perpendicular directions to adapt the radiation distribution pattern, enabling the system to handle different ROI configurations and imaging scenarios without requiring complete redesign of the collimator structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple movable plates serve multiple functions simultaneously: they can create various patterns of transparent and opaque areas, adapt to different ROI positions and sizes, and adjust radiation distribution for different imaging scenarios. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized collimators for different imaging situations.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If x-ray radiation intensity is reduced in non-ROI areas, then radiation exposure is minimized, but signal-to-noise ratio in the overall image deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator creates spatially varying radiation intensity distribution by using movable plates to define different transparent and opaque areas. Regions corresponding to the ROI receive sufficient radiation intensity to maintain high signal-to-noise ratio, while non-ROI areas receive reduced radiation to minimize exposure to the medical team. This local differentiation of radiation quality resolves the contradiction between exposure reduction and image quality maintenance.
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 solution reduces x-ray radiation exposure to medical teams while ensuring high signal-to-noise ratio in the ROI, allowing for effective imaging with reduced radiation intensity in other areas, thus enhancing both safety and image quality during MFI procedures.
Implementation Method 1
collimators of x-ray absorbing materials such as lead are used to block the redundant radiation
Data Source
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AI summary
A multiple frame imaging system comprising: radiation source; a detector having an input area; a monitor configured to display detected images; means for determining at least one Region of Interest (ROI) of an object on the displayed image; and a collimator comprising means for projecting the at least one region of interest (ROI) on at least one selected fraction of the input area exposed by said x-ray source, the collimator comprising at least three essentially non-overlapping plates mounted in a plane generally parallel to the detector input surface plane, wherein each plate comprises a first edge in contact with an edge of a first neighboring plate and a second edge adjacent to said first edge in contact with an edge of a second neighboring plate; and means for moving each one of the plates.