Dynamic Multi-Dimensional Image Reconstruction Using Component Separation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional CT imaging techniques are limited by the assumption of static samples, leading to artefacts and blurring when imaging dynamic samples, and require extensive time to achieve high spatial resolution, making it impractical for capturing the dynamic behavior of samples in fields like geology and materials science.

Innovation Solution

The method involves reconstructing dynamic CT images by separating static and dynamic components using a priori information, allowing for stable reconstruction from a smaller number of projection images and improving temporal resolution by incorporating elements of compressed sensing and discrete tomography, enabling reconstruction of dynamic micro-CT imaging with approximately one order of magnitude better time resolution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional CT reconstruction techniques are used to achieve high spatial resolution, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespatial resolutionVSAvoidacquisition time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the 3D reconstruction problem into multiple 2D slice reconstructions. By processing thinner slices independently, the method reduces the computational burden and acquisition time required for each reconstruction, achieving high spatial resolution without the time penalty of conventional full-volume reconstruction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the 3D reconstruction problem into a series of 2D reconstruction problems by utilizing the geometric relationship between multiple detectors. This dimensionality reduction allows for faster reconstruction while maintaining spatial resolution through the combined information from multiple 2D slices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Loss of time

If the number of projection images is reduced to improve time resolution, then loss of time is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime resolutionVSAvoidreconstruction accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes each projection image serve multiple purposes by utilizing it for reconstructing multiple 2D slices simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows accurate reconstruction from fewer projection images, improving time resolution without sacrificing measurement precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs iterative reconstruction methods where the reconstructed images are fed back into the reconstruction process to refine the results. This feedback mechanism enables accurate reconstruction even when the number of projection images is reduced, maintaining measurement precision while improving time resolution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 approach enables the reconstruction of dynamic micro-CT images with significantly improved time resolution, allowing for more efficient capture of dynamic processes, such as fluid displacement in porous materials, without the need for extensive data acquisition, thereby overcoming the limitations of conventional CT imaging.

Implementation Method 1

acquiring a plurality of projection images of the dynamic sample

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray transmission and detection: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS9129425B2Reconstruction of dynamic multi-dimensional image data
Publication Date: 2015.09.08 FEI CO
  • US9129425B2 patent drawing
  • US9129425B2 patent drawing
  • US9129425B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a method of reconstructing a multi-dimensional data set representing a dynamic sample at a series of reconstruction instants. The multi-dimensional data set comprises a static component and a dynamic component. The method comprises acquiring a plurality of projection images of the dynamic sample; reconstructing a static component of the multi-dimensional data set from the acquired projection images; acquiring a further plurality of projection images of the dynamic sample; and reconstructing a dynamic component of the multi-dimensional data set at each reconstruction instant from the further plurality of acquired projection images using a priori information about the sample. The multi-dimensional data set is the sum of the static component and the dynamic component at each reconstruction instant.