Fast kV Switching CT System for Dual-Energy Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CT imaging systems face challenges in obtaining clear scout scans, leading to potential mis-registration artifacts and increased patient dose due to slow kV switching speeds and the need for additional scans, which complicates the identification and diagnosis of pathologies.
Innovation Solution
A CT system and method utilizing fast kV switching with a controller that energizes the x-ray source to distinct voltages while the gantry remains stationary, allowing for simultaneous acquisition of dual-energy imaging data with reduced artifacts and improved image resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sequential scanning at different kVp levels is performed, then dual-energy imaging data is obtained, but mis-registration artifacts occur and patient dose increases
Solution Approach 1:
The x-ray tube voltage is switched periodically between high and low kVp levels during a single continuous scan, with the switching synchronized to the rotation angle. This periodic voltage switching enables acquisition of both high-energy and low-energy projection data at identical anatomical positions, eliminating mis-registration artifacts while maintaining dual-energy imaging capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging process continues without interruption through a single continuous scan, with the x-ray tube voltage alternating between high and low kVp levels. The gantry rotates continuously while the voltage switches, ensuring that all projection data is acquired along the same patient trajectory, thereby preventing registration errors and reducing the need for additional scans
2Measurement precision
If multiple separate scans are performed for dual-energy imaging, then comprehensive imaging data is obtained, but scan time increases and patient dose increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines high-energy and low-energy scan data acquisition into a single continuous scan by rapidly switching the x-ray tube voltage between different kVp levels. This merging of multiple scan functions into one procedure reduces total scan time and eliminates the need for separate scans, while still acquiring comprehensive dual-energy imaging data
Solution Approach 2:
The x-ray tube voltage is switched periodically between high and low kVp levels during continuous gantry rotation, enabling simultaneous acquisition of both energy spectrum data in a single scan pass. This periodic switching maintains complete imaging data coverage while halving the scan time compared to sequential scanning methods
3Ease of operation
If conventional scout scan is performed, then patient positioning is achieved, but image clarity is insufficient for pathology identification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dual-energy imaging technology specifically to scout scan acquisition, enabling differentiated visualization of tissues with different energy attenuation characteristics. This local application of advanced imaging to the positioning scan provides enhanced image clarity and pathology detection capability without compromising patient positioning functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The scout scan system is enhanced to perform multiple functions simultaneously: patient positioning, enhanced pathology identification, and generation of registration-accurate dual-energy images. By making the scout scan multi-functional through fast kV switching, the system eliminates the need for separate diagnostic scans while improving operational efficiency
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 enhances image clarity, reduces patient dose, and allows for more efficient identification of pathologies by generating accurate dual-energy images with reduced mis-registration artifacts, enabling better diagnostic capabilities without the need for additional scans.
Implementation Method 1
The intensity of the attenuated beam radiation received at the detector array is typically dependent upon the attenuation of the x-ray beam by the subject
Implementation Method 2
a scintillator for converting x-rays to light energy adjacent the collimator
Implementation Method 3
photodiodes for receiving the light energy from the adjacent scintillator and producing electrical signals therefrom
Implementation Method 4
a generator configured to energize the x-ray source to a first voltage and configured to energize the x-ray source to a second voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A CT system includes a gantry, an x-ray source configured to project x-rays toward an object, an x-ray detector positioned to receive x-rays from the x-ray source that pass through the object, a generator configured to energize the x-ray source to a first voltage and to a second voltage that is distinct from the first voltage, and a controller configured to cause the gantry to position the source and generator at a circumferential position during an imaging session, pass the object through the opening during the imaging session, cause the generator to energize the x-ray source to the first voltage and to the second voltage, acquire imaging data while the generator energizes the x-ray source to the first voltage and to the second voltage while the rotatable gantry is at the circumferential position, and generate an image using the imaging data.