Focally Aligned CT Pixel Array for Artifact-Free High-Energy Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing CT scanning technologies face issues with image artifacts and reduced spatial resolution due to misalignment of x-ray pixels, particularly in high-energy applications like engine aircraft part scanning.
Innovation Solution
The use of focally aligned pixel arrays, where each pixel's centerline is aligned with the focal spot of the x-ray source, enabling thinner pixels and improved alignment, reducing image artifacts and enhancing spatial resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional pixel arrays are used in high-energy CT scanners, then deeper pixel depth is required for high-energy detection, but misalignment of pixels with the focal spot occurs causing image artifacts and reduced spatial resolution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by arranging pixels in an arc shape that is curved to match the focal trajectory of the x-ray source. This curved arrangement ensures that each pixel remains focally aligned with the moving focal spot throughout the rotation, eliminating misalignment artifacts while maintaining deep pixel depth for high-energy detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by making each individual pixel focally aligned with the focal spot through its specific position on the curved array. Each pixel is independently positioned and oriented to receive x-rays along its central axis from the focal spot, ensuring optimal alignment locally across the entire detector array.
2Reliability
If pixel depth is increased for high-energy detection, then detection sensitivity improves, but alignment with the focal spot becomes more difficult causing increased artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The curved arc arrangement of pixels naturally accommodates deep pixel depth while maintaining focal alignment. The curvature of the pixel array matches the rotational path of the focal spot, allowing thick pixels to remain properly aligned throughout the scanning rotation without requiring extreme manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic alignment where the curved pixel array is designed to rotate synchronously with the x-ray source focal spot. This dynamic configuration maintains focal alignment throughout the rotation, allowing deep pixels to maintain proper geometry without static alignment constraints.
3Ease of manufacture
If rectangular pixels are used in conventional arrays, then manufacturing is simpler, but spatial resolution is reduced due to larger geometric pitch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses trapezoidal pixels arranged in a curved arc rather than rectangular pixels in a flat array. This curved trapezoidal geometry allows for smaller geometric pitch between pixels while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized cutting and assembly processes, thereby improving spatial resolution without significantly complicating fabrication.
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 results in improved image quality by minimizing artifacts and increasing spatial resolution, especially in high-energy CT scanners, allowing for deeper pixel depth and enhanced detection sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
Computerized tomography (CT) scanning technology uses x-rays, which are directed towards an object by an x-ray source. The x-rays pass through the object and are received by a detector.
Implementation Method 2
each of the pixels receiving the energy from the energy source that has passed through the object
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprises an energy source and detector. The energy source is configured to emit energy from a focal spot. The detector comprises an array of pixels. Each of the pixels of the array of pixels has a centerline extending longitudinally through the pixel. The centerline of each pixel is focally aligned with the focal spot of the energy source. Each of the pixels receives selected amounts of the energy from the energy source that have passed through an object.