Helical CT Data Extraction for 2D Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CT scanners, particularly CZA and CSH/HCB types, face challenges in generating high-quality two-dimensional projection images due to time-consuming data acquisition, radiation exposure, and image distortion, especially in time-sensitive applications like security and medical imaging.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for extracting specific segments of data from multiple views of a helically scanned object to generate two-dimensional projection images, using data extraction and reconstruction techniques that minimize distortion and enhance image quality by aligning data with a desired image plane and examination line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If CZA scanner performs multiple scans at different z-positions to obtain multiple projections, then image coverage is improved, but scanning time increases and radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous helical scanning where the object moves continuously through the scanner while radiation is emitted continuously, eliminating the need to stop and reposition the object between scans. This continuous action allows multiple projections to be acquired in a single pass, resolving the contradiction between image coverage and scanning time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces helical motion that combines rotation in the x-y plane with translation along the z-axis, creating a three-dimensional scanning path. This dimensional change allows the scanner to cover multiple z-positions simultaneously during a single scan, improving image coverage without increasing scanning time.
2Area of stationary object
If CZA scanner performs multiple scans at different z-positions to obtain multiple projections, then image coverage is improved, but radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
By implementing continuous helical scanning, the system acquires multiple projections in a single continuous pass rather than requiring multiple discrete scans. This reduces the total time the radiation source is active and eliminates repeated exposure at the same z-positions, thereby reducing overall radiation exposure while maintaining image coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The helical scanning path distributes radiation exposure along a continuous three-dimensional trajectory rather than concentrating it at discrete z-positions. This dimensional approach allows the same volume to be imaged with fewer total radiation emissions, reducing harmful radiation exposure while achieving complete image coverage.
3Speed
If helical scan data is reconstructed using conventional methods, then scanning speed is improved, but image quality deteriorates due to distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different processing treatments to different portions of the helical scan data based on their geometric relationships to the image plane. By selectively processing data segments that lie in planes parallel to the image plane and discarding or differently processing other segments, the system maintains high image quality in critical regions while preserving fast scanning speeds overall.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the helical scan data into distinct segments based on their spatial orientation relative to the image plane. This segmentation allows selective processing of only those data segments that contribute to the desired image quality, while excluding segments that would introduce distortion, thereby resolving the contradiction between scanning speed and image quality.
4Manufacturing precision
If data from multiple views is extracted and processed to generate 2D projection images, then image quality is improved, but computational time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the specific data segments from multiple views that are necessary for generating high-quality 2D projection images. By selectively extracting data from planes parallel to the image plane and excluding irrelevant segments, the system reduces the total computational workload while maintaining image quality, thereby resolving the contradiction between image quality and computational time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies enhanced processing only to the specific data segments that contribute to image quality, rather than uniformly processing all data from multiple views. This localized approach to data processing maintains high image quality in critical regions while minimizing unnecessary computational operations, resolving the contradiction between image quality and computational time.
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 reduces image distortion, enhances resolution, and decreases computational time, producing high-quality two-dimensional projection images with reduced radiation exposure, suitable for time-sensitive applications.
Implementation Method 1
the object is exposed to radiation, and a two-dimensional image and/or three-dimensional image is formed based upon the radiation absorbed by the interior aspects of the object
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques and/or systems for generating a two-dimensional projection image of an object under examination from helical data are provided herein. An image plane and a distance, or height, of an examination line lying in a plane parallel to the image plane may be selected with or without user input. Using the selected image plane and examination line, data may be extracted from one or more views indicative of the object. The data that is extracted from the respective views is generally indicative of rays that traverse the examination line and have a trajectory that meets predetermined criteria. Using the extracted data from a plurality of views, one or more projection lines that are substantially parallel to a corresponding image slice are produced and a two-dimensional projection image is generated.