Hybrid Multi-Row and Flat Panel Detector Imaging System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging systems for surgical procedures lack the ability to efficiently acquire high-quality images of both soft tissue and bone anatomy using a single device, requiring multiple setups and increasing procedural complexity.
Innovation Solution
An imaging system with a gantry that encompasses a subject, featuring a multi-row detector and a flat panel detector, both movable relative to the gantry, and controlled by an image acquisition module that determines which detector to use based on user input for high or low contrast image acquisition, allowing for precise alignment and data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple imaging devices are used to acquire both soft tissue and bone images, then image quality for both tissue types is improved, but device complexity and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a multi-row detector and a flat panel detector into a single hybrid imaging device. The multi-row detector is optimized for bone imaging with its specific detector element structure, while the flat panel detector is optimized for soft tissue imaging. Both detectors are integrated into the same gantry system, allowing simultaneous or sequential operation to acquire both bone and soft tissue images without requiring multiple separate devices or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid imaging device performs multiple imaging functions through its dual-detector configuration. It can acquire bone images using the multi-row detector, soft tissue images using the flat panel detector, and potentially combined or fused images that leverage both detector types. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate imaging procedures and devices.
2Measurement precision
If multiple imaging devices are used to acquire high-quality images of soft tissue and bone, then image quality is improved, but patient radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging both detector types into a single integrated system, the patent enables simultaneous acquisition of bone and soft tissue images during one imaging procedure. This eliminates the need for multiple separate imaging procedures that would each expose the patient to additional radiation, thereby reducing total radiation exposure while maintaining high image quality for both tissue types.
3Device complexity
If a single detector is used for both soft tissue and bone imaging, then device complexity is reduced, but image quality for specific tissue types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different detector characteristics to different imaging purposes within the same system. The multi-row detector has specific properties (detector element size, row configuration) optimized for bone imaging, while the flat panel detector has properties optimized for soft tissue imaging. Each detector type maintains its specialized characteristics rather than using a single generalized detector design.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system is segmented into two distinct detector components, each optimized for specific imaging needs. The multi-row detector handles bone imaging tasks while the flat panel detector handles soft tissue imaging tasks. This segmentation allows each detector to be independently optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated system.
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
Enables the acquisition of high-quality images of both soft tissue and bone anatomy using a single device, reducing procedural complexity and patient exposure to radiation, while allowing for precise 2D and 3D image reconstruction.
Implementation Method 1
A subject, such as a human patient, may select or be required to undergo a surgical procedure... images of the patient that can be acquired using imaging systems such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system, computed tomography (CT) system, fluoroscopy
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and a method for acquiring image data of a subject with an imaging system are provided. The system can include a gantry that completely annularly encompasses at least a portion of the subject, and a source positioned within the gantry. The source can be responsive to a signal to output at least one pulse. The system can include a multi-row detector positioned within the gantry. The multi-row detector can be in alignment with the source and sets multi-row detector data based on the detected at least one signal. The system can include a flat panel detector positioned within the gantry. The flat panel detector can in alignment with the source and sets flat panel detector data based on the detected at least one signal. The system can include an image acquisition control module that determines which of the multi-row detector and the flat panel detector to use.