Integrated Microtomography and Optical Imaging System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional multi-modal imaging systems require transferring objects between different imaging systems, leading to issues like jostling, positioning changes, and interference between imaging modalities, making it difficult to combine disparate systems effectively.
Innovation Solution
A single imaging system that integrates x-ray and optical tomography capabilities at the same location, allowing for orthogonal imaging axes and a rotating stage to maintain the object in place, enabling simultaneous data collection from both modalities without object transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If multiple imaging systems are used to obtain different types of images, then the information content and imaging capability are improved, but the system complexity and difficulty of coordination increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines x-ray microtomography imaging system and optical tomography imaging system into a single integrated multi-modal imaging system. Both imaging modalities are co-located and can image the same object simultaneously or sequentially without requiring object transfer, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining high information content from multiple imaging approaches
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system is designed to perform multiple imaging functions (x-ray microtomography and optical tomography) within a single unified platform. The system can switch between different imaging modalities and can accommodate various imaging objects, providing universal applicability while simplifying the overall imaging workflow
2Adaptability or versatility
If the imaging object is transferred between different imaging systems, then multiple types of images can be obtained, but positioning accuracy and image overlap deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the x-ray microtomography and optical tomography systems into a single co-located platform, the patent eliminates the need to transfer the imaging object between separate systems. This ensures that the object remains in the same position throughout the imaging process, maintaining high positioning accuracy and ensuring excellent image overlap between different modalities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a common imaging chamber and coordinate system as an intermediary that accommodates both imaging modalities. This shared space serves as a mediator that allows both x-ray and optical systems to image the same object from different perspectives without requiring physical transfer, thereby preserving positioning accuracy
3Productivity
If a rotating table is used to rotate the imaging object, then multi-angle imaging is improved, but the risk of object movement and positioning changes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms through the integrated system architecture where the rotating table's position is precisely controlled and monitored. The system can coordinate the rotation angle with the imaging acquisition, ensuring that images are captured at predetermined angular positions. This feedback control maintains positioning stability while enabling efficient multi-angle imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual or mechanical object handling with an automated rotating table system that provides precise, repeatable angular positioning. This mechanical substitution eliminates human-induced positioning errors and ensures consistent, reliable object orientation throughout the imaging process
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 allows for low-cost, compact, and portable multi-modal imaging without the need for object transfer, improving image overlap and accuracy by maintaining consistent object positioning, and facilitating enhanced diffuse optical tomography reconstructions.
Implementation Method 1
a microtomography imaging system including an x-ray source and an array of x-ray sensors
Implementation Method 2
an optical imaging system including an optical source and a camera
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
An integrated microtomography and optical imaging system includes a rotating table that supports an imaging object, an optical stage, and separate optical and microtomography imaging systems. The table rotates the imaging object about a vertical axis running therethrough to a plurality of different rotational positions during a combined microtomography and optical imaging process. The optical stage can be a trans-illumination, epi-illumination or bioluminescent stage. The optical imaging system includes a camera positioned vertically above the imaging object. The microtomography system includes an x-ray source positioned horizontally with respect to the imaging object. Optical and x-ray images are both obtained while the imaging object remains in place on the rotating table. The stage and table are included within an imaging chamber, and all components are included within a portable cabinet. Multiple imaging objects can be imaged simultaneously, and side mirrors can provide side views of the object to the overhead camera.