Linear Scanning CT System Using Opposite Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CT systems are expensive and inaccessible to rural areas in developing countries and disaster scenes due to their high cost and complexity, with existing low-cost solutions failing to provide effective ultra-low-cost CT imaging capable of general dose-effective medical applications.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a linear scanning method using an X-ray source and detector that move in opposite directions to acquire tomographic data, combined with image reconstruction techniques such as compressive sensing and interior tomography, allowing for ultra-low-cost CT imaging systems that can be tailored for various settings, including rural areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional CT systems use wide detector arrays, multiple sources, and fast rotation speed to achieve high-quality imaging, then image quality and diagnostic capability are improved, but system cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging process is segmented into multiple linear translation steps rather than requiring a single complex rotational scan. The object is imaged through several sequential linear scans at different positions, which are then computationally reconstructed into a complete tomographic image. This divides the complex rotational scanning task into simpler, more manageable linear scanning segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical rotational gantry system with a linear translation mechanism. Instead of rotating the X-ray source and detector assembly around the patient using a complex gantry, the system uses linear motors to translate the source and detector along a straight line. This mechanical substitution dramatically simplifies the system while achieving the same imaging goal through computational reconstruction.
2Measurement precision
If conventional CT systems are equipped with expensive gantries and advanced components to provide high-performance imaging, then diagnostic capability is improved, but accessibility to rural areas and developing countries deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive linear translation stages and compact X-ray sources instead of expensive, heavy gantry systems. The system uses affordable components that can be manufactured at low cost, making CT imaging accessible to rural areas and developing countries. The simplified mechanical design eliminates the need for costly precision rotational mechanisms while maintaining diagnostic capability through advanced reconstruction algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental scanning parameter from rotational motion to linear translation. This parameter change allows the use of simpler, cheaper components while achieving the same imaging objective through computational methods. The linear scanning approach with subsequent algorithmic reconstruction provides an alternative pathway to diagnostic-quality images without requiring expensive traditional CT hardware.
3Ease of manufacture
If linear scanning CT systems use simple translation mechanisms to reduce cost, then system affordability is improved, but image reconstruction accuracy and completeness may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary linear scans at multiple predetermined positions before final image reconstruction. By acquiring data at several intermediate translation positions, the system gathers sufficient information to reconstruct accurate tomographic images. This preliminary data collection at multiple stages ensures that the simplified linear scanning mechanism produces complete and accurate diagnostic images.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces advanced image reconstruction algorithms as an intermediary between the simple linear scanning data acquisition and the final diagnostic image. These computational intermediaries process the limited-angle linear scan data, fill in missing information, and reconstruct high-quality tomographic images. The algorithmic intermediary bridges the gap between simplified hardware and high-quality imaging output.
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 enables the creation of cost-effective CT imaging systems that provide quality performance, meeting medical imaging needs in developing countries by reducing instrumentation costs and eliminating the need for expensive gantries, while achieving image reconstruction with localized or global scans.
Implementation Method 1
positioning an X-ray source on a first side of a subject to be imaged and facing the subject; positioning a detector on a second side of the subject and facing the subject; linearly translating the X-ray source and the detector while the X-ray source supplies X-rays and the detector acquires tomographic data
Data Source
AI summary
Imaging methods and imaging systems are provided. Methods and systems of the subject invention can include linearly translating a source and a detector. The source and the detector can be moved in opposite or approximately opposite directions. Acquired data can be used to reconstruct a tomographic image by using, for example, a compressive sensing technique.