Mixed-mode X-ray detector for CBCT and panoramic imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray systems face challenges in achieving high frame rates and fast imaging processes in Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) mode while maintaining low X-ray dosage, which is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning without significantly increasing patient exposure.
Innovation Solution
The X-ray detector operates in a mixed read-out mode, where it sequentially reads out both the target segment and additional segments, optimizing addressing and read-out circuitry speed to combine panoramic image data with CBCT data, allowing for faster image acquisition without increasing X-ray dosage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If CBCT mode is used to obtain 3D models with superior image information, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases and use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the X-ray sensor into multiple segments (first segment and second segment) that can be read out independently and simultaneously. This segmentation allows the system to capture data from all segments in parallel, achieving CBCT-quality 3D modeling data without the slow sequential readout that limits traditional CBCT frame rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the X-ray sensor to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it can generate both panoramic images (using the first segment) and CBCT 3D models (using all segments) in the same exposure cycle. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain high productivity while delivering superior measurement precision for both imaging modes.
2Measurement precision
If CBCT mode is used to obtain 3D models, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous simultaneous readout of multiple sensor segments during the X-ray exposure, eliminating the sequential readout interruptions that cause time loss in traditional CBCT. All segments are read out in parallel throughout the scanning process, maintaining continuous useful action and reducing total scan time while preserving 3D modeling precision.
3Measurement precision
If all segments are read out in CBCT mode, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sensor and enables selective simultaneous readout, allowing the system to acquire CBCT 3D model data from all segments without requiring increased X-ray dosage. The segmentation architecture permits efficient data collection from multiple segments in parallel, reducing the need for repeated exposures that would increase energy consumption and patient dosage.
4Productivity
If panoramic mode is used with collimator blades in first position, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the system to deliver both high-speed panoramic imaging and high-precision CBCT 3D modeling simultaneously by utilizing multiple sensor segments. The first segment provides rapid panoramic data for high frame rates, while other segments capture additional projection data needed for accurate 3D reconstruction, making the system universally capable of both imaging modes with their respective precision requirements.
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 generation of both panoramic images and CBCT 3D models with reduced X-ray exposure, providing high-quality imaging data for diagnosis and treatment planning while maintaining high frame rates.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray sensor (21) that comprises a plurality of segments, said plurality of segments comprising a target segment and a plurality of additional segments
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is related to an X-ray detector and to an X-ray detector system comprising the X-ray detector. It is further related to an X-ray system and to a method for obtaining an X-ray image.According to the invention, the X-ray detector is configured to be operable in a mixed read-out mode in which an output of the X-ray sensor comprises sequentially obtained first blocks, each first block comprising a plurality of sequentially obtained different second blocks, wherein each second block comprises a read-out of the target segment, and wherein more than one of the second blocks comprises a different part of the additional segments such that each first block comprises a read-out for each of the plurality of segments.