Mobile Radiography X-Ray Source Assembly Tomosynthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile radiographic systems lack the capability to perform tomosynthesis, which provides improved depiction of fine details obscured by overlying structures, making it difficult to obtain high-quality images in critical care settings where patient movement is impractical.
Innovation Solution
A mobile radiography apparatus equipped with a moveable transport frame, an adjustable support structure, and an x-ray source assembly that includes a central high-power source and distributed lower-power sources arranged in a prescribed spatial relationship, allowing the system to operate in both general radiography and tomosynthesis modes for obtaining projection images and generating three-dimensional reconstructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mobile radiographic system uses a single central x-ray source for general radiography, then the device complexity remains low and ease of operation is maintained, but the ability to perform tomosynthesis and depict fine details obscured by overlying structures is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The x-ray source is divided into multiple distributed sources arranged in a prescribed spatial relationship. Each source contributes to different projection angles, enabling tomosynthesis capability without requiring a single complex rotating source system. This segmentation allows the mobile apparatus to acquire multi-angle projections necessary for tomographic reconstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The distributed x-ray source array is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in a first mode for general radiography using a central high-power source, and in a second mode for tomosynthesis using the distributed lower-power sources. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require separate imaging systems.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If distributed lower-power x-ray sources are used for tomosynthesis, then radiation exposure can be reduced and fine detail depiction is improved, but the power and penetration capability may be insufficient for certain imaging scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs different power levels for different sources based on their functional requirements. The central source is high-power for general radiography where penetration is needed, while the distributed sources are lower-power since they only need to capture projections for tomosynthesis reconstruction. This local differentiation optimizes both radiation safety and imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the central high-power source with the distributed lower-power sources into a single integrated x-ray source assembly. This combination allows the system to leverage the high power when needed for penetration while utilizing the distributed lower-power sources for tomosynthesis, achieving both high penetration capability and reduced radiation exposure in the appropriate imaging mode.
3Measurement precision
If a complete 360-degree rotation system is implemented for CT imaging, then complete volumetric data is obtained with high measurement precision, but the device complexity and duration of action increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of implementing a complete 360-degree rotation system, the patent uses a limited angular range with a small number of discrete projection angles acquired in rapid succession. This partial action approach provides sufficient data for tomosynthesis reconstruction without the time penalty of a full rotation, making the system suitable for mobile and time-sensitive imaging applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system acquires multiple projections in rapid periodic succession at different angular positions using the distributed sources. This periodic acquisition pattern enables complete volumetric data collection through multiple quick exposures rather than a single slow continuous rotation, significantly reducing the duration of action while maintaining measurement precision.
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 capture of detailed three-dimensional images without the need for extensive patient movement, enhancing diagnostic capabilities in intensive care units and emergency departments by providing a portable solution for tomosynthesis imaging.
Implementation Method 1
an x-ray source assembly mounted to the adjustable support structure configured to direct x-ray radiation towards a subject from one or a plurality of different source positions
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile radiography apparatus has a moveable (e.g., wheeled) transport frame and an adjustable column mounted at the frame. A boom apparatus supported by the adjustable column can support an x-ray source assembly. Radiation or X-ray source assembly methods and/or apparatus embodiments can provide mobile radiography carts a capability to direct x-ray radiation towards a subject from one or a plurality of different source positions, where the X-ray source assembly includes a first x-ray power source and a second plurality of distributed x-ray sources disposed in a prescribed spatial relationship.