Modular Collimator for Multi-Region X-Ray Beam Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluoroscopy techniques face challenges in achieving high image quality while minimizing patient dose, particularly due to limitations in beam quality optimization and motion artifacts from patient movement.
Innovation Solution
A modular, multi-layer collimator apparatus integrated with artificial intelligence and eye tracking systems, utilizing multiple x-ray tubes with adjustable settings and materials to optimize beam quality for different anatomical regions, and redirecting diverging x-rays into parallel beams to reduce magnification errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a single beam quality is used for the entire field of view, then the imaging system is simple to operate, but image quality is compromised for regions requiring different optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The field of view is divided into multiple regions, each with its own beam quality optimization parameters. The collimator apparatus is segmented into multiple independently controllable sections that can adjust beam properties (kVp, mA, filtration) for different anatomical regions simultaneously, allowing tailored optimization for each region without compromising overall system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Different beam quality parameters are applied to different regions of the field of view based on local requirements. The system dynamically adjusts kVp, mA, and filtration settings for specific regions of interest while maintaining appropriate settings for other areas, achieving localized optimization without requiring complete system redesign
2Reliability
If the collimator apparatus moves rapidly to adjust collimation, then motion artifacts from patient movement are reduced, but mechanical complexity and potential for motion-induced artifacts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator apparatus employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms that can rapidly change collimation settings in response to detected patient motion or changing imaging requirements. The system includes motorized collimator leaves with precise positioning systems that can adjust beam geometry in real-time during image acquisition, maintaining image quality consistency despite patient movement
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms including motion detection sensors and real-time image quality monitoring that automatically trigger collimator adjustments when patient movement is detected. This closed-loop control allows the collimator to adapt to changing conditions without requiring manual intervention, reducing motion artifacts while maintaining operational reliability
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple x-ray tubes with different settings are used, then beam quality optimization for different anatomical structures is achieved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a single multi-functional x-ray tube capable of operating with different kVp and mA settings to achieve the effects previously requiring multiple specialized tubes. The tube is paired with a sophisticated collimator and filtration system that can dynamically adjust beam quality parameters, providing the versatility of multiple tubes without the associated complexity and cost
Solution Approach 2:
The system optimizes imaging by dynamically changing x-ray tube parameters (kVp, mA, exposure time) and collimator settings rather than using physically separate tubes for different contrast requirements. This parameter-based approach allows flexible adaptation to different anatomical structures and pathologies while maintaining a simpler, more cost-effective system configuration
4Area of stationary object
If diverging x-ray photons are used to cover a large field of view, then the imaging area is expanded, but magnification errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces a spatial dimension solution by using a large-area detector array that maintains orthogonal alignment with the diverging beam. This allows the system to capture a large field of view while using computational algorithms to correct magnification variations across different regions of the detector, preserving spatial accuracy despite beam divergence
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces mechanical correction methods (such as physical collimators or geometric adjustments) with computational approaches. Software-based magnification correction algorithms process the detected image data to compensate for geometric distortion, allowing large field of view imaging with maintained spatial accuracy without complex mechanical intervention
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 enhances image quality by optimizing beam settings for specific anatomical structures, reduces patient dose, and minimizes motion artifacts, enabling high-resolution imaging with reduced radiation exposure.
Implementation Method 1
a system which redirects diverging x-ray photons into a parallel fashion so that parallel x-rays reach the detector in an orthogonal fashion
Implementation Method 2
Each layer can vary in both thickness and material property
Data Source
AI summary
This invention provides a method to optimize an x-ray beam for more than one structure within the field of view. The preferred embodiment comprises a modular construction of a collimator comprising multiple materials of varying thickness. A first attenuation is performed by the first portion of the collimator to optimize a first anatomic feature and a second attenuation is performed by the second portion of the collimator to optimize a second anatomic feature.