Modular PET Detector Kit with Adjustable Gantry Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current PET scanners are limited in their ability to image small features and have fixed configurations that restrict their applications, making them suboptimal for various clinical and research needs, as they cannot accommodate all potential imaging subjects and settings.
Innovation Solution
A modular PET system comprising adjustable and removable detector modules with a communication component, allowing for flexible assembly and configuration to suit different subjects and imaging requirements, including the use of a gantry with connective elements for positioning and data communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed configuration PET scanner is used, then the structural stability is maintained, but the adaptability to different imaging subjects and settings is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The PET scanner is divided into multiple independent detector modules that can be individually positioned and configured. Each module contains its own electronics and can be independently adjusted, allowing the system to be reconfigured for different imaging subjects ranging from small animals to human body parts without requiring a completely different scanner design.
Solution Approach 2:
The detector modules are mounted on adjustable positions with movable and removable characteristics, enabling dynamic reconfiguration of the scanner geometry. This allows the system to adapt its configuration based on the imaging requirements of different subjects and clinical settings, transforming a static system into a dynamically adjustable one.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a modular detector system is implemented, then the adaptability to various configurations is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detector modules are designed with universal interfaces and standardized mounting mechanisms that can be used across different configurations. The same basic module design serves multiple functions depending on its position and orientation in the scanner, reducing the number of unique components needed and simplifying the overall modular assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional components are integrated into single detector modules, combining scintillation crystals, photodetectors, and electronics into unified assemblies. This consolidation reduces the number of separate parts that need to be managed and assembled, thereby reducing the perceived complexity despite the modular architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-position detectors are used, then the manufacturing precision is easier to achieve, but the ability to accommodate different imaging subjects is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The detector modules incorporate self-alignment features and automated positioning mechanisms that reduce the need for high-precision manual assembly. The modules are designed to automatically find their correct positions and orientations during installation, thereby maintaining manufacturing feasibility while enabling flexible subject accommodation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for adjustable positioning parameters of the detector modules, enabling fine-tuning of the scanner geometry after assembly. This post-manufacturing adjustability compensates for minor variations in manufacturing precision while maintaining the required imaging performance across different subject configurations.
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 high-resolution imaging of small subjects and adaptability to various configurations, expanding the range of applications from small animals to humans and specific body parts, and allowing operation in diverse settings such as operating rooms and outdoors.
Implementation Method 1
When the two photons reach crystals of the two PET detectors, the crystals can absorb the energy of the photons and emit the energy as light
Implementation Method 2
One or more light detectors attached to a crystal can determine the position and time of arrival of the photon (i.e., an event) based on light emitted by the crystal
Implementation Method 3
The communication component may be configured to communicate data from the at least one light detector to an event processing device
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for a positron emission tomography (PET) kit are described. A PET detector kit may include a gantry, a plurality of PET detector modules, and an event processing device. A PET detector module may include a housing, a crystal, a light detector, and a communication component. The housing may include at least one connective element configured to removably and adjustably couple the PET detector module to the gantry. The crystal may be located within the housing. The light detector may be configured to detect light emitted by the crystal. The communication component may be configured to communicate data from the at least one light detector to an event processing device. The event processing device may receive data from the plurality of PET detector modules and may cause the one or more processors to determine coincidence events based on the received data.