Modular PET Gantry Detector Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current PET scanners lack modularity, requiring the replacement of entire detector groups when a single unit fails, leading to waste and increased labor costs, and limiting the ability to upgrade or maintain the system effectively.
Innovation Solution
A modular PET gantry system with detector modules that allow individual PET detector units to be easily installed, removed, and replaced, featuring a mounting sleeve and frame design that enables precise positioning and alignment of detector units, enabling flexible configuration and upgrade options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If detectors are permanently bonded in groups and mounted in ring formation, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The detector system is segmented into individual detector units that can be independently removed and replaced. Each detector unit is a separate module that can be accessed and replaced without affecting other detectors in the ring, enabling selective repair of only the failed component rather than replacing entire detector groups.
2Reliability
If entire detector groups are replaced when a single unit fails, then reliability is improved, but loss of substance worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The failed detector unit is extracted and removed from the system independently, while the remaining functional detector units are retained and continue to operate. This selective removal allows the system to maintain reliability by replacing only the necessary component rather than discarding functional detectors.
3Reliability
If entire detector groups are replaced when a single unit fails, then reliability is improved, but loss of time worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The detector system is divided into independently replaceable units, allowing maintenance personnel to access and replace only the specific failed detector unit without disassembling or handling other detectors. This segmented approach significantly reduces the time required for replacement compared to replacing entire detector groups.
4Manufacturing precision
If detectors are permanently bonded in groups, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The detector system transitions from a static, permanently bonded configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable arrangement where individual detector units can be added, removed, or repositioned. This enables the system to adapt to different operational requirements, upgrade paths, and maintenance needs while maintaining precise positioning through standardized mounting interfaces.
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 modular design allows for precise and accurate detector placement, reduces material and labor costs associated with replacement, and enables scalable field of view upgrades without replacing the entire system, enhancing the cost-effectiveness and maintainability of PET scanners.
Implementation Method 1
a scintillator block (104). A light guide (106) is to guide scintillations from the scintillator block (104) to the detection tube (102)
Implementation Method 2
a detection tube (102). A light guide (106) is to guide scintillations from the scintillator block (104) to the detection tube (102)
Data Source
AI summary
A modular PET gantry is provided herein. A detector module is described, and the detector module includes a plurality of PET detector units. Each detector unit may be bonded to a mounting sleeve. The detector module also includes a mounting frame, wherein each detector unit and mounting sleeve is attached to the mounting frame.