Modular X-ray CT Data Detection System for Heat Dissipation

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing X-ray CT systems face challenges in simplifying the structure of the data detection system and managing heat radiation due to the increasing number of X-ray detection elements, which complicates the integration of X-ray detectors and data acquisition systems.

Innovation Solution

The proposed solution involves a modularized data detection system where X-ray detection elements and data acquisition circuits are arranged in a 2D array configuration, allowing for easy adjustment and connection of rows, and incorporating a connection structure that improves rigidity and air-cooling, enabling efficient heat dissipation and flexible configuration of the X-ray detector.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If the number of rows of X-ray detection elements is increased, then imaging coverage and detection capability are improved, but heat radiation from DAS circuits increases and structure complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of rows of X-ray detection elementsVSAvoidheat radiation from DAS circuits

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The data detection system is divided into multiple independent data acquisition circuits, each handling a subset of detection elements. This segmentation allows heat to be distributed across multiple smaller circuit modules rather than concentrated in one large circuit, reducing local heat radiation while maintaining the ability to process data from a large number of detection elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a planar 2D arrangement to a 3D stacked configuration where detection elements and DAS circuits are arranged in multiple layers along the vertical dimension. This dimensional change allows heat dissipation pathways to extend in the vertical direction, improving thermal management while increasing the number of detection rows.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Quantity of substance

If the number of rows of X-ray detection elements is increased, then imaging coverage is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of rows of X-ray detection elementsVSAvoidstructure complexity of data detection system

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The data detection system is divided into multiple independent data acquisition circuits, each handling a subset of detection elements. This segmentation allows heat to be distributed across multiple smaller circuit modules rather than concentrated in one large circuit, reducing local heat radiation while maintaining the ability to process data from a large number of detection elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent designs modular data acquisition circuits that can be universally applied across different configurations. Each circuit module is designed to handle a standard set of detection elements, allowing the same modular unit to be replicated and stacked to achieve different total row counts, thereby reducing overall system complexity through standardization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If X-ray detector and DAS are integrated in rotating part, then data acquisition is streamlined, but adjustment and maintenance difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata acquisition efficiencyVSAvoidadjustment and maintenance difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The data detection system is divided into multiple independent data acquisition circuits, each handling a subset of detection elements. This segmentation allows heat to be distributed across multiple smaller circuit modules rather than concentrated in one large circuit, reducing local heat radiation while maintaining the ability to process data from a large number of detection elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates adjustable mechanisms that allow the detection system to adapt its configuration dynamically. The modular design enables circuits to be repositioned or reconfigured based on operational requirements, facilitating easier maintenance and adjustment while maintaining integration benefits during normal operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 configuration simplifies the structure of the X-ray CT apparatus, allows for easy adjustment of the number of X-ray detection elements, improves spatial resolution, and enhances cooling efficiency, reducing costs and complexity while maintaining high imaging performance.

Implementation Method 1

incorporating a connection structure that improves rigidity and air-cooling, enabling efficient heat dissipation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAir-cooling: Convection

Data Source

PatentUS9810793B2X-ray CT apparatus and data detection system for X-ray CT apparatus

Publication Date: 2017.11.07 TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYST CORP

AI summary

According to one embodiment, a data detection system for an X-ray CT apparatus includes a data acquisition circuit and a connection structure. The data acquisition circuit includes at least one row of X-ray detection elements arrayed in a channel direction. The data acquisition circuit is configured to acquire data required for generating X-ray CT image data corresponding to the at least one row of the X-ray detection elements. The connection structure is configured to connect the data acquisition circuit with another data acquisition circuit directly or indirectly in a row direction.