Movable X-Ray Detector Array for Super-Resolution CT Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional medical imaging devices, such as x-ray computed tomography (CT) systems, are limited in the types of imaging operations they can perform, particularly in terms of spatial resolution and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), which restricts their ability to produce high-quality images with improved detail and clarity.
Innovation Solution
The development of an x-ray imaging system with a detector system that includes a two-dimensional array of pixels, a drive mechanism for moving the detector relative to the x-ray source, and a processing device configured to generate super-resolution images by combining multiple images taken with sub-pixel movement, resulting in improved spatial resolution and SNR. Additionally, the system employs a sinusoidal or reverse helical scan trajectory to enhance image quality and increase the field-of-view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional x-ray CT imaging devices are used, then the imaging operations are limited, but the spatial resolution and signal-to-noise ratio are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The detector array is made movable relative to the x-ray source through a drive mechanism, enabling dynamic adjustment of the detector position. This allows the system to perform multiple imaging operations including acquiring first images with the detector in a first position and second images with the detector in a second position, thereby improving both spatial resolution and imaging versatility without requiring multiple fixed imaging devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an additional degree of freedom by moving the detector array along the x-ray beam direction (adding a translational dimension to the traditional rotational scanning). This dimensional enhancement enables super-resolution imaging by capturing images at sub-pixel displacements and combining them to achieve resolution beyond the detector's native pixel pitch
2Measurement precision
If the detector array is moved relative to the x-ray source to improve spatial resolution, then the imaging time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The drive mechanism moves the detector array by distances smaller than the pixel pitch (sub-pixel movements) rather than full pixel distances. This partial action approach enables super-resolution imaging by capturing slightly offset images that, when combined, reveal details between the original pixel boundaries, achieving enhanced spatial resolution without requiring excessive movement time
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges multiple images acquired at different detector positions (first images and second images from different positions) through image processing to generate a composite image with improved spatial resolution. This combining approach allows the system to achieve super-resolution without requiring each individual image to be perfectly sharp, reducing the total imaging time compared to attempting to capture a single perfect image
3Measurement precision
If multiple images are combined to generate super-resolution images, then the processing complexity increases, but the signal-to-noise ratio improves
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the processor uses information from multiple acquired images to iteratively refine and generate the super-resolution image. By analyzing the relationships between images taken at different detector positions and applying image processing algorithms, the system feedback-enhances the signal-to-noise ratio while managing processing complexity through systematic computational approaches
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
The system achieves improved spatial resolution and SNR, enabling the production of high-quality images with enhanced detail and clarity, while maintaining or reducing the x-ray radiation dose, and allows for more comprehensive imaging of complex structures like tumors extending along the patient's spine.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of sub-assemblies defining a detector surface, where each sub-assembly of the plurality of sub-assemblies includes a thermally-conductive support mounted to the detector chassis, a detector module including an array of x-ray sensitive detector elements mounted to a first surface of the support
Implementation Method 2
each sub-assembly of the plurality of sub-assemblies includes a thermally-conductive support mounted to the detector chassis, a detector module including an array of x-ray sensitive detector elements mounted to a first surface of the support
Data Source
AI summary
A detector system for an x-ray imaging device includes a detector chassis, a plurality of sub-assemblies mounted to the detector chassis and within an interior housing of the chassis, the sub-assemblies defining a detector surface, where each sub-assembly includes a thermally-conductive support mounted to the detector chassis, a detector module having an array of x-ray sensitive detector elements mounted to a first surface of the support, an electronics board mounted to a second surface of the support opposite the first surface, at least one electrical connector that connects the detector module to the electronics board, where the electronics board provides power to the detector module and receives digital x-ray image data from the detector module via the at least one electrical connector. Further embodiments include x-ray imaging systems, external beam radiation treatment systems having an integrated x-ray imaging system, and methods therefor.