Moving Pulsed X-Ray Source Array for Ultrafast 3D Radiography
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital tomosynthesis systems using a single X-ray source and detector are slow, requiring long acquisition times and difficult real-time reconstruction due to mechanical limitations, leading to discomfort for patients and reduced image quality.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing multiple pulsed X-ray sources mounted on a structure in motion, allowing simultaneous movement around an object with a constant speed, enabling rapid data acquisition and real-time image analysis by maintaining a relative standstill during X-ray exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single X-ray source is used to acquire data projections, then the system structure is simple, but the acquisition time is very long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the X-ray source into multiple independent sources (at least two) that operate simultaneously. Each source acquires data projections independently, segmenting the acquisition task across multiple parallel channels, thereby reducing total acquisition time while maintaining system functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple X-ray sources and their corresponding detectors into a single integrated system. The multiple sources work in parallel to acquire data projections simultaneously, merging their outputs into a comprehensive dataset that achieves faster overall acquisition than any single source could provide
2Measurement precision
If the X-ray source travels a large sweep angle to acquire sufficient data projections, then the 3D resolution is improved, but the acquisition time increases and patient comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The total sweep angle is divided and distributed across multiple X-ray sources. Each source traverses a smaller angular range, but collectively they cover the full angular spectrum needed for high-resolution 3D reconstruction. This segmentation allows parallel data collection that maintains resolution while reducing individual source travel time
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple X-ray sources operate continuously and simultaneously throughout the acquisition process, eliminating idle time between sequential measurements. While one source is acquiring data, others are concurrently collecting projections from different angles, ensuring continuous useful action and reducing total acquisition time
3Measurement precision
If a single X-ray source operates in continuous mode, then the system is simple to operate, but the motion blur increases and image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic pulsing of multiple X-ray sources rather than continuous operation. Each source is activated in a coordinated periodic sequence, creating discrete exposure moments that eliminate motion blur. This periodic action pattern maintains sharp imaging while the coordinated control of multiple sources achieves the necessary temporal resolution
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically coordinates the activation and positioning of multiple X-ray sources based on real-time requirements. Each source can be independently controlled in terms of timing, position, and exposure duration, allowing dynamic optimization of image quality while managing complexity through intelligent control algorithms
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 ultrafast 3D radiography with reduced travel distance for each source, acquiring more data projections in less time, improving image resolution and allowing real-time analysis, and potentially transitioning to 4D imaging.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of pulsed X-ray sources with each X-ray source having an individual motion controller
Implementation Method 2
an array of individual motion controllers... each individual X-ray source can be triggered when it has a speed that equals group speed but with an opposite moving direction
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray imaging system using multiple pulsed X-ray sources in motion to perform high efficient and ultrafast 3D radiography is presented. There are multiple pulsed X-ray sources mounted on a structure in motion to form an array of sources. The multiple X-ray sources move simultaneously relative to an object on a pre-defined arc track at a constant speed as a group. Each individual X-ray source can also move rapidly around its static position in a small distance. When an X-ray source has a speed that is equal to group speed but with opposite moving direction, the X-ray source and X-ray flat panel detector are activated through an external exposure control unit so that source stay momentarily standstill. It results in much reduced source travel distance for each X-ray source. 3D scan can cover much wider sweep angle in much shorter time and image analysis can also be done in real-time.