Multi-Energy X-Ray Imaging Material Decomposition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray imaging technologies, such as CT systems, face challenges in tissue characterization due to tissues being a mixture of different materials with varying densities, limiting material separation to what can be achieved using only two fixed energy spectra, which is insufficient for accurate discrimination between materials.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an X-ray generator waveform with at least three distinct energy levels, allowing for X-ray data acquisition at low-energy, intermediate-energy, and high-energy spectra, and using a method to generate material decomposition images by correcting data acquired at these energy levels, enabling more effective tissue separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If only two fixed energy spectra are used for data acquisition, then the system complexity is limited, but material separation capability is insufficient for accurate tissue characterization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed energy spectra to dynamically switchable energy levels. The X-ray tube operates at multiple energy levels (e.g., 80 kVp, 140 kVp, and intermediate levels) that can be switched during the scanning process, allowing the system to adapt energy selection to the specific imaging requirements and tissue types being examined, thereby improving material separation without permanent system complexity increase
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the X-ray tube operating voltage (energy level) across multiple discrete values. Instead of using only two fixed energy spectra, the system acquires data at three or more energy levels including intermediate levels between standard low and high energy settings. This parameter variation enables better discrimination of materials with similar attenuation properties at traditional energy levels
2Measurement precision
If multiple distinct energy spectra are used for data acquisition, then material separation is improved, but data acquisition complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the energy spectrum acquisition into distinct segments or bins. Data acquired at different energy levels are separated into energy-specific data sets that are processed independently through material decomposition algorithms. This segmentation approach simplifies the overall processing by handling each energy level's data separately rather than attempting to process all multi-energy data simultaneously, reducing computational complexity while maintaining improved tissue characterization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing intermediate energy levels between traditional low and high energy spectra. These intermediate energy levels serve as mediators that provide additional information for material decomposition without requiring direct comparison of only extreme energy values. The intermediate data acts as a bridge that simplifies the decomposition process by providing gradient information between the extreme energy levels
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 approach allows for improved material decomposition and tissue characterization by acquiring and processing X-ray transmission data at multiple energy levels, enhancing the ability to discriminate between materials and improve image quality metrics like contrast-to-noise ratios.
Implementation Method 1
X-ray generator waveform having at least three distinct energy levels... a low-energy region having a substantially constant low operating voltage value... at least one intermediate-energy region having a substantially constant intermediate operating voltage value... and a high-energy region having a substantially constant high operating voltage value
Implementation Method 2
a detector where the intensity data is collected. In digital X-ray systems a photo detector produces signals representative of the amount or intensity of radiation impacting discrete pixel regions of a detector surface
Data Source
AI summary
Acquisition of X-ray transmission data at three or more energy levels is described. Various implementations utilize generator waveforms that utilize fast-switching, slow-switching, or a combination of fast- and slow-switching to transition between X-ray energy levels. In addition, various sampling arrangements for sampling and/or binning three or more energy levels of X-ray transmission data are discussed. The use of these data in subsequent processing steps, such for material decomposition and/or improvement of dual-energy material decomposition processing, are also described.