Multi-Plane X-Ray Imaging Layout for Rotation-Free In Vivo Capture
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging technologies, such as CT scanners and XV technology, are limited by the need for large scanners, high radiation exposure, and the inability to acquire images from different angles without moving parts, restricting access to vulnerable patient groups and requiring patients to remain still during scanning.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device with stationary energy sources and detectors arranged in multiple planes around the subject's body, allowing multiple imaging angles without rotation, and enabling imaging during natural breathing, suitable for dynamic in vivo imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a CT scanner uses a rotating ring or c-shaped arm to acquire images from different angles, then multiple images can be acquired at different angles, but the scanner becomes large and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple stationary detector elements arranged in a circular arc, with each detector independently capturing images from its specific angle. This eliminates the need for a single large rotating structure while maintaining multi-angle imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a temporal sequencing approach (rotating arm taking images one by one) to a spatial parallel approach (multiple detectors simultaneously at different angles). By adding the spatial dimension of multiple stationary detectors, the system achieves multi-angle imaging without mechanical rotation.
2Loss of information
If multiple images are acquired at different angles using traditional CT scanners, then comprehensive imaging data is obtained, but radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
All detector elements operate simultaneously and continuously during a single breath-hold period, capturing multiple angular views in one continuous measurement. This eliminates repeated radiation exposure that would occur if images were acquired sequentially from different angles using traditional methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs all necessary imaging acquisitions in advance during a single breath-hold period, before any potential motion or physiological changes occur. This preliminary simultaneous acquisition ensures complete data collection without requiring repeated exposures.
3Measurement precision
If patients must remain still and breathe controlled during scanning, then image quality is maintained, but accessibility to vulnerable patient groups is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to accommodate dynamic physiological movements rather than requiring static stillness. By using a stationary detector array that can capture images during natural breathing movements, the system adapts to the patient's natural state, making it accessible to children and patients who cannot remain still.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows patients to breathe naturally without requiring controlled breathing or holding their breath. The imaging process serves the patient's natural physiological rhythm, eliminating the need for complex patient cooperation while maintaining adequate image quality through the stationary detector arrangement.
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 device provides compact, low-radiation imaging capable of acquiring multiple images from different perspectives simultaneously, enhancing accessibility and image quality for diverse patient groups, including those with mobility or cognitive impairments.
Implementation Method 1
at least three energy sources, at least three detectors for detecting energy from the at least three energy sources passing through the region of the subject's body
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device for acquiring a time series of in vivo images of a subject's body is provided. The imaging device includes energy sources, detectors for detecting energy from the energy sources passing through the subject's body located between the energy sources and detectors, and a controller configured to operate the energy sources and detectors to acquire a time series of in vivo images of the subject's body. Pairs of energy sources and detectors are spatially positioned around the subject's body in a first plane, and a pair of energy sources and detectors is spatially positioned around the subject's body in a second plane. The first plane and the second plane intersect through the subject's body to be imaged. A method for acquiring a time series of in vivo images of a subject's body using the imaging device is also provided.