Multi-Source CT Scanner Layout for Faster Dynamic Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CT scanners face challenges in achieving high temporal resolution for imaging dynamic objects like the heart due to high rotational speeds and complexities in design, including the need for large X-ray tubes and detectors, which can lead to saturation and increased power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A CT scanner design with multiple X-ray tubes and detectors distributed peripherally, allowing for partial rotational motions of less than 360 degrees, combined with sequential activation and oscillating rotational patterns, uses lower power tubes and solid-state detectors to reduce saturation and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If rotational speed is increased to improve temporal resolution, then temporal resolution is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection task into multiple segments by using multiple X-ray tubes and detectors arranged peripherally, where each tube-detector pair contributes to imaging different portions of the field of view. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high temporal resolution without requiring all components to rotate at high speeds simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a peripheral arrangement of X-ray tubes and detectors around the field of view, adding a spatial dimension to the traditional single-source rotation approach. This dimensional change enables simultaneous multi-angle imaging, reducing the rotational speed requirement while maintaining temporal resolution.
2Loss of time
If rotational speed is increased to improve temporal resolution, then temporal resolution is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the X-ray generation and detection functions into multiple distributed tube-detector pairs, allowing lower-power tubes to be used instead of requiring a single high-power tube to rotate at high speeds. The cumulative effect of multiple low-power sources achieves the required imaging performance with reduced overall power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic activation patterns where X-ray tubes are switched on and off in sequences, and detectors are activated in periodic cycles. This periodic action allows the system to maintain temporal resolution while reducing average power consumption compared to continuous high-speed rotation with constant high-power emission.
3Measurement precision
If large X-ray tubes are used to reach acceptable signal-to-noise ratio at high speeds, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the signal acquisition function across multiple tube-detector pairs, where each pair uses a smaller, simpler tube. The combined signals from multiple segments achieve the required signal-to-noise ratio without requiring any single tube to be large or complex, thus reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the output signals from multiple X-ray tube-detector pairs to reconstruct the complete image. This combining approach allows the use of simpler, smaller tubes while achieving the signal-to-noise ratio equivalent to what would require a single large tube, thereby reducing device complexity.
4Measurement precision
If photon-counting detectors are used to reduce electronic noise, then measurement precision is improved, but ability to handle high x-ray flux decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the x-ray flux into multiple smaller beams by using multiple distributed X-ray tubes, each producing lower individual flux. This segmentation allows photon-counting detectors to operate within their linear dynamic range while maintaining high contrast-to-noise ratio, preventing saturation and improving measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic activation of X-ray tubes and detectors, where flux is delivered in controlled pulses rather than continuous high flux. This periodic action allows photon-counting detectors to handle the total required flux while maintaining their ability to accurately count individual photons and provide high measurement precision.
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 design achieves shorter temporal resolutions for dynamic imaging without the need for complex components, reduces power consumption, and enables efficient use of photon-counting detectors, facilitating dynamic whole-body imaging and improved calcium scoring.
Implementation Method 1
A CT scanner includes multiple X-Ray tubes (16) and detectors (18) distributed peripherally about an opening (14) where scanning takes place
Implementation Method 2
The solid-state detectors like Cad Tel or CZT measure the X-Ray in a direct conversion (as opposed to scintillators where x-ray creates light which afterwards is translated to electrical signal)
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray computed tomography (CT) scanner includes a plurality of X-Ray sources and detectors mounted about an opening where scanning takes place. The X-Ray sources and detectors are arranged to oscillate back and forth in opposing first and second rotational directions about the opening, or in the same rotational direction about the opening, in order to generate a cross-sectional image of an object located within the opening.