Multi-Source X-Ray CT Scanning for Faster Dynamic Imaging

The patent divides the scanning system into multiple independent X-ray tube-detector pairs arranged at different angular positions. Each pair can be activated sequentially to acquire projection data at different angles, eliminating the need for a single tube-detector system to rotate at high speeds. This segmentation allows the acquisition of complete tomographic data at lower rotational speeds, thereby improving temporal resolution while reducing mechanical complexity.

The patent employs periodic activation of multiple X-ray tube-detector pairs in a sequential manner. Instead of continuous high-speed rotation, the system activates each tube-detector pair at specific time intervals during a slower rotation cycle. This periodic action allows sufficient data acquisition for image reconstruction while operating at reduced rotational speeds, thus improving temporal resolution without proportionally increasing device complexity.

The patent segments the X-ray source into multiple independent tubes that can be activated selectively. Instead of one high-power tube rotating at high speed, multiple lower-power tubes are activated sequentially at different angular positions. This segmentation allows the system to achieve the same temporal resolution with lower peak power consumption, as each tube operates at reduced power levels and only for brief intervals during the scanning cycle.

The system uses periodic activation of multiple X-ray tubes rather than continuous operation of a single high-power tube. Each tube is activated only during its specific angular position in the rotation cycle, creating a periodic pattern of low-power emissions. This periodic action reduces overall power consumption while maintaining the temporal resolution needed for dynamic imaging, as the total X-ray output is distributed across multiple low-power pulses rather than one high-power continuous source.

The patent segments the X-ray source into multiple tubes with individually controllable output levels. Instead of using one high-power tube that risks detector saturation, the system activates multiple lower-power tubes sequentially. Each tube contributes a portion of the total X-ray flux, and their combined signals from multiple detection events achieve the necessary Signal to Noise ratio without any single detector element being overwhelmed by excessive photon flux, thus preventing saturation.

The system employs periodic activation of multiple X-ray tubes with controlled exposure timing. Each tube is activated for a brief, controlled duration during its angular position, creating periodic pulses of X-ray radiation. This periodic action allows the detectors to integrate signals over multiple pulses, achieving high Signal to Noise ratio through temporal integration while keeping instantaneous flux levels low enough to prevent detector saturation. The staggered activation timing ensures that no single detector element receives excessive radiation at any moment.