Multi-Source X-Ray Imaging Without Mechanical Movement

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Solution Overview

Problem

In 3D X-ray imaging, mechanical movements during data acquisition lead to artifacts and prolonged recording times, limiting the quality and speed of 3D image reconstruction.

Innovation Solution

A method using multiple X-ray sources spaced at an angle α relative to the isocenter, allowing for non-sequential activation and recording of projection images from diverse directions, reducing motion artifacts and enabling rapid reconstruction of 3D images without mechanical movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If mechanical movement is used to change recording directions, then all possible recording directions can be traversed, but motion artifacts increase and recording time extends

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage qualityVSAvoidmotion artifacts

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the recording function into multiple independent X-ray sources positioned at different angular positions around the isocenter. Instead of moving a single source mechanically, the system segments the recording task across multiple stationary sources, each capable of independent activation to provide projections from different directions without mechanical movement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces the mechanical rotation system with an electronic switching system. Multiple X-ray sources are positioned statically around the isocenter, and the system electronically selects which source to activate based on the required recording direction. This substitution eliminates mechanical movement entirely, removing the source of motion artifacts while maintaining the ability to acquire projections from multiple directions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Quantity of substance

If mechanical movement is used to traverse recording trajectory, then complete projection dataset can be acquired, but recording time is prolonged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprojection dataVSAvoidrecording time

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-positions multiple X-ray sources at different angular positions around the isocenter before recording begins. This preliminary arrangement of multiple sources eliminates the need for time-consuming mechanical movement during the recording process, allowing immediate acquisition of projections from various directions as needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system maintains continuous recording capability by having multiple X-ray sources ready for immediate activation. Instead of sequential mechanical movement that creates idle time, the electronic switching between pre-positioned sources allows continuous acquisition of projection data from different directions without interruption or time loss.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Measurement precision

If sequential recording from all directions is performed, then complete 3D reconstruction is possible, but preliminary reconstruction must wait until recording is complete

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereconstruction qualityVSAvoidreconstruction availability

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables partial reconstruction by acquiring projections from a subset of the available X-ray sources. Instead of requiring all sources to be activated, the system can perform reconstruction using data from fewer sources, providing a preliminary 3D image that can be refined as additional projections are acquired from remaining sources.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides dynamic reconstruction capability where the reconstruction process can be initiated at any point during data acquisition. As projections are acquired from different X-ray sources, the system can dynamically update the 3D reconstruction, allowing preliminary images to be generated and refined progressively rather than waiting for complete data acquisition.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 minimizes motion artifacts and allows for preliminary 3D image reconstruction before completing all projection images, providing a quick and high-quality overview of the object, with the ability to enhance the image further as more data is acquired.

Implementation Method 1

recording a plurality of projection images from different recording directions in succession while activating the corresponding X-ray sources

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectX-ray emission: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS8559591B2Method and device for recording a projection dataset of an object using a plurality of X-ray sources

Publication Date: 2013.10.15 SIEMENS HEALTHINEERS AG

AI summary

A method for recording a projection dataset of a object to be recorded using a plurality of X-ray sources is provided, which X-ray sources are spaced apart from one another on average by an angle α relative to an isocenter. A plurality of projection images from different recording directions are recorded in succession while activating the corresponding X-ray sources. Two X-ray sources are activated in succession having a spacing of at least 2 α relative to the isocenter.