Multi X-ray Source Scanning for High-Resolution Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional multi X-ray sources with multiple focuses face challenges in achieving high-resolution two-dimensional transmission X-ray images due to discrete X-ray transmission data caused by the spacing between X-ray sources.

Innovation Solution

A multi X-ray imaging apparatus and control method that involves a multi X-ray source with multiple focuses, a detector, and moving means to shift the source relative to the detection surface during multiple irradiations, allowing for the acquisition and generation of high-resolution X-ray projection images by scanning the source within a plane.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If a multi X-ray source with multiple focuses is used, then X-ray power efficiency is improved, but image resolution deteriorates due to discrete transmission data

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveX-ray power efficiencyVSAvoidimage resolution
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the multi X-ray source movable by introducing moving means that can shift the source within a plane facing the detection surface. This dynamic capability allows the system to acquire multiple X-ray detection signals from different positions, transforming discrete transmission data into continuous coverage that maintains high image resolution while preserving the energy efficiency benefits of the multi-focus source configuration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a spatial dimension to the imaging process by moving the multi X-ray source within a plane facing the detection surface. This movement across multiple positions creates a two-dimensional scanning pattern that fills in the gaps between discrete focuses, enabling high-resolution image reconstruction without sacrificing the power efficiency advantages of the multi-focus architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Device complexity

If the interval between focuses is several mm, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to discrete transmission data

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesource configuration complexityVSAvoidtransmission data continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves the contradiction by making the source movable, allowing it to dynamically access multiple positions within a plane. This movement compensates for the relatively large interval between focuses by acquiring data from intermediate positions, thereby maintaining measurement precision without requiring a more complex densely-packed focus arrangement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Measurement precision

If multiple X-ray irradiations are performed while shifting the source, then image resolution is improved, but productivity decreases due to multiple irradiation steps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage resolutionVSAvoidimaging speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous scanning motion of the multi X-ray source across multiple positions within a plane. This continuous movement allows for the efficient acquisition of multiple X-ray detection signals in a streamlined sequence, reducing idle time between irradiations and maintaining high imaging productivity while gathering sufficient data for high-resolution image reconstruction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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 enables the acquisition of high-resolution transmission X-ray images by mitigating the discrete data issues, resulting in improved image quality and efficient use of X-ray power while preventing interference between X-ray sources.

Implementation Method 1

a multi X-ray source which includes a plurality of X-ray focuses to generate X-rays by irradiating X-ray targets with electron beams

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray generation: X-Ray

Implementation Method 2

a detector which detects X-rays which have been emitted from the multi X-ray source and have reached a detection surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray detection: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS9008268B2Multi X-ray imaging apparatus and control method therefor
Publication Date: 2015.04.14 CANON KK
  • US9008268B2 patent drawing
  • US9008268B2 patent drawing
  • US9008268B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An X-ray imaging apparatus includes a multi X-ray source which includes a plurality of X-ray focuses to generate X-rays by irradiating X-ray targets with electron beams, a detector which detects X-rays which have been emitted from the multi X-ray source and have reached a detection surface, and a moving mechanism for moving the multi X-ray source within a plane facing the detection surface. The X-ray imaging apparatus acquires a plurality of X-ray detection signals from the detector by causing the multi X-ray source to perform X-ray irradiation while shifting the positions of a plurality of X-ray focuses which the detector has relative to the detection surface by moving the multi X-ray source using the moving mechanism. The apparatus then generates an X-ray projection image based on the plurality of X-ray detection signals acquired by the detector.