Multi-Focal-Spot X-Ray Imager with Dynamic Subset Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-source X-ray imagers face limitations due to limited detector frame speed and x-ray dose or cross scatter issues, particularly when using a single detector.
Innovation Solution
A non-rotational multi-focal-spot X-ray imager system with a detector and X-ray source unit configured to define multiple focal spots, where a projection direction determiner selects an optimal imaging pair with an optical axis within a specified angular margin of the determined projection direction, allowing for dynamic adaptation of image acquisition to reduce the number of projections and increase frame rate while maintaining image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If all available imaging pairs are used for image acquisition in a multi-source X-ray imager, then comprehensive object coverage is achieved, but the detector frame speed is limited and cross-scatter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the set of all available imaging pairs into multiple subsets, where each subset contains imaging pairs that can be used simultaneously without causing cross-scatter interference. This segmentation allows the system to acquire images from multiple subsets in sequence, achieving both comprehensive object coverage and high frame rates by rapidly switching between subsets.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic switching between different subsets of imaging pairs to acquire images. By cyclically activating different subsets in a time-multiplexed manner, the system maintains high temporal sampling (frame rate) while ensuring that each subset provides sufficient angular coverage for reliable object reconstruction.
2Reliability
If multiple X-ray beams are used simultaneously from multiple focal spots, then imaging coverage is improved, but cross-scatter between beams increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the set of imaging pairs into multiple disjoint subsets based on geometric criteria that ensure no cross-scatter interference between beams within each subset. By acquiring images from multiple subsets sequentially rather than simultaneously, the system achieves comprehensive coverage while eliminating cross-scatter effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic time-multiplexed acquisition, switching between different subsets of imaging pairs in rapid succession. This periodic activation ensures that only one subset (with no cross-scatter) is active at any given time, while the periodic nature maintains high temporal resolution and comprehensive angular coverage.
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 enhances frame rate and reduces cross-scatter by selectively using a subset of imaging pairs based on the object's geometric structure, optimizing image acquisition without the need for mechanical movement of the X-ray source or detector.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray source unit defining a plurality of focal spots
Implementation Method 2
having a detector and an X-ray source unit defining a plurality of focal spots
Data Source
AI summary
A system (SC) for controlling operation of a multi-focal-spot X-ray imager (IA). The system comprises a projection direction determiner (PDD) configured to determine a projection direction for an object (OB) to be imaged, based on a geometric structure of a model m(OB) for the object (OB). A selector (SX) of the system is configured to select, from the imager (IA)'s plurality of focal-spot-detector pairs (IPj) with different optical axes (OXj), at least one target pair whose optical axis corresponds to the determined projection direction.