Multiple-Source X-Ray Imaging for Larger Volumes Without Oversized Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging systems are limited to a single source and single detector, restricting the imaged volume to the size of the source and detector, necessitating larger components for larger objects.
Innovation Solution
A multiple source imaging system with a navigation system to track the pose of instruments, using a plurality of spaced-apart sources emitting signals like x-rays, detected by a detector, allowing image data acquisition from various positions and orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If a single source and single detector are used, then the device complexity is low, but the imaged volume is limited to the size of the source and detector
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple independent source-detector pairs, where each pair can image a specific region. By dividing the imaging task across multiple segments (sources and detectors), the system achieves a larger total imaged volume without requiring each individual component to be excessively large.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple source-detector pairs are merged into a single integrated imaging system. The combined system achieves a larger effective imaged volume by merging the capabilities of multiple smaller source-detector units, allowing simultaneous or sequential imaging of larger objects.
2Volume of stationary object
If a larger source and detector are used to image larger objects, then the imaged volume increases, but the device complexity and size requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using one large source and detector, the system uses multiple smaller sources and detectors arranged in arrays. Each source-detector pair images a portion of the object, and the combined data reconstructs the full large-volume image, avoiding the need for oversized individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single source-detector configuration to a multi-source multi-detector array configuration, adding spatial dimensions to the imaging capability. This dimensional expansion allows the system to cover larger volumes by distributing sources and detectors across multiple positions rather than relying on increased size of individual components.
3Volume of stationary object
If multiple sources and detectors are used to image larger volumes, then the imaged volume increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple sources and detectors are designed with universal functionality, where each source-detector pair can operate independently or in coordination with others. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to different imaging scenarios and object sizes, reducing the complexity burden by using standardized, interchangeable components rather than specialized equipment for each function.
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
Enables imaging of larger volumes by spacing sources apart and moving them relative to the subject, enhancing the imaged volume beyond the physical limits of a single source-detector setup.
Implementation Method 1
The plurality of sources may be individually powered to emit a signal, such as x-rays, from each of the individual sources. The x-rays from each of the sources may be detected by a detector at a selected time.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a system for imaging a system. The system may be operated to acquire image data of a subject in one or more manners. The image data acquired may be used to various purposes, such as generating an image for display, navigating a procedure, or other appropriate procedures.