Multiplexing CT System Using Distinct X-Ray Waveforms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CT scanners are inefficient due to long exposure times required for multiple viewing angles, limiting their application in medical imaging and other fields, as they rely on sequential recording of x-ray images and are constrained by physical limits on x-ray tube rotation speed and overheating.
Innovation Solution
A multiplexing computed tomography system that simultaneously generates multiple x-ray beams with distinct waveforms from various viewing angles, using a multi-beam field emission x-ray source and digital detector to reduce data collection time and x-ray intensity, allowing for faster and more efficient image acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple projection images are taken sequentially by rotating the x-ray tube, then viewing angles are increased for better image reconstruction, but exposure time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the x-ray tube's function by dividing it into multiple independent x-ray sources arranged in different spatial positions. Each source can generate x-ray beams independently, allowing simultaneous acquisition of multiple projection images from different viewing angles without sequential rotation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single x-ray source to a multi-source array configuration, adding spatial dimensionality to the system. This allows multiple viewing angles to be achieved simultaneously in space rather than sequentially through rotation in time
2Productivity
If x-ray tube rotation speed is increased to reduce exposure time, then data collection speed improves, but physical constraints and overheating limit further speed increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the x-ray generation function across multiple independent sources in an array, eliminating the need for high-speed rotation of a single tube. This segmentation allows each source to operate at lower, sustainable temperatures while collectively providing the required data collection speed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical rotation system with a stationary multi-source array configuration. This eliminates mechanical constraints on rotation speed and the associated thermal limitations, substituting a static spatial arrangement for dynamic mechanical motion
3Productivity
If x-ray flux is increased to reduce exposure time, then data collection speed improves, but x-ray intensity requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the x-ray beam generation across multiple sources, allowing the total x-ray flux to be distributed among several sources rather than concentrated in one. This reduces the intensity requirement per source while maintaining the overall data collection rate
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the output from multiple x-ray sources to achieve the required total x-ray flux. By merging the contributions of several sources, the system reduces the intensity burden on each individual source while maintaining high productivity
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 significantly reduces the total data collection time for CT imaging by n-fold compared to conventional systems, decreases the required x-ray intensity, and extends the system's lifetime while maintaining imaging quality.
Implementation Method 1
an x-ray generating device configured to simultaneously generate a plurality of x-ray beams having distinct waveforms
Implementation Method 2
an x-ray detector operable to detect x-ray intensities of the plurality of x-ray beams as a function of time
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer program products for multiplexing computed tomography are disclosed. According to one aspect, the subject matter described herein can include illuminating an object with a plurality of x-ray beams from a plurality of viewing angles, wherein each x-ray beam has a distinct waveform; detecting the x-ray intensities of the plurality of pulsed x-ray beams as a function of time, and extracting individual projection image data from the detected x-ray intensities based on the distinct waveforms of the x-ray beams for combining the projection image data to generate three-dimensional tomographic image data of the object.