Multi-spectral Static CT with Carbon-Nanotube Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CT apparatuses face limitations in scanning speed, cost, and accuracy due to the use of slip-ring rotation, especially when implementing multi-spectral static CT systems, which suffer from oblique incidence of rays and deviation in projection angles, leading to degraded resolution and identification capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A multi-spectral static CT apparatus with a conveyor mechanism, distributed ray sources, and multiple columns of detectors with different energy responses, arranged in parallel planes to avoid oblique incidence and ensure accurate data registration, using carbon-nanotube X-ray tubes for rapid and cost-effective scanning without slip-ring rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If slip-ring rotation is used to acquire projection data at different angles, then multi-spectral analysis capability is achieved, but scanning speed is limited and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the scanning process into multiple linear translation stages instead of using a single rotating slip-ring mechanism. Each stage uses a carbon-nanotube X-ray tube and detectors that translate linearly to acquire projection data at different angles, eliminating the need for high-speed rotation and slip-rings while maintaining multi-angle data acquisition capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical slip-ring rotation system with a combination of carbon-nanotube X-ray tubes and linear translation mechanisms. The carbon-nanotube technology enables rapid switch-on/off and smaller volume, allowing the system to achieve multi-spectral data acquisition through controlled linear movement rather than mechanical rotation
2Loss of information
If slip-ring rotation is used for data acquisition, then projection data at different angles can be obtained, but device volume increases and manufacturing precision requirements become stricter
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the data acquisition process into multiple discrete linear translation stages, each with its own compact carbon-nanotube X-ray tube and detector assembly. This eliminates the need for a large rotating slip-ring mechanism while still achieving comprehensive angular coverage through sequential linear movements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the bulky mechanical slip-ring rotation system with compact carbon-nanotube X-ray tubes and linear translation stages. The carbon-nanotube technology's inherent advantages of smaller volume and no high-temperature requirement enable a more compact overall system design
3Adaptability or versatility
If detectors are arranged in front and rear columns for multi-spectral analysis, then low and high energy X rays can be detected, but oblique incidence of rays occurs in static CT leading to degraded resolution
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic linear translation of the detector columns to adjust their positions and orientations during scanning. This dynamic adjustment compensates for oblique incidence effects and maintains optimal detection geometry across different scanning angles, preserving image resolution while enabling multi-spectral analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor and correct for oblique incidence of rays during the scanning process. By detecting deviations in ray incidence angles and adjusting detector positions or reconstruction parameters accordingly, the system maintains high resolution image quality despite the static CT configuration
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 rapid acquisition of accurate multi-spectral projection data, improved image quality, and enhanced identification of contraband articles by reconstructing atomic number and electron density images, reducing system costs and eliminating the need for slip-ring rotation.
Implementation Method 1
the carbon-nanotube X-ray tube does not require high temperature for generating rays. Instead, it generates cathode rays based on principle of discharging of carbon-nanotube tip, and uses the cathode rays to bombard a target to generate X rays
Implementation Method 2
generates cathode rays based on principle of discharging of carbon-nanotube tip, and uses the cathode rays to bombard a target to generate X rays
Implementation Method 3
a distributed ray source comprising a plurality of ray source spots that are provided in a plane perpendicular to a direction of the object's movement, wherein the plurality of ray source spots at least partially surround the object, and emit X rays toward the object
Implementation Method 4
a first column of detectors and a second column of detectors adjacent to the first column of detectors in the direction of the object's movement, wherein the first column of detectors comprises a plurality of detection units having a first energy response, provided in a first plane parallel to a plane of the distributed ray source and configured to receive X rays penetrating the object
Data Source
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Figure 3~4B
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AI summary
Multi-spectral static CT apparatuses are disclosed. The apparatus includes a ray source in a form of multiple distributed spots, multiple columns of detectors, a data acquisition device, a luggage carrying and control device, and a multi-spectral projection data processing device. An object of the present disclosure is to combine static CT scanning technology with multi-spectral analysis technology. It has advantages of the static CT system, such as high scanning speed, simple mechanic structure, cost reduction due to omission of slip ring. It also can perform identification of material in an article, and can be widely applied in occasions like safety inspection, and smuggling suppression at customs.