Multi-tube Radiography Apparatus for Tomosynthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing X-ray imaging apparatuses with a single X-ray tube require longer imaging times for tomosynthesis, which is painful for the subject and increases maintenance complexity and cost when multiple X-ray tubes are used, as all tubes need to be replaced and adjusted, even if only some are broken.
Innovation Solution
A radiography apparatus with multiple X-ray tubes arranged in a row, where each tube has a different irradiation angle, and a power distribution unit that allows selective irradiation and voltage distribution to each tube, reducing the need to replace all tubes during maintenance and simplifying the imaging process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single X-ray tube is used for tomosynthesis imaging, then the device complexity is low, but the imaging time is excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the X-ray source into multiple independent X-ray tubes (first X-ray tube and second X-ray tube) with different irradiation angles. This segmentation allows simultaneous acquisition of projection images at different angles, dramatically reducing imaging time while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular design
2Loss of time
If multiple X-ray tubes are integrated into one unit, then the imaging time is reduced, but the maintenance complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the multiple X-ray tubes into independent replaceable units. Each X-ray tube assembly can be independently removed and replaced without affecting the other tubes, allowing maintenance of only the defective unit rather than requiring replacement of all tubes in the integrated system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the X-ray tubes from a unified integrated structure and makes them independently replaceable. This extraction allows the defective X-ray tube to be removed and replaced individually, simplifying maintenance operations while preserving the time-saving benefits of having multiple tubes
3Loss of time
If multiple X-ray tubes are provided, then the imaging time is reduced, but the maintenance cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the X-ray tube system into independent replaceable units, allowing only the defective tube to be replaced rather than all tubes. This reduces maintenance costs compared to replacing an entire integrated multi-tube assembly, while still achieving reduced imaging time through simultaneous multi-angle imaging
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 configuration reduces imaging time, simplifies maintenance by allowing individual tube replacement and adjustment, and decreases maintenance costs while maintaining efficient tomographic image reconstruction.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray detector, an X-ray source... The X-ray detector has an image surface which is a two-dimensional plane as an imaging surface that detects X-rays transmitted through an object
Data Source
AI summary
A radiography apparatus includes: a radiation detector having an imaging surface that detects radiation transmitted through an object and captures a projection image of the object; and a radiation source that has a plurality of radiation tubes which emit the radiation to the imaging surface at different irradiation angles and includes a plurality of units in which the plurality of radiation tubes are divided and accommodated.