Open-Ring CT X-Ray Tube Layout for Heel Effect and Space Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computed tomographic scanners with fixed gantries face challenges in space utilization and X-ray beam distribution, particularly due to the heel effect, which weakens X-ray beams when they are not aligned perpendicular to the central axis, and require increased installation space when inclined to mitigate this effect.
Innovation Solution
The scanner employs a fixed angular position of X-ray tubes around the geometric center axis, with adjustable alignment angles and beam angles to maintain effective X-ray beam distribution while minimizing space requirements, using a quotient of (α+γ)/β between 2/9 and 2, and allowing the emitter detector ring to be opened for improved accessibility and patient positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the X-ray tube is inclined to mitigate the heel effect, then the X-ray beam distribution is improved, but the installation space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the geometric relationships between the alignment angle α, anode angle β, and beam angle γ through the quotient relationship (α+γ)/β. By optimizing these angular parameters, the system achieves effective X-ray beam distribution without requiring excessive inclination of the X-ray tube, thereby reducing installation space requirements while maintaining reliable beam distribution.
2Productivity
If the emitter detector ring is kept closed for continuous imaging, then imaging efficiency is maintained, but patient accessibility and positioning for interventions are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the emitter detector ring configurable between closed and open states. The ring can be closed during imaging procedures to maintain imaging efficiency, and opened during medical interventions to improve patient accessibility and positioning. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt to different operational requirements without compromising either imaging efficiency or ease of operation.
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 enhances space utilization, maintains effective X-ray properties, and allows for uninterrupted patient positioning during medical interventions by enabling the emitter detector ring to be opened without requiring new patient adjustments, thus optimizing both imaging and intervention procedures.
Implementation Method 1
Each X-ray tube comprises at least one cathode intended for the emission of electrons
Implementation Method 2
The electrons emitted from the cathode strike the surface of the anode in a basically known manner, forming a focal spot. The X-rays emanating by the focal spot are directed toward an X-ray detector
Data Source
AI summary
A computer tomograph operates by rigidly arranged x-ray tubes, which are components of emitter-detector elements, which form an emitter-detector ring opened by relocating one emitter-detector element. Each x-ray tube includes a cathode emitting electrons, and an anode arrangement having an anode. Each cathode has an orientation angle relative to the geometrical center axis of the computer tomograph. A tangential plane on the focal spot of the anode has a surface normal, which includes an anode angle with the center axis. X-ray radiation emitted from the focal spot is directed in a center radiation angle to an x-ray detector axially offset relative to the x-ray tubes. The quotient from the sum of the orientation angle, radiation angle and anode angle is between two ninths and two. Each cathode, interacting with an electrode arrangement of the x-ray tubes, produces a focal spot on one of selectable positions on the anode arrangement.