Photon-Counting Detector Nonlinearity Correction via Reference Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) systems face challenges with long-term stability due to nonlinear responses of photon counting detectors, influenced by working conditions, pulse stacking, and polarization effects, leading to inconsistent output characteristics over time.

Innovation Solution

A detector module with a reference detector and prefilter is used to correct nonlinear responses of signal detectors by matching energy detection ranges and thresholds, ensuring consistent output and improving long-term stability through real-time monitoring and feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If photon counting detectors are used in PCCT systems, then imaging precision and energy resolution are improved, but long-term stability deteriorates due to nonlinear responses and pulse stacking effects

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging precisionVSAvoidlong-term stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where reference detector data is continuously used to correct and calibrate signal detector responses. The system monitors detector output characteristics over time and adjusts processing parameters based on reference measurements, creating a closed-loop correction system that compensates for drift and nonlinearity to maintain long-term stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces reference detectors as intermediary elements that measure X-ray beam characteristics and detector response under controlled conditions. These reference detectors act as mediators between the X-ray source and signal detectors, providing calibration data that enables correction of nonlinear responses and pulse stacking effects in the signal detection path.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple detectors with different product processes are used, then imaging versatility is improved, but response consistency deteriorates due to varying degrees of pulse stacking and polarization effects

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging versatilityVSAvoidresponse consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the detection system into multiple independent detector modules (signal detectors and reference detectors) that can be individually calibrated and corrected. Each detector module maintains its unique characteristics while being corrected through separate reference measurements, allowing diverse detector types to work together with consistent response characteristics.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent dynamically adjusts processing parameters based on real-time reference detector measurements. By changing correction factors, calibration curves, and processing algorithms according to actual detector response characteristics, the system maintains response consistency across different detector types despite variations in their product processes and physical characteristics.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 solution enhances the accuracy and stability of PCCT systems by correcting nonlinear responses and improving the consistency of detector outputs, leading to better image quality and diagnostic reliability.

Implementation Method 1

photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) systems face challenges with long-term stability due to nonlinear responses of photon counting detectors

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhoton counting:

Implementation Method 2

matching energy detection ranges and thresholds, ensuring consistent output

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEnergy detection:

Implementation Method 3

A detector module with a reference detector and prefilter is used to correct nonlinear responses

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectX-ray filtration: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentUS20240361481A1Systems and methods for imaging and data processing

Publication Date: 2024.10.31 SHANGHAI UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE

AI summary

The embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method, system, and readable medium for data processing. The method may include: obtaining one or more data processing parameters, the one or more data processing parameters being determined based on a reference detector module; obtaining target data of a target object collected by one or more signal detectors; and processing the target data based on the one or more data processing parameters.