Layered PCCT Calibration Phantom for Precise Table Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phantoms for calibrating photon counting computed tomography (PCCT) systems are heavy and ergonomically challenging to maneuver, causing user discomfort during frequent calibration scans, and often require precise positioning to ensure accurate calibration.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, ergonomic phantom with multiple layers of different materials, a trapezoidal shape matching the X-ray beam, and integrated handles or a foam cover for easy handling, coupled to a patient table via a plug for precise positioning and consistent alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional phantom materials are used to ensure adequate density and size for calibration, then calibration accuracy is maintained, but the phantom becomes heavy and difficult to maneuver
Solution Approach 1:
The phantom employs a composite structure combining a lightweight foam base material with embedded high-density inserts (such as metal or dense plastic components). This allows the phantom to achieve the necessary density for calibration accuracy while keeping the overall weight reduced and manageable for frequent handling during calibration scans.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the phantom is made larger to represent various tissue densities, then calibration coverage is improved, but ergonomics deteriorate and user comfort decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The phantom is divided into multiple functional layers and modular components, each representing different tissue densities (e.g., bone, soft tissue, air). This segmentation allows the phantom to provide comprehensive tissue representation while maintaining a manageable overall size and weight, improving ergonomics for frequent handling.
Solution Approach 2:
By using composite construction with lightweight foam and embedded dense inserts, the phantom achieves diverse tissue density representations without requiring a monolithic large structure, thereby maintaining good ergonomics.
3Ease of operation
If the phantom is made lighter and more ergonomic, then ease of handling is improved, but positioning precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A coupling mechanism (such as a plug or attachment device) is provided that interfaces with the patient table slot. This intermediary component ensures precise and consistent positioning of the phantom during calibration scans while the phantom itself remains lightweight and easy to handle during setup and removal.
4Reliability
If frequent calibration scans are performed to maintain system accuracy, then system reliability is improved, but user fatigue increases due to manual phantom handling
Solution Approach 1:
The phantom incorporates a counterbalancing mechanism or design that offsets the weight distribution to make the phantom easier to lift and maneuver. This reduces user fatigue during frequent calibration scans while maintaining the reliability of regular calibration maintenance.
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
Facilitates easy and precise calibration scans in PCCT systems, reducing user discomfort and ensuring consistent phantom positioning for accurate calibration data acquisition.
Implementation Method 1
A fan-shaped or cone-shaped beam of X-rays produced by electrons colliding with the target is directed towards a subject. After being attenuated by the object, the X-rays impinge upon an array of X-ray detectors
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a phantom for calibrating an imaging system are disclosed herein. In one example, a phantom for an imaging system includes a base comprised of a first material, a plurality of layers positioned on the base, each layer of the plurality of layers comprised of the first material or one or more additional materials, and a plug coupled to a front face of the base and the plurality of layers, the plug configured to couple to an accessory slot of a patient table of the imaging system.