PET Time Correction Ring Prosthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current PET systems face challenges with incomplete correction effects, complex algorithms, and high equipment costs in time correction processes, particularly due to the limitations of rotating rod source methods and iterative algorithms, which result in inefficient and costly operations.
Innovation Solution
A time correction device for PET systems utilizing a ring-shaped prosthesis with a radioactive source placed at the center of the detector ring, coupled with a high-time performance detection module, which collects and filters single-event time information to calculate and apply shift values directly, reducing algorithm complexity and computation time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If rotating rod source method is used for time correction, then time correction can be performed, but the algorithm complexity increases and correction completeness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detector ring into multiple discrete detector units, each with individually adjustable time offsets. Instead of applying a single global time correction to the entire detector ring, the system separately determines and corrects time offsets for each detector unit or crystal element. This segmentation allows for more precise local corrections without requiring complex global algorithms, as each unit can be corrected independently based on its specific timing characteristics.
2Measurement precision
If rotating rod source method is used for time correction, then time correction can be performed, but the correction completeness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different time offset corrections for different regions of the detector ring. Each detector unit can have its own customized time correction parameter based on its specific performance characteristics, rather than applying a uniform correction across all detectors. This ensures that each local region receives the appropriate correction needed for its specific timing behavior, improving overall correction completeness and reliability.
3Measurement precision
If iterative calculation method is used for time correction, then time correction can be performed, but the computation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by using measured data from radioactive source acquisitions to directly calculate time offsets before actual PET imaging. The system performs time offset determination using simple analytical calculations based on measured coincidence data, rather than performing complex iterative optimizations during imaging. This preliminary time correction step is completed once during calibration, and then the correction parameters are applied to all subsequent imaging studies, significantly reducing computation time while maintaining accuracy.
4Measurement precision
If decay correction rod source is used in classic PET, then time correction can be performed, but the method faces challenges in PET/CT state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a time correction method that works with both standalone PET systems and PET/CT hybrid systems. The correction approach uses radioactive source acquisitions that can be performed independently of CT scanning, making it compatible with various operational modes. The method can be applied whether or not CT density information is available, allowing the same time correction procedure to serve both PET-only and PET/CT configurations without requiring system-specific modifications.
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 provides accurate and efficient time correction across all response lines with reduced design complexity and operational costs, enhancing the time resolution and image quality of PET systems.
Implementation Method 1
radioactive nuclide decay produces positrons
Implementation Method 2
positrons which will annihilate through combination with the electrons in a tissue
Implementation Method 3
a scintillation crystal, a photoelectric conversion device and an electronic readout section
Data Source
AI summary
A time correction device for a PET system comprises a detector ring, a ring-shaped prosthesis, and detection, data acquisition, data coincidence, time shift calculation, data correction application modules. Center of the ring-shaped prosthesis overlaps with axial and radial center of the detector ring. The detection module is located in ring-shaped prosthesis. Center of the detection module is at the center of the ring-shaped prosthesis. The data acquisition module comprises data gathering and energy filtering modules connected to each other. The data gathering module comprises detectors and the detection module. The energy filtering module connects to the data gathering module receiving single-event time information. The data coincidence module is connects to the energy filtering module receiving the single-event time information. Time shift calculation module connects to the data coincidence module providing a shift value of the detectors. The data correction application module applies the shift value to the PET system.