Phase Contrast X-ray Imaging System with Variable Pitch Function

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing phase contrast X-ray imaging systems using fringe scanning methods are prone to artifacts when there is a shift between the total movement amount of a grating and its pitch due to thermal changes or movement inaccuracies, leading to deviations in the waveform of the intensity change data.

Innovation Solution

A phase contrast X-ray imaging system that includes an image processor capable of generating phase contrast images by using a variable pitch function, which adapts to the actual intensity change pitch, thereby preventing artifacts even when shifts occur between the grating movement and its intended pitch.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the fringe scanning method is used to generate phase contrast images, then the phase contrast image can be generated based on intensity change data, but artifacts occur in the image when there is a shift between the total movement amount of the grating and the pitch of the grating

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage accuracyVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the pitch parameter variable rather than fixed. The image processing device dynamically adjusts the pitch value based on actual measurement data from the grating movement, allowing the system to adapt to thermal changes and movement inaccuracies. This dynamic adjustment prevents waveform deviation and artifact occurrence while maintaining measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by measuring the actual pitch of the grating and using this measured value to correct the pitch parameter in the fringe scanning process. The system continuously monitors the grating pitch and adjusts the processing parameters accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that eliminates artifacts caused by pitch shifts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If the grating is moved precisely by 1/N of the pitch in each step, then the waveform function accurately represents the intensity change data, but any deviation in movement amount causes waveform deviation and artifacts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrating movement accuracyVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by measuring and determining the actual pitch value before performing the fringe scanning image acquisition. This pre-measurement allows the system to prepare the correct pitch parameter in advance, preventing waveform deviation during the actual imaging process. The pitch is determined once and then used consistently throughout the measurement sequence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the pitch parameter from a fixed design value to a variable based on actual measurement. By adjusting the pitch parameter according to the measured grating pitch, the system compensates for manufacturing tolerances and thermal expansion, maintaining reliable image quality even when precise movement control is difficult to achieve.

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 approach allows for the generation of accurate phase contrast images by approximating the intensity change pitch, reducing artifacts and improving image quality even with slight shifts in grating movement or manufacturing errors.

Implementation Method 1

an image is captured using a multislit, a phase grating, and an absorbent grating. Specifically, images are captured a plurality of times while translating any one of the plurality of gratings in a direction perpendicular to a grating pattern.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTalbot effect:

Implementation Method 2

a phase grating, and an absorbent grating. Specifically, images are captured a plurality of times while translating any one of the plurality of gratings

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhase modulation: Phase Modulation

Implementation Method 3

an image is captured using a multislit, a phase grating, and an absorbent grating

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray absorption: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 4

images are captured while translationally moving the grating by 1/N of the pitch of the grating in the direction perpendicular to the grating pattern

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical translation:

Implementation Method 5

a detector that detects the X-ray irradiated from the X-ray source; an image processor that generates a phase contrast image based on an intensity change indicating a change in a pixel value of each pixel detected by the detector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray detection:

Data Source

PatentUS11013482B2Phase contrast X-ray imaging system
Publication Date: 2021.05.25 SHIMADZU CORP
  • US11013482B2 patent drawing
  • US11013482B2 patent drawing
  • US11013482B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A phase contrast X-ray imaging system includes an X-ray source; a plurality of gratings; a detector; a grating movement mechanism; and an image processor that generates a phase contrast image. The image processor generates the phase contrast image by using a pitch of an intensity change and a function which has the pitch as a variable and expresses the intensity change in a pixel value as a grating moves.