Photon Counting CT Apparatus Multi-Contrast Discrimination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional Real Prep. techniques fail to control optimal scan timing for multiple contrast agents used in X-ray CT imaging, as they cannot distinguish between different types of contrast agents, leading to inefficiencies and increased time and effort in aligning subjects for imaging.

Innovation Solution

A photon counting CT apparatus with processing circuitry that discriminates between multiple contrast-enhancing substances using a direct detector with excellent energy resolution, allowing for the generation of data that enables the differentiation of contrast agents based on detection results from monitoring scanning, thereby determining optimal scan timing for each agent.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If conventional Real Prep. is used for monitoring scanning, then scan timing can be controlled for a single contrast agent, but it becomes impossible to control optimal scan timing when multiple types of contrast agents are used simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic scan timing controlVSAvoidcapability to handle multiple contrast agents

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the contrast agent detection by creating separate determination conditions for each contrast agent type. The processing circuitry divides the monitoring task into distinct evaluation streams, one for each contrast agent, allowing independent timing control for each agent while maintaining unified system operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of determination conditions to be specific to each contrast agent type. By setting distinct determination conditions for each contrast agent, the system can differentiate between multiple contrast agents and control scan timing optimally for each, transforming a single-parameter system into a multi-parameter system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If individual imaging is performed for each contrast agent, then optimal imaging can be achieved for each agent, but it requires multiple positioning operations which increases time and effort

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging quality for each contrast agentVSAvoidtime for aligning subject multiple times

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple imaging operations into a single scan by determining that one scan timing satisfies determination conditions for multiple contrast agents simultaneously. This combines what would otherwise require separate positioning operations into a single operation, maintaining imaging quality while eliminating redundant time consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary determination of scan timing that accounts for multiple contrast agents before execution. By calculating and determining the optimal scan timing in advance that satisfies all contrast agent conditions, the system prepares a unified imaging plan that eliminates the need for multiple subsequent positioning adjustments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If a single scan is performed to capture multiple contrast agents, then time efficiency is improved, but it requires the ability to distinguish and differentiate between different contrast agent types

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging efficiencyVSAvoidability to distinguish contrast agent types

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces physical or manual differentiation methods with processing circuitry-based discrimination. The system uses computational analysis of detection results to distinguish between different contrast agent types, substituting mechanical or manual identification processes with automated electronic differentiation capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces processing circuitry as an intermediary between the detector and the control system. This intermediary component analyzes detection results and determines which contrast agent is present, enabling the system to differentiate between multiple contrast agents automatically without requiring direct manual intervention or complex hardware modifications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables precise control of scan timing for multiple contrast agents, allowing for simultaneous imaging of multiple agents in a single scan, reducing the need for separate positioning and improving imaging efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

A photon counting CT apparatus discriminates an inspection target substance through which X-rays have passed using a direct detector such as a semiconductor detector with excellent energy resolution

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20240065655A1Photon counting CT apparatus and imaging method

Publication Date: 2024.02.29 CANON KK

AI summary

A photon counting CT apparatus of an embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to generate data from which a plurality of types of contrast-enhancing substances can be discriminated on the basis of detection results obtained by monitoring scanning performed on a subject into which the plurality of types of contrast-enhancing substances have been injected.