Photon-Counting X-Ray Dataset Generation with Coincidence Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Photon-counting X-ray detectors suffer from image quality degradation due to charge sharing and coincidence effects, leading to increased noise and reduced spatial resolution, which existing solutions like charge summing circuits and increased pixel size exacerbate.
Innovation Solution
A method that incorporates coincidence information in the generation of X-ray image data sets by counting and correcting coincidence signals using a combination of preprocessing, reconstruction, and post-processing steps, utilizing a trained function and multiple energy thresholds to adjust counting signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If charge summing circuits are implemented to correct coincidence effects, then image quality is improved, but dead time is massively increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by counting coincidence events during the measurement process and storing them for subsequent correction. The coincidence counting occurs in parallel with the main measurement, preparing correction data in advance without interrupting the measurement flow. This allows correction to be applied after measurement completion, avoiding dead time extension during the actual measurement phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electronic charge summing circuit approach with a computational correction method. Instead of using hardware circuits to sum charges and correct coincidences in real-time, the invention uses software-based correction algorithms that process coincidence information after acquisition, substituting complex hardware processing with more efficient computational methods.
2Measurement precision
If pixel size is increased to counteract deterioration in energy resolution and DQE, then energy resolution is improved, but high-flux capability and spatial resolution are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of pixel size from a fixed large size to a smaller size, compensating for the resulting performance deterioration through computational methods. By using coincidence counting and correction algorithms, the system maintains energy resolution and DQE performance with smaller pixels, thereby preserving high-flux capability and improved spatial resolution that smaller pixels provide.
3Measurement precision
If coincidence correction is performed in real-time during measurement, then image quality is improved, but measurement time is extended due to time-consuming processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs coincidence counting and correction preparation in parallel with the main measurement process. Coincidence events are identified and recorded during data acquisition, and correction calculations are prepared in advance. The actual correction is then applied rapidly after measurement completion, separating the time-consuming coincidence identification phase from the correction application phase to minimize impact on measurement time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous measurement operation while coincidence information is being processed. The measurement process continues uninterrupted, with coincidence counting occurring simultaneously in parallel channels. This continuous operation approach ensures that the useful measurement action is not interrupted by the correction process, maintaining high productivity while still achieving image quality improvement.
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 improves image quality by reducing noise and maintaining high-flux capability without extending dead times, enabling enhanced spatial and spectral resolution.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray detector (1) having a converter element (3) designed to convert incoming X-radiation into an electrical signal
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for generating an X-ray image data set by means of an X-ray detector comprising a converter element configured to convert X-rays into an electrical signal, and comprising a plurality of pixel elements, each configured to form a count signal based on a signal directly received in a pixel element of the plurality of pixel elements, and wherein at least a subset of the plurality of pixel elements is configured to form a coincidence count signal based on the signal directly received in the pixel element of the subset of pixel elements and on a coincidentally occurring signal of at least one further pixel element of the plurality of pixel elements, comprising the steps of: - First, counting at least a number of count signals depending on the X-rays arriving in each pixel element of the plurality of pixel elements,- Second counting at least a number of coincidence count signals in each pixel element of the subset of pixel elements with at least one other pixel element of the plurality of pixel elements, - Generating an X-ray image dataset based on the at least a number of count signals counted in each pixel element of the plurality of pixel elements and based on the at least a number of coincidence count signals counted in each pixel element of the subset of pixel elements.