Planar Array Radiation Sources for Motion-Blur Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical imaging systems, such as digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), face challenges in achieving high-quality images due to issues like motion blur and inefficient scanning processes, which affect diagnosis accuracy and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an imaging system with a planar and linear array radiation source comprising multiple point radiation sources that emit radiation beams from different directions and energy ranges, along with adjustable angles and shielding components, to enhance image quality and scanning efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single radiation source is used in DBT system, then the device complexity is low, but the image quality and scanning efficiency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation source is segmented into multiple point radiation sources arranged in array configurations (linear array with 5 sources, planar array with 25 sources). Each point source can be independently controlled to emit radiation beams at different angles and energy levels, enabling simultaneous multi-directional scanning that dramatically improves scanning efficiency while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point radiation source to multi-dimensional arrays (linear array along one dimension, planar array across two dimensions). This dimensional expansion allows radiation beams to be emitted from multiple spatial positions simultaneously, creating overlapping projection data that enhances both scanning efficiency and image reconstruction quality without proportionally increasing device complexity
2Loss of time
If multiple point radiation sources are used to improve scanning efficiency, then the scanning time is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple point radiation sources are merged into unified linear and planar array structures with shared control systems. The array configurations allow simultaneous operation of multiple sources under coordinated control, reducing total scanning time by acquiring projection data from multiple angles concurrently while managing device complexity through integrated hardware and software control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The radiation sources are pre-positioned in optimized array configurations (linear and planar arrangements) before scanning begins. This preliminary arrangement of multiple sources enables immediate multi-directional radiation emission upon activation, eliminating the need for sequential positioning movements and significantly reducing scanning time while maintaining structured device complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If radiation beams from multiple directions are used to reduce motion blur, then the image quality is improved, but the device complexity and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each point radiation source in the arrays is configured with specific local characteristics including predetermined emission angles, energy levels, and spatial positions. This local differentiation allows each source to contribute specialized projection data for specific anatomical regions, reducing motion blur through multi-angle coverage while managing control difficulty through standardized modular source designs that can be independently optimized
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic control of multiple radiation sources, enabling independent activation, deactivation, and parameter adjustment of individual point sources during scanning. This dynamic capability allows real-time optimization of radiation beam trajectories and energy levels to minimize motion blur effects while maintaining manageable control complexity through programmable control systems that coordinate multiple sources
4Measurement precision
If different energy ranges of radiation beams are used to enhance diagnostic accuracy, then the image quality is improved, but the device complexity and energy management requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes parameter changes by varying the energy levels of radiation beams emitted from different point sources in the arrays. Multiple energy ranges are employed to differentiate tissue types and enhance diagnostic accuracy through energy-dependent attenuation patterns. Device complexity is managed through integrated energy management systems that coordinate high-voltage generation, filtering, and beam shaping across multiple sources
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 reduces motion blur, improves scanning efficiency, and enhances image quality by allowing for precise control of radiation beams, resulting in improved diagnostic accuracy and reduced scanning time.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the at least one array radiation source may include a plurality of point radiation sources. The at least one array radiation source may be configured to emit at least one radiation beam.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is related to an imaging system. The imaging system may include at least one array radiation source and a detector. Each of the at least one array radiation source may include a plurality of point radiation sources. The at least one array radiation source may be configured to emit at least one radiation beam. The detector may be configured to detect at least part of the at least one radiation beam.