Planar X-ray Source and Detector for Therapy Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional x-ray imaging systems face challenges in space constraints and image quality, particularly in radiation therapy devices where a kV x-ray apparatus at right angles to the therapy beam is not ideal, and MV therapy beams provide poorer image quality with limited fields of vision.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus with a one- or two-dimensional x-ray source arrangement and a corresponding detector arrangement that allows for planar irradiation of objects using partial irradiations from different positions, enabling a novel radiation geometry that can be spatially stationary or movable, and can be integrated into radiation therapy devices with minimal space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a kV x-ray apparatus is arranged at right angles to the therapy beam, then the image quality is improved, but the space requirement increases and integration becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional punctiform x-ray sources to a one-dimensional or two-dimensional source arrangement, changing the dimensional configuration of the radiation geometry. This allows the x-ray apparatus to be integrated within the limited space of the radiation therapy device while maintaining image quality through the extended source configuration that provides planar irradiation geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging apparatus is nested within the radiation therapy device structure, with the one- or two-dimensional x-ray source arrangement and detector arrangement integrated into the existing therapy beam path. This nesting allows the imaging function to be incorporated without requiring additional external space
2Area of stationary object
If an MV therapy beam is used for monitoring, then the space requirement is reduced, but the image quality deteriorates and the field of vision is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the energy parameter of the x-ray spectrum by using a kV x-ray source instead of MV therapy beam, achieving optimal image quality for monitoring purposes. The one- or two-dimensional source arrangement with planar irradiation geometry further optimizes the imaging parameters to provide high-quality images within the therapy device space constraints
3Device complexity
If a punctiform x-ray source irradiates a planar detector, then the radiation geometry is simple, but the thermal load increases and scatter radiation is higher
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the punctiform x-ray source into a one-dimensional or two-dimensional source arrangement, dividing the radiation emission across multiple spatial positions. This segmentation reduces the thermal load at any single point and decreases scatter radiation by distributing the irradiation across a extended source configuration that maintains geometric simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
By extending the x-ray source from zero-dimensional (punctiform) to one-dimensional or two-dimensional arrangements, the patent changes the radiation geometry to provide planar irradiation. This dimensional change reduces peak thermal density and scatter radiation while maintaining adequate geometric simplicity for the imaging application
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 configuration allows for improved image quality and flexibility in geometric arrangements, enabling space-saving integration with radiation therapy devices and the generation of three-dimensional volume data sets, while reducing thermal load and scatter radiation.
Implementation Method 1
an x-ray source arrangement from which x-rays can be emitted from different positions
Implementation Method 2
An object can be positioned to be irradiated between the source arrangement and the detector arrangement so that the x-rays attenuated through the object can be recorded
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus for irradiating an object includes a source arrangement, from which x-rays from different positions that form an at least one-dimensional structure may be emitted. The imaging apparatus also includes a detector arrangement for detecting the x-rays. An object is positioned between the source arrangement and the detector arrangement so that, with the detector arrangement, the x-rays attenuated by the object are recorded. The imaging apparatus also includes an evaluation apparatus for evaluating the signals recorded by the detector arrangement. A region of the detector arrangement is assigned to different positions of the structure, from which x-rays are directed at the region in partial irradiations. The region is aligned relative to the structure, such that the partial irradiations that are produced from the different positions of the structure with a region of the detector develop a radiation geometry that irradiates the object in a planar fashion.