Rotatable CT Rotor On-Board Reconstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional 3D CT x-ray scanning systems are large and fixed, requiring complex data transfer systems to process imaging data externally, which can be inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable CT system with an integrated x-ray source, detector, and processor performs tomographic reconstruction on-board, generating electronic representations of image data, processing it in real-time, and transmitting the reconstruction wirelessly or via a slip ring to an external entity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If conventional fixed-bore CT systems are used with external processing, then the system can be simpler in structure, but the data transfer and processing time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the processor, detector system, and x-ray source onto a single rotatable rotor assembly. This integration allows the processor to be co-rotating with the detector, enabling real-time processing of imaging data at the source rather than requiring complex external data transfer and processing infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor performs tomographic reconstruction of imaging data in real-time while the rotor is rotating, before the data needs to be transmitted externally. This preliminary processing action eliminates the need for time-consuming external processing and significantly reduces the overall reconstruction time.
2Productivity
If the processor is located on the rotatable rotor, then real-time processing can be achieved, but the rotor must support additional components and data transfer challenges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The processor continuously performs tomographic reconstruction operations while the rotor rotates, maintaining uninterrupted processing of imaging data in real-time. This continuous action maximizes productivity by eliminating idle processing time and enabling immediate analysis of acquired data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a slip ring or cable system as an intermediary to transfer data between the rotatable rotor and the stationary external environment. This intermediary component enables continuous data transmission while the rotor rotates, facilitating both processing and external data exchange without mechanical interruptions.
3Loss of time
If imaging data is processed externally, then the rotor design can be simpler, but data transfer rates and transmission efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The processor performs preliminary tomographic reconstruction of imaging data while the rotor is rotating, before data transmission to external systems is required. This preliminary processing action significantly reduces the amount of data that needs to be transmitted externally and eliminates time-consuming external processing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The slip ring or cable system serves as an intermediary that enables efficient data transfer between the rotatable rotor and external systems. This intermediary component facilitates high-speed data transmission while the rotor rotates, improving overall data transfer rates and transmission efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and systems for performing x-ray computerized tomographic (CT) reconstruction of imaging data on a rotatable portion of the system, such as a ring-shaped rotor. The rotor may include an x-ray source, and x-ray detector system and a processor, coupled to the detector system, for performing tomographic reconstruction of imaging data collected by the detector system.