Scatter Rejecting Aperture Plate Hexagonal Grid Tomography
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Solution Overview
Problem
Volumetric computed tomography (VCT) imaging systems face challenges in producing high-quality images due to scatter radiation artifacts, which reduce image contrast and accuracy, and existing scatter correction techniques are time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
A method using a scatter rejecting aperture plate with sub-centimeter sized apertures on a hexagonal grid, positioned between the object and detector, to acquire and correct scatter images, allowing for the generation of scatter-free projection images and improved three-dimensional image reconstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If physics-based models are used to predict scatter content in x-ray images, then scatter prediction accuracy is improved, but computational time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-calculates and stores scatter prediction data in lookup tables before actual imaging operations. During imaging, scatter correction is achieved by simple table lookups and interpolations rather than running complex physics-based simulations in real-time, thus maintaining high accuracy while dramatically reducing computational time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates simplified representations of scatter patterns through pre-computed lookup tables that capture the essential scatter behavior without requiring full physics-based simulations. These tabulated data serve as efficient copies that can be quickly accessed and interpolated during actual imaging operations
2Manufacturing precision
If scatter correction techniques are applied to remove scatter radiation artifacts, then image quality is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Scatter correction data are pre-computed and stored in lookup tables before imaging operations. During actual imaging, the correction process involves simple data retrieval and interpolation operations rather than complex real-time calculations, maintaining high image quality while minimizing processing time impact on throughput
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies scatter correction selectively and efficiently using interpolation methods that compute only the necessary correction values based on pre-computed data, avoiding unnecessary full-scale processing while still achieving effective scatter removal for quality image reconstruction
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 enhances image quality by effectively removing scatter radiation artifacts, improving accuracy and efficiency, and reducing maintenance and computational costs, thereby increasing the throughput of VCT systems.
Implementation Method 1
acquiring a first projection image of the object using a source and a detector. The first projection image includes a primary image of the object and a scatter image of the object
Implementation Method 2
scatter radiation in the projection images reduces the contrast of the projection images, produces degradation of or blurs sharp features of the object in the generated volume images
Implementation Method 3
positioning a scatter rejecting aperture between the object and the detector, said plate comprising a high-density material and defining a plurality of sub-centimeter sized apertures
Data Source
AI summary
Scatter correction for tomography: for each position, two images are acquired, a first image without and a second image with a scatter reducing aperture plate (50). A scatter image is calculated by subtracting the second image from the first image. The apertures (48) in the scatter reducing plate (50) are arranged hexagonally in order to optimise the packaging density of the apertures.