Scatter Kernel Estimation for Industrial 3D Cone Beam CT

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for calculating the scatter kernel in X-ray computed tomography (CT) are inefficient and lack accuracy, limiting the correction of scattering artifacts in industrial 3D cone beam CT images.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device and method that efficiently estimates a scatter kernel by preparing raw data and primary signals, using a scatter artifacts correction module to remove the scatter signal, and generating clear CT images without scattering effects, employing a minimization problem and restarted particle swarm optimization algorithm.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional scatter kernel calculation methods are used, then the scatter effect can be corrected, but the calculation is inefficient and inaccurate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescatter kernel accuracyVSAvoidcalculation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the scatter kernel calculation from a complex integral computation into a parameter-based estimation problem. By representing the scatter kernel through specific parameters (amplitude, width, shape) and using optimization algorithms to determine these parameters, the method achieves both accuracy and efficiency. The scatter kernel is modeled as a function with adjustable parameters that can be optimized to match actual scatter behavior without requiring full numerical integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/computational approach of numerical integration with an optimization-based approach. Instead of directly computing the scatter kernel through intensive numerical methods, the system uses optimization algorithms (such as least squares fitting or gradient descent) to estimate kernel parameters from measured or simulated data, significantly reducing computational burden while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If additional physical operations are performed to improve scatter kernel estimation, then accuracy may improve, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescatter kernel estimation accuracyVSAvoidphysical operation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a simplified model (copy) of the scatter kernel that captures its essential characteristics without requiring the full physical complexity. By representing the kernel through parametric equations and optimizing these parameters, the method produces an accurate approximation without needing additional physical measurements or complex experimental setups. The parametric model serves as a computationally efficient copy of the true scatter kernel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The optimization algorithm automatically determines the scatter kernel parameters by fitting the model to available data, eliminating the need for manual calibration or additional physical operations. The system self-adjusts the kernel parameters to minimize the difference between the model prediction and actual scatter behavior, achieving accurate estimation without external intervention or complex physical procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Effectively corrects scattering artifacts in CT images by accurately estimating the scatter kernel, resulting in clear and sharp images without the scattering effect, improving image quality without additional physical operations.

Implementation Method 1

a scattering effect that degrades an image quality is included in raw data acquired from an actual device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScattering: Scattering

Data Source

PatentUS11547379B2Method and apparatus for scatter artifacts correction in industrial 3-dimensional cone beam computed tomography
Publication Date: 2023.01.10 KOREA ADVANCED INST OF SCI & TECH
  • US11547379B2 patent drawing
  • US11547379B2 patent drawing
  • US11547379B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided are a method and apparatus for correcting scattering artifacts in industrial three-dimensional (3D) cone beam computed tomography (CT) that may prepare raw data acquired from a subject through computed tomography (CT) and a primary signal acquired from shape prior information of the subject, may estimate a scatter kernel based on the raw data and the primary signal, may acquire result data by removing, from the raw data, a scatter signal estimated based on the scatter kernel, and may generate an image from the result data.