Selective X-ray Emission from Array Cells for Interventional Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging systems for interventional procedures, such as those using X-ray sources and collimators, face inefficiencies in selectively imaging changing regions within a subject, particularly during minimally invasive procedures, as they often require irradiating the entire area rather than focusing on specific moving parts like a catheter's tip or contrast agent's movement.
Innovation Solution
An array emitter system that selectively emits X-rays from individual cells, allowing for targeted imaging by determining which cells to power based on the tracked movement of instruments or contrast agents, thereby reducing unnecessary radiation exposure and improving image acquisition efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If all cells of the emitter array are powered to acquire image data, then complete imaging coverage is achieved, but radiation exposure to the patient increases
Solution Approach 1:
The emitter array is divided into multiple independently controllable cells, allowing selective activation of only those cells needed to image the changing region, rather than powering all cells simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the emitter array are activated based on the specific location and extent of the changing region, providing localized imaging coverage matched to the actual area of interest
2Productivity
If the entire emitter array is used to image the subject, then all regions are captured, but image acquisition efficiency decreases due to unnecessary radiation of static regions
Solution Approach 1:
Only the necessary portion of the emitter array is activated to image the changing region, avoiding the excessive action of radiating the entire area when only a portion requires imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines which regions are changing and activates only the corresponding emitter cells, making the imaging process self-regulating based on actual procedural needs
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed aperture shape is used for imaging, then the imaging geometry is simple, but adaptability to track moving instruments is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture shape is made dynamic and adjustable, allowing it to change configuration based on the position and movement of instruments or contrast agents within the patient
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from tracking the instrument or contrast agent position to automatically adjust the aperture shape and emitter cell activation pattern
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 enables precise imaging of changing regions within a subject, enhancing the accuracy of procedural navigation and reducing radiation exposure, while allowing for real-time tracking and reconstruction of moving instruments or contrast agents within the body.
Implementation Method 1
an array emitter can include a plurality of emitting portions or cells that can be used to individually emit x-ray radiation from an emitter ray
Data Source
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AI summary
An array emitter including a plurality of emitting portions can be used to individually emit selected energy, such as x-ray radiation, from the emitter ray rather than powering or emitting radiation from all portions of the emitter array. According, providing a plurality of cells within an emitter array, and selectively emitting x-rays from individual cells can allow for selection of which cells to emit x-rays from to acquire selected image data. A process is disclosed for selecting, including automatically, which portions to power to emit energy.