Spectral Image Generation Using Conventional CT Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CT systems lack the capability to generate spectral images, as they are not equipped with spectral imaging technology, limiting their ability to provide detailed spectral information efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize a conventional CT system by acquiring projection data with different acquisition spectra during scout and diagnostic scans, or using different parts of the detector, to generate spectral images, reducing acquisition time and enabling spectral imaging without the need for specialized hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a specialized spectral CT system is used to generate spectral images, then spectral imaging capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a conventional CT system to perform spectral imaging tasks through software processing of projection data from different acquisition spectra. The system uses a conventional CT scanner (already deployed hardware) to generate spectral images by processing data from scout scans and diagnostic scans, eliminating the need for specialized spectral CT hardware while maintaining spectral imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual spectral imaging system by copying and processing projection data from multiple acquisition spectra using computational methods. Instead of using physical spectral detectors, the system digitally reconstructs spectral information from conventional CT data, effectively creating a software-based spectral imaging solution that replicates the functionality of expensive hardware systems.
2Loss of information
If projection data is acquired using multiple acquisition spectra, then spectral information is improved, but acquisition time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary spectral data acquisition during the scout scan phase, which is typically performed anyway for patient positioning and planning. By acquiring projection data with different acquisition spectra during this preliminary scout scan, the system obtains spectral information without requiring additional dedicated scanning time during the actual diagnostic procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the spectral data acquisition task with the existing scout scan and diagnostic scan procedures. Instead of adding a separate spectral imaging sequence, the system combines multiple spectral measurements into the standard CT acquisition workflow, utilizing the same scanner operations to serve dual purposes: conventional imaging and spectral information gathering.
3Device complexity
If a conventional CT system is used without spectral detectors, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision of spectral data deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/spectral detector hardware with a computational approach. Instead of using physical detectors that can distinguish energy levels (which would add complexity), the system uses software algorithms to extract spectral information from projection data acquired by conventional detectors, substituting hardware capability with software processing to achieve spectral analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter acquisition approach by measuring projection data at different acquisition spectra (different energy ranges) and using these parameter variations to reconstruct spectral information. By acquiring data at multiple spectral parameters and processing the variations, the system infers spectral characteristics without requiring spectral-sensitive detectors.
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
Enables the generation of spectral images using conventional CT systems with reduced acquisition time, providing detailed spectral information without additional hardware, and allowing for the use of both spectral and conventional detector elements to acquire necessary data.
Implementation Method 1
the first projection data is acquired by a first part of the detector and the second projection data is acquired by a second part of the detector, wherein the first part and the second part of the detector acquire projection data with the first acquisition spectrum and the second acquisition spectrum, respectively, due to an anode heel effect
Data Source
AI summary
The invention refers to a system for providing a spectral image using a conventional CT system. The system comprises a data providing unit (11) for providing first projection data and second projection data, wherein the first and second projection data have been acquired using different acquisition spectra, wherein the first projection data has been acquired during a scout scan and the second projection data has been acquired during a diagnostic scan, or wherein the first and second projection data have been acquired by a first and second part of the detector, respectively. The first and second part of the detector acquire projection data with different acquisition spectra. A spectral image generation unit (12) generates a spectral image based on the projection data. With this system a spectral image can be provided using a conventional CT system with a decreased acquisition time.