Stationary CT Arcuate Source Segmentation for Missing Projection Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CT imaging systems, particularly stationary CT systems, face limitations in acquiring mathematically complete projection data due to missing views or inappropriate geometrical parameters, leading to incomplete image reconstruction and artifacts.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a stationary CT system with multiple arcuate X-ray sources and detector arrays, where X-rays are emitted from addressable locations around the imaging volume, allowing for non-sequential activation patterns and tilted or segmented source configurations to compensate for gaps in data acquisition, ensuring comprehensive projection data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a stationary CT system uses a distributed X-ray source and detector array encircling the imaging volume, then high scanning speed is achieved, but mathematically complete projection data cannot be acquired due to missing views
Solution Approach 1:
The detector array is divided into multiple segmented detector arrays positioned at different angular locations around the imaging volume. Each detector array captures projection data from its specific angular sector, and the segmented arrays work together to collectively acquire complete projection data from all angular views, eliminating the missing data problem while maintaining high scanning speed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the X-ray source is offset relative to the detector array in a stationary CT system, then scanning protocol flexibility is improved, but the central field of view volume is not subjected to X-rays preventing reconstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a single-plane source-detector geometry to a three-dimensional arrangement where multiple detector arrays are positioned at different angular locations around the imaging volume. This dimensional expansion allows X-rays to illuminate the central field of view from multiple angular perspectives, ensuring complete coverage while maintaining offset source positioning for scanning protocol flexibility.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a gap is encircled by the imaging volume to allow X-ray flux in a helical configuration, then X-ray administration is enabled, but every reconstructed slice has missing projection data
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple detector arrays positioned at different angular locations are merged into a unified detection system. The projection data from all detector arrays is combined and integrated during image reconstruction, providing complete angular coverage for every reconstructed slice and eliminating missing data artifacts while maintaining the helical X-ray flux administration through the gap.
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 the acquisition of more mathematically complete projection data, reducing artifacts and improving image quality by compensating for missing data through redundant measurements and optimized scanning protocols.
Implementation Method 1
two or more arcuate sources, each configured to emit X-rays from a plurality of addressable locations
Implementation Method 2
The X-rays emitted by a respective arcuate source are generally incident upon at least one corresponding detector array
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for acquiring and reconstructing projection data that is mathematically complete or sufficient using a computed tomography (CT) system having stationary distributed X-ray sources and detector arrays. In one embodiment, a distributed source is provided as arcuate segments offset in the X-Y plane and along the Z-axis.