Stationary Modular CT System with Distributed Source Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CT systems are complex, costly, and limited by the need for rotating gantries, which restricts their availability and temporal resolution, leading to motion artifacts and high costs, and are prone to failure due to dedicated component functions.
Innovation Solution
A modular CT system with multiple X-ray sources and detectors distributed along separate rings of a gantry, allowing for 360-degree angular coverage without rotation, enabling robust operation and dual-energy capabilities, and capturing scattered X-ray components for improved image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a rotating gantry is used in conventional CT systems, then 360-degree angular coverage is achieved, but the system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the gantry into multiple independent source modules and detector modules distributed around the subject. Each module is stationary and independently positioned, eliminating the need for a rotating gantry while achieving complete angular coverage through the distributed arrangement of segments.
2Measurement precision
If a rotating gantry is used in conventional CT systems, then 360-degree angular coverage is achieved, but the cost increases due to heavy and sophisticated control hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the gantry into multiple independent source modules and detector modules distributed around the subject. Each module is stationary and independently positioned, eliminating the need for a rotating gantry while achieving complete angular coverage through the distributed arrangement of segments.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of rotating the source and detector assembly around the subject, the invention inverts the approach by keeping all components stationary and distributing multiple source-detector pairs around the subject, achieving angular coverage without mechanical rotation.
3Loss of information
If a rotating gantry is used in conventional CT systems, then image data is acquired, but temporal resolution is limited by the rotation time
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple stationary source modules can be activated simultaneously or in rapid sequence, enabling continuous data acquisition from multiple angles without the time penalty of mechanical rotation. This parallel acquisition approach eliminates temporal resolution limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the gantry into multiple independent source modules and detector modules distributed around the subject. Each module is stationary and independently positioned, eliminating the need for a rotating gantry while achieving complete angular coverage through the distributed arrangement of segments.
4Loss of information
If a rotating gantry is used in conventional CT systems, then projections are acquired for reconstruction, but motion artifacts increase due to patient movement during rotation
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple stationary source modules can be activated simultaneously or in rapid sequence, enabling continuous data acquisition from multiple angles without the time penalty of mechanical rotation. This parallel acquisition approach eliminates temporal resolution limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of rotating the source and detector assembly around the subject, the invention inverts the approach by keeping all components stationary and distributing multiple source-detector pairs around the subject, achieving angular coverage without mechanical rotation.
5Speed
If fifth generation CT designs with stationary components are used, then fast scanning is achieved, but the system requires complex electron beam steering and has limited angular coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the gantry into multiple independent source modules and detector modules distributed around the subject. Each module is stationary and independently positioned, eliminating the need for a rotating gantry while achieving complete angular coverage through the distributed arrangement of segments.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of rotating the source and detector assembly around the subject, the invention inverts the approach by keeping all components stationary and distributing multiple source-detector pairs around the subject, achieving angular coverage without mechanical rotation.
6Speed
If fifth generation CT designs with stationary components are used, then fast scanning is achieved, but the system has a large footprint and high cost
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the gantry into multiple independent source modules and detector modules distributed around the subject. Each module is stationary and independently positioned, eliminating the need for a rotating gantry while achieving complete angular coverage through the distributed arrangement of segments.
Solution Approach 2:
Each source module and detector module is designed to be multi-functional, capable of operating independently and contributing to various imaging modes including single-energy and dual-energy CT, scatter imaging, and tomographic reconstruction, reducing the need for specialized components.
7Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated component functions are used in conventional CT systems, then specific imaging tasks are performed, but the system becomes prone to failure when one component fails
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the gantry into multiple independent source modules and detector modules distributed around the subject. Each module is stationary and independently positioned, eliminating the need for a rotating gantry while achieving complete angular coverage through the distributed arrangement of segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system can dynamically change operating parameters such as which source modules are active, which detector modules are reading data, and the timing sequences to adapt to component failures or different imaging requirements, maintaining functionality through parameter adjustment rather than hardware reconfiguration.
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
The system reduces complexity and cost, enhances temporal resolution, and maintains functionality even with partial component damage, while providing improved image quality and dual-energy capabilities without the need for specialized electronics.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of source modules coupled to the gantry at fixed radial locations about the bore for directing X-ray beams toward the subject arranged in the bore
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of detector modules coupled to the gantry at fixed radial locations about the bore such that one of the plurality of detector modules is arranged in diametric opposition to and on opposite sides of the radial plane of one of the plurality of source modules
Implementation Method 3
installing multiple detector modules on the circumference of the gantry, the system can capture the Thomson and Compton X-ray scattering components from the object
Implementation Method 4
installing multiple detector modules on the circumference of the gantry, the system can capture the Thomson and Compton X-ray scattering components from the object
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for computed tomography (CT) imaging is provided. The system includes a gantry having a first and second circumference defining locations fixed in relation to a subject arranged therein, the first and second circumference being axially separated, and spaced from a central axial plane of the gantry. The system also includes a plurality of source modules arranged at locations along the first circumference, and configured for directing X-ray beams toward the subject using a selected illumination pattern, and a plurality of detector modules arranged at locations along the second circumference, wherein the source and detector modules are angled toward the central axial plane such that each source module is diametrically opposed to one or more detector modules. The system further includes an acquisition system configured for controlling the plurality of source modules in accordance with the selected illumination pattern, and acquiring CT image data from the plurality of detector modules.