Stationary Multi-Plane X-Ray Imaging for Natural-Breathing Lung Function
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging modalities like X-ray and CT scanners are limited by the need for large devices, high radiation exposure, and inability to capture dynamic lung function in vulnerable patient groups due to positioning and breathing constraints.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device with stationary energy sources and detectors positioned in multiple planes around the subject's body, allowing for multiple imaging angles without rotation, enabling compact design and unrestricted breathing during image acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large scanner with rotating ring or c-shaped arm is used to acquire images at different angles, then multiple imaging perspectives are achieved, but device size becomes large and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into multiple independent energy source-detector pairs positioned at different angles around the subject. Each pair functions as an independent imaging unit, eliminating the need for a large rotating structure while achieving multi-angle imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-plane rotating imaging approach to a multi-plane stationary imaging arrangement. Energy sources and detectors are positioned in multiple planes (first plane with two pairs, second plane with one pair) intersecting through the subject's body, adding spatial dimensionality to achieve compact multi-angle imaging.
2Extent of automation
If existing fluoroscopic X-ray equipment is used with SaaS model, then cloud-based processing is achieved, but image quality is limited by patient positioning and breathing control requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is designed to capture images during natural breathing without requiring breath control. The multiple energy source-detector pairs positioned around the subject enable image acquisition that accommodates dynamic physiological movements, improving reliability for vulnerable patient groups.
Solution Approach 2:
The system eliminates the need for patient cooperation in breath control by designing imaging capabilities that work during natural breathing. This self-service approach allows vulnerable patients who cannot follow instructions to be imaged effectively.
3Measurement precision
If multiple images are acquired using existing medical scanners, then comprehensive structural detail is achieved, but radiation exposure becomes high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pulsed or intermittent operation of the energy sources rather than continuous exposure. This periodic action reduces cumulative radiation dose while maintaining sufficient image quality for detecting structural changes and functional measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses at least three energy source-detector pairs positioned strategically to achieve sufficient imaging coverage with reduced radiation compared to full rotational CT scanners. The minimal configuration of three pairs provides adequate multi-angle data for both structural and functional imaging.
4Measurement precision
If patients are required to remain still and breathe in controlled fashion during scanning, then image quality is improved, but accessibility to vulnerable patient groups is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is designed to capture images during natural breathing without requiring breath control. The multiple energy source-detector pairs positioned around the subject enable image acquisition that accommodates dynamic physiological movements, improving reliability for vulnerable patient groups.
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 dynamic imaging of lung function with reduced radiation exposure, suitable for vulnerable patients, and allows imaging during natural breathing, enhancing accessibility and image quality.
Implementation Method 1
X-ray based techniques (especially CT) for detection and treatment of various diseases
Implementation Method 2
at least three detectors for detecting energy from the at least three energy sources passing through the region of the subject's body
Data Source
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AI summary
An imaging device for acquiring a time series of in vivo images of a region of a subject's body is provided. The imaging device includes at least three energy sources, at least three detectors for detecting energy from the at least three energy sources passing through the region of the subject's body located between the energy sources and detectors, and a controller configured to operate the energy sources and detectors to acquire a time series of in vivo images of the region of the subject's body. At least two pairs of energy sources and detectors are spatially positioned around the subject's body in a first plane, and at least one pair of energy sources and detectors is spatially positioned around the subject's body in a second plane. The first plane and the second plane intersect through the region of the subject's body to be imaged. A method for acquiring a time series of in vivo images of a region of a subject's body using the imaging device is also provided.