Thermally Adaptive CT Scan Sequencing Without Fixed Delays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing CT scanner scan sequencing techniques rely solely on time delays to mitigate thermal stress, resulting in excessively time-consuming scan sequences.
Innovation Solution
A computerized tool that dynamically adjusts the sequence and order of CT scans based on the current thermal state of the scanner, using artificial intelligence and temperature sensors to minimize thermal stress without prolonged delays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed or variable time delays are inserted between successive CT scans to protect components from thermal stress, then component reliability is improved, but scan sequence productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic scan sequencing that adapts the scan order based on real-time thermal state feedback from temperature sensors. Instead of using fixed time delays between scans, the system dynamically adjusts which scan protocol to execute next based on current thermal conditions, allowing scans to proceed without unnecessary delays while keeping components within safe thermal limits.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of scan sequencing from static (fixed delays) to dynamic (thermal-state-dependent ordering). By monitoring thermal state parameters and adjusting the scan sequence accordingly, the system optimizes both component protection and productivity, eliminating the trade-off between reliability and productivity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple CT scans are performed in sequence during calibration, then measurement precision is improved, but thermal stress accumulation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback control by continuously monitoring the thermal state of CT scanner components during scan sequences and using this information to adjust subsequent scan ordering. Temperature sensors provide real-time feedback on component thermal conditions, and the system responds by selecting scan protocols that will not push overheated components beyond safe limits, thereby performing multiple scans for calibration while preventing thermal stress accumulation.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If scan sequences are optimized to reduce thermal stress, then component longevity is improved, but scan execution time worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary assessment of component thermal states before executing scan protocols. By checking thermal conditions in advance and pre-planning the scan sequence based on current thermal states, the system can execute multiple scans without unnecessary delays, optimizing both component longevity and execution time.
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
Reduces thermal stress accumulation in CT scanners by optimizing scan order, preventing overheating while avoiding unnecessary time delays.
Implementation Method 1
access, via one or more temperature sensors, a current thermal state of the computed tomography scanner
Data Source
AI summary
Systems/techniques that facilitate thermally adaptive scan sequencing for computed tomography scanners are provided. In various embodiments, a system can access a set of scanning protocols performable by a computed tomography scanner. In various aspects, the system can further access a current thermal state of the computed tomography scanner. In various instances, the system can identify, in the set of scanning protocols and based on the current thermal state, a scanning protocol that is predicted to reduce or control thermal stresses experienced by the computed tomography scanner. In various cases, the system can cause the computed tomography scanner to perform the identified scanning protocol.