Multi-Tube Tomosynthesis Imaging Reducing Scan Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tomosynthesis imaging with a single X-ray tube requires longer imaging times and increased artifacts due to the need for tube movement and frequent stopping, which is painful for subjects and reduces image quality.
Innovation Solution
A tomosynthesis imaging apparatus with multiple X-ray tubes arranged in a row, where the radiation source control unit manages irradiation angles and focal positions to reduce imaging time while minimizing artifacts by controlling the irradiation order and movement of the tubes to capture a larger number of projection images with different angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If one X-ray tube is moved to acquire projection images at different irradiation angles, then the imaging apparatus can perform tomosynthesis imaging, but the imaging time becomes longer due to tube movement and frequent stopping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging function into multiple independent X-ray tubes, each capable of emitting at a specific irradiation angle. Instead of moving one tube to cover multiple angles, multiple tubes are positioned at different angles simultaneously, allowing parallel acquisition of projection images and significantly reducing imaging time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-degree-of-freedom system (one tube moving in one direction) to a multi-dimensional configuration where multiple tubes are arranged at different spatial positions and angles. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous coverage of multiple irradiation angles without mechanical movement during imaging.
2Loss of time
If multiple X-ray tubes are provided with different irradiation angles, then the imaging time is reduced, but the arrangement interval is limited by the size of each X-ray tube
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested configuration where multiple X-ray tubes are arranged in a compact, space-efficient manner. The tubes are positioned within a confined area through careful spatial arrangement, allowing multiple irradiation angles to be achieved without requiring large arrangement intervals, thus maintaining a compact overall apparatus size.
3Quantity of substance
If the arrangement interval of multiple X-ray tubes increases, then more projection images can be captured per unit angle, but the number of captured images per unit angle decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the arrangement interval parameter between X-ray tubes to achieve an optimal balance. By carefully selecting the interval distance, the system captures sufficient projection images at different angles without excessive spacing, ensuring adequate sampling density for high-quality tomographic image reconstruction while maintaining efficient imaging speed.
4Device complexity
If one X-ray tube is used, then the apparatus structure is simpler, but the number of artifacts in reconstructed tomographic images increases due to reduced information for reconstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple X-ray tubes into a single integrated imaging system, where each tube contributes additional projection data. By merging the imaging capabilities of multiple tubes, the system accumulates sufficient information for high-quality tomographic reconstruction, reducing artifacts while maintaining a unified apparatus structure under centralized control.
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 significantly reduces imaging time while suppressing artifacts in the reconstructed tomographic images, improving image quality and subject comfort by distributing the irradiation positions more efficiently across the scanning angle.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray detector, an X-ray source... The X-ray detector has an image surface which is a two-dimensional plane as an imaging surface that detects X-rays transmitted through an object
Data Source
AI summary
A tomosynthesis imaging apparatus includes: a radiation detector having an imaging surface that detects radiation transmitted through an object and captures a projection image of the object; a radiation source that has a plurality of radiation tubes which emit the radiation to the imaging surface at different irradiation angles and selectively irradiates the object with the radiation from each of the plurality of radiation tubes; and a radiation source control unit that performs focal position control for switching between positions of focuses where the radiation is emitted for at least one of the plurality of radiation tubes to change the radiation irradiation angle of the radiation tube with respect to the imaging surface.