Tomosynthesis X-ray Source Blur Reduction via Virtual Detector Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing x-ray imaging systems, particularly in mammography, face challenges in minimizing radiation exposure and image distortion due to the use of a moving x-ray source, which affects the quality of three-dimensional tomosynthesis images and increases system complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a radiographic projection tomography apparatus that uses a control processor to coordinate the movement of an x-ray source along a scanning path while virtually moving the x-ray detector to minimize source blur and reduce the apparent size of the x-ray source, using digital shifting of projection frames to emulate detector motion, thereby reducing image distortion and system complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a moving x-ray source is used to reduce radiation exposure and obtain volumetric data, then radiation dose to target tissue is minimized, but image distortion along the source direction of motion occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the detector's motion through digital image processing. By digitally shifting projection frames to emulate detector movement, the system reproduces the effect of a physically moving detector without the mechanical complexity, thereby reducing image distortion while maintaining the benefits of source motion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical detector motion system with a digital image processing system. Instead of physically moving the detector to compensate for source motion blur, the system uses computational methods to shift and reposition projection frames, eliminating the need for complex mechanical assemblies while achieving the same correction effect
2Manufacturing precision
If a moving x-ray detector is used to mitigate image distortion, then source blur is reduced, but system complexity and cost increase due to complex mechanical assemblies and precise synchronization requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the detector's motion through digital image processing. By digitally shifting projection frames to emulate detector movement, the system reproduces the effect of a physically moving detector without the mechanical complexity, thereby reducing image distortion while maintaining the benefits of source motion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical detector motion system with a digital image processing system. Instead of physically moving the detector to compensate for source motion blur, the system uses computational methods to shift and reposition projection frames, eliminating the need for complex mechanical assemblies while achieving the same correction effect
3Productivity
If fast tomosynthesis with continuous source motion is used for rapid imaging, then real-time or near-real-time imaging is achieved, but signal transfer at higher frequencies is reduced and information is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic source motion with alternating exposure and concealment intervals. The source moves during concealment intervals and remains stationary during exposure intervals, creating a periodic pattern that allows for sharp image acquisition while maintaining overall rapid imaging capability through efficient use of motion periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary positioning of the x-ray source to a stationary exposure position before acquiring projection images. By pre-positioning the source at the correct location and maintaining it stationary during exposure, the system ensures optimal signal transfer and image quality before proceeding to the next imaging position
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 rapid and high-quality three-dimensional imaging with reduced radiation exposure, minimizing the apparent size of the x-ray source and simplifying the reconstruction process, while maintaining image fidelity and reducing the need for complex mechanical assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
x-ray imaging systems expose an x-ray detector, e.g., gamma photon scintillator or film, to an x-ray source
Implementation Method 2
Attenuation or dispersion of photons emitted from the x-ray source within the target object produces a variegated image at the x-ray detector
Implementation Method 3
virtually moving the x-ray detector to minimize source blur and reduce the apparent size of the x-ray source, using digital shifting of projection frames to emulate detector motion
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
A method for image acquisition includes selectively concealing and exposing an x-ray source 18 to a target object 56 while the x-ray source 18 travels along a first path P, virtually moving an x-ray detector 20 along a second path P' in a first direction while the x-ray source 18 is exposed to the target object 56, and virtually moving the x-ray detector 20 along the second path P' in a second direction generally opposite the first direction while the x-ray source 18 is concealed from the target object 56.