Vertical Linear X-ray Source Walk-through Imaging System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional walk-through imaging systems are limited in providing health information due to their design, while CT imaging systems are inefficient in accommodating large numbers of subjects in a timely manner.
Innovation Solution
A walk-through imaging system with vertically oriented support structures and a linear x-ray source and detector arrangement that allows subjects to stand and move through, enabling efficient acquisition of x-ray image data for generating tomographic images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional CT imaging system is used to provide detailed diagnostic images, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to limited patient throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional 2D planar detectors to a 3D volumetric detector array that captures x-ray attenuation data from multiple angles simultaneously. This dimensional expansion enables diagnostic-quality tomographic imaging while maintaining high throughput by imaging the entire volume in a single pass rather than requiring sequential 2D projections
Solution Approach 2:
The detector array is divided into multiple detector elements arranged in a three-dimensional configuration, with each element capturing data from a specific spatial position and angle. This segmentation allows parallel data acquisition from multiple viewpoints simultaneously, enabling rapid volumetric imaging without sacrificing diagnostic detail
2Productivity
If a walk-through imaging system is used to improve productivity, then patient throughput is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates as the system cannot provide diagnostic health information
Solution Approach 1:
By implementing a three-dimensional detector array that captures volumetric data, the system achieves diagnostic-quality imaging suitable for detecting tumors, fractures, and other pathologies. This volumetric capability transforms the walk-through system from a simple security scanner into a medically diagnostic tool while preserving rapid throughput
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to serve dual purposes: maintaining the high-throughput walk-through capability for rapid patient processing while simultaneously providing diagnostic-quality tomographic images. The same hardware infrastructure supports both security screening and medical diagnosis functions
3Device complexity
If conventional 2D detectors are used in walk-through systems, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to limited data acquisition capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a three-dimensional detector array that adds spatial depth to the detection architecture. This volumetric arrangement captures x-ray attenuation information from multiple z-positions simultaneously, providing the data richness needed for diagnostic tomographic reconstruction while maintaining a relatively compact system form factor
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 quick and cost-effective imaging of multiple subjects with the capability to provide health information, while minimizing exposure to x-ray radiation through efficient data acquisition and reconstruction.
Implementation Method 1
a linear detector arrangement affixed to the second support structure on another side of the scanning area and generally opposite the linear x-ray source to receive x-rays after passing through the subject
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for acquiring x-ray imaging data from a subject is disclosed. The x-ray imaging system includes a first support structure oriented in a vertical fashion and a second support structure oriented in a vertical fashion and spaced apart from the first support structure to define a scanning area configured to receive a subject to be scanned. A linear x-ray source is affixed to the first support structure on one side of the scanning area and is oriented in a vertical fashion, with the linear x-ray source configured to emit x-rays towards the subject. A linear detector arrangement is affixed to the second support structure on another side of the scanning area and is generally opposite the linear x-ray source. The linear detector arrangement is configured to receive x-rays after passing through the subject.