Plane X-Ray Array Breast Tomosynthesis Without Mechanical Dithering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital breast tomosynthesis systems using X-ray sources suffer from radiation exposure, reconstruction errors due to mechanical dithering, and limited scanning angles leading to incomplete projection data and poor image quality, particularly in microcalcification detection.
Innovation Solution
A digital breast tomosynthesis system utilizing a plane X-ray array source with flat-panel or arc-shaped configurations, enabling virtual rotational projection without mechanical movement, expanding scanning range, and employing encoding templates for low-dose imaging and improved resolution through differential relationship reconstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional X-ray source with mechanical rotation is used, then scanning can be performed, but mechanical dithering introduces artifacts and reconstruction errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical rotating X-ray source with a stationary plane X-ray array source consisting of multiple independent X-ray tube elements. This eliminates mechanical dithering and moving parts while achieving virtual rotational projection through the array configuration, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The X-ray source is segmented into multiple independent tube elements arranged in a plane array, where each element can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows the system to achieve rotational projection capability without mechanical rotation, improving reconstruction accuracy while eliminating mechanical complexity
2Measurement precision
If limited scanning angle (11-60°) is used, then system complexity is reduced, but projection data becomes incomplete and image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional rotational scanning to a two-dimensional plane array configuration, where multiple X-ray tube elements are arranged in a plane. This dimensional change enables comprehensive projection data acquisition across different angles simultaneously, improving data completeness without requiring complex mechanical scanning mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning function is segmented across multiple stationary tube elements in the plane array, each contributing projection data from different angles. This eliminates the need for large-angle mechanical scanning while achieving complete projection data coverage
3Measurement precision
If single-array X-ray source is used, then device complexity is reduced, but longitudinal resolution remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The X-ray source is divided into multiple tube elements arranged in a plane array, with each element contributing to different spatial frequencies in the projection data. This segmentation enables superior longitudinal resolution by capturing more comprehensive spatial information compared to a single-array configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves from a single-array (1D) configuration to a plane array (2D) configuration, adding a spatial dimension to the source distribution. This dimensional enhancement provides more projection information for reconstructing longitudinal structures, improving resolution without excessive complexity
4Measurement precision
If plane X-ray array sources are individually packaged, then manufacturing is simplified, but spacing between sources causes incomplete projection data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individually packaged X-ray tube elements into a coordinated plane array system, where the spacing between elements is carefully designed and controlled. This merging approach maintains the manufacturing simplicity of individual packages while achieving complete projection data coverage through proper geometric arrangement
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
The system achieves high-quality reconstructed images with reduced radiation dose, enhanced longitudinal resolution, and improved scanning range by using X-ray array sources to obtain more projection information and introduce differential relationships in the reconstruction process.
Implementation Method 1
the plane X-ray array source is disposed on an opposite side of the detection platform and is configured to emit an X-ray beam to the imaging object
Data Source
AI summary
A digital breast tomosynthesis system includes a power supply module, an X-ray array source connected to the power supply module, a detection module, a data acquisition module, and an image reconstruction module. The detection module includes a detection platform, a detector, and a connecting arm; the plane X-ray array source is disposed on an opposite side of the detection platform. The flat-panel X-ray array source includes at least two ray source units, and a single X-ray array source is required for the arc-shaped plane X-ray array source. The system provided by the present disclosure can realize virtual rotational projection of an imaging object without moving parts, and obtain more longitudinal projection information through the plane X-ray array source, thereby improving the longitudinal resolution of reconstructed images.