X-ray CT Apparatus Dynamic Reconstruction Method Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators face difficulties in assessing imaging conditions to determine the appropriate reconstruction method for X-ray CT imaging, as the feasibility of the image region expansion reconstruction technique depends on the amount of detection data, which varies widely with different imaging conditions.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray CT apparatus equipped with a memory to store threshold values, a calculator to calculate detection data amounts, and a decision unit to choose a reconstruction process based on these calculations, allowing for easy determination of the reconstruction method based on imaging conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the image region expansion reconstruction technique is used to obtain broader imaging range and reduce radiation exposure, then the imaging quality and radiation safety are improved, but the requirement for detection data amount increases to at least equivalent to a full scan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of detection data amount representation from raw data volume to normalized value (number of rotations × 0.5 to 2.0). This parameter transformation allows operators to easily assess whether sufficient data is available for image region expansion reconstruction by comparing against threshold values, thereby enabling the use of this technique that reduces radiation exposure while ensuring data sufficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If operators manually assess imaging conditions to determine reconstruction method, then flexibility in method selection is maintained, but the operational complexity and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-assessment of imaging conditions by automatically calculating the detection data amount based on acquired data and comparing it with stored threshold values. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for operators to manually assess complex imaging conditions, thereby maintaining method selection flexibility while significantly reducing operational difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback to operators by calculating and displaying the detection data amount in normalized form and indicating whether it meets the threshold requirements for image region expansion reconstruction. This feedback mechanism guides operators in making informed decisions about reconstruction method selection without requiring them to understand complex assessment criteria.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the detection data amount is insufficient for image region expansion reconstruction, then the radiation exposure is reduced, but the imaging range and image quality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic decision-making process where the reconstruction method is selected based on the actual detection data amount. When data amount is sufficient, image region expansion reconstruction is used to maximize imaging range with minimal radiation. When data amount is insufficient, conventional FDK reconstruction is used to ensure adequate radiation exposure for diagnostic quality. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between radiation reduction and imaging range.
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 easy selection of a reconstruction method corresponding to the detection data amount, facilitating the use of the image region expansion reconstruction technique when sufficient data is available, thereby reducing radiation exposure by minimizing overlap regions.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector are arranged opposite to each other on a circular frame, wherein the rotator is structured such that a subject is positioned inside the frame, irradiated with X-rays from the X-ray tube during rotation of the rotator, and scanned by detecting the X-rays transmitted through the subject with the X-ray detector
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray CT apparatus is provided which can easily decide on a reconstruction method based on imaging conditions. The X-ray CT apparatus comprises an irradiation unit irradiating a subject with X-rays, a detector configured to detect X-rays transmitted through the subject, and a rotator rotating irradiation unit and detector around the subject, and which generates an image by receiving biological signals of the subject to perform synchronous imaging. A memory stores a threshold value. Processing circuitry calculates, based on imaging conditions related to the synchronous imaging, a detection data amount in which detection data amount detected by the detector is represented by a number of rotations of the rotator, decides, based on the detection data amount and the threshold value, on a reconstruction process for implementation on the detection data, and implements reconstruction processes based on the detection data to generate the image.