X-ray CT Upsampling Using Virtual Counter Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
In X-ray CT apparatuses, upsampling projection data using existing methods can introduce inaccuracies due to large view intervals, leading to reconstructed images containing information different from the actual object, causing clinical issues.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray CT apparatus that includes a scanning system capable of generating virtual counter data on substantially coincident X-ray transmission paths, allowing for the insertion of virtual views between actual views to upsample projection data, thereby improving data accuracy and reducing inaccuracies in image reconstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If projection data is upsampled using existing interpolation methods, then the number of views is increased, but information different from actual object is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces virtual counter data as an intermediary element that mediates between actual projection data from different views. By generating virtual views using counter data (data from substantially coincident X-ray transmission paths), the system can upsample projection data without introducing inaccurate interpolated information, as the virtual data is derived from actual measured data rather than pure interpolation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual copies of projection data by generating virtual views from counter data. These virtual views are copies derived from actual measured data from substantially coincident transmission paths, allowing the system to increase the number of views while maintaining data accuracy through replication of real measurement information rather than mathematical interpolation
2Productivity
If adjacent views have large interval to reduce scanning time, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses counter data from substantially coincident X-ray transmission paths as an intermediary to fill gaps between widely spaced actual views. This allows the system to maintain large view intervals for fast scanning while still achieving high measurement precision through the mediating virtual views generated from counter data
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary data collection and processing by acquiring counter data from substantially coincident transmission paths before generating the final upsampled projection data. This preliminary action prepares the virtual counter data that will be used to create accurate virtual views, enabling high-speed scanning with maintained precision
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 proposed solution enables the generation of upsampled projection data that more accurately represents the observed values during helical scanning, enhancing image reconstruction quality and reducing the likelihood of unclear boundaries in the reconstructed images.
Implementation Method 1
An X-ray tube device that performs irradiation with X-rays; an X-ray detector that is disposed to face the X-ray tube device and detects transmitted X-rays as X-rays transmitted through an object
Data Source
AI summary
In a case where helical scanning, etc., is performed in an X-ray CT apparatus, upsampled projection data that more approximates to an observed value is obtained. There is provided an X-ray CT apparatus that improves spatial resolution of an overall effective field of view without reducing rotation speed, in an FFS method of acquiring projection data through moving of an X-ray focus position to a plurality of positions. The X-ray CT apparatus: converts projection data acquired through helical scanning into projection data of normal scanning performed by one rotation; generates a virtual-counter-data space in which virtual counter data are acquired on substantially coincident X-ray transmission path in the converted projection data; performs upsampling in a view direction; and similarly upsamples FFS projection data in the view direction for focus-shifted projection data obtained by performing the helical scanning while causing the X-ray focus position to shift (virtual counter data space generation).