X-ray Detector Misalignment Correction via Irradiated Area Center of Gravity
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Solution Overview
Problem
In X-ray computed tomography (CT) systems, misalignment between scattered radiation removal plates and detection elements can degrade image quality, especially when multiple detection elements are arranged in one grid, due to limitations in manufacturing technology and non-uniform irradiated positions.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray image diagnostic system that accurately determines the center of gravity of the irradiated area for each detection element using infrared light or transmitted X-ray light, allowing for precise projection processing and improved image quality by correcting for misalignment and non-uniform irradiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a plurality of detection elements are disposed in one grid of the scattered radiation removal plate, then the detection element size can be reduced and manufacturing precision can be improved, but misalignment between the scattered radiation removal plate and detection elements increases, degrading image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing the actual irradiated positions for each detection element in a lookup table before image reconstruction. This pre-computation accounts for the non-uniform irradiation patterns that occur when multiple detection elements are arranged under one scattered radiation removal plate grid, allowing the reconstruction algorithm to correctly assign detected X-ray signals to their true origin positions, thereby eliminating misalignment artifacts and maintaining high image quality despite the reduced detection element size
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter representation from uniform grid-based positioning to actual irradiated position-based positioning. By storing and using the precise coordinates where X-rays actually strike each detection element (which differ from uniform grid positions), the system accommodates the physical reality of scattered radiation removal plate geometry while maintaining accurate image reconstruction, thus resolving the contradiction between fine detection element spacing and image quality
2Device complexity
If irradiated positions are defined at equal intervals with the scattered radiation removal plate as a reference, then device complexity is reduced, but actual non-uniform irradiated positions cause image quality degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-calculates the actual irradiated positions for each detection element based on the scattered radiation removal plate geometry and stores these positions in advance. This preliminary computation captures the non-uniform irradiation pattern without adding complexity to the real-time reconstruction process, as the pre-computed position data is simply looked up during reconstruction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a computational model (lookup table) that copies and stores the actual irradiated position information for each detection element. This virtual representation of the physical irradiation pattern allows the reconstruction algorithm to work with accurate position data without requiring complex real-time calculations, thus maintaining both simplicity and accuracy
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
Enhances image quality and spatial resolution by accurately ascertaining the irradiated area and position, reducing artifacts and simplifying the detector structure while reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
acquire an image obtained by imaging a plurality of detection elements with processing circuitry
Implementation Method 2
arranged at least in a channel direction on the side of a first surface of the plurality of detection elements on which the X-rays are incident
Implementation Method 3
detection elements that output signals in response to incident X-rays
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray image diagnostic system of an embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to acquire an image obtained by imaging a plurality of detection elements that output signals in response to incident X-rays, and a plurality of scattered radiation removal plates arranged at least in a channel direction on the side of a first surface of the plurality of detection elements on which the X-rays are incident in a direction substantially normal to the first surface, and generate data regarding an irradiated area of each of the plurality of detection elements on the basis of the image.