X-Ray Detector Pixel Group Segmentation for Multi-Spectrum Imaging

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing X-ray systems with multi-spectrum sources face challenges in minimizing time delays between capturing images with different X-ray spectra, leading to motion artefacts, especially in dynamic subjects like a beating heart.

Innovation Solution

An X-ray system with an X-ray source that can sequentially operate in multiple spectral modes with minimal temporal difference, coupled with an X-ray detector featuring pixel groups that record signals corresponding to multiple spectral modes, allowing for simultaneous or near-simultaneous capture of multi-spectrum image data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If images are taken in succession with a multi-spectrum source, then multi-spectrum image data can be acquired, but time delay between images causes motion artefacts

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-spectrum image qualityVSAvoidtime delay between images

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The detector is divided into multiple pixel groups (first pixel group, second pixel group, etc.), where each pixel group is assigned to detect a specific spectral mode. This segmentation allows simultaneous detection of multiple spectra without sequential imaging, eliminating motion artifacts while maintaining multi-spectrum imaging capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If sequential readout of X-ray image sensor is used, then image data can be read, but readout time limits the minimum time delay between images

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage readout speedVSAvoidminimum time delay between images

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The detector is divided into multiple pixel groups (first pixel group, second pixel group, etc.), where each pixel group is assigned to detect a specific spectral mode. This segmentation allows simultaneous detection of multiple spectra without sequential imaging, eliminating motion artifacts while maintaining multi-spectrum imaging capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The X-ray source operates in different spectral modes in a periodic sequence (first spectral mode, second spectral mode, etc.), and the pixel groups are synchronized to detect corresponding spectra during each periodic cycle. This periodic operation enables rapid alternation between spectra with minimal time delay.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

3Adaptability or versatility

If X-ray source operates in multiple spectral modes sequentially, then different X-ray spectra can be generated, but time delay between spectral modes limits imaging speed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespectral mode switching capabilityVSAvoidspectral switching speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The X-ray source operates in different spectral modes in a periodic sequence (first spectral mode, second spectral mode, etc.), and the pixel groups are synchronized to detect corresponding spectra during each periodic cycle. This periodic operation enables rapid alternation between spectra with minimal time delay.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses synchronization signals to coordinate the operation of the X-ray source and the pixel groups. The pixel controller receives synchronization signals that trigger detection at the appropriate times, ensuring that each pixel group detects the correct spectral mode at the correct time, enabling rapid and accurate spectral switching.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 effectively reduces time delays between capturing different X-ray spectra, thereby minimizing motion artefacts and improving the quality of multi-spectrum X-ray images.

Implementation Method 1

an X-ray source configured to be sequentially operable in n spectral modes in dependence of at least one synchronization signal for the purpose of sequentially emitting X-rays with a different spectrum

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectX-ray emission: X-Ray

Implementation Method 2

an X-ray detector that includes a pixel controller and a plurality of active pixels... each pixel group records signals that correspond to one or more of said spectral modes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectX-ray detection: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20250172512A1X-Ray System for Generating Multi-Spectrum Image Data

Publication Date: 2025.05.29 DALSA

AI summary

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an x-ray system for generating multi-spectrum image data. Further aspects of the present disclosure relate to a corresponding method and to an X-ray detector that can be used in such a system.According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an X-ray system is provided that comprises an X-ray source configured to be sequentially operable in n spectral modes for the purpose of sequentially emitting X-rays with a different spectrum. The X-ray system further comprises an X-ray detector that includes a pixel controller and a plurality of active pixels, and an image processing unit.The plurality of active pixels comprises n pixel groups of active pixels. The pixel controller is configured to cause each pixel group to record signals that correspond to one or more of said spectral modes in dependence of said at least one synchronization signal such that at least one pixel group records signals that correspond to a plurality of said spectral modes.The image processing unit is configured to generate multi-spectrum image data based on the signals recorded by each pixel group.