X-Ray Detector Readout Timing Synchronization Across CT Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
The sequential acquisition method in X-ray CT systems with a large number of detecting elements leads to gaps in reading timing between adjacent modules, causing artifacts due to the tiling configuration of the X-ray detector.
Innovation Solution
The X-ray detector is configured with processing circuitry that adjusts the reading timings of detecting elements between modules, using a control circuitry to manage the sequential acquisition process, ensuring synchronized reading across modules to prevent timing gaps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single A/D converter is shared by multiple detecting elements to reduce the number of converters, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but reading timing gaps occur between adjacent modules causing artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The detecting elements are divided into multiple detection arrays (first detection array and second detection array), with each array having its own dedicated A/D converter. This segmentation eliminates timing gaps between modules while maintaining cost-effectiveness by using multiple simpler converters rather than one complex shared converter.
Solution Approach 2:
A delay circuit is introduced as an intermediary component to adjust the reading timing of detecting elements in the second detection array. This delay circuit compensates for timing differences and eliminates artifacts caused by sequential acquisition, ensuring synchronized reading across all detecting elements.
2Productivity
If sequential acquisition method is used to handle signals from multiple detecting elements, then the number of A/D converters is reduced, but artifacts are generated due to timing gaps between modules
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into multiple detection arrays, each with dedicated A/D converters, allowing parallel processing of signals from different modules. This eliminates the timing gaps that cause artifacts while maintaining the efficiency benefits of sequential acquisition methodology.
Solution Approach 2:
The delay circuit performs preliminary timing adjustment on signals from the second detection array before they are processed. By pre-synchronizing the timing of all detecting elements before signal processing, artifacts are prevented from occurring in the first place.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple detection arrays are used to increase detector coverage, then wide coverage is achieved, but reading timing gaps between arrays cause performance degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The detector is divided into multiple detection arrays arranged to provide wide coverage, with each array having its own A/D converter. This segmentation allows each array to operate independently without timing gaps, while the overall system maintains extensive coverage area.
Solution Approach 2:
Delay circuits are used as intermediary components between different detection arrays to synchronize their reading timings. These circuits adjust the timing of signals from each array to ensure all detecting elements read out simultaneously, eliminating artifacts while preserving wide coverage.
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
This configuration allows for effective sequential acquisition in X-ray CT systems without degrading performance, maintaining low costs and wide detector coverage while minimizing artifacts.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of detecting elements arranged in a channel direction along one circular arc with a focal point of the X-ray tube at a center
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray detector according to an embodiment includes a plurality of detection arrays, processing circuitry, and an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The plurality of detection arrays includes a plurality of detecting elements, respectively. The processing circuitry performs the control to change the reading timings of the plurality of detecting elements between the plurality of detection arrays. The ADC processes signals from the plurality of detecting elements.