X-ray Imaging Device with Dynamic Flux Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray imaging devices face challenges in maintaining uniform X-ray intensity across regions of interest, leading to overexposure in low-absorption areas and underexposure in high-absorption areas, resulting in inefficient X-ray dose distribution and detector overload or noise.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging device with a controllable transmission arrangement comprising an X-ray phase modifying unit and an X-ray absorbing unit, both with periodic sub-structures, arranged in the X-ray beam path upstream of the observation volume, allowing for dynamic control of X-ray flux through relative displacement of these units using steering means, such as piezo-elements, to adapt to varying tissue absorption properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If homogeneous X-ray intensity is transmitted throughout the entire ROI, then the X-ray beam is simple to generate and control, but portions with low X-ray absorbance become overexposed while portions with strong X-ray absorbance become underexposed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by dividing the X-ray beam into multiple independent controllable regions using an array of movable attenuators. Each attenuator can be independently positioned to provide localized intensity modulation, allowing different parts of the ROI to receive appropriate X-ray intensity based on their specific absorption properties, thereby resolving the contradiction between simple beam control and uniform intensity distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the X-ray beam into multiple discrete regions, each controlled by an individual movable attenuator. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of X-ray intensity in different spatial zones, enabling precise control over intensity distribution across the ROI and eliminating the overexposure/underexposure problem associated with homogeneous beam transmission.
2Adaptability or versatility
If liquid is re-arranged within filter elements to adjust X-ray absorptivity, then localized control of X-ray flux is achieved, but the process is time-consuming and suitable only for low frequency image acquisition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the slow liquid re-arrangement mechanism with a mechanical system consisting of movable attenuators that can be rapidly positioned using motorized drives or piezoelectric actuators. This mechanical substitution enables fast adjustment of X-ray flux with response times suitable for high-frequency dynamic imaging, while maintaining the capability for localized control through independent positioning of multiple attenuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by using movable attenuators that can be rapidly repositioned in real-time to adjust X-ray absorption characteristics. The motorized or piezoelectric actuation systems enable dynamic control of attenuator positions, allowing the system to adapt to changing imaging requirements at high speeds, thus achieving both localized control and high image acquisition frequency.
3Speed
If X-ray absorbing units with periodic sub-structures are used for fast modulation, then rapid adjustment of X-ray flux is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the movable attenuators to serve multiple functions: they act as both X-ray absorbing elements and positioning elements, and can be controlled individually or collectively depending on imaging requirements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for different control tasks, thereby managing device complexity while enabling fast modulation through periodic sub-structure arrangements.
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 rapid and localized adjustment of X-ray intensity, preventing overexposure and underexposure, thereby optimizing X-ray dose distribution and improving image quality by dynamically controlling X-ray transmittance based on real-time detector feedback.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray phase modifying unit (15), which comprises at least one sub-unit (15) with periodic sub-structures
Implementation Method 2
an X-ray absorbing unit (17), which comprises at least one sub-unit (17) with periodic sub-structures
Implementation Method 3
each of the sub-units (15, 17) comprises a steering means (39) for displacing the sub-unit with respect to the other one of the X-ray phase modifying unit and the X-ray absorbing unit
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~5
Figure 6
AI summary
An X-ray imaging device (1) and methods for operating such device are presented. In an embodiment, the device (1) comprises an X- ray source (5), an arrangement (12) of a first grating (13), a second grating (15) and a third grating (17), an X-ray detector (7) and a control device (21). The first, second and third gratings (13, 15, 17) are arranged in a beam path (9) of X-rays in a region upstream of an observation volume (3). At least one of the second and third gratings (15, 17) comprises a multiplicity of sub-gratings wherein each of the sub-gratings comprises a steering means (39) for displacing the subgrating with respect to the other one of the second and third gratings. The control device (21) is adapted to controlling the steering means (39). Accordingly, sub-gratings may be positioned such that intensity maxima of an interference pattern generated upon transmission of X-rays through the second grating (15) are either arranged such as to coincide with strongly X-ray absorbing portions of the third grating (17) or to coincide with weakly X-ray absorbing portions in the third grating (17). Accordingly, X-ray transmission through the arrangement (12) may be locally adapted by specifically positioning each of the sub-gratings.