X-ray phase-contrast reference scan grating motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray imaging technologies require extensive scanning motions to derive reference scan data for phase-contrast and dark-field imaging, which can be inefficient and limit the imaging of large objects due to the size constraints of available gratings.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging device with a grating arrangement that modulates a fringe pattern on the X-ray radiation, allowing for reduced scanning motions by moving the grating arrangement to multiple positions relative to the detector without the object, enabling the acquisition of reference scan data for the entire radiation-sensitive area with fewer positions and series of fringe patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the grating arrangement is moved to multiple positions to cover the entire radiation-sensitive area, then the coverage area is improved, but the number of scanning motions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by acquiring reference scan data at multiple grating positions before performing the actual phase-contrast imaging. The first reference scan data is acquired at a first position, then the grating arrangement is moved to a second position to acquire second reference scan data. These preliminary reference scans enable subsequent reconstruction algorithms to compensate for the limited footprint, allowing the system to achieve full radiation-sensitive area coverage without requiring continuous scanning during the actual imaging process.
2Area of stationary object
If the grating arrangement footprint is increased to cover the entire detector, then the coverage area is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the reference scan acquisition into multiple segments corresponding to different grating positions. Instead of using a single large grating that would be complex and expensive, the system uses a smaller grating that is moved to multiple discrete positions (first position, second position, etc.). Each position provides reference data for a specific region, and the complete set of reference data from all positions is combined to cover the entire radiation-sensitive area, thereby reducing grating complexity while achieving full coverage.
3Measurement precision
If extensive scanning motions are performed to acquire reference data, then the measurement precision is improved, but the productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing the reference scan data acquisition at multiple grating positions before the actual imaging process. The first reference scan data is acquired at a first position, then the grating arrangement is moved to a second position to acquire second reference scan data. These preliminary reference scans enable subsequent reconstruction algorithms to compensate for the limited footprint, allowing the system to achieve full radiation-sensitive area coverage without requiring continuous scanning during the actual imaging process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by ensuring that the reference scan data acquired at multiple positions is integrated into a coherent reference dataset that can be used for the entire radiation-sensitive area. The system continuously builds up the reference information across different positions, and this continuous reference dataset enables rapid reconstruction during actual imaging without requiring repeated scanning motions, thereby maintaining both precision and productivity.
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 approach reduces the number of scanning motions required, enhances imaging capabilities for larger objects, and improves diagnostic accuracy by providing calibrated data for phase-stepping curves, particularly useful in chest imaging and detecting lung diseases and small fissures in bones.
Implementation Method 1
The grating arrangement is configured to modulate onto the X-ray radiation a fringe pattern detectable by the X-ray detector
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to acquiring reference scan data for X-ray phase-contrast imaging and/or X-ray dark-field imaging. Therefore an X-ray detector (26) is arranged opposite an X-ray source (12) across an examination region (30) with a grating arrangement (18) arranged between the X-ray source (12) and the X-ray detector (26). During an imaging operation without an object in the examination region (30) the grating arrangement (18) is moved in a scanning motion to a number of different positions (a) relative to the X-ray detector (26) whilst the X-ray detector (26) remains stationary relative to the examination region (30) such that in the scanning motion a series of fringe patterns is detected by the X-ray detector (26). The scanning motion is repeated for a different series of fringe patterns. This allows acquiring reference scan data required for calibration of an X-ray imaging device (10′″) with less scanning motions.