Ring-Frame X-Ray Imaging Layout for Reduced Penumbra Blur
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray imaging apparatuses, such as X-ray CT apparatuses, suffer from insufficient resolution and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) to adequately depict fine structures like bone trabeculae, respiratory bronchioles, and alveolar ducts, primarily due to blurring caused by the penumbra effect during image formation.
Innovation Solution
The X-ray imaging apparatus is configured with the X-ray tube positioned outside a ring-shaped frame and the detector inside, with a focal point to center of rotation ratio of 9:1 to 7:3, reducing the penumbra size to enhance resolution and SNR.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the detector element size is miniaturized to achieve high resolution, then the theoretical resolution improves, but the signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates requiring nine-times dose
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the X-ray imaging system, specifically the ratio of source-to-detector distance to object-to-detector distance (X:Y ratio), to reduce the penumbra effect. By optimizing this geometric parameter, the system achieves both high resolution and adequate signal-to-noise ratio without requiring excessive radiation dose
2Manufacturing precision
If the X-ray tube is positioned closer to the subject to reduce penumbra, then resolution improves, but the device complexity and space requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric positioning of the X-ray tube relative to the rotating body, placing it outside the ring-shaped frame at an optimized distance. This asymmetric arrangement allows the system to achieve reduced penumbra and improved resolution without requiring symmetric compact positioning, thereby simplifying the overall device spatial arrangement
3Manufacturing precision
If the detector is placed inside the rotating body to reduce penumbra, then resolution improves, but the device complexity and accessibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of placing the detector inside the rotating body as in conventional designs, the patent inverts this arrangement by positioning the detector outside the ring-shaped rotating body. This inverted configuration maintains the optimized X:Y ratio for reduced penumbra while improving device accessibility and simplifying detector positioning and maintenance
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 sharper X-ray images with improved resolution characteristics, enabling clear depiction of fine structures and higher SNR, particularly in high spatial frequency regions.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray irradiation unit including an X-ray tube for irradiating a subject with X-rays; an X-ray detection unit including an X-ray detector arranged at a position facing the X-ray tube across the subject and detecting the X-rays passed through the subject
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention includes an X-ray irradiation unit including an X-ray tube for irradiating a subject with X-rays, an X-ray detection unit including an X-ray detector arranged at a position facing the X-ray tube across the subject and detecting the X-rays passed through the subject, a base on which the subject is placed, the base arranged between the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector, a rotation mechanism including a ring-shaped frame rotatably configured around the base and a control unit for controlling rotation of the ring-shaped frame and irradiation of the X-rays from the X-ray tube. The X-ray irradiation unit and the X-ray detection unit are provided to the ring-shaped frame and the X-ray tube is positioned outside the ring-shaped frame.