X-ray Phase Contrast Imaging Grating Arrangement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing X-ray phase contrast imaging apparatuses face difficulties in determining the arrangement of gratings when using an X-ray source that radiates continuous X-rays, as the mathematical formulas require specific wavelength information which is not applicable in such cases.

Innovation Solution

The X-ray phase contrast imaging apparatus is arranged with an X-ray source, a first grating, and a second grating, where the gratings are positioned to satisfy specific geometric and noise-reducing conditions, allowing for the determination of their arrangement without relying on the wavelength of the X-ray source, and a third grating is optionally added to increase coherence and form multiple self-images.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If an X-ray source that radiates continuous X-rays is used, then the imaging capability is enhanced, but it becomes impossible to determine the arrangement of gratings because wavelength information is unavailable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging capabilityVSAvoidgrating arrangement determination
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the approach from wavelength-dependent parameter substitution to wavelength-independent geometric relationships. By formulating grating arrangement conditions based on geometric parameters (distances R1, R2 and pitches d1, d2) rather than wavelength-dependent formulas, the system becomes adaptable to continuous X-ray sources while maintaining deterministic grating arrangement capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If the arrangement of gratings is determined using mathematical formulas requiring wavelength substitution, then precise grating positioning is achieved, but the method cannot be applied when using continuous X-rays without known wavelength

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrating positioning precisionVSAvoidapplicability to continuous X-ray sources
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the problem by replacing wavelength-dependent parameters with wavelength-independent geometric parameters. The grating arrangement conditions are expressed solely in terms of distances (R1, R2) and pitches (d1, d2), eliminating the need for wavelength information and enabling precise positioning with continuous X-ray sources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If the pitch of the self-image of the first grating does not match the pitch of the second grating, then the imaging geometry is suboptimal, but adjusting the arrangement requires wavelength information that is unavailable with continuous X-rays

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging geometry accuracyVSAvoidarrangement determination complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves the matching requirement by formulating geometric conditions that directly relate the pitches and distances without requiring wavelength information. The condition R1:d1=R:d2 ensures proper geometric matching of the self-image pitch with the second grating pitch through wavelength-independent parameter relationships.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 arrangement enables the determination of grating positions suitable for imaging, reduces noise, and results in high-visibility captured images even when using continuous X-rays.

Implementation Method 1

a first grating irradiated with the continuous X-rays from the X-ray source to form a self-image

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffraction: Diffraction

Implementation Method 2

a second grating irradiated with the continuous X-rays that have passed through the first grating

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInterference: Interference

Data Source

PatentUS10772592B2X-ray phase contrast imaging apparatus
Publication Date: 2020.09.15 SHIMADZU CORP
  • US10772592B2 patent drawing
  • US10772592B2 patent drawing
  • US10772592B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This X-ray phase contrast imaging apparatus (100) includes an X-ray source (1) that radiates continuous X-rays, a first grating (3) that forms a self-image, a second grating (4), a detector (5) that detects the continuous X-rays, and a third grating (2) arranged between the detector (5) and the first grating 3. The first grating (3), the second grating (4), and the third grating (2) are arranged so as to satisfy conditions of predetermined formulas.