X-ray Phase Imaging Grating Position Adjustment for Dark Field Contrast

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional X-ray phase imaging systems face challenges in obtaining sufficient contrast in dark field images, particularly due to directional dependencies in X-ray scattering, leading to inconsistent image quality in regions of interest.

Innovation Solution

An X-ray phase imaging apparatus that adjusts the relative position between the subject and the imaging grating based on contrast analysis, using a controller to optimize the position for maximum contrast in dark field images, while maintaining alignment with absorption and light source gratings to enhance image clarity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the relative position between the subject and imaging grating is adjusted to maximize contrast in the dark field image, then the image quality and contrast are improved, but the device complexity and adjustment mechanism requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrast in dark field imageVSAvoidadjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging grating is made movable relative to the subject through an adjustment mechanism, allowing dynamic repositioning to optimize contrast. This transforms a static system into a dynamic one where the grating position can be adjusted based on imaging requirements, directly resolving the contradiction between achieving high contrast and maintaining system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The position parameter of the imaging grating is changed to optimize the contrast in dark field images. By adjusting the relative position between the imaging grating and the subject, the system achieves maximum contrast without requiring fundamental changes to the overall device architecture, thus improving image quality while controlling complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If multiple gratings (absorption grating, light source grating, imaging grating) are used to achieve clear dark field images, then the image quality is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage clarityVSAvoidgrating arrangement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each grating in the system serves multiple functions: the absorption grating provides both beam shaping and contrast enhancement, the light source grating provides illumination and phase information, and the imaging grating provides both structural information and contrast. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, achieving high image clarity while controlling overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The gratings are arranged in a nested configuration where the absorption grating, light source grating, and imaging grating are positioned sequentially in the X-ray path. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional elements to be integrated in a compact manner, achieving reliable image clarity without excessive device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the imaging grating is moved to optimize contrast for different regions of interest, then the adaptability and image quality are improved, but the adjustment time and productivity are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrast optimization for different regionsVSAvoidimaging speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary adjustment of the imaging grating position based on pre-acquired information about the subject and region of interest. By preparing the optimal grating position in advance based on expected imaging requirements, the system achieves high adaptability for different regions while minimizing actual adjustment time during the imaging process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from the detected X-ray signals to adjust the imaging grating position. By continuously monitoring the contrast in dark field images and adjusting the grating position accordingly, the system achieves optimal adaptability for different regions of interest while maintaining efficient imaging throughput through intelligent, data-driven adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 ensures sufficient contrast in dark field images by dynamically adjusting the relative positions, improving image quality and maintaining clear dark field images, allowing for more accurate analysis of subjects through absorption, phase differential, and dark field imaging.

Implementation Method 1

an imaging grating G1 that generates a grating image by transmitting the X-rays radiated to the subject S from the X-ray source 1

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffraction: Diffraction

Implementation Method 2

a detector 2 that detects the X-rays that have been transmitted through the imaging grating G1

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray detection: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS10809210B2X-ray phase imaging apparatus
Publication Date: 2020.10.20 SHIMADZU CORP
  • US10809210B2 patent drawing
  • US10809210B2 patent drawing
  • US10809210B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This X-ray phase imaging apparatus (100) includes a controller (5) that generates a dark field image (Iv) with respect to each of a plurality of relative positions between a subject (S) and an imaging grating (G1) changed by an adjustment mechanism (3) to acquire a contrast of a region of interest (ROI) in the dark field image (Iv), and controls the adjustment mechanism (3) to adjust a relative position between the subject (S) and the imaging grating (G1) based on the acquired contrast.