X-ray Scattering Mitigation Material for Imaging Artifacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compton and Rayleigh scattering significantly affect the resolution and precision of x-ray imaging, with existing methods failing to effectively mitigate these scattering phenomena.
Innovation Solution
Contacting an object with an x-ray scattering mitigation material, which can be optimized for either Compton or Rayleigh radiation scattering, and applied through coating, immersion in a fluid, or other methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional x-ray imaging is used, then the imaging process is simple and fast, but Compton and Rayleigh scattering significantly degrade resolution and precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (scattering mitigation material) between the x-ray source and the object, or between the object and the detector. This intermediary material is specifically designed to absorb or redirect scattered photons, thereby reducing Compton and Rayleigh scattering artifacts without significantly affecting the primary x-ray beam. The intermediary acts as a mediator that selectively interacts with scattered radiation to improve image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful scattered photons into beneficial signals by using scattering mitigation materials that absorb or redirect these scattered photons. Instead of allowing scattered photons to create artifacts, the system uses materials that transform these harmful scattered radiation into useful attenuation or redirection, thereby improving the signal-to-noise ratio and reducing imaging artifacts.
2Measurement precision
If scattering mitigation material is applied to the object, then scattering artifacts are reduced and image quality improves, but the imaging process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies scattering mitigation material locally to specific regions of the object or to the imaging path where scattering artifacts are most problematic. Rather than requiring complete coverage, the material is applied strategically to areas with high scattering potential, such as regions with high electron density or specific anatomical structures, thereby reducing artifacts while minimizing added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes materials with specific physical parameters (electron density, atomic number, Compton scattering cross-section) that are optimized for particular imaging conditions. By selecting materials with appropriate parameters and adjusting their concentration or distribution, the system can reduce scattering artifacts while maintaining a relatively simple imaging process.
3Measurement precision
If scattering mitigation material is applied to the object, then scattering artifacts are reduced, but the material application process adds complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs scattering mitigation materials that can be applied through self-service mechanisms, such as sprayable formulations that automatically distribute the material, or materials that are already integrated into the object being imaged. The system uses methods where the material application is either automated or inherently part of the imaging setup, reducing the manual complexity of application while maintaining effective scattering mitigation.
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
The use of x-ray scattering mitigation materials effectively reduces scattering artifacts, improving the clarity and fidelity of x-ray images by preferentially absorbing scattered photons.
Implementation Method 1
Compton and Rayleigh scattering are significant problems affecting resolution and precision of x-ray imaging
Implementation Method 2
Compton and Rayleigh scattering are significant problems affecting resolution and precision of x-ray imaging
Implementation Method 3
The use of x-ray scattering mitigation materials effectively reduces scattering artifacts, improving the clarity and fidelity of x-ray images by preferentially absorbing scattered photons
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are methods for minimizing x-ray scattering artifacts, the method comprising: contacting an object with an x-ray scattering mitigation material. The contacting can comprise coating the x-ray scattering material on the object, including spraying a solution of suspension of an x-ray scattering mitigation material onto the object or dry powder coating the object with a x- ray scattering mitigation material. Alternatively, the contacting can comprise immersing the object in a fluid comprising the x-ray scattering material. The fluid can be a gas, a liquid, or a gel. The disclosed x-ray scattering mitigation material can be optimized for mitigating Compton radiation scattering or for mitigating Rayleigh radiation scattering. This abstract is intended as a scanning tool for purposes of searching in the particular art and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure.