X-ray Tomography Apparatus Dynamic Dose Modulation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing X-ray tomography techniques face challenges in acquiring high-resolution images while minimizing the X-ray exposure dose, particularly due to the influence of high X-ray absorption sites which can lead to increased doses and reduced image resolution.

Innovation Solution

An X-ray tomography apparatus that dynamically adjusts the X-ray dose based on the orientation of the X-ray beam with respect to the tomographic layer of interest, increasing the dose when the beam is orthogonal and decreasing it when not, and using a turning arm to support the X-ray generator and detector, allowing for integral rotation and adjustment of the imaging region and tomographic layer settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the X-ray dose is increased to improve image resolution, then the image resolution is improved, but the X-ray exposure dose to the subject increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage resolutionVSAvoidX-ray exposure dose
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by differentiating the X-ray dose application based on the specific anatomical region being imaged. High X-ray absorption sites (such as bone structures) receive different dose management compared to soft tissue regions. The system adjusts X-ray output dynamically based on the detected absorption characteristics of different body parts, ensuring adequate image resolution where needed while minimizing unnecessary exposure in other areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the X-ray tube current and voltage based on real-time feedback from the imaging system. The controller modifies X-ray generation parameters (mA, kVp) according to the detected absorption patterns and imaging requirements, allowing optimization of image quality while reducing overall dose. This includes adjusting dose rates, exposure times, and beam intensity based on the specific imaging task and patient anatomy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If the influence of high X-ray absorption sites is reduced by increasing X-ray output, then the image quality is improved, but the X-ray exposure dose increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidX-ray exposure dose
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback control by using the detected X-ray absorption information to dynamically adjust subsequent X-ray output. The system continuously monitors the absorption characteristics of high-density structures and modifies the X-ray beam intensity accordingly. This feedback mechanism allows the system to compensate for absorption variations without applying uniformly increased dose, thereby maintaining image quality while reducing unnecessary exposure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static, fixed-dose imaging to dynamic, adaptive dose modulation. The X-ray output is continuously adjusted during the imaging process based on real-time detection of absorption patterns. This dynamic approach allows the system to optimize dose distribution moment-by-moment, ensuring adequate penetration through high-absorption sites while minimizing dose to surrounding tissues and reducing overall exposure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 enables the acquisition of high-resolution X-ray tomographic images while reducing the X-ray exposure dose to the subject by optimizing the X-ray dose distribution during the imaging process, particularly by compensating for high X-ray absorption sites and improving image quality through controlled X-ray intensity and beam orientation.

Implementation Method 1

an X-ray generator that emits an X-ray beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray emission: X-Ray

Implementation Method 2

an X-ray detector that detects the X-ray beam emitted from the X-ray generator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray detection: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 3

a control model based on high X-ray absorption site information existing in the subject

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray absorption: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentEP3590432B1X-ray tomography apparatus and x-ray tomography method
Publication Date: 2022.01.26 J MORITA MANUFACTURING CORP
  • EP3590432B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3590432B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3590432B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

To provide a technique of acquiring a high-resolution X-ray tomographic image while suppressing an increase in an X-ray exposure dose. A dose setting unit 308 generates dose control data in order to change a unit time dose of an X-ray beam BX1 with which a subject M1 is irradiated during X-ray tomography. An imaging controller 80 makes X-ray intensity I1 when a center axis X-ray CBX1 (irradiation axis) of an X-ray beam BX1 emitted from an X-ray generator 42 is not orthogonal to a tomographic layer of interest LOI relatively smaller than X-ray intensity I0 when the center axis X-ray CBX1 is orthogonal to the tomographic layer of interest LOI.