KR20190140017A - Filter Systems and Methods for Subject Imaging - Google Patents

Abstract

A method and system for acquiring image data of a subject is disclosed. Image data may be collected using an imaging system having at least two different energy characteristics. Image data may be reconstructed using reconstruction techniques.

Description

Filter Systems and Methods for Subject Imaging

The present disclosure relates to a subject's imaging, more particularly a system for acquiring image data with a dual energy imaging system.

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure that is not necessarily prior art.

A subject, such as a human patient, may choose or require to proceed with a surgical procedure to correct or augment a subject's anatomy. Augmentation of the anatomical structure may include various procedures, such as bone movement or augmentation, implantation (ie implantable device), or other suitable procedure. The surgeon may be able to obtain a subject's subject using an imaging system such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system, computed tomography (CT) system, fluoroscopy (eg, a C-Arm imaging system) or other suitable imaging system. Imaging can perform the procedure for the subject.

The subject's image may assist the surgeon in performing the procedure, including procedure planning and performing the procedure. The surgeon may select a two-dimensional or three-dimensional image representation of the subject. The image can help the surgeon perform the procedure with less invasive techniques by allowing the surgeon to see the anatomy of the subject without removing the overlying tissue (including skin and muscle tissue) when performing the procedure. .

This section provides an overall summary of the disclosure and is not an exhaustive disclosure of the full scope or all of the features.

According to various embodiments, a system for acquiring image data of a subject, such as a living patient (eg, a human patient), with an imaging system may use a plurality of energies. Moreover, enhanced contrast imaging can include contrast agents with or without a plurality of energies. An imaging system having a plurality of energies may include a first energy source having a first energy parameter and a second energy source having a second energy parameter to activate a source. Moreover, the imaging system can include a plurality of sources (each source can have the same trajectory or path), each source comprising one or more different energy properties.

 The imaging system may also include a pump operable to inject the contrast agent into the subject based on the instructions. The controller can communicate with both the imaging system and the pump to provide instructions to the pump to inject the contrast agent. The imaging system may communicate with the pump via a controller regarding the timing of injection of the contrast agent to the patient and is further operable to obtain image data based on the timing of injection of the contrast agent and / or the clinic procedure.

The imaging system may further include one or more filters to ensure and / or assist in proper or selected separation between the first and second energy characteristics. The first energy characteristic may be selected to provide a second x-ray energy spectrum in the first x-ray energy spectrum and the second energy characteristic having the first energy characteristic. A filter may be provided at a selected time to help ensure the subject has a suitable or selected spectrum for imaging, such as removing possible or actual overlap of the x-ray energy spectrum.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

The drawings described in this application are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and are not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
1 is an environmental diagram of an operating room imaging system.
2 is a detailed schematic diagram of an imaging system having a dual energy source system.
3 is a detail view of a filter assembly according to various embodiments.
4 is a detail view of a filter assembly according to various embodiments.
5 is a detail view of a filter assembly according to various embodiments.
6 is a perspective view of a drive assembly for the filter assembly shown in FIG. 5.
7 is a flowchart of a synchronization method.
8 is a detail view of a filter assembly according to various embodiments.
9 is a diagram of a multi-axis collimator assembly in accordance with various embodiments.
10A is a first perspective view of an X and Y axis selection assembly for a multi-axis collimator assembly in accordance with various embodiments.
10B is a second perspective view of the X and Y axis selection assembly of FIG. 10A for a multi-axis collimator assembly, in accordance with various embodiments.
11 is a plan view of an X and Y axis selection assembly for a multi-axis collimator assembly in accordance with various embodiments.
12 is a perspective view of X and Y axis selection assemblies for a multi-axis collimator assembly in accordance with various embodiments.
13 is a detail view of a multiple filter filter assembly according to various embodiments.
14 is a detail view of a multiple filter filter assembly according to various embodiments.
Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

Exemplary embodiments will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Referring to FIG. 1, in an operating room or operating room 10, a user, such as surgeon 12, may perform a procedure on a subject, such as patient 14. In performing the procedure, the user 12 may use the imaging system 16 to obtain image data of the patient 14 to enable the selected system to generate or generate an image to assist in performing the procedure. A model (eg, a three dimensional (3D) image) may be generated using the image data and displayed as image 18 on display device 20. Display device 20 may include an input device 24, such as a keyboard, and one or more processors or microprocessors integrated with processing system 22 with a selected type of non-transitory and / or temporary memory. It may be part of processor system 22 including and / or may be connected to the processor system. A connection 28 may be provided between the processor 26 and the display device 20 for data communication to drive the display device 20 to display or depict an image 18.

Imaging system 16 may include an O-Arm® imaging system sold by Medtronic Navigation, Inc., based in Louisville, Colorado, USA. Imaging systems 16 including O-Arm® imaging systems or other suitable imaging systems, such as those described in US Patent Application Publication Nos. 2012/0250822, 2012/0099772, and 2010/0290690, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. ) Can be used during the selected procedure.

For example, an imaging system 16 that includes an O-Arm® imaging system may include a mobile cart 30 that includes a controller and / or a control system 32. The control system may include a processor 33a and a memory 33b (eg, non-transitory memory). The memory 33b may include various instructions executed by the processor 33a to control the imaging system, including various portions of the imaging system 16. An imaging gantry 34 in which the source unit 36 and the detector 38 are located may be connected to the mobile cart 30. The gantry may be O-shaped or toroidal in shape, and the gantry is substantially annular and includes walls that form a volume within which the source unit 36 and the detector 38 can move. The mobile cart 30 may be moved from one operating room to another operating room as discussed further herein, and the gantry 34 may be moved relative to the cart 30. This allows the imaging system 16 to be movable relative to the subject 14 so that it can be used in multiple locations and multiple procedures without requiring dedicated capital expenditure or space for a fixed imaging system. The control system may include a processor such as a general purpose processor or a specific application processor and a memory system (eg, non-transitory memory such as spinning disk or solid state nonvolatile memory). For example, a memory system may include instructions to be executed by a processor to perform the functions discussed in this application and determine a result.

Source unit 36 may be an x-ray emitter capable of emitting x-rays through patient 14 to be detected by detector 38. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, x-rays emitted by the source 36 are emitted in a cone and can be detected by the detector 38. The source / detector unit 36/38 is opposed in the radial direction as a whole in the gantry 34. The detector 38 may move in 360 ° movement around the patient 14 within the gantry 34, and the source 36 may be rotated 180 ° relative to the detector 38 (eg, with a fixed internal gantry or Like a moving system). In addition, the gantry 34 may move isometrically relative to the subject 14, which may generally be placed on the patient support or table 15 in the direction of the arrow 40 as illustrated in FIG. 1. have. Gantry 34 may also be tilted relative to patient 14 as shown by arrow 42, and may line line 44 relative to cart 14 with longitudinal axis 14L of patient 14. Along the line 46 relative to the cart 30 in the transverse direction to the patient 14 so as to move in the longitudinal direction and to allow positioning of the source / detector 36/38 relative to the patient 14. You can move up and down. Imaging device 16 may be precisely controlled to move source / detector 36/38 relative to patient 14 to produce accurate image data of patient 14. Imaging device 16 may be coupled with processor 26 via a connection 50, which may include a wired or wireless connection or physical media transmission from imaging system 16 to processor 26. Thus, image data collected by imaging system 16 may be sent to processing system 22 for navigation, display, reconstruction, and the like.

Source 36, as discussed herein, may include one or more x-ray sources for imaging subject 14. In various embodiments, source 36 may include a single source that may be powered by more than one power source that generates and / or emits x-rays at different energy characteristics. Moreover, more than one x-ray source may be a source 36 that may be powered to emit x-rays having different energy characteristics at a selected time.

According to various embodiments, imaging system 16 may be used with an un-navigated or navigated procedure. In a search procedure, a localizer and / or digitizer comprising one or both of an optical localizer 60 and an electromagnetic localizer 62 may be fielded within the search domain in preparation for the patient 14. And / or to receive and / or transmit a signal. In contrast to the patient 14, the search space or search domain may be registered with the image 18. As will be appreciated in the art, correlation is to allow matching of the image space defined by image 18 and the search space defined within the search domain. The patient tracker or dynamic frame of reference 64 can be coupled to the patient 14 to allow for the maintenance of registration and dynamic summation to the image 18 of the patient 14.

The patient tracking device or dynamic registration device 64 and the instrument 66 can then be tracked against the patient 14 to allow for a search procedure. The instrument 66 may include a tracking device, such as an optical tracking device 68 and / or an electromagnetic tracking device 70, using one or both of the optical localizer 60 or the electromagnetic localizer 62. 66). The instrument 66 has a communication line 72 having a search / probe interface device 74, such as an electromagnetic localizer 62 having a communication line 76 and / or an optical localizer 60 having a communication line 78. ) May be included. Using communication lines 74 and 78, respectively, interface 74 may then communicate with processor 26 using communication line 80. It will be appreciated that any of the communication lines 28, 50, 76, 78 or 80 may be wired, wireless, physical media transmission or movement, or any other suitable communication. Nevertheless, a suitable communication system may allow the tracking of the instrument 66 relative to the patient 14 to allow for an illustration of the tracked position of the instrument 66 relative to the image 18 for performing the procedure. Localizers may be provided.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the instrument 66 may be any suitable instrument, such as a ventricular or vascular stent, spinal implant, nerve stent or stimulant, ablation device, or the like. The instrument 66 may be an interventional instrument or may include an implantable device or may be an implantable device. Instrument 66 tracking uses the matched image 18 without directly looking at the instrument 66 within the patient 14, so that the position (x, y, z position and orientation of the instrument 66 relative to the patient 14). It can be seen).

Moreover, the gantry 34 can include an optical tracking device 82 or an electromagnetic tracking device 84 that can be tracked with an individual optical localizer 60 or an electromagnetic localizer 62. Thus, the imaging device 16 may be tracked against the patient 14 as in the instrument 66 to allow initial, automatic or continuous registration of the patient 14 against the image 18. Matching and searching procedures are discussed in US Pat. No. 8,238,631, incorporated herein by reference. Upon registration and tracking of the instrument 66, an icon 174 may be displayed, including that superimposed on the image 18.

Referring to FIG. 2, according to various embodiments, the source 36 is connected to a switch 102 capable of connecting the x-ray tube 100 and the first power source A 104 and the second power source B 106 to each other. It can include a single x-ray tube 100 that can be connected. The x-rays are generally conical 108 from the x-ray tube 100 toward the detector 38 and in the corresponding direction from the source 100 as indicated generally by arrows, beam arrows, beams or vectors 110. Can be released. The switch 102 powers up to power the x-ray tube 100 at different voltages and / or amps to emit x-rays at different energy characteristics in the direction of the vector 110 towards the detector 38 as a whole. It may be switched between A 104 and power source B 106. The vector 110 may be a central vector or light ray in the cone 108 of the x-rays. The x-ray beam may be emitted as a cone 108 or other suitable shape. It may include a selected line or axis related to further interaction with the beam, such as the filter member discussed further.

However, switch 102 may also be connected to a single variable power source that may provide power characteristics at different voltages and / or amps than switch 102 connected to two different power sources A 104 and B 106. It will be understood. Moreover, switch 102 may be a switch that operates to switch a single power source between different voltages and amps. Moreover, source 36 may include more than one source configured or operable to emit x-rays in more than one energy characteristic. The switch or selected system may be operable to power two or more x-ray tubes to generate x-rays at a selected time.

The patient 14 may be positioned within the x-ray cone 108 to obtain image data of the patient 14 based on x-ray emission in the direction of the vector 110 towards the detector 38.

The two power sources A and B 104, 106 may be provided in the source housing 36 or may be separated from the source 36 and may be connected with the first cable or wire 112 and the second cable or wire 114. It can be simply connected to the switch 102 via such a suitable electrical connection. Switch 102 is powered A 104 and power B 106 at an appropriate rate to allow the emission of x-rays at two different energies through the patient 14 for the various imaging procedures discussed further herein. You can switch between. Different energies may be used for material separation and / or material enhanced reconstruction or imaging of the patient 14.

The switching rate of the switch 102 may include about 1 millisecond (ms) to about 1 second, further includes about 10 ms to 500 ms, and may further include about 50 ms. According to various embodiments, the power may be switched at a rate of about 30 Hz. Thus, x-rays can be emitted with energy characteristics according to respective power sources A and B for about 33 ms.

Moreover, power source A 104 and power source B 106 may be provided to include different power characteristics including different voltages and different amps based on the selected contrast enhancement requirements. Different power characteristics allow the x-rays to include different energy characteristics. Different energy properties of two or more different x-ray emissions interact and attenuate differently (eg, absorb, block, deflection, etc.) by the same material. For example, as discussed further herein, soft tissue (eg, muscle or vasculature) and hard tissue of a patient 14 may be performed without the provision of any contrast agent. (eg, enhanced observation and identification) between hard tissues (eg bone). In addition, different energy characteristics may help to increase the contrast between the contrast agent injected into the patient 14 and the area without contrast agent injected into the patient 14.

As further discussed in this application, each emission of the x-ray in the selected energy characteristic may comprise an x-ray energy spectral range. The x-ray energy spectral range for any given power supply level, however, may generally be broad. For example, broadband may include specific and / or single energy levels as well as the energy range over which x-rays are emitted. Thus, even if two different power characteristics are used, the emitted x-rays may overlap between the two x-ray emissions generated by the two power sources A and B. Filter assembly 200 may comprise a filter element of filter material discussed in this application, which may be used to attenuate a portion of the spectrum of one or more x-ray emissions. When partially attenuating the spectrum of the emission of the x-rays, the differentiation between the two emissions can be greater and the spectral overlap can be minimized. For example, the filter element may attenuate lower energy x-rays when the x-ray tube is powered by a higher powered power source A or B.

As an example, power source A 104 may have a voltage of about 75 kV and may have an amp of about 50 mA, which may be different from power source B, which may have voltages of 150 kV and 20 mA. The selected voltage and ampere are then switched using the switch 102 to power the x-ray tube 100 to direct the direction of the vector 110 to the detector 38 in and / or through the patient 14. X-rays having the selected energy characteristics can be emitted. It will be appreciated that the range of voltage for power source A may be between about 40 kV and about 80 kV, and the amperage may be between about 10 mA and about 500 mA. In general, the power characteristic difference between the first power source A 104 and the second power source B 106 may be about 40 kV to about 60 kV and about 20 mA to about 150 mA. In other words, for example, power source B can power the x-ray tube 100 at a voltage of about 40 kV to about 60 kV and about 20 mA to about 150 mA of amperage A. In addition to the energy and mA differences, the pulse width of the exposure can also vary from 1 ms to 50 ms.

Dual power supplies allow dual energy x-rays to be emitted by the x-ray tube 100. As discussed above, two or dual energy x-rays may allow for enhanced and / or dynamic contrast reconstruction of the model of the subject 14 based on the acquired image data of the patient 14. However, it is understood that more than one power source may be provided or they may be altered during operation to provide x-rays in more than one energy characteristic. The discussion of the present application for two or dual energy is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure unless specifically noted.

In general, an iterative or algebraic process may be used to reconstruct at least some models of the patient 14 (eg, for the image 18) based on the acquired image data. It is understood that the model may include three-dimensional (3D) rendering of the imaged portion of the patient 14 based on the image data. The rendering may be formed or generated based on the selected technique as discussed herein.

The power source may power the x-ray tube 100 to generate a two-dimensional (2D) x-ray projection of the patient 14, a selected portion of the patient 14, or any area, area or volume of interest. have. 2D x-ray projection is discussed in this application to generate and / or display a three-dimensional (3D) volume model of the patient 14, a selected portion of the patient 14, or any area, region or volume of interest, as discussed herein. Can be reconfigured together. As discussed in this application, 2D x-ray projection may be image data acquired with imaging system 16, while a 3D volume model may generate or model image data.

To reconstruct or form 3D volumetric images, suitable algebraic techniques are generally understood by those skilled in the art, such as Expectation Maximization (EM), Ordered Subsets EM (OS-EM), Simultaneous Algebraic Reconstruction Technique (SART) and Total TVM (Total). Variation Minimization). Applications that perform 3D volumetric reconstruction based on 2D projection allow for efficient and complete volumetric reconstruction. In general, the algebraic technique may include an iterative process for performing a reconstruction of the patient 14 to display as the image 18. For example, a pure or theoretical image data projection, such as based on or generated from an atlas or stylized model of a "theoretical" patient, is such that a theoretical projection image is obtained from the patient 14's acquired 2D projection image data. Can be changed repeatedly until The stylized model can then be appropriately modified as a 3D volumetric reconstruction model of the acquired 2D projection image data of the selected patient 14 and used for surgical interventions such as exploration, diagnosis or planning. The theoretical model can be associated with theoretical image data to form a theoretical model. In this way, the model or image data 18 can be built based on image data obtained from the patient 14 using the imaging device 16.

The 2D projection image data is substantially annular or 360 of the source / detector 36/38 around the patient 14 due to the positioning of the source / detector 36/38 moving around the patient 14 with optimal movement. ° can be obtained by azimuth movement. The optimum movement may be a predetermined movement of the source / detector 36/38 alone or with the movement of the gantry 34 as described above. The optimal movement may be a movement that allows acquisition of sufficient image data to reconstruct the selected quality of the image 18. This optimal movement is achieved by moving the source / detector 36/38 along the path to obtain the selected amount of image data without more or substantially more x-ray exposure, thereby causing the patient 14 and / or user 12 to move. May be attempted to minimize or minimize exposure to x-rays.

In addition, due to the movement of the gantry 34, the detector does not need to move in a pure circle, but rather can move in a spiral helix or other rotational movement relative to or around the patient 14. In addition, the path may be substantially asymmetrical and / or nonlinear based on the movement of the imaging system 16 including the gantry 34 and detector 38 together. In other words, the path need not be continuous in that the detector 38 and the gantry 34 may stop and return back along the optimal path (eg, oscillation) or the like. Thus, the detector 38 does not need to move a full 360 ° around the patient 14 because the gantry 34 can be tilted or otherwise moved and the detector 38 can stop and move again in the direction already passed.

In acquiring image data at the detector 38, dual energy x-rays generally depend on the characteristics of the tissue or contrast agent of the patient 14 and the energy of the two x-rays emitted by the x-ray tube 100. Interact differently with the tissue and / or contrast agent of the patient 14 on the basis. For example, the soft tissue of patient 14 may absorb or scatter x-rays having energy generated by power source B 106 and x-rays having energy generated by other power source A 104. have. Similarly, a contrast agent, such as iodine, may absorb or scatter x-rays generated by power source A 104 unlike those produced by power source B 106. Switching between power source A 104 and power source B 106 may include different types of material properties (eg, hard or soft anatomy or two types of soft anatomical structures (eg, blood vessels and peripherals) within patient 14. Tissue)), contrast agents, implants (eg, metal implants), and surrounding natural anatomical structures (eg, bones). Switched between two power supplies 104, 106 and knowing the time when power source A is used to generate an X-ray opposite to power source B to generate an x-ray, the detector 38 detects The information can be used to identify or isolate different types of anatomical structures or contrast agents that have been imaged.

The timer may be used to determine when first power source A 104 is used and when second power source B 106 is used. This allows the images to be indexed and separated to create different models of the patient 14. Moreover, as discussed herein, a timer, which may be a separate system or included in the imaging system 16 or the processor system 26, may be used to index the image data generated with the contrast agent injected into the patient 14. Can be used.

Since at least the x-ray tube 100 is in a movable imaging system such as the imaging system 16, it may be moved relative to the patient 14. Thus, the x-ray tube 100 can be moved relative to the patient 14 while at the same time the energy for the x-ray tube 100 is switched between power source A 104 and power source B 106. Thus, the image acquired with power source A 104 may not be in the same posture or location relative to patient 14 as with power source B 106. However, if the model is required or selected to be formed in a single location on the patient 14, various interpolation techniques can be used to generate the model. Interpolation may be between image data obtained at a first time and image data obtained at a second time. Image data at the first and second time may be generated with two different energies. Thus, a model can be formed that includes image data from both energies using interpolation between the acquired image data. Moreover, interpolation is intended to describe the amount of movement (eg, linear, rotation, etc.) of the x-ray tube 100 between the projection by power source A 104 and when projection by power source B 106 is obtained. It may be.

The dual energy of the x-rays emitted by the x-ray tube 100 due to the two power sources 104, 106 allows for a substantially efficient and enhanced contrast determination decision between the vasculature and muscle tissue of the patient 14. Allowed. In addition, switching by the switch 102 between the power source A 104 and the power source B 106 allows a patient such as modeling the vasculature of the patient 14 in which the single x-ray tube 100 contains contrast medium therein. Allows for an efficient configuration of source 36 that may allow for the generation of x-rays at different energies to allow for enhanced or dynamic contrast modeling of (14).

The patient 14 may also be imaged with the injected contrast agent by gating acquisition of image data of the patient 14 based on the injection of the contrast agent. According to various embodiments, a contrast agent, such as iodine, may be injected into the patient 14 to provide additional contrast in the acquired imaging data of the patient 14 with the imaging system 16. However, during imaging acquisition, the contrast agent flows through the patient's vasculature from the arterial phase to the venous phase. For example, the contrast agent can be injected into the patient 14 in an artery, where the contrast agent is passed through the vasculature of the patient 14 to the heart, through the heart, through the venous system to the lungs and back through the heart. Exit to the artery part of the vasculature.

When acquiring the image data of the patient 14 to identify or reconstruct the vasculature of the patient 14, knowing the timing at which the image data is obtained in contrast to the timing of injection of the contrast agent is a contrast agent through the structure of the patient 14. It is possible to allow reconstruction of various phases based on the known movement of. In other words, it is generally understood that the contrast agent will flow through the patient 14 as described above at known or generally known rates. Dual energy x-rays generated with the x-ray tube 100 based on power source A 104 and power source B 106 may be used to generate image data of any portion of the vasculature of the patient 14. .

Thus, acquisition of the image data may be gated in preparation for injection of the contrast agent into the patient 14. For example, the control unit 32 of the imaging system 16 may include a pump 170 (shown in FIG. 1) via a communication line 172 (shown in FIG. 1) that pumps or injects a contrast agent to the patient 14. Can be associated with or communicated with. The communication 172 between the pump 170 and the imaging device controller 32 may be any suitable communication, such as a wired, wireless or other data communication system. Moreover, control of the pump 170 may be integrated into the control 32 of the imaging system 16 or the processor system 26.

Dual energy imaging systems may include those disclosed in US Patent Application Publication Nos. 2012/0099768 and 2012/0097178, both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

In addition to generating different energies of x-rays, including dual energy x-rays as discussed above, filter assembly 200 provides a selective difference between the x-ray spectra of two different energies of x-rays. To help ensure or generate The filter assembly 200 may also be timed with respect to the acquisition of the pump 170 and the image data to assist in gating the image data obtained from the patient 14. Thus, filter assembly 200 can be operated to image patient 14 to achieve differentiation between dual energies of x-rays.

Referring to FIG. 3, filter assembly 200a is shown. The filter assembly 200a may be provided to the imaging system 16 such that the x-rays emitted from the x-ray tube selectively pass through the filter member 210 of the filter assembly 200a. The filter assembly 200a may include a motor assembly 220. Motor assembly 220 may be any suitable motor assembly assembled to imaging system 16 without disturbing the operation of imaging system 16. Exemplary motor assemblies include a variety of stepper and / or brushless servo motors, such as the Maxon® EC-max 30 DC brushless motor sold by Maxon Motor Ag with operations in Switzerland.

In general, motor assembly 220 may be a motor assembly for rotationally driving an axle or shaft 224. Mounted on the shaft 224 may be a filter member holding member 226. Holding member 226 may be secured to axle 224 with a set screw in bore 228. The shaft 224 may be received in the bore 230 of the shaft connection portion 232 of the holding assembly 226. Extending from the shaft mounting portion 232 may be the filter holding portion 236. Filter element 210 may be positioned on holding portion 236 in a selected manner. For example, filter portion 210 may be mounted with a fixing material such as an adhesive or mounting hardware such as a rivet or bolt. According to various embodiments, the filter member 210 may be a metallic material brazed or welded to the holding portion 236. The holding portion may be formed into a frame such that the x-rays passing through the subject will only pass through the filter element 210, not the portion of the holding portion 236.

The motor assembly 220 may be driven or controlled by a controller inside the motor assembly 220. Moreover, motor assembly 220 may be controlled by imaging controller 32. Imaging system controller 32 may control imaging system 16 including filter assembly 200a for imaging patient 14 in accordance with a selected imaging scheme. The filter assembly 200a may be driven or operated to help obtain dual energy image data of the patient 14 as discussed further herein. Imaging sensing controller 32 may control the movement and location of source 36 and the operation of filter assembly 200a. As mentioned above, the controller 32 may include a memory having a predetermined imaging protocol (including timing of imaging, number of image projections, etc.) and associated timing for operating the motor assembly 220 to move the filter. Can be.

Motor assembly 220 may rotate filter element 210 or filter holding portion 236 at a selected speed in substantially any direction or in both directions of bidirectional arrow 240 and may stop filter element 210 at a selected time. Which may include a motor assembly. In general, the motor assembly 220 may operate to move the filter member 210 in a first direction and then to stop and move the filter member in a second direction, such as in the opposite direction. For example, during operation the filter element 210 may generally move 90 ° into and out of the x-ray beam, such as along the vector 110. As discussed above, the x-ray beam may switch energy characteristics depending on which power source A or B 104, 106 is powering the x-ray tube 100. The switching speed may be about 30 Hz. Thus, the filter member 210 needs to be accelerated at about 900,000 degrees / s ² to move into the beam path 110 so that the filter member 210 can be properly positioned within about 23 milliseconds.

As schematically shown in FIG. 3, x-ray tube 100 may generally emit x-rays in the direction of vector 110. The x-rays will then impinge on or pass through the filter element 210 to be filtered before reaching the patient 14 and detector 38. When filter 210 is selected to filter x-rays from x-ray tube 100, filter element 210 may be moved and positioned in a first direction as shown in FIG. 210 is at a first position in the path of the x-ray along ray 110. The filter element 210 may then be moved in the second direction and positioned in the second position shown phantom at 236 ′ in FIG. 3 outside the x-ray path, not within the light ray 110. Movement from the first position to the second position by the filter member 210 may be substantially 90 ° as illustrated between the carrier 236 and the carrier 236 ′ shown phantom.

Thus, motor assembly 220 can be any suitable motor that can move at a selected speed. The selected speed can include the time to move the carrier 236 and emit an x-ray to obtain image data. Thus, in various embodiments, the selected speed may include about 4500 RPM to move the carrier or filter holding portion 236 at a speed of about 90 ° every about 20 milliseconds (ms). This will allow the filter 210 to move in and out of the x-beam 110 every 33 ms and be allocated about 10 ms to about 13 ms to obtain image data with the x-ray beam 110. Suitable motors may include DC servo motors, AC servo motors, stepper motors or other suitable motors. Motor assembly 220 may include a direct drive or gear assembly. As shown in FIG. 3, the shaft 224 may extend directly from the motor and directly engage the filter holding portion 226. However, it should be understood that motor assembly 220 may also be provided to operate or move filter holding portion 236 through a transmission or other suitable device.

One or more encoders may be provided to the motor assembly 220 to determine the position of the motor including the shaft 224. For example, encoder 242 may be attached to shaft 224 and housing 243 of motor assembly 220 and / or integrated into motor assembly 220. Encoder 242 may include an incremental or absolute encoder that may be optical, magnetic or inductive. The encoder 242 can track or determine the position of the shaft 224, such that the filter holding portion 226 is fixedly attached to the shaft 224. For example, encoder 242 may include a reader or sensor at both the "in" position and the "out" beam position (shown in phantom 236 '). Encoder 242 may then provide a controller 32 with a signal regarding the sensed position. The encoder 242 can provide the position of the filter holding portion 226 to the image controller 32. The image controller 32 may filter the filter member (inside and out of the path 110 of the x-ray from the x-ray tube 100 based on the position of the filter member 210 and the timing of the release of the x-ray at the selected energy). Motor assembly 220 may be properly operated to move 210. Thus, the movement of the filter element 210 may be timed and selected based on the emission signal and / or timing of the x-ray at the selected first or second energy.

Thus, during operation the two power supplies A and B 104, 106 can optionally power the x-ray tube 100 alternatively. While powering the x-ray tube to a selected operation, for example, power source B 106, filter element 210 may be positioned within path 110 of the x-ray at a first location. Since the imaging control system 32 can determine and power the x-ray tube 100 using the power source B 104, the control system 32 also uses the set power source B 104 to x- The filter assembly 200a may be operated to move the filter member 210 into the path when powering the ray tube 100. The encoder 242 determines whether the filter member 210 is in the proper position relative to the path of the x-ray 110 to ensure that the filter 210 is positioned to obtain imaging data of the patient 14. It can be used to When power source A energizes to emit an x-ray along ray 110, filter element 210 is located in a second position outside the path of the x-ray along ray 110 (the phantom 236 ′ of FIG. 3). May be moved by the motor assembly 220.

However, it is understood that the filter holder can rotate continuously on the shaft 224 in a single direction, such as at least 360 ° of rotation. Encoder 242 may then provide a signal as to when the filter element is in an in-beam position, as shown by the solid line in FIG. 3. The movement of the filter element 210 and the carrier 236 may be synchronized with the emission of the x-ray at the selected energy parameter using one of the selected power sources A, B 104, 106. Synchronization may occur as discussed in this application.

Moreover, it is understood that the filter carrier portion 226 may include more than one filter carrier portion 236 having more than one filter member 210. For example, the two filter elements may be provided at substantially 180 degrees to each other. At one rotational speed, the filter will be twice as often in the beam path 110. Moreover, any suitable number of filter elements can be provided.

As discussed above, the filter material may be selected to selectively remove certain portions of the x-ray spectrum. Since the x-ray from the x-ray tube 100 can be powered by the power source B 104, the x-ray may still contain a larger spectrum than the one selected. Thus, the filter element 210 may comprise a second such that it includes a spectrum with a narrower, higher or lower average energy than can be provided by powering the x-ray tube 100 with a power source B 106. You can filter x-rays by energy. Moreover, filter material 210 may be selected to achieve a selected x-ray spectrum such that its average energy may be approximated at 60-80 kV, which is different from the unfiltered spectrum. Thus, the selected filter material may comprise copper, aluminum or other high-z material. However, it is also understood that filter element 210 can be used to filter x-rays powered from power source A 104. Moreover, filter element 210 may be used to filter x-rays powered by both power sources A and B 104, 106. Furthermore, more than one filter member may be provided to filter the x-rays powered by the first filter member to power source A 104 and the second filter to filter the x-rays powered by power source B 106. Can be.

Referring to FIG. 4, filter assembly 200b is shown. Filter assembly 200b may be integrated into imaging system 16 together with or alternatively to filter assembly 200a described above. The filter assembly 200b is a filter that can be moved substantially linearly in two directions generally in the same plane and / or parallel to the plane defined by the filter element 260 in the direction of the bidirectional arrow 262. It can include the member or portion 260. The filter assembly 200b is moved to a first position such that the filter element 260 intersects the beam of x-rays along the vector 110 emitted from the x-ray tube 100, as schematically shown in FIG. 4. It can be moved in the first direction. The filter element 260 on the filter carrier 264 may then be moved to the second position in the opposite or other direction to the second position such that the filter element 260 leaves the x-ray path along the vector 110. . Filter member 260 may be carried on filter carrier 264 driven by a linear motor or actuator 270.

The linear motor 270 may include a mountain motor according to various embodiments. For example, linear motor 270 may comprise a suitable linear motor including a movable or fixed magnet and a movable or fixed motor coil. Exemplary linear motors include slotless linear motors, balanced linear motors, and the like. Exemplary commercially available linear motors include Javelin ™ series motors and / or flat body Juke ™ series motors, including Models 1486 and 1487 sold by Celera Motion, with operations in Loomis, California. The linear motor 270 may move the filter carrier 264 in plane relative to the ray 110 of the x-ray at the selected speed and / or the selected time. As discussed above, x-rays at different energy characteristics may be emitted from the x-ray tube 100 at a frequency of about 30 Hz. Thus, filter element 260 will generally have to move into ray 110 within about 23 milliseconds to allow exposure of about 10 milliseconds of patient 14 to x-rays. Thus, filter element 260 is timed to move in and out of the x-ray beam to affect only the x-ray beam selected in the energy characteristic selected to have the effect of removing a portion of the emitted x-ray spectrum. Can be done.

According to various embodiments, the linear motor 270 may include a stationary linear motor coil 274 and a movable magnet 276. Stationary coil 274 may be secured to a structure such as base plate or member 278 and / or one or more linear bearings 280. The movable magnet 276 positioned on or against the stationary linear motor coil 274 can generally be moved in the direction of the two-way arrow 262. The filter carrier 264 may be mounted to the movable magnet 276 using a suitable mechanism such as adhesive, screws, rivets, or the like. For example, one or more bores 282 may be provided in the filter carrier 264 that allow a fixing member such as a screw to secure the filter carrier 264 to the movable magnet 276.

In operation, the movable magnet 276 can be driven in the direction of the arrow 262 by the stationary motor coil 274. The operation of the linear motor in this configuration is generally understood by those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail in this application. Nevertheless, the stationary motor coil 274 operates to sequentially power the coils in the stationary motor coil 274 to move the movable magnet 276 through magnetic field interaction with the movable magnet 276. Can be. The movable magnet 276 can include permanent and / or electromagnets that interact with the coils in the stationary coil 274 to move the movable magnet 276. When the filter carrier 264 is secured to the movable magnet 276, the filter carrier 264 carrying the filter 260 may move with the movable magnet 276. The linear bearing 280 may hold and guide the filter carrier 264 connected in a selected manner to the movable magnet 276. The linear bearing 280 may ensure that the filter carrier 264 and the movable magnet 276 generally move in the direction of the arrow 262.

Drive motor coil 274 may be coupled to image controller 32 to operate motor 270 in accordance with a predetermined timing or gating that places filter 260 on x-rays. As discussed above in connection with filter assembly 200a, image controller 32 controls and determines imaging timing by x-rays. Image controller 32 includes a predetermined timing for powering the x-rays at selected energy to obtain image data of patient 14. Accordingly, the image controller 32 moves the filter element 260 into and out of the vector 110 of the x-ray from the x-ray tube 100 in accordance with the determined or predetermined x-ray imaging scheme. The linear motor 270 may be controlled to move inside and outside. As mentioned above, the controller 32 may include a memory having a predetermined imaging protocol (including timing of imaging, number of image projections, etc.) and associated timing for operating the motor assembly 270 to move the filter. have.

For example, imaging controller 32 may include a selection time and / or frequency of emitting x-rays powered by one or both of power source A 104 and power source B 106. The movement of the filter element 260 along the vector 110 to the x-ray beam may be selected and timed against the emission of the x-ray. Movement of filter element 260 by linear motor 270 may be synchronized to the emission of x-rays. In various embodiments, the movement of the filter 260 with the linear motor 270 controlled by the controller 32 may be cyclical according to a predetermined cycle or rarely depending on the imaging protocol selected. Nevertheless, the controller 32 may move the filter element 260 in the direction of the two-way arrow 262 to position the filter element 260 in the light beam 110 of the x-ray or out of its path. 270 may be controlled.

The position of the motor 270 may be determined by an encoder such as the linear encoder 290. The linear encoder 290 may include an inductive encoder coupled to the filter carrier 264 and having a filter carrier and a movable rail 294 and a fixed read head 292. However, it is understood that this can be reversed so that the rail 294 is fixed against it while the read head 292 can move with the filter carrier 264. Nevertheless, the read head 292 is also connected to the controller 32 such that the read head 292 transmits a signal (eg, a position signal) about the position of the filter carrier 264 to the controller 32. It may be operable. Based on the signal, the controller 32 can determine the absolute or incremental position of the filter carrier 264. Thus, the controller 32 can determine the position of the filter element 260 by determining the position of the filter carrier 264 via the encoder 290. However, it is understood that the encoder 290 may be any suitable encoder, such as an optical encoder, a rotary encoder, or an alternative linear encoder. Moreover, optical and magnetic techniques can be used as an alternative or in addition to the inductive encoder.

Moving the filter element 260 in a linear manner through an appropriate filter carrier 264 may be a lead or ball screw, a balanced linear motor, a worm screw, or other suitable drive mechanism. It may also be performed by a motor. Moreover, it will be appreciated that the linear motor according to various embodiments may include a moving coil 274 and a fixed magnet 276. In the movable coil assembly, the filter carrier 264 may be mounted on the drive coil 274, and the magnet 276 is fixed to a mounting portion, such as a mounting plate 278 or a bearing 280.

Referring to FIG. 5, filter assembly 200c is shown. The filter assembly 200c may include a filter member 300 carried by the filter carrier 310, which may rotate about an axis on the shaft. Filter member 300 may be formed of selected materials, including those discussed above, and secured to filter carrier 310. For example, a bore may be formed in the filter member 300, and one or more screws 312 pass through the filter member 300 and the filter carrier 310 or by engaging with the filter member 300 to transport the filter member 300. Fix to (310). It is understood that other fastening mechanisms, such as welding, adhesive, brazing, and the like, may be provided to secure the filter member 300 to the filter carrier 310. The carrier 310 may further be provided as a frame through which the x-rays that pass through the filter element 300 and reach the detector pass through the filter element 300 but do not pass through the material of the filter carrier 310.

As shown in FIG. 5, the filter carrier 310 may have a curved outer edge 314 such that the filter carrier 310 includes a radius 316 and has an outer arcuate edge 314. Thus, the filter carrier 310 may form at least a portion of a circular or round member. The combination of filter carrier 310 and filter element 300 may have a selected mass that defines or forms only part of a circle. Accordingly, a counter balance 320 may be fixed to the filter carrier 310 to balance the mass of the filter member 300 and the filter carrier 310.

 The counter balance may have an arcuate outer edge 322 and a radius 324 substantially similar to the radius 316. Accordingly, the counter balance 320 may form the filter carrier 310 in a circular shape. Counter balance 320 and filter carrier 310 are filter elements 300 in preparation for x-rays to be located inside and outside the x-rays traveling along direction 110 as a whole, as schematically shown in FIG. 5. Filter carrier assembly 350 is formed to move.

The filter carrier 310 may rotate about a shaft having or forming a central axis 330. The filter carrier 310 can be operated to rotate in two or a single direction, such as in the direction of the arrow 340 around the axis 330. In various embodiments, filter carrier 310 may be moved to carry filter element 300 in substantially one direction of rotation.

According to various embodiments, filter carrier 310 may be operated to rotate about axis 330 at a substantially constant speed and revolutions per minute (RPM). Thus, whether the filter member 300 is in the beam path 110 or in the open region of the filter carrier assembly 350 in the beam path 110. When filter carrier 310 rotates about axis 330 in the direction of arrow 340 in open void or void region 344 at least partially formed by counter balance 320, it is spaced apart from beam path 110 or It can be located in the beam path. Thus, rotation of the filter carrier 310 around the axis 330 may alternately place the filter member 300 in the beam path 110 or the void 344 in the beam path 110. However, it is understood that the filter member 300 can be sized and moving the filter member 300 will cause the void to be in the beam path, thus eliminating the need to form voids with the counter balance 320.

The filter carrier 310 on the assembly may need to rotate at a selected speed in the direction of the arrow 340 to ensure that the filter member 300 is in the beam path 110 at the selected time. In this way, imaging with and without filters can be gated and controlled by controller 32. Gating can be based on a variety of and / or predetermined factors such as energy selection of x-rays, contrast agent injection, patient physiological movements (eg, breathing or heart rate). As discussed above, the filter element 300 may be configured to filter the selected path of the x-ray spectrum of at least one of the emission of the x-ray at one of the energies of the dual x-ray imaging system at a selected time. May be located at a selected location within 110. As discussed above, it may be selected to switch energy to produce an x-ray of the imaging system at a frequency of about 30 Hz. Thus, moving the filter element into and out of the beam can occur in about 33 milliseconds.

As shown in FIG. 5, the filter element 300 may be on one side of the filter carrier assembly 350 and may form about half of the disk circumference, thus, 1 / of the filter carrier assembly 350. Two rotations to ensure the movement of the filter element 300 to a first position in the x-ray beam along the vector 110 and to a second position outside the beam of the x-ray along the vector 110. May be required. Thus, about 900 revolutions per minute may be selected to achieve movement in and out of the beam at a rate consistent with the switching of the x-ray tube 100.

With continued reference to FIG. 5 and with further reference to FIG. 6, the filter carrier assembly 350 may be connected to a carry gear 360, which filter carrier assembly 350 may clarify the discussion below d. To be removed from FIG. 6. In various embodiments, the carry gear 360 is driven by a belt 364 driven by a drive gear 366 coupled to a shaft 370 driven by the motor assembly 374. Motor assembly 374 may include a housing 376 and a motor (not specifically shown) powered within housing 376. The motor assembly 374 may be powered by various power mechanisms, such as power, pneumatic power, and the like. Motor assembly 374 can drive filter carrier assembly 350 at a selected speed and can be any suitable motor assembly that can be powered by imaging system 16 and controlled by controller 32. The motor assembly 374 may comprise a suitable stepper and / or servo motor, for example a Maxon® EC-I-40 brushless DC servo motor sold by Maxon Motor Ag having a business in Switzerland.

Control connection 380 may be provided with and interconnected with imaging system controller 32. As discussed above, the positioning of the filter element 300 may be controlled by the imaging system controller 32 to filter the x-ray spectrum as discussed above. The filter element carrier assembly 350 is mounted to the carry gear 360 via a suitable mechanism such as one or more screws, bolts, adhesives, rivets or other suitable mechanical or chemical bonding to the carry gear 360 of the carrier assembly 350. Can be. Thus, upon rotation of the drive gear 366, the belt 364 can drive the carry gear 366 to rotate the filter carrier assembly 350 including the filter member 300 at a selected rotational speed. However, it is understood that the motor assembly 374 may be directly connected to the carry gear 360 without requiring the belt 362. In a direct connection, for example, the carry gear 360 may be mounted directly to the shaft 370 (eg drive gear 366) and / or the carry gear 360 may be belt 364 and / or. Or directly engage with drive gear 366 without other transmission systems. Alternatively, other suitable drive or transmission mechanisms may be provided between the drive gear 366 and the carry gear 360, such as, for example, a worm drive, gear transmission or other suitable connection system.

During operation, the position of the filter element 300 may be synchronized with the position of the beam 110 at the release time of the x-ray at a selected power selected or intended to pass through the filter element 300 before reaching the patient 14. have. According to various embodiments, filter assembly 200c may include encoder assembly 388. Encoder assembly 388 can include a magnetic encoder that can include sensing magnet portion 390 and transmitting magnet portion 392. The encoder assembly 388 may be positioned at or near the carry gear 360 such that it is positioned at the position of the filter member 300. For example, the transmitting magnet portion 392 may be located at or near the filter element 300. Thus, when the magnet portion 392 passes through the read portion 390, an index signal may be transmitted where the filter member 300 is at the position of the beam 110.

Encoder assembly 388 may additionally and / or alternatively include a magnet encoder, such as an RMB20 magnet encoder module and magnet sold by Renishaw having a business in West Dundee, Illinois, USA. In such a system, the magnet encoder 388 may include a magnet 391 that is integrated into or instead of an axle to which the magnet 390 can be connected in other ways. When the filter member 300 rotates, the magnet 391 may rotate with the carrier gear 360. When the magnet 391 rotates, the magnetic field generated by the magnet 391 may be included on a fixed integrated circuit or printed circuit board assembly system 393 relative to the carrier gear 360 and the magnet 391. Move against the integrated circuit encoder assembly. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the integrated circuit system 393 may sense a moving magnetic field of the magnet 391 to determine the index signal as discussed herein. Thus, encoder assembly 393 may act as or alternatively to transmit portion 392. Thus, those skilled in the art understand that encoder assembly 388 can be provided in any suitable format including magnet 391 and encoder assembly 393 as a non-contact magnet encoder.

During operation, the filter assembly 200c may be operated or controlled such that the movement of the filter carry member 310 is constant and synchronized to the emission time of the selected x-ray along the x-ray beam 110. Direct control of the motor assembly 374 by the image controller 32 can ensure that the filter element 300 is positioned within the beam of the selected time to filter the x-ray emitted from the x-ray tube 100. have.

In an alternative and / or additional synchronization method, the motor assembly 374 applies power to rotate the filter carrier assembly 350 at a nominal speed such that the filter carrier assembly 350 can rotate at about 900 RPM as described above. Can be supplied. In various embodiments, the gear ratio between the motor assembly 374 and the carrier gear 360 is 3: 1, so that the motor can rotate at about 2700 RPM resulting in rotation of the filter carrier assembly at about 900 RPM.

The encoder assembly 388 can be positioned and integrated such that a single pulse signal is provided when the carrier assembly 350 rotates on the carrier gear 360. The index impulse may be aligned with the position of the beam 110 in the imaging system 16. Thus, the indication or signal when the filter element 300 is positioned in the beam 110 may be determined based on the index pulse. In order to ensure that the filter element 300 is positioned in the beam 110 at a selected time, the synchronization process 400 may be performed once at the start of the imaging system 16 to ensure constant synchronization, as shown in FIG. 7. May occur at a selected rate during imaging. As discussed above, the controller 32 has a predetermined imaging protocol (including timing of imaging, number of image projections, etc.) and associated timing for operating the motor assembly 370 to move the filter carrier assembly 350. It may include a memory. Moreover, synchronization process 400 may be recalled from memory and encoded into instructions to be executed by the processor.

Initially, the motor can be started at block 402 to initiate rotation of the filter carrier assembly 350 at a selected constant speed, such as about 900 RPM. After starting the motor and rotating the filter carrier assembly 350, an in-position or index pulse may be received by the controller 32 at block 404. As mentioned above, an in-position or index pulse occurs when the transmitting portion 392 passes through the receiver portion 390 at the position of the beam 110 such that the filter member 300 is prepared relative to the beam 110. Signals that the x-rays will be filtered if in position and x-rays are emitted. The signal from block 404 can then be compared to the x-ray exposure signal selected at block 408. As mentioned above, x-ray exposure can be switched between at least two energies in a dual energy system at a selected rate, such as about 30 Hz. Thus, the in-position signal when the filter member 300 is in position relative to the x-ray beam 110 may be compared with an appropriate timing or frequency of the selected x-ray emission.

The decision block of “in sync” 410 may be used to determine whether the filter element 300 is synchronized with the x-ray emission timing and signal selected by the comparison at block 408. If it is determined at block 410 that the filter element has been synchronized, the synchronization procedure may end at block 426 past the YES path 420. Thus, the movement speed including the rotation of the filer carrier assembly 350 may not change. After the end of the synchronization procedure 400, imaging may occur in accordance with the selected imaging procedure, such as controlled by the controller 32 at the selected constant speed.

If it is determined that no synchronization has occurred, then a NOT path 440 can lead to a synchronization procedure 446. Synchronization procedure 446 may include various steps, such as determining a position offset at block 450. After the position offset determination, a transmit command may be made that changes the speed at block 456. The transmit command to change the speed at block 456 can be transmitted by the imaging system controller 32.

The transmit command to change the speed may increase or otherwise change the speed of the carrier assembly 350 from the selected constant speed. For example, the speed can be increased from 900 RPM to about 1000 RPM, or about 2000 RPM or any selected speed. The speed change may be for a selected period of time to correct the position offset to achieve alignment or synchronization of the phase of the position of the filter element 300 with the timing of the emission of the x-rays. For example, the speed of the motor assembly 374 may be increased by an amount selected to position the filter member 300 within the x-ray beam 110 at a timing signal or emission signal for the x-ray at a suitable time. .

After a selected period, such as included in the transmit command to change the speed command block 456, the speed of the filter carrier assembly 350 may be returned at a selected constant speed, such as about 900 RPM. The method may then return to block 404, and the in-position signal may be received back from block 404. A comparison with the emission timing signal of block 408 can then take place. Thus, a synchronization decision of block 410 may be determined. If the carrier assembly 350 is determined not to remain in sync, the NO path 440 can be used again to achieve synchronization at block 446. However, once synchronization is determined, the YES path 420 may lead to end block 426 and a constant speed may be maintained. Thus, the synchronization process 400 may be used in a loop to achieve synchronization of the position of the filter element 300 in the beam 110 when the x-rays are emitted.

Thus, the motor assembly 374 can be operated to achieve synchronized x-ray emission timing and synchronized rotation of the carrier assembly 350 without a strong and direct continuous control of the motor assembly via a controller including the image controller 32. have. Thus, it can be operated to position the filter member 300 and the beam 110 at an appropriate time and to rotate the filter carrier assembly 350 at a constant speed using a synchronization technique including the synchronization method 400 described above. .

Referring now to FIG. 8, filter assembly 200d may include filter carrier assembly 460. The filter carrier assembly 460 may be similar to the filter carrier assembly 350 of the filter assembly 200c shown in FIG. 5. Thus, filter carrier assembly 460 may comprise an entirely circular member having an outer curved edge 464. However, the filter carrier assembly 460 may be different by having the first void 468 substantially opposite the second void 472 at about 180 ° from each other about the rotational axis 480. The filter carrier assembly 460 may also include two filter elements including the first filter element 500 and the second filter element 504. Each of the filter members may be positioned about 180 ° apart around the axis of rotation 480. Moreover, the voids 468 and 472 can be positioned at an overall 90 ° offset from the filter elements 500 and 504 around the axis of rotation 480. The axis of rotation 480 may be similar to the axis of rotation 330 discussed above and shown in FIG. 5 because the carrier assembly 460 may be mounted on the carrier gear 360 of the drive assembly shown in FIG. 6. Thus, filter carrier assembly 460 may replace filter carrier assembly 350 described above.

 Thus, filter carrier assembly 460 may alternatively include a filter element and void at 90 ° about axis of rotation 480. Operation of filter carrier assembly 460 may be similar to filter carrier assembly 350 as described above. However, positioning the two filter members about 180 ° from the other can cause the rotational speed of the filter carrier assembly 460 to be about half the rotational speed of the filter carrier assembly 350. Thus, the rotational speed of the filter carrier assembly 460 may be about 450 RPM instead of about 900 RPM. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the filter element 500 or 504 will be positioned in the beam line 110 at about twice the speed as a single filter element, such as a single filter element 300. Thus, filter element assembly 460 may rotate at substantially half the speed of filter element assembly 350.

However, the operating speed or operating frequency of the filter carrier assembly 350 or 460 can be substantially constant during operation once the selected speed is reached. Thus, when the carrier assemblies 350, 460 achieve the proper operating speed, the speed can be maintained and the filter element will be located inside and outside the beam 110 at a suitable time.

Moreover, synchronization of the filter carrier assembly 460 may occur in a manner similar to that discussed above by, for example, the synchronization method 400. An index signal may be received when one of the filter elements 500, 504 is at an internal or internal location that intersects the beam vector 110. Since the position of the other filter element is substantially 180 ° from the indexed filter element, even if synchronization is made only against one of the filter elements, the slow speed of the filter carrier 460 is opposite the filter 110 at a suitable time. Synchronization will be achieved when ensuring that) can be reached. Thus, filter carrier assembly 460 can be operated at a rate substantially half the speed of filter carrier assembly 350, while synchronization and constant speed can still be performed and maintained in a manner similar to that described above.

Thus, according to various embodiments, the filter element may be positioned within the x-ray beam 110 to assist in achieving the selected spectrum to reach the patient 14. Thus, operation of imaging system 16 may be used to achieve contrast enhancement of selected tissues or materials, such as two different soft tissues, hard tissues and soft tissues, contrast agents and other materials, metals and bones, or other selected different materials. Can be. The filter element may be located inside and outside the x-ray beam 110 in accordance with various mechanisms including those described above to achieve further separation of the x-ray spectrum at different energies.

It will also be appreciated that image data and / or models can be used to plan or verify the results of a procedure without requiring or using exploration and tracking. Image data may be obtained to assist with procedures such as implant placement. In addition, the image data can be used to identify occlusion of the vasculature of the patient 14, such as contrast medium. Thus, navigation and tracking are not necessary to use the image data in the procedure.

According to various embodiments, as discussed above, the filter assembly may be included in the collimator 198, which may be located between the x-ray source 100 and the subject 14. As schematically illustrated in FIG. 2 and discussed above, the collimator 198 may include various features and portions, such as the filter 200, in accordance with various embodiments as described above. With further reference to FIG. 9, the collimator 198 may include various other parts or systems in addition to the filters and filters according to various embodiments as described above.

As shown in FIG. 9, the collimator 198 may also include various systems or features that selectively allow the x-rays to pass through the exposure opening 600 of the collimator 198. The exposure opening 600 may be formed as a passage through the exposure ring or the exposure member 604. The exposure ring 604 may be formed of a selected material, such as a material opaque to x-rays. Thus, exposure opening 600 may provide a unique passageway for x-rays from collimator 198 towards subject 14.

The exposure ring 604 may be formed on the housing member 606 of the collimator 198. In general, housing member 606 may be part of housing 608 that may encompass a moving portion of collimator 198 and interconnect it with various features, such as x-ray source 100. The collimator may include a filter 200, such as filter 200d, as described above. Moreover, the collimator 198 can be mounted to the housing 608, which in turn is mounted to the x-ray source 100.

In various embodiments, the collimator 198 may include various portions to allow changing the size or shape of the x-ray beam or cone 108. For example, the exposure opening 600 can include a maximum dimension of x-rays that can exit the collimator 198, such as 3 cm x 3 cm. However, the various radio impermeable leaves forming the axis selection assembly can be moved relative to the exposure opening 600 to change the size of the cone of x-rays that will pass through the exposure opening 600, and also The x-ray beam may be positioned relative to the exposure opening 600.

 With continued reference to FIG. 9 and with further reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B, an axis selection assembly (ASA) 626a is shown in accordance with various embodiments. ASA 626a is located within housing 608 of collimator 198. The ASA 626a may include one or more leaves configured to move relative to the exposure opening 600 to select the size and / or location of the selected opening 630 to be formed relative to the exposure opening 600. The selected opening 630 is an opening that allows the x-ray from the x-ray beam 108 to pass before exposing the subject 14. The selected opening 630 may be formed before or after the x-ray beam passes through another selected filter or axis, such as fast filter 200c.

The ASA 626a includes a plurality of leaves that can move relative to each other on separate X- and Y-axes relative to the exposure opening 600. For example, as shown in FIG. 10A, the first leaf 640a and the second leaf 640b may move opposite each other and may move generally in the X axis in the direction of the bidirectional arrow 646. The additional pair of leaves may include a third leaf 650a and a fourth leaf 650b that may move in the Y-axis as a whole in the direction of the bidirectional arrow 656. Thus, the leaves 640 and 650 may move relative and / or perpendicular to each other to form the selected opening 630 relative to the collimator exposure opening 600.

The selected opening 630 may be formed at substantially any position relative to the exposure opening 600 by selectively moving the leaves 640 and 650 relative to each other. The movement of the leaves further discussed in this application may be communicated via various communication systems such as wired, wireless, physical media, etc. by the controller 32 to transmit instructions for moving the leaves 640, 650. It can be based on instructions that can be stored in the memory 33b. By moving the leaves, it is understood that the selected opening 630 can be formed in a selected shape, selected size and selected position relative to the exposure opening 600. Accordingly, it should be understood that the selected openings shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B are merely exemplary and are not intended to limit the possible selected openings.

Each leaf 640, 650 may be formed of a selected material, such as a high Z material (eg, a material having a high effective Z number or high atomic number). For example, the leaf may be formed of lead of a selected thickness. The leaves may be formed such that the detector only receives or detects x-rays through the selected opening 630. Thus, the leaves 640 and 650 can be moved to selectively create a selected opening 630 at a selected size and location for exposing the subject 14 to x-rays from the source 100.

ASA 626a including leaves 640, 650 may include frame portion 660. Frame 660 may be formed in a single piece or may be formed in a plurality of pieces. Frame 660 may be formed, for example, as a single cast piece or member in which selected portions of the leaves and other elements are located. Alternatively to, or in addition to, a single member, various components such as welding, raising or other fasteners may be interconnected. As discussed in this application, additional brackets or fixation points may be included in frame 660.

The frame 660 may be equipped with guide rails to help guide the leaves 640 and 650. For example, the X-axis leaf 640 may be interconnected with the first rail 668 and the second rail 670. Rails 668, 670 may be secured to frame 660 in a selected manner, such as rivets, threaded screws, and the like. Moreover, the rails 668, 670 may be substantially parallel to each other. Rails 668 and 670 allow the leaves 640 to move substantially free of binding to each other in a single plane. Moreover, the rails 668, 670 help maintain the straight and linear motion of the leaf 640.

Two leaves 640a and 640b may be fixed or mounted to leaf carriers 674a and 674b. Each of the carriers 674 may be secured to one of the respective leaves 640a, 640b. Fastening the leaf to each carrier 674 may be by brazing, riveting or other suitable fastening mechanism. Carriers 674a and 674b may extend into cars or sliding members 680a, 680b, 680c and 680d. Each carrier 674a, 674b may be secured to two cars that can move on rails 668, 670. When the carriers 674a, 674b move, the cars 680a-d can move along the individual rails 668, 670, and the conveyed leaf 640a, 640b can move in the direction of the bidirectional arrow 646 as a whole. have. Parallel rails 668, 670 allow for smooth and non-constrained movement of leaf 674a, 674b and frame 660 relative to each other. Moreover, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the parallel rails 668, 670 may drive the drive mechanism 690 at a single end of the carriers 674a, 674b and / or leaves and in various embodiments only a single end. Allow.

The drive mechanism 690 may include various parts, such as a motor assembly 692, a sensor assembly such as a position sensor 694, and a double lead screw assembly 700. The drive mechanism 690 may be operated and controlled by the controller 32 having the selected communication system 701 which may be provided from the control unit 32 to control the motor 692 of the drive mechanism 690. The system can receive the sensed position from the sensor 694. Moreover, controller 32 may be operated by a user to selectively operate motor 692 for various purposes during imaging of the subject. Thus, the drive mechanism 690 for moving the leaves 640a and 640b is automatically or based on a predetermined indication to form the selected opening 630, for example by the user or manually during the imaging procedure. It can be operated in a combination of both.

Motor 692 may be any suitable type of motor, such as a stepper motor, servo motor, or other suitable type of motor. In general, motor 692 provides rotational motion to drive shaft 704 connected to screw assembly 700. Motor 692 may be mounted to bracket 706, which may be fixed to frame 660 or may be fixed directly to frame 660. A connection portion, such as a split nut 708, can be used to connect the screw assembly 700 to the drive shaft 704. The screw assembly 700 may further include a second split nut 710 connecting the first screw portion 712 to the second screw portion 715.

The first screw portion 712 can be threadedly engaged with the carrier holder 714. The carrier holder 714 may be secured to the bracket or extension 716 of the leaf carrier 674b. The carrier holder 714 may be secured to the bracket 716 in a suitable manner such as one or more screws 714a. However, screw 714a may be provided or included with a rivet, nut or other suitable connection mechanism.

The carrier holder 714 can include internal threads that are threaded in the first direction. Thus, when the first screw portion 712 rotates in the carrier holder 714, the outer thread on the first screw portion 712 engages with the inner thread on the carrier holder 714 so that the leaf carrier 674b as a whole is entirely. It may move in the direction of the double arrow 646.

The second screw section 715 can also include external threads. The second screw section 715, which is connected to the first screw portion 712 via the split nut 710, receives a rotational force from the motor 692 via the first screw section 712. The second carrier holder 720 can include an internal thread in an opposite direction to the internal thread of the first carrier holder 714. Thus, the screw portions 712, 715 rotate in the same direction, but the first leaf carrier 674a can move in a direction opposite to the direction of the second leaf carrier 674b.

The second carrier holder 720 may be secured to the second extension or bracket portion 722 extending from the carrier 674a. The second carrier holder 720 may be secured to the extension 722 with one or more screws 724 similar to the screws 714a. Sensor 694 may sense the movement or rotation of screw portions 712 and 715 to help determine the position of leaf 640. The sensor 694 may be connected to the second screw portion 715 with a third split nut 728. The position sensor 694 may be a suitable position sensor such as an optical shaft encoder including a US Digital® S4T optical shaft encoder (part number S4T-300-125-DB) sold by US Digital having a business in Vancouver, Washington, USA. have.

With continued reference to FIG. 10A and further reference to FIG. 10B, the leaves 650a and 650b may be moved in the direction of the bidirectional arrow 656 on the Y-axis in a manner substantially similar to the leaves 640a and 640b. The two leaves 650a, 650b may be individually connected to the two leaf carriers 780a, 780b in a similar manner as the leaves 640 connected to the leaf carrier 674, as described above.

Leaf 650 may be driven with a drive mechanism 750 similar to drive mechanism 690 described above. The communication system 752 may connect the motor 758 and the position sensor 760 of the drive mechanism 750 with the controller 32. Accordingly, the controller 32 may operate or control both the motor 692 of the drive mechanism 690 and the motor 758 of the drive mechanism 750. Since the operation of drive mechanism 750 is similar to that of drive mechanism 690, its operation will not be discussed in some detail, but will be briefly described herein with reference to FIG. 10B.

The drive mechanism 750 can include a motor 758, a sensor 760, and a lead screw mechanism 764. Thus, motor 758 may be secured to bracket 766 that is secured to frame 660 and / or directly secured to frame 660. Drive shaft 770 may be driven by motor 758 coupled to first screw portion 774 by split nut 776. The first screw portion 774 passes through the third carrier holder 778 to threadably engage the third carrier holder 778. The third carrier holder 778 has an internal thread in the first direction to move the leaf carrier 780a to which the leaf 650b is connected. Leaf carrier 780a may include an extension 780b to which third carrier holder 778 is connected, such as one or more screws 784. Moreover, leaf carrier 780a may extend and be interconnected with car 782 riding third rail 786. Leaf carrier 780a also extends to car 782b riding fourth rail 788. The rails 786, 788 are the rails 668, 672 discussed above to allow for a smooth and non-constrained movement of the leaf 650b to the drive mechanism 750 at a single end of the leaf 650b and in various embodiments only at a single end. May be substantially parallel.

The first screw portion 774 is connected to the second screw portion 794 with a split nut 796. Other connections may be used in addition or alternatively to split nut 796 such as welding, adhesive material, brazing, and the like. Thus, the rotational movement of the first screw portion 774 is transmitted to the second screw portion 794. The second screw portion includes an external thread that engages an internal thread of the fourth carrier holder 800. The internal threads of the fourth carrier holder 800 may be opposite to the internal threads of the third carrier holder 778. The first and second screw portions 774 and 794 can have similar threads and the same direction of rotation of the screw portions 774 and 794 will move the individual carrier holders 778 and 800 in opposite directions.

The fourth carrier holder 800 can be secured to the fourth leaf carrier 780b through an extension or protrusion 804 using one or more screws or other fixing members 806 similar to the fastening members described above. The leaf carrier 780b includes a portion extending and connected to two cars 782c and 782d so that the leaf carrier 780b is generally along the rails 788 and 786 in the direction of the bidirectional arrow 656 in the Y axis. I can drive. As discussed above, the rails 786 and 788 allow movement of the leaf 650a in a smooth, straight and unjoined manner.

The drive mechanisms 690, 750 may be provided at a single end of each leaf 640, 650 and only at a single end in various embodiments, and with separate parallel rails 668, 670, 786 and 788 and leaf carrier 674 780 allows for smooth, non-constrained movement of the leaves 640 and 650. However, it is understood that drive mechanisms may be provided at both ends of the individual leaf carriers to drive both ends of the leaf carriers simultaneously to assist in moving the leaves 640, 650 at the selected position and at the selected speed. In either case, the leaves 640a, 640b can move at similar or identical speeds based on each other. Similarly, the leaves 650a and 650b can move at similar or identical speeds based on each other. Thus, although the selected opening 630 may be increased or decreased in size, the center of exposure 630a of the selected exposure does not substantially move regardless of the size or shape of the selected opening 630. Thus, the selected opening 630 may be a square of 1 inch by 1 inch with a center 630a, or the selected opening 630 may be a rectangle of 1 inch by 2 inches and still maintain the center 630a.

In various embodiments, the drive mechanism 690 or a separate drive mechanism similar to the drive mechanism 750 can include drive mechanisms 691, 751 (shown in phantom), each leaf 640a, 640b, 650a. And 650b) separately. Thus, each drive mechanism 690, 691, 750, 751 can be used to drive each leaf 640a, 640b, 650a and 650b individually on a separate X- or Y-axis. Each drive mechanism can connect or interact with a single leaf connector to engage and move an individual leaf. When each leaf 640a, 640b, 650a and 650b is operated by the controller 32 to move independently, the selected opening 630 may have an independent size and the center 630a may be in the frame 660. Can move in preparation. The individual leaves 640a, 640b, 650a, and 650b are in a manner similar to that described above, in order for the shape and size of the selected opening 630 and the center 630a to select all positions, eg, alternative center positions 630a '. It can be driven individually with a suitable drive mechanism.

Thus, ASA 626a may be positioned in collimator 198 to form a selected exposure opening or opening 630. The ASA 626a may be integrated into the collimator 198 in any suitable manner, including that shown in FIG. 9 as described above. However, it is understood that the leaf forming the ASA can be moved in a suitable manner, including those discussed further herein.

In various embodiments, referring to FIG. 11, the collimator 198 may include an ASA 626b that may include a stage or platform member 1620, which may include a stage exposure opening or passage 1624. . Stage exposure opening 1624 may also be dimensioned by a wall or edge passing through stage 1620. The stage exposure opening 1624 may be of a selected size, such as larger, smaller or the same size as the exposure opening 600. The stage exposure opening 1624 may be larger than the exposure opening 600 to allow all of the exposure openings 600 to be exposed to the x-ray when the exposure opening is selected in various embodiments.

The ASA 626b may be provided in various embodiments as discussed herein to selectively determine the size and location of the openings formed by the leaf relative to the stage exposure opening 1624. Thus, stage exposure opening 1624 can define a maximum and / or fixed opening through stage 1620 that can be altered by ASA 626b. However, although stage 1620 may not include a small opening, it is understood that, as discussed herein, may include only open or outer frames (similar to frame 660 discussed above) to which other portions are connected. do.

In various embodiments, ASA 626b includes a plurality of leaves including a first leaf 1630, a second leaf 1632, a third leaf 1634, and a fourth leaf 1634. Each pair of leaves, such as the first pair of leaves 1630 and 1632 and the second pair of leaves 1634 and 1636, are beams of x-rays that pass through the stage exposure 1624 in the X and / or Y axes. And to adjust it. For example, the first pair of leaves 1630 and 1632 may move in the X axis to change the x-ray beam of the X axis, and the second pair of leaves 1634 and 1636 may move in the Y axis to Y- The beam of x-rays passing through the exposure passage 1624 in the axial direction can be adjusted. As further discussed in this application, the leaves 1630, 1632, 1634, 1636 allow the user to program the size, position or orientation of the x-ray beam passing through the exposure passage 1624 for programming the x-ray exposure. the selected energy by means of the selected energy of the x-ray beam.

Each of the leaves 1630, 1632, 1634, 1636 may be moved by a selected mechanism. For example, each leaf may be interconnected with a linear motor similar to the linear motor 270 discussed above. For example, the first leaf 1630 can be interconnected with the first linear motor 1650, the second leaf 1632 can be interconnected with the second linear motor 1652, and the third leaf 1634. May be interconnected with the third linear motor 1654, and the fourth leaf 1636 may be interconnected with the fourth linear motor 1656. Each linear motor 1650, 1652, 1654, 1656 may be operated in a manner similar to the linear motor 270 discussed above to move each leaf 1630-1636 relative to the stage exposure passage 1624. Can be.

The linear motors 1650-1654 can be controlled by the control system 32 of the imaging system 16; The controller may include a processor 33a designed and / or configured to operate the linear motors 1650-1654 and / or execute instructions, such as instructions stored in the memory system 33b. Each of the motors 1650-1656 can be individually connected through various communication lines, such as individual communication lines 1658, 1660, 1662, and 1664. It should also be understood that the communication system may be integrated with the collimator 198 to communicate with the controller 32. The communication system can include various wireless communication protocols that can be used to wirelessly communicate with the controller 32 to operate the motors 1650-1656. As discussed in this application, each motor 1650-1656 can be operated independently of one another to move the individual leafs 1630-1636 relative to the platform exposure 1624. However, it is further understood that individual motors can be operated as motor pairs. For example, the first motor 1650 and the second motor 1652 can be operated in pairs to move the individual leaves 1630, 1632 relative to the passage 1624, while the third and fourth motors ( 1654 and 1656 may be operated in pairs to move individual leaves 1634 and 1636 relative to the exposure passage 1624. When operated as a motor pair, a single signal can be sent to adjust the individual axes of the collimator (eg, X axis or Y axis). The single signal may be to adjust the position (eg + 2 mm). The motor pair can then run both motors for adjustment. In general, motors 1650-1656 are operated to move individual leaves away from one another as a group of pairs or four leaves 1630-1636.

For a brief description of the first leaf 1630 and the first motor 1650, the other leaf and motor may be configured substantially similar to the leaf 1630 and motor 1650 and will not be repeated in detail below. Should be understood. In general, leaf 1630 may be formed of selected materials that may be substantially radio impermeable. That is, leaf 1630 may be provided or formed of a material that prevents or substantially penetrates the x-rays through the leaf 1630 to expose the x-ray detector through the patient 14. For example, leaf 1630 may be formed of lead having a selected thickness. However, any suitable high Z material may be selected to form the leaf 1630. Leaf 1630 may be formed of a material of a selected dimension such that mass may be moved at a selected speed by motor 1650 relative to exposure opening 1624.

Leaf 1630 may be located in leaf carrier 1670 of first motor 1650. The leaf carrier 1670 may include a first finger 1672 and a second finger 1674 extending from the main carrier body 1676. The first and second fingers 1672, 1674 can define an opening or passage therethrough, and the leaf 1630 can be positioned between two fingers 1672, 1674 in the passage. Leaf 1630 may be secured in the passages for fingers 1672 and 1674 in any suitable manner, such as brazing, adhesives, mechanical fixers (eg, screws), or other suitable mechanism.

Leaf carrier 1670 may be mounted to movable magnet 1680. The movable magnet 1680 may be positioned above the stationary and / or linear motor coil 1802. As discussed above, the stationary linear motor coil 1802 (similar to the stationary linear motor coil 274 discussed above) may be operated to move the movable magnet 1680 (the magnet discussed above) Similar to 276). It is further understood that various other configurations may be provided, such as stationary magnets and moving linear motor coils. Thus, the leaf carrier 1670 can be mounted to a moving coil that is moved relative to the stationary magnet.

Leaf carrier 1670 may be secured to movable magnet 1680 by a variety of mechanisms. For example, a screw or rivet may be positioned to secure the carrier 1670 to the magnet 1680 through the fixing passage 1668. It is further understood that various pieces, welding, brazing and the like can be used to secure the leaf carrier 1670 to the movable magnet 1680.

Moreover, the linear motor 1650 may include a linear bearing 1690 in which the carrier 1670 moves. The linear bearing 1690 can bear the carrier 1670 and the movable magnet 1680 attached as it moves. The bearing 1690 may also assist in directing the movement of the linear motor 1650. In general, the bearing 1690 can generally limit the movement of the movable magnet 1680, such as in the direction of the double arrow 1694. A double arrow 1694 can be along the X-axis to move the leaf 1630 on the X-axis, as described above. The position of the carrier 1670 may be determined by the positioning system 1700 including the read head 1702 and the rail 1704. Read head 1702 may read the relative or absolute position of carrier 1670 relative to rail 1704, similar to the operation of read head 292 and rail 294 as discussed above.

Thus, the operation of the linear motor 1650 to move the leaf 1630 can be similar to the movement operation of the linear motor 270 to move the filter 260. In particular, the leaf 1630 can be moved to be located inside or outside at least a portion of the x-ray beam 108 traveling along the vector path 110. As further discussed in this application, leaf 1630 is capable of at least a portion of the total emission of x-rays from x-ray source 100 to construct or shape a beam passing through platform exposure passageway 1624. It may be used or operated to block.

As discussed above, each leaf 1630, 1632, 1634, and 1636 move as individual pairs to achieve a selected opening position and / or shape such that the x-rays can pass through the platform exposure passageway 1624. And / or independently. As shown in FIG. 11, the leaves 1632, 1630 may be leaves defining the X axis position of the selected opening 1720. The leaves 1634 and 1636 can be moved to change the Y axis position of the opening. As shown in FIG. 11, the shape of the selected opening 1720 is defined by all the leaves 1630, 1632, 1634 and 1636.

As shown in FIG. 11, in order for each of the leaves 1630-1634 to move relative to each other, the opposite set of leaves may be offset in height relative to the other leaves. As shown, the pair of leaves 1630 and 1632 moving in the X axis are stages than the opposing leaves 1638 and 1636 which may be located closer to the stage 1620 than the X axis leaves 1630 and 1632. It may be located further from 1620. Positioning of Y-axis leaves 1634, 1636 closer to stage 1620 is offset to leaf carriers 1670c, 1670d to position closer to stage 1620 than X-axis leaves 1630, 1632. It may include forming a. Alternatively, the X axis carriers 1670a and 1670d may be offset relative to the Y axis leaf carriers 1670c and 1670d. Regardless of the configuration, the leaves facing each other to form the X and Y axes may be configured to be positioned over and simultaneously move at least a portion of the stage axis exposure portion 1624 as shown in FIG.

Similar to the selected opening 630 discussed above, the selected opening 1720 may be any selected shape that may be defined by the leaves 1630-1636. Each of the leaves 1630-1636 can be moved independently and individually similar to the leaves 640a, 640b, 650a and 650b discussed above, with the selected opening 1720 being the shape 1630 of the individual leaf. -1636 may be selected in square, rectangular or other shapes. Moreover, the size of the selected opening 1720 may be selected based on the relative position of the leaves 1630-1636.

In addition, the location of the selected opening 1720 or the center 1720a of the selected opening 1720 may be selected based on the location of the leaves 1630-1636 relative to the stage exposure opening 1624. For example, stage exposure opening 1624 may be square, and selected aperture 1720 and / or center 1720a may be selectively positioned in a quadrant of stage exposure opening 1624, such as the lower right quadrant. Moreover, the selected openings 1720-1636 may be located in the upper left quadrant, as shown in the phantom 1720 'by moving the leaves 1630-1636 to form the selected openings 1720'. Thus, the selected opening 1720 ′ may be a center 1720a ′ that is different from the center 1720a of the selected opening 1720. Moreover, positioning of the leaves 1630-1636 relative to the stage exposure opening 1624 causes the selected opening 1720 to be less than or equal to the dimensions of the stage exposure opening 1624. Can be made optional.

As discussed above, each leaf 1630-1636 may be moved by a separate motor 1650-1656. For example, the position of the leaf carrier 1670 carrying the leaf 1630 can be determined using the read head 1702 relative to the rail 1704. As discussed above, the position of the read head 1702 relative to the rail 1704 is similar to determining the position of the linear characters with the read head 292 relative to the rail 294 as discussed above. Can be used to determine the position of the lead carrier 1670 in a manner.

Each leaf includes a leaf carrier 1670b that carries a leaf 1632 that carries a leaf 1616, a leaf carrier 1670c that carries a leaf 1634, and a leaf carrier 1670d that carries a leaf 1636. It may be held by an individual leaf carrier comprising. Each leaf carrier 1670a-1670d can have individual read heads 1702a-1702d that are secured to the leaf carriers 1670a-1670d and that move relative to the individual rails 1704a-1704d. A communication line or system (eg, wired connection and / or wireless connection) 1658-1664 communicates with the controller 32 to a read position of the read head 1702a-1702d relative to the rails 1704a-1704d. Instructions may be provided to the linear motors 1650-1656 based on the determined positions of the leaf carriers 1670a-1670d.

The movement of the leaf carriers 1670a-1670d to move the individual leaves 1630-1636 can be based on a predetermined program or instruction set recalled from the memory 33b. It is further understood that the memory 33b may include instructions for determining a planned or selected movement for forming the selected exposure opening 1720 based on the instructions input by the user. Instruction input by the user may be selected or changed during the procedure based on various aspects such as the user's experience, the user's expertise, or other selected considerations. However, it is understood that the movement of the selected opening 1720 may be predefined and changed relative to the stage exposure 1624 based on the preselected positioning of the selected opening 1720. Furthermore, given four separate motors, each leaf can be moved independently in the ASA 626b (eg, relative to the direction and amount of movement along the individual X- and Y-axes).

Moreover, as described above, the collimator 198 may be included in the imaging system 16. Imaging system 16 may include a source unit 36 that may be movable or configured relative to a selected gantry, such as imaging gantry 34. Thus, when the source unit 36 moves relative to the gantry 34 and / or relative to the subject 14, the size, shape and position of the selected opening 1720 relative to the stage 1620 can be changed. . The instructions stored in the memory 33b may be used to move the selected opening 1720 relative to the stage 1620 when the source unit 36 moves relative to the gantry 34. In addition, the controller 32 may determine the addition and / or proper movement of the motors 1650-1656 to position the individual leaves 1630-1636 to form the selected openings 1720 of the selected size and / or position. Feedback may be received from the individual read heads 1702a-1702d to determine the position of the leafs 1630-1636.

As shown in FIG. 11, the leaves 1630-1636 are positioned to move from one side of the stage opening 1624 and the edge of the stage 1620. Each motor 1650-1656 has a fixed portion (eg, motor coil) on one side of the stage opening, and moves individual leaf carriers 1670a-1670d from one side toward the stage opening and over the stage opening. Let's do it. In general, as shown in FIG. 11, the leaves 1630-1636 may not extend across the stage 1620 from one side to the other. However, it is understood that at least one of the leaves 1630-1636 may extend across the stage 1620.

Referring to FIG. 12, ASA 626c is shown. ASA 626c may include components of both ASA 626a and ASA 626b as discussed above and shown in FIGS. 9-11. ASA 626c includes leaves 640 'and 650' similar to ASA 626a. However, in ASA 626c, the leaves 640 ', 650' are moved using a linear motor (discussed in this application) similar to the linear motor discussed in ASA 626b. Instead of providing drive mechanisms 690 and 750 as described above in ASA 626a, a linear motor is provided to drive the leaves 640 'and 650'.

The leaves 640 ', 650' may be on the leaf carriers 674, 780, as described above, or may be directly connected to individual pairs of parallel rails. Nevertheless, each of the leaves can be interconnected with a separate linear motor to move each leaf individually. Each leaf can be interconnected with a single linear motor drive mechanism and a separate pair of rails to allow for non-binding and smooth movement of the leaf.

As mentioned above, the ASA 626c may include portions similar or identical to the ASA 626a. Referring to FIG. 12, the ASA 626c may be mounted to the stage 1620. The ASA 626c may include leaves 640'a and 640'b that can move entirely in the direction of the bidirectional arrow 646 along the X axis. As shown in FIG. 12, the leaf 640 ′ at one or both ends may be directly connected to the linear motor drive mechanism 1760. However, it is understood that leaf 640 ′ may be connected to a leaf carrier similar to leaf carrier 674 discussed above (not shown in FIG. 12). ASA 626c further includes two leaves 650'a and 650'b. The leaf 650 ′ may be directly connected to the second linear drive mechanism 1766 at only one or both ends to globally move the leaf 650 in the direction of the bidirectional arrow 656 on the Y axis. However, it is understood that leaf 650 ′ may also be connected to a leaf carrier, such as carrier 780, as discussed above with respect to ASA 626a. However, as shown in FIG. 12 and further discussed in this application, it should be understood that leaf carriers are not required and that leaves 640 ', 650' may be directly connected to linear drive mechanisms 1760 and 1766.

As shown in FIG. 12, the leaves 640 ′ and 650 ′ may be moved relative to the stage 1620 to form a selected opening 630. The leaves 640 ', 650' are associated with the individual drive mechanisms 1760, 1766 only at one end or a single end of the individual leaves 640 ', 650'. In various embodiments, the drive mechanism may be provided at both ends if selected. Various bearing and / or rail systems utilize a linear motor drive mechanism that is specifically connected only to one end of the leaf 640 ', 650' to help ensure smooth and non-constrained movement of the leaf 640 ', 650'. Similarly, drive mechanisms 1760, 1766 may be connected to only one end of leaf 640 ′, 650 ′, similar to the connection of ASA 626a.

The first leaf 640 ′ a is connected to the first moving coil 1770. The moving coil may be secured to the leaf 640'a in any suitable manner using adhesive, welding or fasteners (eg, rivets, screws, or the like) or other suitable connection mechanism. The second leaf 640'b is connected to the second moving coil 1772 in a manner similar to the moving coil 1770 connected to the leaf 640'a. Both moving coils 1770 and 1772 move along a common magnet 1774. The common magnet 1774 forms a common portion for the drive mechanism 1760 and forms a linear motor for both the moving coils 1770 and 1772. The drive mechanism 1760 may operate in a manner similar to linear motors (eg, 1650, 1652, 1654, 1656, as described above). The moving coils 1770, 1772 of the linear motor drive mechanism 1760 can move each of the individual leaves 640 ′ in the direction of the bidirectional arrow 646. Individual moving coils 1770 and 1772 are individually connected to controller 32 using suitable communication systems 1770a and 1772a. The controller 32 may actuate the linear motor drive mechanism 1760 to move the leaf 640 ′ on the X axis to position and size the selected opening 630 on the X axis. The controller 32 may be manually operated or invoked using the processor 33a based on instructions stored and called from the memory 33b.

The position of the leaves 640'a and 640'b may be determined using a position sensor 1776 similar to the position sensor 290 discussed above. The position sensor 1776 is a leaf 640 for moving against a linear or elongated sensor 1778 and a first read head 1780 and / or sensor 1778 fixedly connected to the moving coil 1770. includes' a). The second read head 1762 is fixedly connected to the second moving coil 1772 and / or the second leaf 640'b to move relative to the sensor 1778. As discussed above, the individual read heads 1780, 1782 can be connected to the controller 32 via separate communication systems 1770a and 1772a so that a position signal can be sent to the controller 32 and the controller 32. Can be operated to control the drive mechanism 1760 based on a position signal from the sensor 1776.

Moreover, the leaf 640 'may be interconnected with a bearing or a pair of parallel rails 1784a, 1784b. The leaves 640'a, 640'b may be directly connected to the rails 1784 and / or interconnected with individual car or bearing trucks 1768a, 1786b, 1786c, 1786d. Thus, leaf 640 ′ may move along the X axis in a path defined by rail 1784. Moreover, the interconnection of the rails 1784 and the leaf 640 'allows for a substantially smooth and non-binding movement in the X-axis.

The leaf 640 ′ configured to move in the X-axis may be offset from the surface 1621 of the stage 1620 by a distance greater than the distance of the leaf 650 ′. As discussed further herein, the leaf 650 ′ may move in the Y axis, which may be substantially perpendicular to the X axis. Thus, in order to have non-interfering movement of leaf 640 'in the X axis and leaf 650' in the Y axis, the leaves may be placed in different planes to facilitate contact of the individual leaves so as not to contact each other.

Leaf 650 'is coupled with drive mechanism 1766 at one end of leaf 650'. Similar to the leaf 640 ', the leaf 650'a is fixedly connected to the third moving coil 1790, and the fourth leaf 650'b is fixedly connected to the fourth moving coil 1792. . The third and fourth moving coils 1790, 1792 move along the single and common magnets 1794 to form a linear motor drive mechanism 1766. Again, each of the moving coils 1790, 1792 is connected to the controller 32 using separate and suitable communication systems 1792a and 1790a. Again, it should be understood that communication systems 1770a, 1772a, 1790a, and 1792a may be wired communication systems, wireless communication systems, physical media transmission systems, or other suitable communication systems. The controller 32 may operate the drive mechanism 1766 to move the leaf 650 ′ in a similar manner as described above to operate the linear motor.

Moreover, the controller 32 can receive a position signal from a position sensor 1796 associated with the drive system 1766. The position sensor 1796 can include a single scale sensor 1798. The third read head 1800 may be secured to the moving coil 1790 and / or the third leaf 650 ′ a. The fourth read head 1802 can be secured to the fourth moving coil 1792 and / or the fourth leaf 650'b. Both read heads 1800 and 1802 can move along sensor 1798 to provide a common reference position sensing and position signal for drive system 1766. The location signal may be transmitted to the controller 32 using separate communication systems 1790a and 1792a. Thus, the controller 32 may know or determine the positions of the leaves 650'a and 650'b using the position signals from the position sensor 1796.

Drive mechanism 1766 is connected to one end of leaf 650 ′. However, the leaf 650 ′ may be interconnected with a bearing system that includes a third rail 1804a and a fourth rail 1804b. Rails 1804a and 1804b may form a second rail pair or bearing pair that is substantially perpendicular to bearing rails 1784a and 1784b. Leaf 650 ′ may directly engage rail 1804 and / or may be connected to car or mobile bearing trucks 1806a, 1806b, 1806 and 1806d. Nevertheless, the rail 1804 allows substantially smooth and non-binding movement of the leaf 650 '.

Thus, ASA 626c may include a leaf mechanism substantially similar or identical to the leaf of 640 and 650 of ASA 626a and a drive mechanism similar to the drive mechanism of ASA 626b. The leaves 640 ', 650' of the ASA 626c form an opening 630 selected in a manner similar to the leaves 640, 650 of the ASA 626a using alternative motors or drive mechanisms 1760, 1766. Can be moved to. The leaves 640 ′, 650 ′ may extend from one side of the stage 1620 to the second side of the stage 1620 and cross the stage aperture 1624, as shown in FIG. 12. Can be. For example, the rails of rail pairs 1784 and 1804 are spaced apart from each other across stage aperture 1624. Thus, leaves 640 ', 650' may span or intersect stage 1620. Moreover, the leaves 640 ', 650' may be interconnected with a movable magnet rather than a moving coil as discussed above. Thus, it is understood that ASA 626c can be controlled with instructions for forming a selected opening 630 similar to the manner of ASA 626a as discussed above. However, the individual connections of the coils 1770, 1772 to the leaves 640 ′, 650 ′ of the coils 1770, 1772 are connected to the stage 1620 and the respective leaves 640 ′ a, 640 ′ b, 650 ′ a and 650 ′ b. It is understood that they can allow independent movements (eg, amounts and / or directions) relative to each other.

The collimator 198 may include a filter in addition to the fast filter 200 according to various embodiments including the fast filter 200c as shown in FIG. 9. The additional filter may include filtering elements or portions for various features, such as adjusting the beam spectrum to optimize imaging performance when obtaining image data. The filter may be provided in multiple element or position filter assemblies 2000. The filter assembly 2000 may include a plurality of filter positions or positions 2010 including individual positions 2010a, 2010b, 2010c, 2010d, 2010e, 2010f, 2010g, and 2010h. The filter location 2010 may be formed as a passage or opening in the filter carrier or plate 2014. At each filter location 2010, a selected filter material may be included. The filter material may be disposed in a void or opening formed in the filter carrier 2014. The filter material may be opaque or transparent for various wavelengths or energies. For example, filter location 2010a may be used to limit the type or energy level of x-rays for passing through exposure opening 600 of collimator 198 or copper, tin, silver, aluminum, these having a Z reference value selected. Filter material such as alloys, layered materials or other suitable materials. Moreover, one or more filter locations 2010 may not include any filter material, thus providing voids to form an unfiltered passage through filter carrier 2014 for x-rays or other emissions. Certain filter materials or materials are provided that do not substantially interact with the x-ray so that the filter location acts as a void even when the material is in the path of the x-ray.

Filter plate 2014 may be formed as a substantially circular plate member having an outer circumferential tooth 2020. The teeth 2020 allow the filter carrier 2014 to rotate about a central axis 2022 on the axle or spindle 2024 to position one of the filter positions 2010 relative to the exposure opening 600. External teeth 2020 may be engaged by spindle gear 2030 with external teeth driven by motor assembly 2032. The motor assembly 2032 may be controlled by the controller 32 via the communication system 2034. The communication system can be any suitable communication system such as wired, wireless or other suitable communication system. Motor assembly 2032 may include any suitable type of motor, such as a servo motor or stepper motor. Motor assembly 2032 may drive external gear 2030 to rotate filter carrier 2014 in accordance with a selected plan or instruction, such as instructions that may be stored in memory 33b.

The filter assembly 2000 may further include a position sensor assembly 2040 capable of communicating with the controller 32 via the communication line 2042. The position sensor 2040 may include a spindle gear 2044 that meshes with the external teeth 2020 of the filter carrier 2014. When the filter carrier 2014 rotates, the spindle gear 2044 can also rotate, and the sensor 2040 can determine the relative or absolute position of the filter carrier 2014 based on the movement of the spindle gear 2044. .

Position sensor 2040 may include an optical or mechanical encoder, such as a US Digital® S4T optical shaft encoder. Based on the position sensor 2040, the motor 2032 may be operated to position the selected one of the filter elements at a selected one of the filter positions 1020a-h relative to the exposure opening 600. The filter carrier 2014 may rotate or rotate on an axis 2022 on the axle 2024, which is optionally fixed to the frame 620. Frame 660, which may hold ASA 626a, may be fixed relative to exposure opening 600. However, it is understood that the axle 2024 may be secured to any suitable portion of the collimator 198 including the housing 608. Thus, the position of the filter carrier 2014 can be rotated relative to the exposure opening 600 by operating the motor 232. Similarly, fast filter 200c may be mounted on frame 660.

With continued reference to FIG. 9 and further reference to FIG. 13, a number of element or position filter assemblies 2100 are shown. Filter assembly 2100 may include filter carrier 2110. The filter carrier 2110 may include a plurality of filter positions 2010a-2010h similar to the filter positions discussed above of the filter assembly 2000. Again, the filter carrier 2110 positions one of the filter positions 2010a-h relative to the exposure opening 600 and an axle 2130 to position the filter position 2010 relative to the exposure opening 600. It can be rotated around the axis 2022 of the phase.

However, filter assembly 2100 may be driven by a drive assembly similar to the drive assembly of high speed filter 200c as discussed above and shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. Thus, the drive assembly for the filter assembly 2100 may include a carry gear 360 (not shown in FIG. 13) that holds or carries the filter carrier 2110, as discussed above. Carrier gear 360 may be driven by belt 364 driven by drive gear 366 on shaft 370. The shaft 370 can be driven by the motor assembly 374. As discussed above, the motor assembly 374 may include a motor in a housing 376 that may be controlled by the controller 32 using communication or control lines 380. Motor assembly 374 may be controlled to be positioned at a selected one of filter locations 2010 relative to opening 600 in a manner similar to that described above. The different positions 2010 can be identified by various sensors, such as index sensors, to determine the position of the filter plate 2110. However, since the filter assembly 2000 can be operated in a non-continuous motion operation, an absolute position sensor can be used to determine which of the filter positions 2010a-h is aligned with the exposure opening 600.

The plurality of filter positions 2010a-h of the filter assembly 2100 and the filter assembly 2000 generally allow one of the filter positions 2010a-h to be positioned relative to the exposure opening 600 for a selected time. . Thus, the filter plate or carrier 2014 or 2110 may generally not rotate continuously during the imaging procedure. Thus, the motor assembly and the sensor may be selected based on the reduced amount of movement and may include an absolute position sensor for determining the position of the filter carrier, including the filter position 2010 relative to the opening 600.

Referring to FIG. 14, filter assembly 2200 is shown. The filter assembly 2200 is shown positioned relative to the stage 1620 of the ASA 626b shown in FIG. However, it is understood that filter assembly 2200 may be positioned relative to any suitable portion of collimator 198. Filter assembly 2200 may include a grid or patterned filter carrier 2210 that includes a plurality of filter locations or openings 2220a-2220i. The filter carrier can move in two planes, for example in the X and Y axes, in plane and overall.

Each of the filter locations 2220 may include a different filter material and / or may be open to filter out any transmission through the exposure opening 1624. The filter carrier 2210 may be moved relative to the opening 600 of the exposure opening 1624 and / or the collimator 198 by movement along the parallel rails. The first set of parallel rails includes first rails 2230a and 2230b. The first set of parallel rails 2230 can be secured to the stage 1620. Many cars, including four cars 2232a-2232d, can move along the rails 2230 in the direction of the two-way arrow 2236 as a whole.

When the first set of cars 2230 moves in the direction of the two-way arrow 2236, a plurality of additional cars 2240a-2240d can be mounted to the first set of cars 2232, which are the second set of cars ( 2240 is moved in the same direction. Moving relative to the second set of cars 2240 may be a second set of rails including a third rail 2250a and a fourth rail 2250b. The second set of rails 2250 may move in the direction of the two-way arrow 2254 as a whole. Filter carrier 2210 may be secured to second set of rails 2250 in any suitable manner, such as by welding, adhesive or fasteners.

When the second set of rails 2250 moves in the direction of the two-way arrow 2254, the filter carrier 2210 also moves in the direction of the two-way arrow 2254. Moreover, because the rail members 2250 are interconnected with the first set of cars 2232, the frame carrier 2210 also moves in the direction of the two-way arrow 2236 in a selected manner. Thus, the filter carrier 2210 may be moved relative to the exposure opening 1624 in the exposure opening 600 and / or the stage 1620 in the direction of the bidirectional arrows 2236 or 2254, such as the x and y directions.

Movement of rail 2250 relative to car 2232 or car 2240 may be formed in any suitable manner. For example, as described above, lead screws driven by selected motors (eg, servo motors or stepper motors), linear motors, or other suitable motor drive mechanisms may comprise individual cars 2232 and / or rails 2250. ) Can be used to move. In this way, the filter carrier 2210 can be moved relative to the exposure opening 1624.

According to various embodiments, frame carrier 2210 may include only a single row of filter locations, not a grid. In a single row, the frame carrier only needs to move in a single axis, such as along the X axis. In this configuration, the frame carrier may be similar to a ladder, where the filter position is between each rung of the ladder. The ladder filter carrier can also reduce the number of rails and / or cars on the rails needed to move the ladder. For example, the ladder can be moved on a pair of parallel rails in the X-axis. However, the ladder frame carrier can be moved in two directions along the X axis. The movement of the ladder filter carrier may be powered by any selected suitable motor, such as a linear motor, as described above. The linear motor may be positioned to move the ladder filter carrier relative to the exposure opening 600. Moreover, the ladder filter carrier can be moved based on the instructions or control from the controller 32.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in selected embodiments, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may be changed in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the invention, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention.

Claims (28)

In an assembly for use in an imaging system,
As the first drive mechanism,
1st motor,
A first lead screw portion, and
Said first drive mechanism having a second lead screw portion;
As the second drive mechanism,
2nd motor,
A third lead screw portion, and
Said second drive mechanism having a fourth lead screw portion;
A plurality of X-axis rails defining a path along the X-axis;
A pair of X-axis leaves movably connected to the plurality of X-axis rails to move along the X-axis;
A plurality of Y-axis rails defining a path along the Y-axis; And
And a pair of Y-axis leaves movably connected to the plurality of Y-axis rails to move along the Y-axis,
The first drive mechanism is operably connected to a pair of X-axis leaves to move the X-axis leaves in the X-axis;
And the second drive mechanism is operably connected to a pair of Y-axis leaves to move the Y-axis leaves in the Y-axis. The method of claim 1,
A first leaf connector having a first internal thread;
A second leaf connector having a second internal thread;
The first internal thread is in a direction opposite to the second internal thread;
The first lead screw portion is engaged with the first internal thread and the second lead screw portion is engaged with the second internal thread;
When the first lead screw portion and the second lead screw portion rotate in the first direction, the first leaf and the second leaf move toward each other, and the first lead screw portion and the second lead screw portion And when rotating in this second direction, the first leaf and the second leaf are away from each other. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the first direction is opposite to the second direction. The method according to claim 2 or 3,
A first leaf carrier, wherein the first leaf and the first leaf connector are secured to the first leaf carrier; And
A second leaf carrier, wherein the second leaf and the second leaf connector are further secured to the second leaf carrier;
And the first leaf carrier and the second leaf carrier are movably connected to the plurality of X-axis rails. The method of claim 4, wherein
The frame further includes;
The plurality of X-axis rails comprises a first X-axis rail and a second X-axis rail;
The first X-axis rail is mounted to the first portion of the frame and the second X-axis rail is mounted to the second portion of the frame opposite the first portion of the frame across the opening;
And the first leaf carrier and the second leaf carrier span the distance between the first X-axis rail and the second X-axis rail. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
A third leaf connector having a third internal thread;
A fourth leaf connector having a fourth internal thread;
The third internal thread is in a direction opposite to the fourth internal thread;
The third lead screw portion engages with the third internal thread, and the fourth lead screw portion engages with the fourth internal thread;
When the third lead screw portion and the fourth lead screw portion rotate in the third direction, the third leaf and the fourth leaf move toward each other, and the third lead screw portion and the fourth lead screw When the portion rotates in the fourth direction, the third leaf and the fourth leaf are away from each other. The method of claim 6,
A third leaf carrier, wherein the third leaf carrier and the third leaf connector are secured to the third leaf carrier; And
A fourth leaf carrier, wherein the fourth leaf carrier and the fourth leaf connector are further secured to the fourth leaf carrier;
And the third leaf carrier and the fourth leaf carrier are movably connected to the plurality of Y-axis rails. The method of claim 7, wherein
frame;
The plurality of Y-axis rails comprises a first Y-axis rail and a second Y-axis rail;
The first Y-axis rail is mounted to the first portion of the frame and the second Y-axis rail is mounted to the second portion of the frame opposite the first portion of the frame across the opening;
And the third leaf carrier and the fourth leaf carrier span the distance between the first Y-axis rail and the second Y-axis rail. The method of claim 6,
And a selected exposure opening defined between the first leaf, the second leaf, the third leaf, and all of the fourth leaf.
Wherein said first leaf, said second leaf, said third leaf and said fourth leaf each comprise a radiopaque material. 10. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the first motor and the second motor are selected from at least one of a stepper motor, a servo motor, or a combination thereof. In an assembly for use in an imaging system,
A pair of X-axis rails defining a path along an X-axis, wherein the first X-axis rail is spaced apart from the second X-axis rail;
A first X-axis leaf and a second X-axis leaf, both of which are movably connected to the pair of X-axis rails and move along the X-axis; X-axis leaf;
A pair of Y-axis rails defining a path along the Y-axis, wherein the first Y-axis rail is spaced apart from the second Y-axis rail;
A first Y-axis leaf and a second Y-axis leaf, both of which are movably connected to the pair of Y-axis rails and move along the Y-axis; 2 Y-axis leaf;
A first drive mechanism having a first lead screw portion having an external thread and a second lead screw portion having an external thread;
A second drive mechanism having a third lead screw portion with an external thread and a fourth lead screw portion with an external thread;
A first leaf connector connected to said first X-axis leaf having an internal thread to threadably engage an outer thread of said first lead screw portion;
A second leaf connector connected to said second X-axis leaf having an internal thread to threadably engage an external thread of said second lead screw portion;
A third leaf connector connected to said first Y-axis leaf having an internal thread for threaded engagement with an external thread of said third lead screw portion;
A fourth leaf connector connected to the second Y-axis leaf having an internal thread to threadably engage an external thread of the fourth lead screw portion;
The first drive mechanism is operably connected to the first X-axis leaf and the second X-axis leaf to move the first X-axis leaf and the second X-axis leaf on the X-axis. ;
The second drive mechanism is operably connected to the first Y-axis leaf and the second Y-axis leaf to move the first Y-axis leaf and the second Y-axis leaf on the Y-axis. , Assembly. 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first drive mechanism comprises a first motor and the second drive mechanism comprises a second motor;
Wherein the first motor and the second motor are selected from at least one of a stepper motor, a servo motor, or a combination thereof. The method according to any one of claims 11 or 12,
A first leaf carrier, wherein the first leaf and the first leaf connector are secured to the first leaf carrier; And
A second leaf carrier, wherein the second leaf and the second leaf connector are further secured to the second leaf carrier;
And the first leaf carrier and the second leaf carrier are movably connected to the pair of X-axis rails. The method of claim 13,
The frame further includes;
The first X-axis rail is mounted to a first portion of the frame, and the second X-axis rail is opposite the first portion of the frame across an opening and spaced from the first portion Mounted to a second portion of the;
And the first leaf carrier and the second leaf carrier span the distance between the first X-axis rail and the second X-axis rail. The method of claim 11,
A third leaf carrier, wherein the third leaf carrier and the third leaf connector are secured to the third leaf carrier; And
A fourth leaf carrier, wherein the fourth leaf carrier and the fourth leaf connector are further secured to the fourth leaf carrier;
And the third leaf carrier and the fourth leaf carrier are movably connected to the pair of Y-axis rails. The method of claim 15,
The frame further includes;
The first Y-axis rail is mounted to a first portion of the frame, and the second Y-axis rail is opposite the first portion of the frame across an opening and spaced from the first portion Mounted to a second portion of the;
The third leaf carrier and the fourth leaf carrier span the distance between the first Y-axis rail and the second Y-axis rail. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 16,
And a selected exposure opening defined between the first leaf, the second leaf, the third leaf, and all of the fourth leaf.
Wherein said first leaf, said second leaf, said third leaf and said fourth leaf each comprise a radiopaque material. 18. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the first leaf and the second leaf move toward each other when the first lead screw portion and the second lead screw portion rotate in a first direction. And the first leaf and the third leaf move away from each other when the first lead screw portion and the second lead screw portion rotate in a second direction. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein when the third lead screw portion and the fourth lead screw portion rotate in a third direction, the third leaf and the fourth leaf move towards each other, and the third lead screw portion And the third leaf and the fourth leaf are away from each other when the fourth lead screw portion rotates in the fourth direction. In an assembly for use in an imaging system,
A collimator housing having a housing exposure opening;
X-axis selection assembly,
A first X-axis rail spaced apart from a second X-axis rail across the housing exposure opening;
A first X-axis leaf and a second X-axis leaf, both of which are movably connected to and moving along the X-axis to the first X-axis rail and the second X-axis rail; An X-axis leaf and a second X-axis leaf;
A first drive mechanism having a first lead screw assembly having an external thread;
A first leaf connector connected to the first X-axis leaf having an internal thread to threadably engage an external thread of the first lead screw assembly;
A second leaf connector connected to the second X-axis leaf having an internal thread to threadably engage an external thread of the first lead screw assembly;
Y-axis selection assembly,
A first Y-axis rail spaced apart from a second Y-axis rail across the housing exposure opening;
A first Y-axis leaf and a second Y-axis leaf, both of which are movably connected to the first Y-axis rail and the second Y-axis rail to move along the Y-axis; Y-axis leaf and second Y-axis leaf;
A second drive mechanism having a second lead screw assembly having an external thread;
A third leaf connector connected to said first Y-axis leaf having an internal thread for threaded engagement with an external thread of said second lead screw assembly;
And a fourth leaf connector connected to the second Y-axis leaf having an internal thread to threadably engage an external thread of the second lead screw assembly.
Operate the first drive mechanism to move the first leaf and the second leaf towards and away from each other, and the second to move the third leaf and the fourth leaf towards and away from each other And a controller configured to operate the drive mechanism. 21. The assembly of claim 20, wherein the linear movement in the X-axis is defined by the first X-axis rail and the second X-axis rail. The assembly of claim 21, wherein the direction of movement in the X-axis is defined by the first lead screw assembly interacting with the first leaf connector and the second leaf connector. 21. The assembly of claim 20, wherein the linear movement in the Y-axis is defined by the first Y-axis rail and the second Y-axis rail. The assembly of claim 23, wherein the direction of movement in the Y-axis is defined by the second lead screw assembly that interacts with the third leaf connector and the fourth leaf connector. In an assembly for use in an imaging system,
A collimator housing having a housing exposure opening;
X-axis selection assembly,
A first X-axis rail spaced apart from a second X-axis rail across the housing exposure opening;
A first X-axis leaf and a second X-axis leaf, both of which are movably connected to and moving along the X-axis to the first X-axis rail and the second X-axis rail; An X-axis leaf and a second X-axis leaf;
A first drive mechanism having a first lead screw assembly having an external thread;
A second drive mechanism having a second lead screw assembly having an external thread;
A first leaf connector connected to the first X-axis leaf having an internal thread to threadably engage an external thread of the first lead screw assembly;
A second leaf connector connected to the second X-axis leaf having an internal thread to threadably engage an external thread of the second lead screw assembly;
Y-axis selection assembly,
A first Y-axis rail spaced apart from a second Y-axis rail across the housing exposure opening;
A first Y-axis leaf and a second Y-axis leaf, both of which are movably connected to the first Y-axis rail and the second Y-axis rail to move along the Y-axis; Y-axis leaf and second Y-axis leaf;
A third drive mechanism having a third lead screw assembly having an external thread;
A fourth drive mechanism having a fourth lead screw assembly having an external thread;
A third leaf connector connected to said first Y-axis leaf having an internal thread for threaded engagement with an external thread of said third lead screw assembly; And
And a fourth leaf connector coupled to the second Y-axis leaf having an internal thread to threadably engage an external thread of the fourth lead screw assembly. The method of claim 25,
As a controller,
A first drive mechanism for moving the first leaf;
A second drive mechanism for moving the second leaf;
A third drive mechanism for moving the third leaf; And
And the controller for independently controlling the operation of a third drive mechanism to move the fourth leaf. 27. The assembly of claim 25 or 26, wherein the linear movement in the X-axis is defined by the first X-axis rail and the second X-axis rail. 27. The assembly of claim 26, wherein the linear movement in the Y-axis is defined by the first Y-axis rail and the second Y-axis rail.

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