Method and apparatus for transmission measurements to form a 3-d image

Abstract

A method and apparatus for producing radioactive transmission measurements to form a 3-D image with a point source of radiation, such as required in tomography applications. This involves the passing of the point source proximate the face of each detector of the tomograph units. As such, attenuation data, transmission data, detector performance data, etc., can be obtained. This point source of radiation is rapidly circulated through a conduit that passes across each detector face under the influence of a transport fluid in, for example, an oscillatory motion to achieve a selected radiation field whereby calculation of transmission measurements within a body positioned within the tomograph scanner is achieved. When not being circulated, the radiation source is held within a shield. Circulation of the transport fluid, typically a hydraulic fluid, is typically accomplished using a positive displacement pump. Position sensors are used to monitor the movement of the source in the conduit as well as its position within the shield. Disconnect units permit removal of the radiation source, as contained in the shield, from the system without accessing any other portions of the system. The method and apparatus are illustrated as being applied to a positron emission tomograph units.