Motion Simulator Sim2D

Sim2D is a powerful tool to assess temporal and spatial resolution on 3D X-ray imaging modalities as CT or C-arm systems. The simulator provides 1D rhythmic and arrhythmic motion of a sample probe at multiple trajectories.

 

Stationary anthropomorphic phantoms for validation and quality control are state-of-the-art. QRM-PC Controlled Phantom Device is designed to oscillate small cardiac phantoms, attached to a lever, in order to simulate more realistic situations in cardiac imaging. 
The deflection of the lever (F) is controlled by a programmable high-speed Digital Signal Processing (DSP) computerized controller module. The deflection, as a function of time, can be customized by our accompanying software package ”Motion Editor”, a simple graphic platform for editing and import/export of motion profiles. Several preconfigured motion profiles are included. 
Currently the device allows for a maximum amplitude of 25 mm, i.e. a total stroke of 50 mm, and up to eight motion profiles kept in memory. Figure 2 depicts a typical example of a motion profile. 
ECG correlated CT reconstruction is also supported. At the start of a motion profile, the PC Controlled Phantom Device generates a synchronizing trigger pulse corresponding to the R-peaks of an ECG signal, either as a voltage signal (3 mV) or as a square current pulse (10 mA) in order to actuate an optoelectronic coupler.

Technical Specification

• Precision of home position (zero reference) better than 0.2 mm
• Accuracy in static mode (constant displacement) better than 0.2 mm
• Accuracy of a sinusoidal motion at 140 bpm better than 6.3%.
• Reproducibility of motion profiles in quasi stationary state better than 1%
• Max. stroke 50 mm, max. amplitude 25 mm.
• Power supply: Mains 100-240V, Sec. 24V DC Stab, max. 70W
• Dimensions 200 mm x 100 mm x 200 mm
• Weight 2 kg

System Components

• QRM-Thorax thorax phantom (optional)
• Cardiac phantom specimens (optional)
• PMMA water container (optional)
• PE base plate with permanent magnet clamps
• PC Controlled Motion Unit with specimen holder
• CD: "Motion Editor" Software package, Motion profiles QRM.prf Operation Manual
• Serial communication cable, 10 m
• USB / RS232 adapter
• ECG Adapter
• External power adapter
• Allen key for fixing brackets
• Carrying case

Motion Simulator Sim4D-Cardio

Sim4D is a powerful tool to assess temporal and spatial resolution on 3D X-ray imaging modalities as CT or C-arm systems. The simulator provides 3D rhythmic and arrhythmic motion of a sample probe at multiple trajectories.

 

Detection and quantification of calcium in coronary arteries is a major issue in diagnostic imaging of the heart. Due to organ motion artefacts in cardiac imaging, tools are needed to verify spatial as well as temporal resolution in the images. 
The 4D Motion Simulator is designed to fit the needs of scientists and researchers of 3D imaging devices, especially in computed tomography.
Sim4D is controlled by dedicated software. Users can create motion profiles in any order and in an easy way. The profiles can be transferred directly to the device. Also the simulator can be operated by remote control; operation in the same room is not necessary.
The simulator can be used with the QRM Cardio CT Phantom, so that 3D motion in an anthropomorphic thorax can be simulated. 
Multiple sample probes for motion simulation are available – custom-made designs are welcome, please ask us directly. 

Functions:

- multiple trajectories programmable over a range of 80 x 40 mm in plane (x, y) and 80 mm axial (z)
- provides sync signal and supports ECG correlated reconstruction (ECG gating)
- rhythmic and arrhythmic motion profiles can be created in an easy way
- motion start and stop as well as profile programming and data transfer can be controlled by remote software in an easy way
- provides maximum frequency of a 3D moving profile about 3 Hz
- sample probes as Ca-spheres, rods or stents are available
- sync pulse (for ECG-gating) can be initialized from any position of the motion profile 

System Components:

- Sim4D Simulator
- QRM Water Tank
- software Motion Editor
- power supply
- RS232 serial cable with USB adapter and drivers
- standard sample probe (3 mm CaHA-sphere on water-equivalent rod) 

Bolus Phantom

The Bolus Phantom simulates different contrast levels per time. a solid zylinder of CTiodine with different concentration steps can be moved through the phantom.

 

The phantom was designed for operation in CT-scanners. It allows to simulate a contrast enhancement similar to an iodine contrast bolus in patients. The contrast is achieved with CTiodine of different concentrations. The phantom body is made of a resin disk, which is to be placed in the scan field. A cylinder made of PMMA is slowly moving into the scan plane and back to the initial position. This causes an increase of CT numbers. The respective contrast depends on the scanner’s beam quality. 

The phantom may be used to test a scanner’s bolus triggering software or a scanner’s capabilities in monitoring the shape of a well defined bolus.