KIDs-CT

On 01.10.2017, the BMBF-funded project "Configurable, interface-opening, dose-saving computer tomograph (KIDs-CT)" was launched under the umbrella of the Research Campus STIMULATE.

The central goal of this project is the development of a CT platform with open interfaces for hardware and software and a modular structure. This modularity refers both to the internal hardware structure (e. g. interchangeable detector and electronic modules for processing high-speed signals) and to the periphery (combination with additional modalities such as optical 3D imaging). The high degree of flexibility will enable a quick adaptation to different requirements and application scenarios. A central role is played by the open interface structure, which enables extensions - both hardware and software - to be connected to the device without complications via standardized interfaces.

Key research aspects are new concepts for dose reduction, the use of information from other modalities (e. g. optical or ultrasound images), the reduction of metal artifacts as well as the contradictory requirements for a high degree of openness of the system on the one hand and safe operation on the other, which is indispensable for medical approval.

Reducing the relatively high dose of ionizing radiation that patients are exposed to during scanning is the most important challenge to using this technology. The "KIDs-CT" project focuses on paediatrics as an exemplary clinical application. Especially in these small patients, a clearly minimized radiation dose is necessary in order to reduce the risk of serious radiation damage.

The realization of the research project in cooperation from the Otto-von-Guericke-University (OVGU), the companies Dornheim Medical Images GmbH and metraTec GmbH will take place at the Research Campus STIMULATE within the next 3 years. Within the scope of the project, the Institute for Medical Technology (Prof. Rose, FEIT) of OVGU and Dornheim Medical Images will take over the operational project management of the entire project on behalf of the industry. Furthermore, the Chair of Hardware-related Computer Engineering (Prof. Pionteck, FEIT) and the Institute of Mechanics (Jun. -Prof. Woschke, FMB) are involved in the project.