Image Reconstruction Improvement of Variable Coded Aperture Using Deep Learning Method for Gamma and Lensless Imaging Applications

In gamma ray imaging for nuclear medicine, coded aperture is used to improve sensitivity. one of the main reconstructing methods is inverse filtering (deconvolution), where the recorded image is cross-correlated with periodic inverse filter of coded array. The reconstruction is free of coding noise for arbitrary array. However, amplification of quantum noise affect the reconstructed image. Although it is improved by Wiener filtering, the major problem is small terms in the spectral distribution of coded masks. Statistically and experimentally pinhole arrays have at least one term which is zero, resulting unacceptably noisy reconstruction. In our previous research we presented new approach of variable coded aperture (VCA) design for far and near field imaging applications [1–4]. The imaging system is based on time multiplexing method using variable multi pinhole array. The unique variable design enables to overcome the spatial frequencies cutoff and small terms in the Fourier transform exists in static multi pinhole array. The overall pinholes positions are designed to avoid spatial frequencies loss. However, traces of duplications can still be detected in reconstruction using Wiener filtering. Furthermore, since coded aperture blocks most of the photons that enter the detector, the dynamic range of the image is limited, thus leading to low contrast image and inadequate colors gamut.