Image acquisition with multiple detectors

Abstract

A radiographic system with multiple digital radiographic detectors that capture images in each detector when an x-ray source is fired. The detectors evaluate the captured images and a controller prioritizes the captured images based on the evaluation to determine which captured images are forwarded and in what order. At least one of the DR detectors captures a suitable diagnostic x-ray image.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The subject matter disclosed herein relates to stationary or mobile x-ray imaging systems used in medical imaging facilities having one or more digital radiographic detectors assigned to or registered with the medical imaging facility for capturing x-ray images. BACKGROUND

[0002] A problem that can arise during x-ray imaging using DR detectors is that a radiographic image can not be properly captured due to a mismatch between the detector used for image capture and the detector that actually captures the exposure during an x-ray exposure.

[0003] The above discussion is merely provided for general background information and is not intended to aid in the determination of the scope of the claimed subject matter. SUMMARY

[0004] Disclosed herein is a system and method for simultaneously activating or arming all DR detectors assigned to a particular radiographic system and thereby activated for image capture at the moment when the system's x-ray source is fired to expose a subject for radiographic imaging.

[0005] Activation of the DR detectors can be initiated by one or a combination of several user actions: removing the detector from a storage slot; moving the detector that triggers a movement sensor; and moving the detector that triggers a proximity sensor that detects the detector moving away from a particular storage location. Activation of the detector will include initially waking the detector from an idle mode or low power sleep mode to a ready mode for x-ray exposure integration, and / or starting a standard integration cycle performed by the DR detector. Once the exposure(s) are captured, the system can set the detector back into an idle mode or low power sleep mode for the purpose of conserving battery power or reducing heat generation. When multiple radiographic images are captured by the activated DR detector, the captured images can be transferred to the system console, or displayed on a digital display built into the DR detector and presented to the operator to select valid images for diagnostic use and discard any remaining images. An alternative method can include the console or DR detector automatically processing the captured images to select and store those images most likely to be valid for diagnosis. Another alternative is to program the DR detector to process the captured images and report image attributes, such as average or maximum signal magnitude, to the console system or on-board processing system before the images are finally determined, selected for diagnosis, or transferred to the console. The console can also be used to determine which detectors will first transfer captured images, second, third, etc. based on the reported signal magnitude or other data recorded by the DR detector.

[0006] When the x-ray source is activated, the radiographic system with multiple digital radiographic detectors captures an image in each detector. The detectors record data related to the image capture and evaluate the captured images. A controller prioritizes the captured images based on the evaluation or based on the recorded data to determine which captured images to forward and, if more than one captured image is forwarded, in what order they are transmitted. At least one of the DR detectors captures a suitable diagnostic x-ray image. An advantage that can be realized in the practice of some disclosed embodiments of the invention is to ensure that x-ray images are properly captured during an x-ray examination.

[0007] In one embodiment, a radiographic system with an x-ray source and multiple DR detectors is configured to capture an image in each DR detector in synchronization with activating the x-ray source. The multiple detectors are further configured to transmit one or more of the captured images in a priority order.

[0008] In another embodiment, a method of operating a radiographic system includes activating an x-ray source and capturing an image in each of multiple DR detectors. The detectors are prioritized in an order and at least one of the multiple DR detectors forwards its captured image to the system according to the prioritization.

[0009] This brief description of the application is only intended to provide a summary of subject matter disclosed herein and is not intended to limit the scope of the application, solely by way of explanation of illustrative embodiments. This brief description does not necessarily describe the most significant or essential features of the claimed subject matter, and does not limit the claimed subject matter in any way. The claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in the background. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] So that the features of the application can be understood in detail, a detailed description can be obtained by reference to certain embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings represent only some embodiments of the application and therefore should not be considered to limit the scope of the application in any way. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of certain embodiments of the application. In the drawings, like reference numerals are used to designate like parts throughout the various views. Thus, for a further understanding of the application, reference can be made to the detailed description in conjunction with the drawings in which:

[0011] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary x-ray system;

[0012] Figure 2 is a diagram of an example DR detector;

[0013] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of an example DR detector;

[0014] Figure 4 is an illustration of a mobile radiographic system including memory for multiple DR detectors;

[0015] Figure 5 is a diagram of a mobile radiographic system illustrating Figure 4 in more detail;

[0016] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an example mobile radiographic detector management system;

[0017] Figure 7 is an example table of assigned detector states;

[0018] Figure 8 is a flowchart for operating an x-ray imaging system; and

[0019] Figure 9 is a display of an image exposed from a DR detector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 946,475, filed December 11, 2019, in the name of Wang et al., entitled IMAGE ACQUISITION WITH MULTIPLE DETECTORS, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0021] Figure 1is a perspective view of a digital radiographic (DR) imaging system 10 according to one embodiment, which can include a generally curved or planar DR detector 40 (shown in a planar embodiment, and without a housing for clarity of description), an x-ray source 14 configured to produce radiographic energy (x-ray radiation), and a digital monitor or electronic display 26 configured to display images captured by the DR detector 40. The digital monitor or electronic display 26 can include a touchscreen to enable a user to input instructions for operating the digital radiographic (DR) imaging system 10. The DR detector 40 can include a two-dimensional array 12 of detector cells 22 (photosensors) arranged in electronically addressable rows and columns. The DR detector 40 can be positioned to receive x-rays 16 emitted by the x-ray source 14 that pass through an object 20 during a radiographic energy exposure or radiographic energy pulse. As shown in Figure 1 the radiographic imaging system 10 can use an x-ray source 14 that emits collimated x-rays 16, such as an x-ray beam, that is selectively aimed at and passes through a preselected region 18 of the object 20. The x-ray beam 16 can be attenuated to varying degrees along its multiple rays by the internal structure of the object 20, with the attenuated rays detected by the array 12 of photosensitive detector cells 22. The curved or planar DR detector 40 is positioned in perpendicular relationship to substantially central rays 17 of the multiple rays 16 emitted by the x-ray source 14 as much as possible. In curved array embodiments, the source 14 can be centrally positioned so that a large percentage or all of the photosensitive detector cells are positioned perpendicular to incident x-rays from the centrally positioned source 14. The array 12 of individual photosensitive cells (pixels) 22 can be electronically addressed (scanned) to determine the signal levels captured thereby from their positions according to columns and rows, which can be processed individually as needed as a whole image using the entire array of photosensitive cells, or with respect to a portion of the array. As used herein, the terms "column" and "row" refer to the vertical and horizontal arrangement of the photosensor cells 22, and for clarity of description, it will be assumed that the rows extend horizontally and the columns extend vertically. However, the orientation of the columns and rows is arbitrary and does not limit the scope of any embodiments disclosed herein. Furthermore, the term "object" can be illustrated in the description as a human patient, however, as the term is used herein, the object of the DR imaging system can be a human, an animal, an inanimate object, or a portion thereof. Figure 1

[0022] ​In one exemplary embodiment, the rows of photosensitive cells 22 can be scanned one or more at a time by electronic scanning circuitry 28, such that exposure data (i.e., signal levels) from the array 12 can be transmitted to electronic readout circuitry 30. Each photosensitive cell 22 can independently store a charge proportional to the intensity, signal level, or energy level of attenuated radiographic radiation or x-rays received and absorbed in the cell. Thus, when read, each photosensitive cell provides information defining a pixel of the radiographic image 24, e.g., a brightness level or amount of energy absorbed by the pixel, which can be digitally decoded by onboard image processing electronics 36 (which can be referred to herein as a controller, processor, or processing system), or can be transmitted to a central acquisition control and image processor 34 (which can be referred to herein as a controller), for display on a digital monitor 26 for viewing by a user. Electronic biasing circuitry 32 is electrically connected to the two-dimensional detector array 12 to provide a bias voltage to each photosensitive cell 22.

[0023] Each of the biasing circuit 32, the scanning circuit 28, and the readout circuit 30 can be in electronic communication and controlled by an onboard processor 36. Each of the biasing circuit 32, the scanning circuit 28, and the readout circuit 30 can also be in communication with an external acquisition control and image processing unit 34 through a connected cable 33 (wired), or the DR detector 40 and the acquisition control and image processing unit 34 can each be equipped with wireless transmitters and receivers to wirelessly 35 transmit radiographic image data to the acquisition control and image processing unit 34. The acquisition control and image processing unit 34 can include a processor and electronic memory (not shown) to control the operation of the DR detector 40 as described herein, including for example, controlling the circuits 28, 30, and 32 through the use of programmed instructions, and to store and process image data. The acquisition control and image processing unit 34 can also be used to control the activation of the x-ray source 14 during a radiographic exposure, control the x-ray tube current value, and thus the fluence of x-rays in the x-ray beam 16 and / or the x-ray tube voltage, and thus the energy level of the x-rays in the x-ray beam 16. Part or all of the acquisition control and image processing unit 34 functions can reside in the detector 40 in an onboard processing system 36, which can include a processor and electronic memory to control the operation of the DR detector 40 as described herein, including through the use of programmed instructions to control the circuits 28, 30, and 32, and to store and process image data, similar to the functions of a separate external acquisition control and image processing system 34. The image processing system can perform image acquisition and image disposal functions as described herein. The image processing system 36 can control the image transmission, image processing, and image correction loaded on the detector 40 based on instructions or other commands transmitted from the acquisition control and image processing unit 34, and transmit corrected digital image data therefrom. Alternatively, the acquisition control and image processing unit 34 can receive raw image data from the detector 40 and process the image data for storage, or it can store raw, unprocessed image data in local memory or remotely accessible memory. As described herein below, the x-ray source 14, the digital monitor 26, and the acquisition control and image processing system 34 can be included in and form part of a mobile radiographic apparatus 100 Figure 4 )and form part thereof.

[0024] With respect to the direct detection embodiment of the DR detector 40, the photosensitive cells 22 can each include a sensing element that is sensitive to x-rays, i.e., that absorbs x-ray and generates an amount of charge carriers proportional to the magnitude of the absorbed x-ray energy. A switching element can be configured to be selectively activated to read the charge level of the corresponding x-ray sensing element. With respect to the indirect detection embodiment of the DR detector 40, the photosensitive cells 22 can each include a sensing element that is sensitive to light rays in the visible spectrum, i.e., that absorbs light rays and generates an amount of charge carriers proportional to the magnitude of the absorbed light energy, and a switching element that is selectively activated to read the charge level of the corresponding sensing element. A scintillator or wavelength converter can be disposed over the photosensitive sensing element to convert incident x-ray radiographic energy to visible light energy. Thus, in the embodiments disclosed herein, it should be noted that the DR detector 40 can include a DR detector of the indirect or direct type. Examples of sensing elements used in the sensing array 12 include various types of photoelectric conversion devices (e.g., photo sensors) such as photodiodes (P-N or PIN diodes), photo-capacitors (MIS), photo-transistors, or photoconductors. Examples of switching elements for signal readout include a-Si TFTs, oxide TFTs, MOS transistors, bipolar transistors, and other p-n junction components.

[0025] Figure 2 A perspective view of a generally rectangular, planar, portable wireless DR detector 40 is shown in accordance with embodiments of the DR detector 40 disclosed herein. The DR detector 40 can include a flexible substrate to allow the DR detector to be bent into a curved orientation. The flexible substrate can be manufactured in a permanent curved orientation, or it can remain flexible throughout its entire lifetime, to provide adjustable curvature in two or three dimensions, as desired. The DR detector 40 can include a similar flexible housing portion 214 that encloses a multi-layer structure including the flexible photosensor array portion 22 of the DR detector 40. The housing portion 214 of the DR detector 40 can include a continuous, rigid or flexible, radiopaque material that encloses an interior volume of the DR detector 40. The housing portion 214 can include four flexible edges 218 that extend between a top side 221 and a bottom side 222 and are arranged substantially orthogonally with respect to the top side 221 and the bottom side 222. The bottom side 222 can be continuous with the four edges and disposed opposite the top side 221 of the DR detector 40. The top side 221 includes a top cover 212 attached to the housing portion 214 that, together with the housing portion 214, substantially encloses the multi-layer structure in an interior volume of the DR detector 40. The top cover 212 can be attached to the housing 214 to form a seal therebetween and be made of a material that is substantially not attenuating to x-rays 16 passing therethrough, i.e., radiolucent, such as carbon fiber plastic, polymer, or other plastic-based material.

[0026] Reference is made to Figure 3 An exemplary cross-sectional view along section 3-3 of an exemplary embodiment of a DR detector 40 is illustrated in schematic form. For spatial reference purposes, as used herein, one major surface of the DR detector 40 can be referred to as a top side 351 and a second major surface can be referred to as a bottom side 352. A multi-layer structure can be disposed within an interior volume 350 enclosed by a housing 214 and a top cover 212 and can include a flexible curved or planar scintillator layer 304 over a curved or planar two-dimensional imaging sensor array 12, schematically shown as a device layer 302. The scintillator layer 304 can be directly under (e.g., directly connected to) the substantially planar top cover 212 and the imaging array 302 can be directly under the scintillator 304. Alternatively, a flexible layer 306 can be positioned between the scintillator layer 304 and the top cover 212 as part of the multi-layer structure to allow adjustable curvature of the multi-layer structure and / or to provide shock absorption. The flexible layer 306 can be selected to provide a certain amount of flexible support for both the top cover 212 and the scintillator 304 and can include a foam rubber type of material. As noted with reference to Figure 2 Each of the layers of the multi-layer structure just described can generally be formed in a rectangular shape and defined by orthogonally arranged edges and disposed in parallel with the inner sides of the edges 218 of the housing 214.

[0027] A substrate layer 320 can be disposed under the imaging array 302, such as a rigid glass layer in one embodiment, or a flexible substrate including polyimide or carbon fiber over which the array 302 of photosensors can be formed to allow adjustable curvature of the array and can include another layer of the multi-layer structure. Under the substrate layer 320, a radiopaque shield layer 318 can serve as an x-ray barrier to help prevent scattering of x-rays through the substrate layer 320 as well as to block x-rays reflected from other surfaces in the interior volume 350. The readout electronics, including all of the scan circuitry 28, readout circuitry 30, bias circuitry 32 and processing system 36 Figure 1 can be formed in proximity to the imaging array 302 or, as shown, can be disposed under the frame support member 316 in the form of an integrated circuit (IC) electrically connected with printed circuit boards 324, 325. Other electronic modules disposed under the frame support member 316 can include a Bluetooth communication module for near field communication and an accelerometer for sensing movement of the detector 40. The imaging array 302 can be electrically connected to the readout electronics 324 (IC) by a flexible connector 328 which can include a plurality of flexible sealed conductors referred to as chip on film (COF) connectors.

[0028] X-ray flux can pass through the radiolucent top panel cover 212 in the direction represented by the exemplary x-ray beam 16 and impinge on the scintillator 304, where the stimulation of the high energy x-rays 16 or photons causes the scintillator 304 to emit lower energy photons as visible light rays, which are then received in the photosensors of the imaging array 302. Frame support members 316 can connect the multi-layer structure to the housing 214 and can further operate as shock absorbers by providing resilient pads (not shown) between the frame support beams 322 and the housing 214. Fasteners 310 can be used to attach the top cover 212 to the housing 214 and create a seal therebetween in the area 330 where they make contact. In one embodiment, external shock absorbers 312 can be attached along the edges 218 of the DR detector 40 to provide additional shock absorption.

[0029] Figure 4 A perspective view of a mobile radiographic unit 100 is shown that can be used with a portable DR detector 40 that is mechanically separate from the mobile radiographic unit 100. The exemplary mobile x-ray or radiographic apparatus 100 can be used for digital radiography (DR) and / or tomosynthesis or tomographic imaging. The mobile radiographic apparatus 100 can include a mobile transport frame 120 that includes a first digital display 110 and an optional second digital display 110' as part of an x-ray tube head 140 to display relevant information, such as acquired x-ray images and related data, and to receive operator input to control the firing of an x-ray source in the x-ray tube head 140. As shown in FIG. 1, the second display 110' can be pivotably mounted at the x-ray tube head 140 to be viewable / touchable from a 360 degree area. Figure 4

[0030] ​The display 110, 110' can provide an input screen (e.g., touch screen) for the operator to implement or control functions of the mobile radiographic apparatus 100, such as controlling the firing and energy level of the x-ray source in the tube head 140, adjusting the aperture of the collimator in the tube head 140, registering the DR detector with the mobile radiographic apparatus 100, generating, storing, transmitting, modifying, and printing the obtained or captured x-ray image(s). For mobility, the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 can have one or more wheels 115 and one or more handles 125, typically disposed at the waist level, arm level, or hand level, which help the operator to move and direct the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 to its intended location. A self-contained battery pack (e.g., rechargeable) can provide the source power, which can reduce or eliminate the need to operate near a power outlet. Additionally, the self-contained battery pack can be configured to provide power for the motorized wheels to transport the entire mobile radiographic unit 100 to its intended location. For storage, the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 can include a slot 134 for storing one or more DR detectors 40 or computed radiography cassettes. The slot 134 can be a storage area disposed in the transport frame 120 configured to removably hold at least one DR detector 40. The storage slot 134 can be configured to accommodate multiple detectors, and can also be configured to accommodate DR detectors of one size or multiple sizes.

[0031] Still referring to Figure 4 The processing control system 130 (which can be referred to herein as a controller) provides control logic for image processing, identification of DR detectors registered to the mobile radiographic apparatus 100, identification of the position of the tube head 140 relative to the transport frame 120, and other control functions. Image processing can be provided by the processing control system 130 as part of the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 itself, or it can be provided by one or more external computers (such as a console) and other processors networked in signal communication with the mobile radiographic apparatus 100.

[0032] Mounted to the frame 120 is a support member or column 135 that supports an x-ray head 140 (also referred to as an x-ray tube, tube head, or generator), which includes an x-ray source, and can be mounted to the support member or column 135. The x-ray head 140 can be mounted to the support member or column 135 in a variety of ways, such as by a mounting bracket, a mounting plate, a mounting arm, or other mounting structure. The support member or column 135 can be a telescoping member that can be extended or retracted to adjust the height of the x-ray head 140 relative to the transport frame 120. The support member or column 135 can also be a telescoping member that can be extended or retracted to adjust the height of the x-ray head 140 relative to the transport frame 120 and the patient support surface 150. The support member or column 135 can also be a telescoping member that can be extended or retracted to adjust the height of the x-ray head 140 relative to the transport frame 120, the patient support surface 150, and the patient 160. Figure 4In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the support member or column 135 can include a second horizontal telescoping section 30 that extends outwardly from the vertical first section at a fixed or variable distance, where the second section is configured to travel vertically up and down the first section to a desired height for obtaining radiographic images of a subject. In addition, the vertical section of the support member or column 135 is rotatably attached to the movable frame 120 to allow manual rotation of the support member or column 135 about a vertical axis. The height setting range of the x-ray tube head 140 can range from a low height for imaging feet and lower extremities to a shoulder height and above for imaging upper body portions of a patient in different positions.

[0033] Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mobile radiographic apparatus 100 in a docked position for projection imaging, tomosynthesis imaging, or tomographic imaging. Telescoping horizontal sections 30 of the support member or column 135 are extendable in a linear direction away from the vertical section of the support member or column 135. The mobile radiographic apparatus 100 can provide a charge to a battery contained in a portable radiographic detector 40 that is inserted into one of the storage slots 134. For example, a charging port in the DR detector 40 can electrically engage with a matching power port in one of the storage slots 134 when the DR detector 40 is inserted therein. The mobile radiographic apparatus 100 can also be used for computed radiography (CR) and / or digital radiography (DR).

[0034] Figure 5The mobile radiography device 100 is illustrated without the tube head 140 attached for clarity of description. The portable DR detector storage slot 134 can accommodate a large portable DR or CR detector 40a, a medium size portable CR or DR detector 40b, and a small portable CR or DR detector 40c, which can be secured within the slot 134 using a locking device 507. The locking device 507 can reciprocate between a first position (e.g., unlocked) where the detector 40 can be removed from the storage slot area 134 area and a second position (e.g., locked) where the detector 40 cannot be removed from the storage slot 134. In one embodiment, the storage slot 134 can include a battery charging slot 509 where at least one battery used with or removed from the detector 40 can be recharged by the mobile radiography device 100. One or more additional DR detectors 40d can be associated with the mobile radiography device 100. The portable DR detectors 40d can be placed in the vicinity of the mobile radiography device 100, such as in a common medical facility x-ray imaging room, or they can be carried by a technician who intends to use them with the mobile radiography device 100. Each DR detector 40 typically includes a charging port 519 so that the DR detector 40 can have its battery charged when plugged into the storage slot 134. Additional storage areas for materials at the mobile radiography device 100 can include a storage for rubber gloves 511 and a bag storage area 513. The mobile radiography device 100 can also include a preparation / exposure control panel 515 and a stand 517 for wireless remote preparation / exposure control.

[0035] Figure 6A schematic block diagram illustrates a system for management of DR detectors 40 for use by a particular mobile radiographic apparatus 100. Although the embodiments described herein relate to mobile radiographic apparatus 100, the present application can be used with fixed, in-room x-ray devices, which can include fixed structures fixed into the x-ray apparatus and limited to x-ray tube cranes that move within a room, as well as other fixed location x-ray systems. The mobile radiographic apparatus 100 is capable of managing a plurality of associated detectors (e.g., detectors 40a-40d). An identifier 601 (ID), which can be hardwired in the DR detector 40 or assigned and stored in the DR detector 40, provides a unique numeric identifier for a particular detector 40, which can be used by the detector 40 to determine when a communication from the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 (including the detector ID) is intended for it, and which can be used by the processing system 130 in the mobile radiographic unit 100 to target a communication to a particular DR detector 40 by including the detector ID in the communication. The identifier 601 can be used to link, register, or (as used synonymously herein) assign the DR detector 40 to one or more mobile radiographic apparatus 100, which can travel in a medical imaging facility having many portable DR detectors 40 distributed therein and / or one or more fixed, in-room x-ray devices. The processing system 130 maintains a register 603 of one or more DR detectors 40 associated with the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 (e.g., as shown in Figure 7 The detector 40 can transition from a low power mode, sleep mode, or powered off state by being awakened or by being powered on. This can be performed by an operator manually awakening or powering on the detector, such as manually activating a switch on the detector. This can also be performed by transmitting a signal from the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 to the DR detector 40 to wake up or power on. This can also be performed by a signal from an onboard accelerometer in the detector 40 in response to sensing movement of the detector 40. When awakened or powered on in this manner, the detector 40 transmits an "available" signal. Upon receiving the availability signal and the detector ID, the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 can then add the detector 40 to a register of available detectors stored at the mobile radiographic apparatus 100, as shown in Figure 7 The register 603 can include electronic storage for storing power levels, registration information, and other status information about one or more identified DR detectors 40 that are programmed to transmit such information.

[0036] In one embodiment, the processing system 130 can be programmed to automatically register a detector 40 that is detected as available and in proximity to the mobile radiographic apparatus 100. The processing system 130 can detect an unregistered detector 40 in proximity to the mobile radiographic apparatus 100, such as by using a near field communication protocol, such as a Bluetooth module 605. When a proximate DR detector 40 is detected, the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 can determine that the proximate detector 40 is compatible with the mobile radiographic apparatus 100, or the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 can query the proximate DR detector for an identifier 601 or other DR detector system information to determine compatibility. If the proximate DR detector 40 is determined to be compatible, the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 can proceed to register the DR detector 40, after which the proximate DR detector 40 can be used with the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 to capture radiographic images of a subject, if so designated.

[0037] In one embodiment, registration of a DR detector 40 in the system registration table 603 can be performed by an operator input at the input screen 110 of the mobile radiographic apparatus 100. Registration of a DR detector 40 can be used to enable certain status communication between the registered detector 40 and the mobile radiographic apparatus 100, such as to verify that data is only communicated from an appropriate, compatible DR detector 40, so that data from only registered DR detectors 40 is transferred to the processing system 130. The system 130 can have multiple DR detectors 40 registered with it, but can be configured to communicate with only one designated DR detector 40 at a time. However, this can lead to certain operator errors as described herein, which can be avoided by implementing the embodiments disclosed herein. Thus, a registration table 603 of available DR detectors 40 can be maintained at the processing system 130, so that one detector 40, portions of detectors 40, or all of the detectors 40 can be activated for a particular x-ray imaging examination. The system 130 can maintain power level information, calibration files, or other information for many DR detectors 40 in the registration table 603, from which a designated DR detector 40 for a particular examination can be selected for activation, as indicated in the last column. Unregistration can also be used to cancel the registration of a particular DR detector 40 with respect to the mobile radiographic apparatus 100. Figure 7 Finally, unregistration can also be used to cancel the registration of a particular DR detector 40 with respect to the mobile radiographic apparatus 100.

[0038] Figure 7is an exemplary table that can be electronically stored in the registry table 603 that lists a number of detectors 40 associated with an x-ray imaging system, such as the mobile radiography system 100. Table information that indicates that the detectors 40 are registered and powered on or awake can be configured to indicate to the processing system 130 that these detectors are active, in proximity to the mobile radiography system 100, and can be immediately activated for x-ray exposure image capture. Table information that indicates that the detectors 40 are registered and disconnected can be configured to indicate to the processing system 130 that such registered detectors are inactive, such as powered off, in a low power sleep mode, or too far away from the mobile radiography system 100 to communicate with the mobile radiography system 100. Table information that indicates that the detectors 40 are not registered but available can be configured to indicate to the processing system 130 that these detectors are in proximity to the mobile radiography system 100 and can be registered to if desired. The processing system 130 can be selectively configured to designate any one or a combination of the detectors (1), (4), and (5) in the table as active detectors that can be immediately activated for capturing x-ray images in response to an exposure synchronization signal transmitted from the processing system 130, as exemplified in the last column of Figure 7 As used herein, the terms "activating," "activated," or "activation," the detectors 40 are activated when they are waiting for a signal, such as a synchronization signal or series of synchronization signals, from the mobile radiography system 100, which causes the detectors 40 to open their integrated windows for a preset period of time to capture x-ray signals, if any, emitted by the x-ray source and impinging on the detectors 40. If the processing system 130 is configured to automatically register available detectors for registration, then Figure 7 Detector (3) in the table of

[0039] In the case where a number of different DR detectors 40 are available to the operator, a problem that can arise during x-ray imaging is that a radiographic image can not be properly captured during an x-ray exposure due to a mismatch between the detector 40 used by the operator for image capture and the detector 40 that is actually activated for capturing the exposure. Thus, in one embodiment, activation of all DR detectors 40 available to the imaging system can be performed to avoid this problem. In one embodiment, the operator can initiate the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 for use in an x-ray examination, such as by setting the power level of the x-ray source, turning on the remote control for firing the x-ray source, displaying the patient's schedule of examinations on the display 110, 110', accessing technical information for a particular x-ray examination, etc. In response to these detected operator actions, the processing system 130 can be configured to automatically access the registry 603 to identify the registered and activated DR detectors, and transmit a detector activation signal to some or all of the identified DR detectors. Thus, if all available detectors are activated in response to the activation signal, any detector used by the operator will properly capture the x-ray image as intended.

[0040] In one embodiment, in addition to the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 detecting the above-described operator actions, activation of some or all detectors 40 registered to the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 can be initiated by one or a combination of several user actions: 1) removal of a detector 40 from a storage slot; 2) detection of detector movement using a built-in accelerometer; and 3) detection by a proximity sensor that the detector is removed from a storage location or from the mobile radiographic apparatus 100. In one embodiment, the detector 40 is configured to send a system activation signal to the processing system 130 when the detector 40 detects that its charging port is disconnected from a matching power port in the storage slot 134. In one embodiment, the detector 40 can be configured to send a system activation signal to the processing system 130 when the detector 40 detects movement (such as using the on-board three-dimensional accelerometer 607 Figure 6 In one embodiment, the detector 40 is configured to send a system activation signal to the processing system 130 when the detector 40 detects that it is removed from a storage location, such as a storage slot 134 in the mobile radiographic imaging apparatus 100 or a storage bin in an x-ray examination room, by using the on-board proximity sensor 609 Figure 6) to transmit a system activation signal to the processing system 130. Such a proximity sensor can also be linked to the Bluetooth module 605 of the detector to measure a diminished signal strength therefrom relative to the Bluetooth module 605 in the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 to determine an increased distance or movement away from the mobile radiographic apparatus 100. In response to receiving such a system activation signal, the processing system 130 can be configured to automatically access the registry table 603 to identify the activated DR detectors and to activate some or all of the activated registered detectors 40 by transmitting a detector activation thereto. In one embodiment, the processing system 130 can be configured to transmit a power-on or wake-up signal to detectors 40 listed as being disconnected in the registry table 603. Thus, activating the detectors 40 will include powering on a particular detector 40 or waking it up from an idle mode, a low-power sleep mode, or even a powered-off state to an active state so as to be activated for capturing image data during an x-ray exposure. In one embodiment, both disconnected detectors 40 and available unregistered detectors 40 can be automatically registered and made active such that all detectors in the registry table 603 can be designated as being immediately active to capture x-ray exposures.

[0041] Figure 8is a flowchart for operating an x-ray imaging system, such as mobile radiography system 100, having multiple activated DR detectors. After activating multiple detectors in step 801, the x-ray imaging system in step 803 fires the x-ray source to generate an image of a subject to be captured by the activated DR detectors 40. In step 804, an automatic procedure is performed to determine which DR detector or detectors 40 have captured a suitable diagnostic x-ray image of the subject. During this step 804, each activated DR detector 40 is programmed to automatically determine an image rating of the x-ray image just captured after closing its integration window, or in response to a request from the x-ray imaging system, and to transmit that rating to the x-ray imaging system, such as mobile radiography device 100. In one embodiment, the image rating can be determined by programming each activated DR detector to calculate and transmit a digital average signal level of the detector pixels, which calculated average signal level can be used as the image rating. In one embodiment, the image rating can be determined by programming each activated DR detector to record and transmit the maximum signal level as captured in the detector pixels, which maximum signal value can be used as the image rating. In one embodiment, the image rating can be determined by programming each activated DR detector to calculate and transmit a digital average signal level of the exposed pixels in a preselected region of the detector 40, such as the central region of the detector 40, which calculated average region signal level can be used as the image rating. This embodiment can be useful when a collimator is used to expose a small region of the detector 40. In one embodiment, the image rating can be determined by programming each activated DR detector to calculate and transmit a percentage of the detector's pixels that satisfy a logical comparison to a pre-set signal level, which calculated percentage can be used as the image rating. In one embodiment, the image rating can be determined by programming each activated DR detector to store and transmit the time at which its on-board accelerometer last detected movement, which detected movement time can be used by the imaging system to determine the detector's image rating. Other suitable image rating methods can also be used.

[0042] In step 806, the imaging system can use the image ratings to determine a priority order for the detector 40 to transmit the captured image data. The imaging system, such as mobile radiography system 100, can order the image ratings from highest value to lowest value, or vice versa, or can use some other ordering method. If the time of the accelerometer movement is used for the image ratings, the imaging system, such as mobile radiography system 100, can order the image ratings from the most recent time of movement to the least recent time of movement, or vice versa. In one embodiment of step 806, the imaging system, such as mobile radiography system 100, can use the image ratings received from all activated DR detectors to determine which activated DR detector captured image is transmitted to the imaging system for diagnostic purposes. In one embodiment, the image or detector at the top of the ordering can be selected for transmission of the captured image for diagnostic purposes. In one embodiment of step 806, the imaging system, such as mobile radiography system 100, can use the image ratings received from all activated DR detectors to determine a priority order of the activated DR detectors 40, where some or all of the captured images are transmitted to the imaging system for diagnostic purposes. The priority order can be used to transmit only the first, highest ordering priority image, multiple images ordered as highest priority, or all of the captured images. In one embodiment, an alternative to steps 804, 806 following step 803 is step 805, where each activated DR detector is programmed to automatically or in response to a request from the x-ray imaging system, transmit its captured x-ray image to the x-ray imaging system, such as mobile radiography device 100, without regard to a priority order. The imaging system can then immediately display all of the transmitted captured images so that an operator of the x-ray imaging system can select the most appropriate image for diagnostic purposes. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, all of the transmitted captured images can be immediately displayed as thumbnail images on the electronic display 26 from which the operator can select the most appropriate image for diagnostic purposes. Figure 9

[0043] As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the embodiments of the present application can be readily implemented, as discussed in detail below, as or within the context of a system, method or computer program product. Accordingly, the embodiments of the present application can take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that can all generally be referred to herein as a "service", "circuit", "circuitry", "module" and / or "system". Furthermore, the embodiments of the present application can take the form of a computer program product on one or more computer readable medium (s) (having computer readable program code embodied in the medium).

[0044] ​Any combination of one or more computer readable medium(s) can be utilized. The computer readable medium can be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readable storage medium can be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium can be any tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0045] Program code and / or executable instructions implemented on a computer readable medium can be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0046] Computer program code for carrying out operations of aspects of the present application can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages. The program code can execute entirely on the user's computer (device), partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection can be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

[0047] The computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0048] These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer- readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function / act specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0049] The computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other device to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0050] This written description uses examples to disclose the application, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the application, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the application is defined by the claims, and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent

Claims

1. A radiographic system comprising: an x-ray source; a plurality of separate DR detectors, each of the plurality of separate DR detectors being selectively assigned to the system and configured to capture an image in synchronization with activation of the x-ray source; and a controller configured to transmit a detector activation signal to activate the plurality of assigned DR detectors prior to transmitting a source activation signal to activate the x-ray source; wherein the plurality of separate detectors are further configured to transmit one or more of a plurality of captured images according to a priority order; wherein each of the plurality of detectors is further configured to transmit a ready signal to the controller in response to a corresponding sensor indicating that the detector is ready for x-ray image capture, and wherein the controller is further configured to transmit the detector activation signal in response to receiving the ready signal; and wherein the corresponding sensor indicating that the detector is ready for x-ray image capture comprises an accelerometer for detecting movement of the detector.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein, each of the plurality of detectors is further configured to evaluate the image captured by the detector and transmit an evaluation value corresponding thereto to the controller, and wherein the priority order is determined by the controller from the evaluation values received from each of the plurality of detectors.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein, each of the plurality of detectors is further configured to calculate the corresponding evaluation value based on signal levels of pixels in the captured image.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein, the priority order is determined by a time at which the accelerometer of the detector last detected movement.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein, the controller maintains a registry of a plurality of detectors associated with the system, the registry comprising previously registered, currently registered, or detectors available and capable of being registered to the system, the controller configured to automatically access the registry to identify registered and activated DR detectors and transmit a detector activation signal to some or all of the identified DR detectors.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein, the controller is further configured to determine that an operator is readying the system to acquire an x-ray image and transmit the detector activation signal in response thereto.

7. A method of operating a radiographic system comprising an x-ray source and a plurality of separate DR detectors, the method comprising: individually assigning each of a plurality of separate DR detectors to the radiographic system using a unique identifier of each of the separate DR detectors; firing the x-ray source and in response thereto capturing an image in each of the plurality of DR detectors; prioritizing a plurality of images captured by each of the plurality of separate DR detectors in a sequential order based on a time at which an accelerometer of the detector last detected movement; and transmitting an image captured thereby by at least one of the plurality of separate DR detectors based on the prioritizing step. the prioritizing step is performed according to the evaluation values.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising each of the plurality of detectors evaluating the image captured therein and transmitting an evaluation value corresponding thereto, wherein, the prioritizing step is performed according to the evaluation values.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising each of the plurality of detectors determining a signal level in one or more pixels of the detector to perform the step of evaluating the image captured therein.

10. The method of claim 7, further comprising: at least one of the plurality of detectors sensing that it is ready for image capture, and in response, transmitting a detector ready signal; and in response to receiving the detector ready signal, transmitting an activation signal to activate the plurality of DR detectors.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein, The step of sensing includes receiving a signal from an on-board accelerometer indicating movement of the detector.

12. The method of claim 7, further comprising a radiographic system detecting that the system is ready to capture a radiographic image, and in response, transmitting an activation signal to activate the plurality of DR detectors.

13. The method of claim 7, further comprising all of the plurality of DR detectors transmitting the plurality of captured images in a sequential order.

14. The method of claim 7, wherein, The step of prioritizing includes determining which of the plurality of detectors most recently sensed movement of the detector.

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