A method and apparatus for controlling X-ray imaging voltage and an X-ray imaging system

Abstract

The application provides an X-ray imaging voltage control method, device and X-ray imaging system. The method comprises the following steps: obtaining a target tube voltage required for current frame imaging before the current frame imaging starts; setting a high-voltage generator in an adjustable state during an interframe period; and adjusting an output voltage of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage according to the obtained target tube voltage during the interframe period, so that the high-voltage generator provides a voltage matched with the target tube voltage to an X-ray tube before the current frame starts imaging. According to the scheme, the output voltage of the high-voltage generator is matched with the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging during the interframe period, so that the actual tube voltage is equal to or close to the target tube voltage when the current frame is loaded, and the imaging quality is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of X-ray imaging technology, and in particular to a method, apparatus and system for controlling X-ray imaging voltage. Background Technology

[0002] In X-ray fluoroscopy systems using pulsed fluoroscopy, to reduce the radiation dose to patients and medical staff, a grid-controlled transistor current switching operation is typically employed. For example... Figure 1 As shown, when the grid is ON, cathode electrons are confined to the cathode surface and cannot form a tube current mA, which is equivalent to the X-ray tube being unloaded. When the grid is OFF, cathode electrons can be accelerated to bombard the anode, forming a tube current, which is equivalent to the X-ray tube being loaded. Therefore, whether the grid is ON or OFF determines the load state of the high-voltage generator (which can also be called a high-voltage power supply).

[0003] On the other hand, to maintain consistent image brightness during the perspective process, automatic brightness control (ABS) is typically used to adjust the loading parameters for each frame. Since the attenuation of rays varies depending on the position and angle of the scanned object, the loading parameters need to be adjusted in real time.

[0004] However, currently used fluoroscopic systems using tube current pulse mode simply shut down the power devices of the high-voltage generator after loading the target tube voltage of the previous frame, allowing free discharge through the equivalent load resistor in the circuit. The actual tube voltage is only adjusted to the target tube voltage when the current frame starts loading. This results in the actual tube voltage not being adjusted to the target tube voltage in time, which reduces the image quality. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides a method, apparatus, and system for controlling X-ray imaging voltage to solve the technical problem that the actual tube voltage cannot be adjusted to the target tube voltage in a timely manner during X-ray imaging.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides a method for controlling X-ray imaging voltage, comprising the following steps:

[0007] Before the current frame imaging begins, the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is obtained; the target tube voltage is the voltage value that the actual tube voltage of the X-ray tube needs to reach during the current frame imaging.

[0008] The high-voltage generator is set to be in an adjustable state during the inter-frame period; the inter-frame period is the period from the end of the previous frame imaging to the start of the current frame imaging, or the period from the moment the high-voltage generator is started to the start of the current frame imaging.

[0009] During the inter-frame period, the output voltage of the high-voltage generator is adjusted to match the target tube voltage based on the acquired target tube voltage, so that the high-voltage generator provides the X-ray tube with a voltage matching the target tube voltage before the current frame begins imaging.

[0010] Optionally, the step of adjusting the output voltage of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage specifically includes the following steps:

[0011] Obtain the target tube voltage required for the previous frame of imaging;

[0012] Determine the relationship between the target tube voltage required for imaging in the current frame and the target tube voltage required for imaging in the previous frame;

[0013] If the target tube voltage required for imaging the current frame is equal to the target tube voltage required for imaging the previous frame, then the actual output value of the high voltage generator is controlled to match the target tube voltage required for imaging the previous frame.

[0014] Optionally, after the step of determining the magnitude relationship between the target tube voltage required for imaging in the current frame and the target tube voltage required for imaging in the previous frame, the method further includes the following steps:

[0015] If the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is greater than or less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging, then the actual output value of the high voltage generator is adjusted to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging.

[0016] Optionally, the step of adjusting the actual output value of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging if the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is greater than or less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging specifically includes the following steps:

[0017] If the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging, the gate of the X-ray tube is controlled to discharge so that the actual output value of the high voltage generator drops to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging.

[0018] Optionally, the step of adjusting the actual output value of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging if the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is greater than or less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging specifically includes the following steps:

[0019] If the target tube voltage required for imaging the current frame is less than the target tube voltage required for imaging the previous frame, the load inside the high-voltage generator is controlled to discharge so that the actual output value of the high-voltage generator drops to match the target tube voltage required for imaging the current frame.

[0020] Optionally, while controlling the discharge of the grid inside the X-ray tube or controlling the discharge of the load inside the high-voltage generator, the high-voltage generator also includes the following step: turning off the power device of the high-voltage generator.

[0021] Optionally, the step of adjusting the actual output value of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging specifically includes the following steps:

[0022] Starting from the moment when the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is obtained, the actual output value of the high voltage generator is adjusted so that the actual output value of the high voltage generator matches the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging before the start of the current frame imaging.

[0023] Optionally, the step of matching the actual output value of the high-voltage generator with the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging before the start of the current frame imaging specifically includes the following steps:

[0024] This ensures that the actual output value of the high-voltage generator is adjusted to be equal to the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging before the start of the current frame imaging.

[0025] The present invention also provides a control device for X-ray imaging voltage, comprising the following modules:

[0026] The acquisition module is used to acquire the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging before the current frame imaging begins; the target tube voltage is the voltage value that the actual tube voltage of the X-ray tube needs to reach during the current frame imaging.

[0027] The setting module is used to set the high voltage generator to be in an adjustable state during the inter-frame period; the inter-frame period is the period from the end of the previous frame imaging to the start of the current frame imaging, or the period from the moment the high voltage generator is started to the start of the current frame imaging.

[0028] An adjustment module is used to adjust the output voltage of the high voltage generator to match the target tube voltage based on the acquired target tube voltage during the inter-frame period, so that the high voltage generator provides the X-ray tube with a voltage matching the target tube voltage before the current frame begins imaging.

[0029] The present invention also provides an X-ray imaging system, including a high-voltage generator and an X-ray tube, wherein the output terminal of the high-voltage generator is connected to the input terminal of the X-ray tube, and the high-voltage generator is used to supply power to the X-ray tube; the high-voltage generator is used to execute an X-ray imaging voltage control method as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0030] The present invention provides a method, apparatus and system for controlling the voltage of X-ray imaging, which matches the output voltage of the high voltage generator to the target tube voltage required for imaging the current frame during the inter-frame period. In this way, when loading the current frame, the actual tube voltage provided by the high voltage generator to the X-ray tube is equal to or close to the target tube voltage, thereby improving the imaging quality. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a signal diagram illustrating the control method of X-ray imaging voltage when the target tube voltage of the current frame is equal to the target tube voltage of the previous frame in the existing technology.

[0032] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the signal for controlling the X-ray imaging voltage when the target tube voltage in the current frame is higher than the target tube voltage in the previous frame, in the existing technology.

[0033] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the signal for controlling the X-ray imaging voltage when the target tube voltage in the current frame is lower than the target tube voltage in the previous frame, in the existing technology.

[0034] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling X-ray imaging voltage according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a signal provided in an embodiment of the present invention to keep the high voltage generator in an adjustable state.

[0036] Figure 6 This is a signal diagram illustrating a method for controlling the X-ray imaging voltage when the target tube voltage in the current frame is equal to the target tube voltage in the previous frame, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 7 This is a signal schematic diagram of a method for controlling X-ray imaging voltage when the target tube voltage in the current frame is higher than the target tube voltage in the previous frame, provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 8 This is a signal diagram illustrating a method for controlling X-ray imaging voltage when the target tube voltage in the current frame is lower than the target tube voltage in the previous frame, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 9 This is a signal diagram illustrating a method for controlling X-ray imaging voltage when the target tube voltage in the current frame is lower than the target tube voltage in the previous frame, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 10 This is a signal diagram illustrating a method for controlling X-ray imaging voltage when the target tube voltage in the current frame is lower than the target tube voltage in the previous frame, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0041] To make the objectives, advantages, and features of the present invention clearer, the following detailed description of an X-ray imaging voltage control method, apparatus, and X-ray imaging system proposed by the present invention, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, is provided. It should be noted that the drawings are all in a very simplified form and use non-precise proportions, and are only used to facilitate and clarify the illustration of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0042] For tube voltage, the tube voltages corresponding to two adjacent frames can be equal, increased, or decreased. The control methods for X-ray imaging voltage in these three cases are usually as follows:

[0043] In the first scenario, the target tube voltage in the current frame equals the target tube voltage in the previous frame. Here, tube voltage includes both the target tube voltage and the actual tube voltage. The target tube voltage is the target output value; the actual tube voltage is the actual output value of the high-voltage generator, i.e., the actual tube voltage of the X-ray tube. The target tube voltage in the current frame represents the target tube voltage required for imaging in the current frame, and the target tube voltage in the previous frame represents the target tube voltage required for imaging in the previous frame. The target tube voltages in the current frame and the previous frame are adjacent.

[0044] refer to Figure 1 As shown, at time t1, the high-voltage generator completes the loading of the target tube voltage kV_set of the previous frame (the target tube voltage kV_set of the previous frame refers to the target tube voltage required for imaging in the previous frame). At time t1, the voltage of the grid is switched to open the grid, thereby turning off the tube current mA and simultaneously turning off the power device of the high-voltage generator. At this time, the output voltage of the high-voltage generator continues to decrease. At time t2, the grid is closed and the loading of the target tube voltage kV_set of the current frame (the target tube voltage kV_set of the current frame refers to the target tube voltage required for imaging in the current frame) begins. At this time, the output voltage of the high-voltage generator is lower than the target tube voltage kV_set of the current frame, and the energy lost during the grid opening period needs to be compensated. The output voltage of the high-voltage generator is adjusted to the target tube voltage kV_set of the current frame until time t3. If the cable resistance is not considered, the output voltage of the high-voltage generator can be considered to be equal to the voltage across the X-ray tube, thereby adjusting the actual tube voltage kV to the target tube voltage kV_set of the current frame at time t3.

[0045] The second scenario is when the target transistor voltage in the current frame is higher than the target transistor voltage in the previous frame:

[0046] refer to Figure 2As shown, at time t1, the high-voltage generator completes the loading of the target tube voltage kV_1 of the previous frame (the target tube voltage kV_1 of the previous frame refers to the target tube voltage required for imaging in the previous frame). At time t1, the grid is turned on, thereby turning off the tube current mA, and the power device of the high-voltage generator is turned off. At this time, the output voltage of the high-voltage generator continues to decrease, which in turn causes the actual tube voltage kV to continue to decrease. At time t3, the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame (the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame refers to the target tube voltage required for imaging in the current frame) is calculated according to the ABS algorithm and is higher than the target tube voltage kV_1 of the previous frame. At time t2, the high-voltage generator turns off the grid and begins loading the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame. At this time, energy needs to be continuously replenished to increase the output voltage of the high-voltage generator until time t4 when the output voltage of the high-voltage generator is adjusted to the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame, which in turn causes the actual tube voltage kV to be adjusted to the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame.

[0047] The third scenario is when the target transistor voltage in the current frame is lower than the target transistor voltage in the previous frame:

[0048] refer to Figure 3 As shown, at time t1, the high-voltage generator opens the gate grid to turn off the tube current mA and simultaneously shuts down the power devices of the high-voltage generator. At this time, the output voltage of the high-voltage generator and the actual tube voltage kV continue to decrease. At time t3, it is calculated that the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame is lower than the target tube voltage kV_1 of the previous frame. At time t2, the gate is closed to start loading the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame. At this time, the tube voltage still needs to continue to decrease until time t4, when the output voltage of the high-voltage generator is adjusted to the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame, thereby adjusting the actual tube voltage kV to the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame.

[0049] Then, in the current X-ray imaging voltage control methods in the above three cases, after the high voltage generator has finished loading the target tube voltage of the previous frame, it simply turns off the power device of the high voltage generator and allows free discharge by the equivalent load resistor in the circuit. Only when the current frame loading begins does it start to adjust the output voltage of the high voltage generator so that the actual tube voltage is adjusted to the target tube voltage. This results in the actual tube voltage not being adjusted to the target tube voltage in time, which reduces the imaging quality.

[0050] refer to Figure 4 As shown, this embodiment provides a method for controlling X-ray imaging voltage, including the following steps:

[0051] S1. Before the current frame imaging begins, obtain the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging; the target tube voltage is the voltage value that the actual tube voltage of the X-ray tube needs to reach during the current frame imaging.

[0052] Before loading the current frame, the high-voltage generator can calculate the target tube voltage required for the current frame using the ABS algorithm. The X-ray tube can also be called a x-ray tube.

[0053] S2. Set the high voltage generator to be in an adjustable state during the inter-frame period; the inter-frame period is the period from the end of the previous frame imaging to the start of the current frame imaging, or the period from the moment the high voltage generator is started to the start of the current frame imaging.

[0054] If the current frame is not the first frame, the inter-frame time period is the period from the end of the previous frame's imaging to the start of the current frame's imaging, as referenced. Figure 6 As shown, the time interval t1-t2 is the inter-frame time period. If the current frame is the first frame, the inter-frame time period is the period from the moment the high-voltage generator is started to the moment imaging begins in the current frame. The output voltage of the high-voltage generator is directly connected to both ends of the X-ray tube, thereby providing voltage to the X-ray tube. (Reference) Figure 5 As shown, the controller signal Ctrl_en of the high-voltage generator remains valid, indicating that the high-voltage generator is in an adjustable state. The controller signal Ctrl_en of the high-voltage generator refers to the signal used to control the actual output value of the high-voltage generator.

[0055] S3. During the inter-frame period, based on the acquired target tube voltage, adjust the output voltage of the high voltage generator to match the target tube voltage, so that the high voltage generator provides the X-ray tube with a voltage matching the target tube voltage before the current frame begins imaging.

[0056] The target tube voltage is the target output value, while the actual tube voltage is the actual output value of the high-voltage generator. The target tube voltage can be set using a setpoint kV_set. When setting the target tube voltage, kV_set can be either a value equal to the target tube voltage or a value proportional to the target tube voltage output value. When set proportionally, if kV_set is set to 1, the correspondence between the setpoint and the target tube voltage is 1:1000. Therefore, based on the setpoint kV_set = 1, it can be known that the target tube voltage is set to 1kV. In the following example parameters, the case where the setpoint kV_set is equal to the target tube voltage will be used as an example.

[0057] The high-voltage generator includes power devices. By adjusting the power devices, the output value of the high-voltage generator can be kept constant, increased, or decreased. The output of the high-voltage generator can be adjusted by regulating a voltage setpoint (also called a voltage loading parameter). The voltage setpoint can be set to be equal to or proportional to the actual output voltage of the high-voltage generator. The voltage matched to the target tube voltage refers to a range set based on the target tube voltage, which can be equal to or close to the target tube voltage. In one embodiment, if the target tube voltage is M, the voltage matched to the target tube voltage can be (0.9M, 1.1M).

[0058] This embodiment provides a method for controlling the voltage of X-ray imaging. During the inter-frame period, the output voltage of the high-voltage generator is matched to the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging. In this way, when loading the current frame, the actual tube voltage provided by the high-voltage generator to the X-ray tube is equal to or close to the target tube voltage, thus improving the imaging quality.

[0059] Optional, see reference Figure 6 As shown, the step of adjusting the output voltage of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage within a preset range specifically includes the following steps:

[0060] Obtain the target tube voltage required for the previous frame of imaging;

[0061] Determine the relationship between the target tube voltage required for imaging in the current frame and the target tube voltage required for imaging in the previous frame;

[0062] If the target tube voltage required for imaging the current frame is equal to the target tube voltage required for imaging the previous frame, then the actual output value of the high voltage generator is controlled to match the target tube voltage required for imaging the previous frame.

[0063] The principle of this embodiment can be combined with... Figure 6 Taking an example, the target tube voltage kV_set in the current frame is equal to the target tube voltage kV_set in the previous frame. The high-voltage generator completes the loading of the target tube voltage kV_set from the previous frame at time t1. At time t1, the gate voltage is switched to open the gate grid, thereby turning off the tube current mA. At this time, the high-voltage generator continuously outputs voltage through power devices to compensate for the loss of the equivalent load impedance in the current circuit, thus keeping the output voltage of the high-voltage generator constant, and consequently keeping the actual tube voltage kV constant. At time t2, imaging of the current frame begins (starting imaging of the current frame means starting loading for the current frame). At this time, the voltage supplied by the high-voltage generator to the X-ray tube is equal to the target tube voltage kV_set of the current frame, and the X-ray tube can now operate at the target tube voltage kV_set of the current frame.

[0064] Optional, see reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, after the step of determining the magnitude relationship between the target tube voltage required for imaging in the current frame and the target tube voltage required for imaging in the previous frame, the following steps are also included:

[0065] If the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is greater than or less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging, then the actual output value of the high voltage generator is adjusted to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging.

[0066] The principle of this embodiment can be combined with... Figure 7 Taking this example, the high-voltage generator completes the loading of the target tube voltage for the previous frame at time t1. At this time, the grid is opened by switching the grid voltage, thereby turning off the tube current mA. During t1-t3, the high-voltage generator can maintain the previous frame's tube voltage setpoint kV_1, i.e., maintain the previous frame's target tube voltage output at kV_1. At time t3, the target tube voltage for the current frame is calculated and increased to kV_2. At this time, the high-voltage generator continues to control the power device to be in output state. At time t4, the high-voltage generator adjusts its output voltage to be equal to the current frame's target tube voltage kV_2, so that the voltage supplied by the high-voltage generator to the X-ray tube is equal to the current frame's target tube voltage kV_2. The X-ray tube can then operate at the current frame's target tube voltage kV_2 at the start time t2 of the current frame's imaging.

[0067] Optional, see reference Figure 8 As shown, the step of adjusting the actual output value of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging if the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is greater than or less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging specifically includes the following steps:

[0068] If the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging, the gate of the X-ray tube is controlled to discharge so that the actual output value of the high voltage generator drops to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging.

[0069] The principle of this embodiment can be combined with... Figure 1 and Figure 8 To illustrate, in the case of pulsed fluoroscopy, X-ray fluoroscopy systems typically employ a grid-controlled transistor current switching operation to reduce the radiation dose to patients and medical staff. (Reference) Figure 1As shown, when the grid is ON, cathode electrons are confined to the cathode surface and cannot form a tube current mA, equivalent to an unloaded X-ray tube. When the grid is OFF, cathode electrons can be accelerated to bombard the anode, forming a tube current, equivalent to a loaded X-ray tube. Therefore, whether the grid is open or closed determines the load state of the high-voltage generator. (Reference) Figure 8 As shown, the high-voltage generator completes the loading of the target tube voltage of the previous frame at time t1. At this time, the voltage of the grid is switched to turn on the grid, thereby turning off the tube current mA. During t1-t3, the high-voltage generator maintains an output equal to the target tube voltage kV_1 of the previous frame. At time t3, the target tube voltage of the current frame is calculated to have dropped to kV_2. During the period t3-t4, the high-voltage generator briefly turns off the grid to discharge. When the grid is in the off state (OFF), cathode electrons can accelerate to bombard the anode, forming a tube current. The tube current mA is at a high level, equivalent to the X-ray tube being loaded, thereby reducing the actual output value of the high-voltage generator. At time t4, the high-voltage generator reduces its output voltage to be equal to the target tube voltage drop of kV_2 in the current frame, so that the voltage supplied by the high-voltage generator to the X-ray tube is equal to the target tube voltage kV_2 in the current frame. During the period t4-t2, the output voltage of the high-voltage generator can be kept constant by the power devices of the high-voltage generator, thereby keeping the actual tube voltage kV constant. At the start time t2 of the current frame imaging, it can operate with the target tube voltage kV_2 in the current frame.

[0070] Furthermore, if it is determined that the time required for the target tube voltage to drop from the previous frame to the current frame target tube voltage is greater than the time of the inter-frame period, this may result in the voltage supplied by the high voltage generator to the X-ray tube being equal to the target tube voltage of the current frame before the current frame is imaged. Therefore, the method of controlling the gate to discharge can be used to accelerate the voltage supplied by the high voltage generator to the X-ray tube target tube to drop to the target tube voltage of the current frame.

[0071] Optional, see reference Figure 9 As shown, the step of adjusting the output voltage of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging if the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is greater than or less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging specifically includes the following steps:

[0072] If the target tube voltage required for imaging the current frame is less than the target tube voltage required for imaging the previous frame, the load inside the high-voltage generator is controlled to discharge so that the actual output value of the high-voltage generator drops to match the target tube voltage required for imaging the current frame.

[0073] When the target transistor voltage in the current frame is lower than that in the previous frame, the actual transistor voltage can be adjusted by changing the gate switching state or by the discharge load inside the high-voltage generator. The principle of this embodiment can be combined with... Figure 9 To illustrate with an example, the high-voltage generator can close the high-voltage switch HV_Switch at time t3, and discharge through its internal load. At time t4, its output voltage drops to the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame, and then the high-voltage switch HV_Switch is opened. After time t4, the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame is maintained and the load of the current frame is applied, so that the X-ray tube can work at the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame at the start time t2 of the current frame imaging.

[0074] Optionally, while controlling the discharge of the grid inside the X-ray tube or controlling the discharge of the load inside the high-voltage generator, the high-voltage generator further includes the following step: turning off the power devices of the high-voltage generator. Turning off the power devices of the high-voltage generator can accelerate the decrease rate of the actual output value of the high-voltage generator.

[0075] Optional, see reference Figure 10 As shown, in actual use of the X-ray imaging voltage control method, at the start of loading the current frame, the actual output value of the high-voltage generator may not be equal to the target tube voltage required for imaging in the current frame, but rather close to it. The actual output value of the high-voltage generator can be adjusted from the target tube voltage of the previous frame to the target tube voltage of the current frame in a linear or non-linear manner. The principle of this embodiment can be combined with... Figure 10 To illustrate, during the period t3-t4, the gate is briefly turned off to reduce the output voltage of the high-voltage transmitter. At time t4, the output voltage of the high-voltage transmitter can be lower than the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame, but close to the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame. At time t2, the loading of the current frame begins. During a short period after time t2, the output voltage of the high-voltage transmitter rises to the target tube voltage kV_2, thereby causing the actual tube voltage kV to rise to the target tube voltage kV_2 of the current frame.

[0076] Optional, see reference Figures 7-9 As shown, the step of adjusting the actual output value of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging specifically includes the following steps:

[0077] Starting from the moment when the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is obtained, the actual output value of the high voltage generator is adjusted so that the actual output value of the high voltage generator matches the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging before the start of the current frame imaging.

[0078] The principle of this embodiment can be combined with... Figures 7-9To illustrate with an example, the high-voltage generator acquires the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging at time t3, and adjusts the actual output value of the high-voltage generator from time t3 onwards. This provides sufficient time for the actual output value of the high-voltage generator to be adjusted with the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging as the target.

[0079] Optional, see reference Figures 7-9 As shown, the step of matching the actual output value of the high-voltage generator with the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging before the start of the current frame imaging specifically includes the following steps: adjusting the actual output value of the high-voltage generator to be equal to the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging before the start of the current frame imaging. The principle of this embodiment can be combined with... Figures 7-9 To illustrate with an example, before the start time t2 of the current frame imaging, the actual output value of the high voltage generator is adjusted to be equal to the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging. This allows the X-ray tube to operate at the target tube voltage kV_2 at the start time t2 of the current frame imaging.

[0080] Based on the same technical concept as the above-mentioned X-ray imaging voltage control method, this embodiment also provides an X-ray imaging voltage control device, including the following modules:

[0081] The acquisition module is used to acquire the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging before the current frame imaging begins; the target tube voltage is the voltage value that the actual tube voltage of the X-ray tube needs to reach during the current frame imaging.

[0082] The setting module is used to set the high voltage generator to be in an adjustable state during the inter-frame period; the inter-frame period is the period from the end of the previous frame imaging to the start of the current frame imaging, or the period from the moment the high voltage generator is started to the start of the current frame imaging.

[0083] An adjustment module is used to adjust the output voltage of the high voltage generator to match the target tube voltage based on the acquired target tube voltage during the inter-frame period, so that the high voltage generator provides the X-ray tube with a voltage matching the target tube voltage before the current frame begins imaging.

[0084] This embodiment provides an X-ray imaging voltage control device that matches the output voltage of the high-voltage generator to the target tube voltage required for imaging the current frame during the inter-frame period. In this way, when loading the current frame, the actual tube voltage provided by the high-voltage generator to the X-ray tube is equal to or close to the target tube voltage of the current frame, thus improving the imaging quality.

[0085] Based on the same technical concept as the above-described X-ray imaging voltage control method, this embodiment also provides an X-ray imaging system, including a high-voltage generator and an X-ray tube. The output terminal of the high-voltage generator is connected to the input terminal of the X-ray tube, and the high-voltage generator is used to supply power to the X-ray tube. The high-voltage generator is used to execute the X-ray imaging voltage control method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0086] This embodiment provides an X-ray imaging system that matches the output voltage of a high-voltage generator to the target tube voltage required for imaging the current frame during the inter-frame period. In this way, when loading the current frame, the actual tube voltage provided by the high-voltage generator to the X-ray tube is equal to or close to the target tube voltage, thus improving the imaging quality.

[0087] In summary, the present invention provides an X-ray imaging voltage control method, apparatus, and X-ray imaging system that matches the output voltage of the high-voltage generator to the target tube voltage required for imaging the current frame during the inter-frame period. Thus, when loading the current frame, the actual tube voltage provided by the high-voltage generator to the X-ray tube is equal to or close to the target tube voltage, thereby improving the imaging quality.

[0088] The above description is only a description of preferred embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way. Any changes or modifications made by those skilled in the art based on the above disclosure shall fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method of controlling the voltage of an X-ray imaging apparatus, characterized by, The method comprises the following steps: Before the current frame imaging starts, obtaining a target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging; the target tube voltage is a voltage value that an actual tube voltage of an X-ray tube needs to reach during the current frame imaging; Setting the high-voltage generator in an adjustable state during an inter-frame period; the inter-frame period is a period from the end time of the previous frame imaging to the start time of the current frame imaging, or a period from the time when the high-voltage generator is just started to the start time of the current frame imaging; During the inter-frame period, adjusting an output voltage of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage according to the obtained target tube voltage, so that the high-voltage generator provides a voltage matching the target tube voltage to the X-ray tube before the current frame starts imaging.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the X-ray imaging voltage is controlled by a voltage control unit. The step of adjusting the output voltage of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage specifically comprises the following steps: Obtaining a target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging; Judging a size relationship between the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging and the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging; If the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is equal to the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging, controlling an actual output value of the high-voltage generator to remain matching the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging.

3. The method for controlling X-ray imaging voltage as described in claim 2, characterized in that, After the step of judging the size relationship between the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging and the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging, the method further comprises the following steps: If the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is greater than or less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging, adjusting the actual output value of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the X-ray imaging voltage is controlled by the controller to be a voltage of 40 kV or less. The step of adjusting the actual output value of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging if the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is greater than or less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging specifically comprises the following steps: If the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging, controlling a grid inside the X-ray tube to discharge, so that the actual output value of the high-voltage generator decreases to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging.

5. The method of claim 3, wherein the X-ray imaging voltage is controlled by the controller to be a voltage of 40 kV or less. The step of adjusting the actual output value of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging if the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is greater than or less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging specifically comprises the following steps: If the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging is less than the target tube voltage required for the previous frame imaging, controlling a load inside the high-voltage generator to discharge, so that the actual output value of the high-voltage generator decreases to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging.

6. A method of controlling the voltage of an X-ray imaging apparatus as claimed in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, While the high-voltage generator controls the grid inside the X-ray tube to discharge or controls the load inside the high-voltage generator to discharge, the high-voltage generator further comprises the following step: turning off a power device of the high-voltage generator.

7. The method of claim 3, wherein the X-ray imaging voltage is controlled by a voltage control circuit. The step of adjusting the actual output value of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging specifically comprises the following steps: Adjusting an actual output value of the high-voltage generator so that the actual output value of the high-voltage generator matches the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging before a start time of the current frame imaging.

8. The method for controlling X-ray imaging voltage as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The step of adjusting the actual output value of the high-voltage generator so that the actual output value of the high-voltage generator matches the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging before the start time of the current frame imaging specifically comprises the following steps: The actual output value of the high-voltage generator is adjusted to equal the target tube voltage required for the current frame imaging before the start time of the current frame imaging.

9. An X-ray imaging voltage control device, characterized by, The method comprises the following modules: An acquisition module is configured to acquire a target tube voltage required for current frame imaging before the start of the current frame imaging; the target tube voltage is a voltage value that an actual tube voltage of an X-ray tube needs to reach during the current frame imaging; A setting module is configured to set the high-voltage generator to be in an adjustable state during an inter-frame period; the inter-frame period is a period from an end time of a previous frame imaging to a start time of the current frame imaging, or a period from a start time of the high-voltage generator to the start time of the current frame imaging; An adjusting module is configured to adjust an output voltage of the high-voltage generator to match the target tube voltage according to the acquired target tube voltage during the inter-frame period, so that the high-voltage generator provides a voltage matching the target tube voltage to the X-ray tube before the start of the current frame imaging.

10. An X-ray imaging system, characterized in that, The method comprises the following modules: A high-voltage generator and an X-ray tube, an output end of the high-voltage generator is connected to an input end of the X-ray tube, the high-voltage generator is configured to power the X-ray tube; the high-voltage generator is configured to perform the X-ray imaging voltage control method according to any one of claims 1-8.

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