X-ray imaging system and X-ray imaging method

Abstract

The invention provides an X-ray imaging system and an X-ray imaging method. The X-ray imaging system comprises a camera unit, a display unit, an input unit, an exposure assembly and a control unit, the camera unit is used for acquiring a real-time optical image of a detected object, the display unit comprises a user interface, and the user interface is used for displaying the real-time optical image. The real-time optical image further comprises an initial collimation area and the center of the collimation area, the input unit is used for receiving operation of a user and forming a target area on the user interface by changing the position of the center of the collimation area or re-framing the area, and the exposure assembly comprises an X-ray source, a detector and a collimator. The collimator has an opening for displaying a collimation area on the detected object, and the control unit is used for controlling the X-ray source and the detector to automatically move to be aligned with the center of the target area based on the target area, and controlling the opening of the collimator so that the collimation area is aligned with the target area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to medical imaging technology, and more particularly to an X-ray imaging system and an X-ray imaging method. Background Art

[0002] In an X-ray imaging system, radiation from an X-ray source is directed toward a subject, typically a patient in medical diagnostic applications. A portion of the radiation passes through the subject and strikes a detector, which is divided into a matrix of discrete elements (e.g., pixels). The detector elements are read out to produce an output signal based on the amount or intensity of radiation striking each pixel area. These signals can then be processed to produce a displayable medical image for inspection, which can be displayed on a display device of the X-ray imaging system.

[0003] Typically, the subject to be inspected enters a scanning room, and the user needs to assist in positioning or positioning in the scanning room, for example, adjusting the positions of the X-ray source and detector, and informing the subject of the required body position or posture. Furthermore, the user also needs to manually adjust the collimator so that the collimation area can be aligned with the area of ​​interest of the subject to be inspected. Then the user needs to enter the control room for exposure control and image processing. For the next subject to be inspected, the above steps need to be repeated. Such steps are not only cumbersome and inefficient, but the manual adjustment of the collimator is not only time-consuming and imprecise, but also requires the user to return to the scanning room for adjustment if the subject to be inspected moves. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention provides an X-ray imaging system and an X-ray imaging method.

[0005] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides an X-ray imaging system. The X-ray imaging system includes a camera unit, a display unit, an input unit, an exposure assembly, and a control unit. The camera unit is used to obtain a real-time optical image of an object to be inspected. The display unit includes a user interface, which is used to display the real-time optical image. The real-time optical image also includes an initial collimation area and the center of the collimation area. The input unit is used to receive user operations and form a target area on the user interface by changing the position of the center of the collimation area or re-framing the area. The exposure assembly includes an X-ray source, a detector, and a collimator. The collimator has an opening for displaying the collimation area on the object to be inspected. The control unit is used to control the X-ray source and the detector to automatically move to align with the center of the target area based on the target area, and control the opening of the collimator so that the collimation area aligns with the target area.

[0006] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides an X-ray imaging system. The X-ray imaging system includes a display unit having a graphical user interface, the graphical user interface capable of displaying a real-time optical image of an object under inspection, the real-time optical image also including an initial collimation region and a center of the collimation region. Based on a starting point input by an input unit, a reference region at the current position is displayed in real time on the optical image during movement of the input unit. After input of an end point is determined, the collimation region can automatically align with the target region framed by the starting and end points.

[0007] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention also provides an X-ray imaging method, which includes acquiring and displaying a real-time optical image of an object to be inspected, wherein the real-time optical image includes an initial collimation area and the center of the collimation area; based on changing the position of the center of the collimation area or reframing the target area, the X-ray source and the detector are controlled to automatically move to align with the center of the target area, and the opening of the collimator is controlled so that the collimation area is aligned with the target area.

[0008] Other features and aspects will become apparent from the following detailed description, drawings, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The present invention may be better understood by describing exemplary embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an X-ray imaging system according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0011] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of control logic of a control unit in an X-ray imaging system according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0012] Figure 3 is based on Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a first embodiment of determining a target area is shown;

[0013] Figure 4 is based on Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a second embodiment of determining a target area is shown;

[0014] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of control logic of a control unit in an X-ray imaging system according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0015] Figure 6 is based on Figure 5 a schematic diagram of the second distance calculation unit;

[0016] Figure 7 is based on Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a third embodiment of determining a target area is shown;

[0017] Figure 8 is based on Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a fourth embodiment of determining a target area is shown;

[0018] Figure 9 is a flow chart of an X-ray imaging method according to some embodiments of the present invention; and

[0019] Figure 10 is a flowchart of obtaining a real-time boundary of a reference area in some embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described below. It should be noted that in the specific description of these embodiments, in order to provide a concise description, this specification cannot provide a detailed description of all the features of the actual embodiments. It should be understood that in the actual implementation of any embodiment, just as in the process of any engineering project or design project, in order to achieve the specific goals of the developer and to meet system-related or business-related restrictions, various specific decisions are often made, and this will also change from one embodiment to another. In addition, it can also be understood that although the efforts made in this development process may be complex and lengthy, for ordinary technicians in the field related to the content disclosed by the present invention, some design, manufacturing or production changes based on the technical content disclosed in this disclosure are just conventional technical means and should not be understood as the content of this disclosure being insufficient.

[0021] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in the claims and description shall have the usual meaning understood by persons of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the invention belongs. The words "first", "second" and similar terms used in the description and claims of the patent application of the present invention do not indicate any order, quantity or importance, but are only used to distinguish different components. Words such as "one" or "a" do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the existence of at least one. Words such as "include" or "comprising" mean that the elements or objects appearing before "include" or "comprising" cover the elements or objects listed after "include" or "comprising" and their equivalent elements, and do not exclude other elements or objects. Words such as "connected" or "connected" and similar terms are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, nor are they limited to direct or indirect connections.

[0022] In this application, "collimation area" refers to the size of the opening of the collimator, that is, the irradiation range of the X-ray. The "target area" is the irradiation range of the X-ray operated, decided or determined by the user, wherein the purpose of the target area is to determine the position and size of the collimation area, and the collimation area will be adjusted to align with or overlap with the target area. "Reference area" refers to the reference range of the target area formed by the current position of the mouse as the temporary end point after the user inputs the starting point in the process of re-framing the target area. When the position of the end point is determined, the reference area is the target area. "Detector plane" refers to the plane where the detector surface is located, and "target area plane" refers to the plane on the optical image.

[0023] Figure 1 An X-ray imaging system 100 according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. Figure 2 Shown Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the collimator of the X-ray imaging system shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, the X-ray imaging system 100 includes a suspension device 110, a wall stand device 120, and a bed device 130. The suspension device 110 includes a longitudinal guide rail 111, a transverse guide rail 112, a telescopic cylinder 113, a trolley 114, a tube assembly 115, and a tube control device 116.

[0024] For the sake of convenience of description, in this application, the x-axis, y-axis and z-axis are defined as the x-axis and y-axis are located in a horizontal plane and are perpendicular to each other, and the z-axis is perpendicular to the horizontal plane. Specifically, the direction of the longitudinal guide rail 111 is defined as the x-axis, the direction of the transverse guide rail 112 is defined as the y-axis direction, and the extension direction of the retractable cylinder 113 is defined as the z-axis direction, and the z-axis direction is the vertical direction.

[0025] The longitudinal guide rail 111 and the transverse guide rail 112 are vertically arranged, wherein the longitudinal guide rail 111 is installed on the ceiling, and the transverse guide rail 112 is installed on the longitudinal guide rail 111. The telescopic cylinder 113 is used to carry the ball tube assembly 115.

[0026] The pulley 114 is disposed between the transverse guide rail 112 and the telescopic cylinder 113. The pulley 114 may include a rotating shaft, a motor, and a reel. The motor can drive the reel to rotate about the rotating shaft, thereby driving the telescopic cylinder 113 to move along the z-axis and / or slide relative to the transverse guide rail. The pulley 114 can slide relative to the transverse guide rail 112, that is, the pulley 114 can drive the telescopic cylinder 113 and / or the ball tube assembly 115 to move along the y-axis. The transverse guide rail 112 can slide relative to the longitudinal guide rail 111, thereby driving the telescopic cylinder 113 and / or the ball tube assembly 115 to move along the x-axis.

[0027] The telescopic tube 113 comprises a plurality of cylindrical shapes with varying inner diameters, which can be sequentially nested within the cylindrical shape above them, thereby achieving telescopic expansion and contraction. The telescopic tube 113 is vertically telescopic (or movable), that is, it can drive the ball tube assembly 115 to move along the z-axis. A rotating portion is also provided at the lower end of the telescopic tube 113, which can drive the ball tube assembly 115 to rotate.

[0028] The tube control device (console) 116 is installed on the tube assembly 115. The tube control device 116 includes a user interface such as a display screen and control buttons for performing pre-shooting preparations, such as patient selection, protocol selection, and positioning.

[0029] The movement of the suspension device 110 includes movement of the tube assembly along the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis, as well as rotation of the tube assembly in the horizontal plane (with the rotation axis parallel to or coincident with the z-axis) and in the vertical plane (with the rotation axis parallel to the y-axis). In these movements, a motor is typically used to drive a rotating shaft to rotate the corresponding components, thereby achieving the corresponding movement or rotation. The corresponding control components are generally installed in the pulley 114. The X-ray imaging system further includes a motion control unit (not shown in the figure), which is capable of controlling the above-mentioned movement of the suspension device 110. Furthermore, the motion control unit is capable of receiving control signals to control the corresponding components to perform corresponding movements, thereby driving the stadium assembly to a preset or designated position.

[0030] The column assembly 120 includes a first detector 121, a column 122, and a connecting portion 123. The connecting portion 123 includes a support arm connected perpendicularly to the height direction of the column 122 and a rotating bracket mounted on the support arm. The first detector 121 is mounted on the rotating bracket. The column assembly 120 further includes a detector drive device disposed between the rotating bracket and the first detector 121. Driven by the detector drive device, the first detector 121 moves along a plane supported by the rotating bracket in a direction parallel to the height direction of the column 122. The first detector 121 can further rotate relative to the support arm, forming a certain angle with the column. The first detector 121 has a plate-like structure with a variable orientation, so that the X-ray incident surface can be made vertical or horizontal depending on the incident direction of the X-rays.

[0031] The detection bed device 130 includes a second detector 131. The selection or use of the first detector 121 and the second detector 131 can be determined based on the patient's imaging part and / or imaging protocol, or can be determined based on the position of the object to be detected obtained by camera imaging, so as to perform imaging examinations in the supine or standing position. Figure 1Only an example diagram of the column and the detection bed is shown. Those skilled in the art should understand that columns and / or detection beds of any form or setting can be selected, or only columns can be installed. The columns and / or detection beds do not limit the entire solution of the present application.

[0032] The X-ray imaging system 100 of the present application further includes an exposure assembly, which includes an X-ray source, a collimator 117, and detectors 121 / 131. Specifically, the X-ray source is disposed within the tube assembly 115, and the collimator 117 is typically installed below the X-ray source.

[0033] The collimator 117 includes four movable collimator blades, which are made of a material that can absorb X-rays. The four collimator blades together form a square or a rectangle, and the four collimator blades together form an opening in the middle. The opening is the opening of the collimator. The size of the opening of the collimator 117 determines the irradiation range of the X-rays, that is, the size of the exposure field of view (FOV). X-rays can pass through the opening of the collimator to irradiate the region of interest (ROI) of the object being tested, and the other X-rays are absorbed by the blades to prevent the object being tested from absorbing too much unnecessary dose. Among them, the horizontal position of the X-ray source and the collimator 117 determines the position of the exposure field of view FOV on the object being tested.

[0034] In some embodiments, the collimator includes a drive unit that controls or drives the movement of the collimator blades. The drive unit can control each collimator blade separately, that is, the four blades in the collimator can be controlled to move separately or individually to control or adjust the size of the opening. For example, when the required opening of the collimator is larger, the drive unit can drive at least one of the four blades to move away from the opening. When the required opening of the collimator is smaller, the drive unit can drive at least one of the four blades to move toward the opening. In the process of adjusting the opening size, only one of the blades can be moved, or two blades arranged opposite to each other can be moved, or all four blades can be moved at the same time, depending on the size of the required collimation area.

[0035] Typically, the exposure assembly may include at least one of a first detector 121 disposed in the column device 120 and a second detector 131 disposed in the examination bed device 130 . At least a portion of the X-rays may be attenuated by the patient and may be incident on the detectors 121 / 131 .

[0036] During imaging, the center of the X-ray source, i.e., the central ray of the X-ray beam, often needs to be aligned with the center of the detector. In some embodiments, the X-ray source and detector can be controlled in a coordinated manner. For example, the position and angle of the X-ray source can be controlled by controlling the movement of the suspension device, and then the detector can be automatically moved or rotated to a position aligned with the X-ray source based on the monitoring information of the X-ray source set on the detector, thus achieving coordinated control of the two. Vice versa, the movement or rotation of the detector can be controlled, and then the X-ray source can be automatically moved or rotated to a position aligned with the detector based on the monitoring information set on the X-ray source.

[0037] In some embodiments, the X-ray imaging system 100 further includes a camera unit 140, which is aligned with the detector to obtain a real-time optical image of the object being inspected. In addition, the camera can also obtain an image of the detector, etc.

[0038] Specifically, the camera unit 140 is mounted on the suspension device 110, and further, on the side of the collimator 117. The camera unit may include one or more cameras, such as a digital camera, an analog camera, or a depth camera, an infrared camera, or an ultraviolet camera, or a 3D camera, a 3D scanner, or a red, green, and blue (RGB) sensor, an RGB depth (RGB-D) sensor, or other devices that can capture color image data of the target object. In some embodiments, the camera unit 140 is also provided with a control module that can control the rotation of the camera unit to adjust the shooting range of the camera unit. In other embodiments, the camera unit is a panoramic camera that can capture images of the entire body of the detected object.

[0039] The camera unit 140 can obtain depth information or a depth image of the detected object. Typically, the depth information is obtained by computing a 3D point cloud acquired by the camera. In addition, the real-time optical image can be used to obtain at least one of the thickness, height, position, posture, and the like of the detected object.

[0040] In some embodiments, the camera unit 140 may also be installed at a fixed position in the scanning room, or may be a camera unit fixed in any other manner.

[0041] In some embodiments, the optical image captured by the camera unit is not limited to a single optical image and may also include a dynamic real-time video stream, i.e., a series of real-time optical images. The real-time optical image and at least one indicator may be continuously and in real time presented on the display unit. The at least one indicator may include an initial collimation area and the center of the collimation area.

[0042] The X-ray imaging system 100 further includes a display unit 150, which is operably connected to the camera unit. The display unit 150 includes a user interface 151, which is used to display a real-time optical image and includes at least one indicator on the real-time optical image, such as an initial collimation area and the center of the collimation area. Of course, the at least one indicator may also include a calibration line of the collimator, etc. Specifically, the image range of the real-time optical image displayed in the user interface can be adjusted, for example, to zoom in, zoom out, or move the visible range.

[0043] Specifically, the display unit 150 can include any form of display screen, which can be a main display screen located in the control room, a display screen of the tube control device 116 located in the scanning room, or a movable display such as a tablet computer, a mobile phone, etc. Figure 3 The user interface 151 in the figure only shows a real-time optical image of the detected object. However, a person skilled in the art should understand that the user interface 151 can also be used to display one or more of information about the detected object, display and options of the scanning protocol, positioning images, medical images, image post-processing parameters, etc.

[0044] The X-ray imaging system further includes an input unit 160 for receiving user operations. The input unit 160 can include a touch screen, a keyboard, a mouse, a voice-activated control unit or any other suitable input device. The user can input operation signals / control signals to the control unit through the input unit 160.

[0045] The X-ray imaging system 100 further includes a control unit (not shown in the figure), which can be a main control unit located in the control room, a tube control unit installed on a suspension device, a movable or portable control unit, or any combination of the above. The control unit may include a source control unit and a detector control unit. The source control unit is used to command the X-ray source to emit X-rays for image exposure. The detector control unit is used to select a suitable detector from a plurality of detectors and coordinate the control of various detector functions, for example, automatically selecting a corresponding detector according to the position or posture of the object being detected, or performing various signal processing and filtering functions, specifically, for initial adjustment of the dynamic range, interleaving of digital image data, etc. In some embodiments, the control unit can provide power and timing signals for controlling the operation of the X-ray source and the detector.

[0046] In some embodiments, the control unit may also be configured to use the digitized signals to reconstruct one or more desired images and / or determine useful diagnostic information corresponding to the patient, wherein the control unit may include one or more dedicated processors, graphics processing units, digital signal processors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other appropriate processing devices.

[0047] Of course, the X-ray imaging system may also include other numbers or configurations or forms of control units. For example, the control unit may be local (e.g., co-located with one or more X-ray imaging systems 100, such as within the same facility and / or the same local network); in other implementations, the control unit may be remote and therefore only accessible via a remote connection (e.g., via the Internet or other available remote access technology). In certain implementations, the control unit may also be configured in a cloud-like manner and may be accessed and / or used in a manner substantially similar to accessing and using other cloud-based systems.

[0048] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of control logic 200 of a control unit of some embodiments of the present invention is shown. Figure 2 As shown, first, the control unit can be operatively connected to the camera unit and the display unit, and the control unit can control the camera unit (such as Figure 1 The component 140 shown in FIG. 210 acquires (210) a real-time optical image 211 of the detected object. The control unit is capable of controlling the transmission of the real-time optical image between the camera unit and the display unit, and displays (220) the real-time optical image 211 on the user interface of the display unit. The optical image 211 includes, in addition to images of the detected object and the detector, an indicator of the collimation area 201 and a center 203 of the collimation area.

[0049] The collimation area refers to the area corresponding to the surface of the object being inspected when the X-rays are irradiated through the opening of the collimator. The collimation area in the optical image is not actually obtained by X-ray irradiation, but is obtained by irradiation by the light source built into the collimator 117, so as to show the user the current size of the collimation area. In some embodiments, the optical image also includes a center line obtained by laser irradiation (not shown in the figure), which can be a straight line passing through the center point or a cross line passing through the center point. The center of the collimation area can be directly set in the collimator so as to be shown on the optical image at the same time as the light source is irradiated, or it can be calculated later when the optical image is shown and automatically marked on the optical image. The way of showing the center is not limited.

[0050] Secondly, the control unit and the input unit ( Figure 1The control unit is connected to the exposure assembly (see component 160 shown in FIG) to receive an operation from the user to change the position of the center of the collimation area or reframe the area on the user interface to form 230 a new target area 205. Then, the control unit is operatively connected to the exposure assembly and is used to control 240 the X-ray source and the detector to automatically move to align with the center of the target area 205 based on the target area 205, and control 250 the opening of the collimator so that the collimation area is aligned with the target area 205, that is, the collimation area reaches the position of the current target area 205, that is, the collimation area and the target area 205 coincide with each other.

[0051] Specifically, the control unit can obtain the initial region of interest of the detected object based on information about the detected object, such as the age, shooting location, possible disease type, etc., and initially set the exposure component to align with the initial region of interest, and form an initial collimation area on the body surface of the detected object according to the light source set in the collimator, and see the collimation area through the real-time optical image obtained by the camera. Then, the user can judge whether the collimation area is accurate based on the information of the detected object or other information.

[0052] Figure 3 Shown according to Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the first embodiment of determining the target area. Figure 3 As shown, when the user finds that the size of the collimation area 201 or the position of the center point 203 is inaccurate, the user can reframe the area to obtain the target area 205. That is, the user can "draw" a target area frame on the user interface using an input unit such as a mouse, keyboard, or touch screen to obtain a new target area. Preferably, the user can reframe the target area using the input unit within the real-time optical image in the user interface.

[0053] In some aspects of the embodiments, the control unit is capable of calculating and displaying a real-time reference area on the display unit based on the movement of the input unit (e.g., a mouse) after receiving a valid starting point S input, and obtaining a target area after receiving a valid ending point input.

[0054] Specifically, the control unit is used to receive a first pressing position S input by an input unit (for example, a mouse), and when the first pressing position S is within the range of the optical image, determine the first pressing position S as a valid starting point. Of course, it can also be set to be determined as a valid starting point when the first pressing position is within the contour range of the detected object, or set to be determined as a valid starting point when the first pressing position is within a preset distance from the contour boundary of the detected object.

[0055] In the process of receiving a valid starting point but not yet receiving an ending point, as the input unit (e.g., a mouse) moves, the current rest position of the mouse is defined as a temporary ending point. The control unit can calculate and display a reference area consisting of the starting point and the temporary ending point in the user interface (or within the optical image range) to prompt the user of the possible range of the target area on the user interface. Only when confirmation of the ending point is received can the range of the reference area be finally confirmed, that is, after receiving the ending point, the reference area is the target area.

[0056] In order to facilitate the display of the position of the end point, during the movement of the mouse, an indicator 207 will be further used to display, highlight or indicate the temporary end point, for example, using a "cross" or "L" or inverted "T" symbol to indicate the position of the temporary end point.

[0057] In some embodiments, the input unit is a mouse, and the current position of the mouse can be displayed in real time on the user interface while the user is re-framing the target area.

[0058] Regarding the confirmation of the end point, in one embodiment, the control unit can reframe the target area by pressing the mouse twice to select the starting point and the end point respectively. Specifically, the control unit is used to receive the second pressing position input by the input unit, and when the second pressing position is at a preset distance from the first pressing position, the second pressing position is determined to be a valid end point. Specifically, the control unit can determine that the second pressing position is a valid end point when it determines that the second pressing position does not overlap with the first pressing position. Of course, the control unit can also determine that the second pressing position is a valid end point when the second pressing position is to the lower right of the first pressing position. This can all be configured and selected.

[0059] Of course, in another embodiment, the control unit can reframe the target area by pressing and moving the mouse and using the position where the mouse is relaxed as the end point, that is, pressing the mouse to determine the starting point, moving the mouse while keeping the pressure on, and using the relaxed position as the end point, thereby forming the target area. Specifically, the control unit can also be used to receive the first relaxation position input by the input unit, and when the first relaxation position and the first pressing position have a preset distance, determine the first relaxation position as a valid end point. Of course, the control unit can determine that the first relaxation position is a valid end point when it determines that the first relaxation position does not overlap with the first pressing position. Of course, the control unit can also determine that the first relaxation position is a valid end point when the first relaxation position is to the lower right of the first pressing position. This can all be configured and selected.

[0060] In some non-limiting embodiments, the position of the starting point can be set to an endpoint in the target area, or it can be set to the center point of the target area. For example, the user selects the first pressing position as the center of the target area, and then determines the desired target area through the reference area box shown during the mouse movement, and then determines the position of the end point.

[0061] After the user determines the starting point (first pressing position), if the current target area is found to be inaccurate while moving the mouse, the user can also cancel the current starting point selection by double-clicking the mouse or using a shortcut key on the keyboard and reselect the starting point.

[0062] In some aspects of the embodiments, the input unit is a touch-sensitive screen, and the control unit can calculate and display a real-time reference area on the display unit based on the movement of the finger after receiving a valid starting point input, and obtain the target area after receiving a valid ending point input. The specific settings are the same as those of the mouse and will not be repeated here.

[0063] Although two methods of re-framing the target area are described above, those skilled in the art should understand that any other operation method may be used to frame the target area.

[0064] Figure 4 Shown according to Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the second embodiment of determining the target area. Figure 2 As shown, when the user finds that the size or dimensions of the collimating area are correct and does not want to change the size of the collimating area, but the center position of the collimating area is inaccurate, the user can directly change the position of the center 203 of the collimating area to obtain the target area and accordingly move the exposure assembly to a position aligned with the target area. Specifically, changing the position of the center of the collimating area includes translating the center of the collimating area or reselecting a new center of the collimating area.

[0065] Specifically, the user selects or chooses the center 203 of the collimation area through the input unit. Based on the operation received by the input unit, the control unit can further control the display of a moving reference line 209 on the user interface (or within the range of the optical image) to prompt the user to move the reference position in at least one direction such as up, down, left, and right.

[0066] The translation methods may include but are not limited to: pressing and dragging, selecting and then adjusting up, down, left, and right using keyboard shortcuts, or directly panning through various methods such as operation buttons set in the user interface, voice control, etc., and the translation method can be operated by mouse, keyboard, touch screen, or directly through voice control.

[0067] Specifically, reselecting includes selecting or clicking any position in the user interface, and the position becomes the center of the new target area, while the size of the target area does not change.

[0068] In some embodiments, the user can operate directly on the user interface to form a new target area. In other embodiments, one or more options or buttons, or toggle buttons, can be set on the user interface to correspond to operations of changing (translating or reselecting) the position of the center of the collimation area, as well as reframing operations.

[0069] In some embodiments, when the control unit receives the end point position input by the input unit, the target area is determined, and the control unit can control the exposure component to move or adjust to align with the target area. For example, when the mouse is released, the suspension device and the column device move simultaneously, and the collimator blades are controlled to move to adjust the opening range.

[0070] In other embodiments, a target area confirmation option may be provided on the user interface of the display unit to confirm the scope of the target area. Specifically, the confirmation option may be provided on the optical image or at any suitable location outside the scope of the optical image in the user interface. When the user confirms the framed target area, the current target area is determined by operating the confirmation option, and the exposure assembly automatically moves to a position aligned with the target area. This can effectively avoid confusion or misoperation caused by repeated operations, especially when the target area is determined by pressing twice.

[0071] Although two implementation methods of changing the position of the center of the collimation area and re-framing the target area are shown above, those skilled in the art should understand that the size or position of the collimation area can also be changed in any other appropriate manner, for example, by directly operating the collimation area on the user interface, including selecting and dragging any border of the collimation area, or dragging any end point of the collimation area, etc.

[0072] In some embodiments, the control unit can calculate the center position or coordinates of the target area, and then determine the length and width of the target area based on the center position or coordinates, and move the X-ray source and detector to align with the center of the target area based on the center position, and adjust the opening of the collimator based on the length and width. Specifically, after the starting point and the end point of the target area are determined, the position of the center point can be obtained, and based on the distance between the center point and the end point, the coordinate position of the end point relative to the center point can be obtained, and the distance between the center point and the two sides that together constitute the end point can be obtained, that is, the length and width of the target area. Specifically, the relative coordinate position can be obtained based on the coordinates of the starting point and the end point, that is, the center point and the length and width of the target area can be confirmed, and then the exposure component can be adjusted accordingly.

[0073] In some embodiments, when the subject is lying on the detection bed, the detector located on the underside of the bed panel can be moved to align with the center of the target area. Specifically, the center of the detector is aligned with the center of the target area. In some embodiments, when the range of the target area exceeds the maximum limit of the detector's movable range, the control unit can automatically control or reduce the target area so that the target area is within the range of the detector. Specifically, when the detector has been moved to a corner of the bed, the range of the detector at this time is the size of the detector panel. If the target area at this time exceeds the range of the detector in the direction away from the bed panel, the control unit can automatically reduce the target area to match the range of the detector.

[0074] In another embodiment, when the object to be inspected stands in front of the column device, the height of the detector located on the column device is adjustable, but the horizontal position is not adjustable. The control unit can control the detector to move to align with the center of the target area, but in the horizontal direction, the center of the detector may not be aligned with the center of the target area. At this time, as long as the target area is within the range of the detector, exposure can still be performed without adjusting the position or size of the target area.

[0075] In some embodiments, when the user is re-framing the target area, the real-time reference area shown may be as follows: Figure 2 In another embodiment, when the user reframes the target area, the real-time reference area shown can be a non-rectangular real-time boundary. By displaying the real-time boundary, the user can be provided with the most accurate range of the target area.

[0076] Figure 5 FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating control logic 300 of a control unit in an X-ray imaging system according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 5The control logic of displaying the current real-time boundary during the process of user selecting or determining the target area is shown. Specifically, after the control unit receives the valid starting point position, the control unit can display the current real-time boundary during the process of mouse movement. Figure 5 The control logic shown calculates and displays the real-time boundary corresponding to the reference area, which is the target area formed by the temporary end point corresponding to the current mouse position. The real-time boundary is usually an irregular shape, which is related to the thickness of the object being detected.

[0077] Specifically, the control unit includes a first unit 310 and a second unit 320. The first unit 310 is used to obtain the mapping area corresponding to the reference area mapped to the detector plane, and the second unit 320 is used to calculate and display the real-time boundary of the reference area based on the size of the mapping area and the thickness information of the detected object.

[0078] Specifically, the first unit 310 includes a first distance calculation unit 311, a second distance calculation unit 312, and a first mapping unit 313. The first distance calculation unit 311 can calculate a first distance d1 between the center O of the reference area 302 and the temporary end point E of the reference area 302. The second distance calculation unit 312 can calculate a second distance d2 corresponding to the first distance d1 relative to the detector plane 303 based on the thickness information of the object under inspection at the temporary end point E and the distance SID between the radiation source and the detector. The first mapping unit 313 determines the mapping area 304 based on the second distance d2.

[0079] Specifically, the first distance calculation unit 311 can obtain a first distance d1 between the center O of the reference area 302 and the temporary end point E of the reference area 302 based on the starting point confirmed from the input unit and the position of the temporary end point captured by the mouse stop position.

[0080] Figure 6 Shown according to Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the second distance calculation unit. For ease of description, in this application, the plane where the detector surface is located is defined as the detector plane 303, and the plane where the optical image is located is defined as the target area plane 301. Since the camera unit is installed on the side of the collimator, and in order to enable the camera unit to be aligned with the center of the detector, the camera unit will be fixed on the side of the collimator at a preset angle. Therefore, there is a fixed first angle α between the camera unit and the side of the collimator. The second calculation unit is used to obtain the distance SOD between the X-ray source and the object to be detected based on the first angle and the thickness information of the object to be detected, and calculate the second distance of the first distance relative to the detector plane based on the ratio between the distance SOD and the distance SID. As Figure 6As shown, since the distance SID from the X-ray source 305 to the detector plane 303 is known to the system, the distance SOD between the X-ray source 305 and the object to be detected can be calculated based on the thickness information dppcos(α) of the object to be detected at the temporary termination point position corresponding to the current reference area and the first angle α, and then the second distance d2 of the first distance d1 of the target area plane 301 in the corresponding detector plane 303 can be calculated accordingly based on SOD and SID. The second distance d2 is the distance between the mapping center point O' and the mapping termination point E' in the detector plane 303.

[0081] The first mapping unit 313 can obtain the mapping area 304 corresponding to the reference area after being mapped to the detector plane according to the second distance d2.

[0082] Please continue to refer to Figure 5 The second unit 320 includes a second mapping unit 321 and a boundary display unit 322. The second mapping unit 321 can obtain the position coordinates corresponding to the plurality of points on the boundary of the mapping area 304 on the target area plane based on the thicknesses corresponding to the plurality of points, and the boundary display unit 322 can display the real-time boundary based on the position coordinates of the plurality of points.

[0083] The second mapping unit 321 can select the coordinate positions of multiple points on the border of the mapping area 304 and obtain the corresponding coordinate positions on the target area plane based on the thickness information of the detected object at these multiple points. By calculating the coordinate positions of the target area plane mapped back by the multiple points, the boundary display unit 322 can connect and display the coordinate positions of the multiple target area planes, which is the real-time boundary. In some non-limiting embodiments, as many points as possible can be selected on the border of the mapping area 304 to obtain the coordinate positions of as many target area planes as possible, thereby obtaining the most accurate real-time boundary.

[0084] Specifically, the thickness information 308 of the detected object may be obtained based on the information obtained by the camera unit, for example, determined by a 3D point cloud image obtained by the camera unit.

[0085] As the mouse moves, the position of the temporary end point changes, the size of the reference area changes accordingly, and the real-time boundary is updated accordingly based on the mouse movement.

[0086] Figure 7 is based on Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the third embodiment of determining the target area. Figure 7As shown, on the user interface, a real-time optical image of the detected object, as well as a collimation area 201 and a center 203 of the collimation area on the optical image are displayed. If the current collimation area is inaccurate and the user wants to redefine the collimation area, a new target area can be reframed.

[0087] Specifically, when reframing the new target area, the control unit can use the starting point S confirmed by the user as the temporary end point where the input unit stops during movement. The control unit can then determine a reference area based on the temporary end point. The reference area is a non-rectangular real-time boundary 306, which is a real-time area boundary determined based on the thickness information of the detected object. Preferably, the user interface also displays an indicator 307 in the form of a "X," an "L," or an inverted "T" at the temporary end point.

[0088] Figure 8 is based on Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the fourth embodiment of determining the target area. Figure 8 As shown, in an embodiment of changing the center of the collimation area, the control unit can display a real-time boundary 309 corresponding to the reference area based on a temporary end point during movement of the input unit after the user selects or chooses the center point determined by the user.

[0089] Please refer back to Figure 6 In some embodiments, since the camera unit is installed on the side of the collimator, and in order to enable the camera unit to be aligned with the center of the detector, the camera unit is fixed on the side of the collimator at a preset angle, and the center of the collimator (i.e., the center of the X-ray source) is also aligned with the center of the detector. However, in actual use, there is an offset between the center of the optical image captured by the camera unit and the center of the collimated area in the optical image, which requires calibration. The calibration can be performed by calculating the offset between the center in the optical image and the center of the collimated area.

[0090] Specifically, the control unit can calculate the offset between the center of the collimation area on the optical image and the center of the optical image based on a first angle between the camera unit and the vertical direction, an offset between the camera unit and the collimator, and thickness information of the object to be inspected, so as to calibrate the center of the collimation area. The offset between the camera unit and the collimator can be obtained by measurement when the camera unit is installed. In some embodiments, when the collimator or X-ray source is aligned with the object to be inspected or the detector at a preset second angle, the control unit can calculate the offset between the center of the collimation area on the optical image and the center of the optical image based on the first angle, the second angle, the offset between the camera unit and the collimator, and the thickness information of the object to be inspected.

[0091] Figure 9 FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing an X-ray imaging method 400 according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 9 As shown, the X-ray imaging method 400 includes step 410 and step 420 .

[0092] In step 410, a real-time optical image of the object under inspection is acquired and displayed, where the real-time optical image includes the initial collimation area and the center of the collimation area.

[0093] Specifically, a real-time optical image of the inspected object can be acquired by a camera unit installed in the scanning room and transmitted to a display unit to display the real-time optical image on the display unit.

[0094] Specifically, the initial collimation area can be an area of ​​interest confirmed based on information of the object being detected, for example, based on information such as the age, shooting site, possible disease type, etc. of the object being detected. Based on the area of ​​interest, the X-ray source and the detector can be aligned with the center of the area of ​​interest, and the collimator can also adjust the opening range based on the area of ​​interest so that the collimation area can be aligned with the area of ​​interest.

[0095] In step 420 , based on the change in the center position of the collimation region or the re-framing of the target region, the X-ray source and the detector are automatically moved to align with the center of the target region, and the opening of the collimator is controlled to align the collimation region with the target region.

[0096] Specifically, reframing the target area includes determining a valid starting point and a valid ending point, and displaying a reference area formed by the starting point and the temporary ending point in real time after determining the starting point and before determining the ending point. Specifically, upon receiving a valid starting point, a real-time reference area is calculated and displayed based on the movement of the input unit, and upon receiving a valid ending point input, the target area is acquired.

[0097] Determining the valid starting point includes determining the first pressed position as a valid starting point based on the received first pressed position when the first pressed position is within the range of the optical image. Of course, determining the valid starting point may include determining the first pressed position as a valid starting point when the first pressed position is within the contour of the detected object. Of course, determining the valid starting point may include determining the first pressed position as a valid starting point when the first pressed position is within a preset distance from the contour boundary of the detected object.

[0098] In some embodiments, determining the end point includes determining the second pressed position as a valid end point based on the second pressed position and when the second pressed position is a predetermined distance from the first pressed position. Alternatively, determining the end point may include determining the second pressed position as a valid end point when the second pressed position is to the lower right of the first pressed position.

[0099] In other embodiments, determining the end point includes determining the first relaxation position as a valid end point based on the first relaxation position and when the first relaxation position is a predetermined distance from the first pressing position. Alternatively, determining the end point may include determining the first relaxation position as a valid end point when the first relaxation position is to the right of the first pressing position.

[0100] In some aspects of the embodiments, displaying the reference area formed by the starting point and the temporary ending point in real time includes obtaining the coordinate position of the current input unit stop position and connecting the starting point and the temporary ending point to form a rectangular reference area.

[0101] In some aspects of the embodiments, real-time display of the reference area formed by the starting point and the temporary end point includes obtaining the coordinate position of the current input unit stop position and obtaining the real-time boundary of the target area based on the thickness information of the detected object.

[0102] Figure 10 FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing a method 500 for obtaining a real-time boundary of a reference area according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 10 The method 500 for obtaining a real-time boundary of a reference area includes steps 510 and 520 .

[0103] In step 510 , a mapping area corresponding to the reference area mapped to the detector plane is obtained.

[0104] In step 520 , the real-time boundary is calculated and displayed based on the mapping area and the thickness information of the detected object.

[0105] Specifically, step 510 includes step 511 , step 512 and step 513 .

[0106] In step 511 , a first distance between the center of the reference area and the temporary end point of the reference area is calculated.

[0107] In step 512, based on the thickness information of the object under inspection at the temporary end point and the distance between the X-ray source and the detector, a second distance corresponding to the first distance relative to the detector plane is calculated.

[0108] Specifically, the camera unit is installed on the side of the collimator, and there is a fixed first angle between the camera unit and the side of the collimator. The second calculation unit is used to obtain the distance SOD between the X-ray source and the object to be detected based on the first angle and the thickness information of the object to be detected, and calculate the second distance of the first distance relative to the detector plane based on the ratio between the distance SOD and the distance SID.

[0109] In step 513, the mapping area is determined based on the second distance.

[0110] Specifically, step 520 includes step 521 and step 522 .

[0111] In step 521 , based on the position coordinates of a plurality of points on the boundary of the mapping area and the thickness of the detected object corresponding to the positions, the position coordinates of the boundary points corresponding to the plurality of points on the target area plane are obtained.

[0112] In step 522, the real-time boundaries are connected and displayed based on the position coordinates of the boundary points.

[0113] Some embodiments of the present invention provide an X-ray imaging system and method. First, a real-time optical image of an object under inspection, captured by a camera, is transmitted and displayed on a display unit. This real-time optical image can be viewed in a control room, and a user can adjust the collimation region based on the real-time optical image. Based on the adjusted target region, the control unit automatically controls the X-ray source and detector to move to the center of the target region, and then automatically adjusts the range of the collimator blades to align the collimation region with the target region, allowing the user to adjust and control the exposure assembly within the control room. Secondly, the target region can be acquired by changing the center position of the collimation region or re-framing it, making operation convenient. Furthermore, during the re-framing process, a reference target region can be displayed in real time on the user interface to indicate the possible target region ranges until the user confirms a valid endpoint, which is the final target region. Finally, during the target region adjustment process, the real-time boundary of the target region or reference region can be displayed in real time. This real-time boundary can be obtained based on the thickness information of the object under inspection, providing the user with the actual boundary corresponding to the target region.

[0114] The present invention may also provide a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for storing an instruction set and / or a computer program. When the instruction set and / or computer program is executed by a computer, the computer executes the above-mentioned image processing distribution method. The computer that executes the instruction set and / or computer program may be a computer of a medical imaging system or other device / module of a medical imaging system. In one embodiment, the instruction set and / or computer program may be compiled in a processor / control device of the computer.

[0115] Specifically, the set of instructions and / or computer program, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to:

[0116] Acquire and display a real-time optical image of the detected object, wherein the real-time optical image includes an initial collimation area and a center of the collimation area;

[0117] Based on changing the center of the collimation area or reframing the target area, the X-ray source and the detector are automatically moved to align with the center of the target area, and the opening of the collimator is controlled to align the collimation area with the target area.

[0118] The instructions described above may be combined into one instruction for execution, or any instruction may be split into multiple instructions for execution. Furthermore, the execution order is not limited to the above-described instruction execution order.

[0119] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides an X-ray imaging system. The X-ray imaging system includes a camera unit, a display unit, an input unit, an exposure assembly, and a control unit. The camera unit is used to acquire a real-time optical image of an object to be inspected. The display unit includes a user interface, which is used to display the real-time optical image. The real-time optical image also includes an initial collimation area and the center of the collimation area. The input unit is used to receive user operations and form a target area on the user interface by translating the center of the collimation area or reframing the area. The exposure assembly includes an X-ray source, a detector, and a collimator. The collimator has an opening for displaying the collimation area on the object to be inspected. The control unit is used to control the X-ray source and the detector to automatically move to align with the center of the target area based on the target area, and control the opening of the collimator so that the collimation area aligns with the target area.

[0120] Specifically, the control unit is used to calculate the center position, length and width of the target area, and move the X-ray source and the detector to align with the center of the target area according to the center position, and adjust the opening of the collimator according to the length and width.

[0121] Specifically, the control unit can calculate and display a real-time reference area on the display unit based on the movement of the input unit after receiving a valid start point input, and obtain the target area after receiving a valid end point input.

[0122] Specifically, the control unit is configured to receive a first pressing position input by the input unit, and when the first pressing position is within the range of the optical image, determine the first pressing position as a valid starting point.

[0123] Specifically, the control unit is configured to receive a second pressing position input by the input unit, and when the second pressing position is at a preset distance from the first pressing position, determine the second pressing position as a valid end point.

[0124] Specifically, the control unit is configured to receive a first relaxation position input by the input unit, and when the first relaxation position is at a preset distance from the first pressing position, determine the first relaxation position as a valid end point.

[0125] Specifically, the display unit further includes a confirmation option for confirming the range of the target area.

[0126] Specifically, the real-time reference area is a rectangle.

[0127] Specifically, the real-time reference area is a non-rectangular real-time boundary.

[0128] Specifically, the control unit further includes a first unit and a second unit, the first unit is used to obtain the mapping area corresponding to the reference area mapped to the detector plane, and the second unit is used to calculate and display the real-time boundary on the target area plane based on the mapping area and the thickness information of the detected object.

[0129] Specifically, the first unit includes a first calculation unit, a second calculation unit and a first mapping unit. The first calculation unit is used to calculate a first distance between the center of the reference area and the temporary termination point of the reference area. The second calculation unit is used to calculate a second distance of the first distance relative to the detector plane based on the thickness information of the object to be detected at the temporary termination point and the distance SID between the X-ray source and the detector. The first mapping unit is used to determine the mapping area based on the second distance.

[0130] Specifically, the camera unit is installed on the side of the collimator, and there is a fixed first angle between the camera unit and the side of the collimator. The second calculation unit is used to obtain the distance SOD between the X-ray source and the object to be detected based on the first angle and the thickness information of the object to be detected, and calculate the second distance of the first distance relative to the detector plane based on the ratio between the distance SOD and the distance SID.

[0131] Specifically, the second unit includes a second mapping unit and a boundary display unit. The second mapping unit is used to obtain the position coordinates of the boundary points corresponding to the multiple points on the target area plane based on the position coordinates of the multiple points on the boundary of the mapping area and the thickness of the detected object corresponding to the position. The boundary display unit is used to connect and display the real-time boundary based on the position coordinates of the boundary points.

[0132] Specifically, the camera unit is installed on the side of the collimator, and there is a fixed first angle between the camera and the side of the collimator. The control unit can calculate the offset between the center of the collimation area on the optical image and the center of the optical image based on the first angle, the offset between the camera unit and the collimator, and the thickness information of the detected object to calibrate the center of the collimation area.

[0133] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides an X-ray imaging system. The X-ray imaging system includes a display unit having a graphical user interface, the graphical user interface capable of displaying a real-time optical image of an object under inspection, the real-time optical image also including an initial collimation region and a center of the collimation region. Based on a starting point input by an input unit, a reference region at the current position is displayed in real time on the optical image during movement of the input unit. After input of an end point is determined, the collimation region can automatically align with the target region framed by the starting and end points.

[0134] Specifically, a position indicator is further included at the position of the temporary termination point.

[0135] Specifically, the reference area is a non-rectangular real-time boundary.

[0136] Specifically, changing the position of the center of the collimating area includes translating the center of the collimating area or reselecting the position of the center of the collimating area.

[0137] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention also provides an X-ray imaging method, which includes acquiring and displaying a real-time optical image of an object to be inspected, wherein the real-time optical image includes an initial collimation area and the center of the collimation area, and based on changing the center of the center of the collimation area or reframing the target area, controlling the X-ray source and the detector to automatically move to align with the center of the target area, and controlling the opening of the collimator so that the collimation area is aligned with the target area.

[0138] Specifically, reframing includes calculating and displaying a real-time reference area based on the movement of the input unit after receiving a start point input, and acquiring the target area after receiving an end point input.

[0139] Specifically, showing the real-time reference area includes showing the real-time boundary of the reference area.

[0140] Specifically, showing the real-time boundary of the reference area includes obtaining a mapping area corresponding to the reference area mapped to the detector plane, and calculating and displaying the real-time boundary on the target area plane based on the mapping area and the thickness information of the detected object.

[0141] Specifically, obtaining the mapping area includes calculating a first distance between the center of the reference area and a temporary termination point of the reference area, and based on the thickness information of the detected object at the temporary termination point and the distance SID between the X-ray source and the detector, calculating a second distance of the first distance relative to the detector plane, and determining the mapping area based on the second distance.

[0142] Specifically, calculating and displaying the real-time boundary on the target area plane includes obtaining the position coordinates of the boundary points corresponding to the multiple points on the target area plane based on the position coordinates of multiple points on the boundary of the mapping area and the thickness of the detected object corresponding to the position, and connecting and displaying the real-time boundary based on the position coordinates of the boundary points.

[0143] As used herein, the term "computer" may include any processor-based or microprocessor-based system, including systems using microcontrollers, reduced instruction set computers (RISCs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), logic circuits, and any other circuits or processors capable of performing the functions described herein. The above examples are exemplary only and are not intended to limit the definition and / or meaning of the term "computer" in any way.

[0144] The instruction set may include various commands that instruct a computer or processor as a processing machine to perform specific operations, such as the methods and processes of various embodiments. The instruction set may take the form of a software program that may form part of one or more tangible, non-transitory computer-readable media. The software may take various forms, such as system software or application software. In addition, the software may take the form of a collection of independent programs or modules, a program module within a larger program, or a portion of a program module. The software may also include modular programming in the form of object-oriented programming. The processing of input data by the processing machine may be in response to operator commands, in response to the results of previous processing, or in response to a request made by another processing machine.

[0145] As used herein, the term "computer" may include any processor-based or microprocessor-based system, including systems using microcontrollers, reduced instruction set computers (RISCs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), logic circuits, and any other circuits or processors capable of performing the functions described herein. The above examples are exemplary only and are not intended to limit the definition and / or meaning of the term "computer" in any way.

[0146] While some exemplary embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that various modifications may be made. For example, suitable results may be achieved if the described techniques are performed in a different order and / or if components in the described systems, architectures, devices, or circuits are combined in different ways and / or replaced or supplemented with other components or their equivalents. Accordingly, other implementations are also within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An X-ray imaging system, comprising: an exposure assembly including an X-ray source, a detector, and a collimator having an opening for controlling a collimated area of ​​exposure; a camera unit aligned with the detector for acquiring a real-time optical image of the detected object; a display unit operatively connected to the camera unit, the display unit comprising a user interface for displaying the real-time optical image, and further comprising the collimation area and a center of the collimation area on the real-time optical image; An input unit, which is used to receive a user's operation, and to form a target area by changing the position of the center of the collimation area or re-framing the area on the user interface; as well as A control unit is operably connected to the exposure assembly and is used to control the X-ray source and the detector to automatically move to align with the center of the target area based on the target area, and control the opening of the collimator to align the collimation area with the target area.

2. The X-ray imaging system of claim 1, wherein: The control unit is used to calculate the center position, length and width of the target area, and move the X-ray source and the detector to align with the center of the target area according to the center position, and adjust the opening of the collimator according to the length and width.

3. The X-ray imaging system of claim 1, wherein: The control unit can calculate and display a real-time reference area on the display unit based on the movement of the input unit after receiving a valid start point input, and acquire the target area after receiving a valid end point input.

4. The X-ray imaging system of claim 3, wherein: The control unit is used to receive a first pressing position input by the input unit, and when the first pressing position is within the range of the optical image, determine the first pressing position as a valid starting point.

5. The X-ray imaging system of claim 4, wherein: The control unit is used to receive a second pressed position or a first released position input by the input unit, and when the second pressed position or the first released position has a preset distance from the first pressed position, determine that the second pressed position or the first released position is a valid end point.

6. The X-ray imaging system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The display unit further includes a confirmation option for confirming the range of the target area.

7. The X-ray imaging system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The real-time reference area is a rectangle.

8. The X-ray imaging system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The real-time reference area is a non-rectangular real-time boundary.

9. The X-ray imaging system of claim 8, wherein: The control unit further comprises: A first unit is used to obtain a mapping area corresponding to the reference area being mapped to a detector plane; and The second unit is used to calculate and display the real-time boundary on a target area plane based on the mapping area and the thickness information of the detected object.

10. The X-ray imaging system of claim 9, wherein: The first unit comprises: A first calculation unit, configured to calculate a first distance between a center of the reference area and a temporary end point of the reference area; a second calculation unit, configured to calculate a second distance of the first distance relative to the detector plane based on the thickness information of the detected object at the temporary termination point and the distance SID from the X-ray source to the detector; and A first mapping unit is configured to determine the mapping area based on the second distance.

11. The X-ray imaging system of claim 10, wherein: The camera unit is installed on the side of the collimator, and there is a fixed first angle between the camera unit and the side of the collimator. The second calculation unit is used to obtain the distance SOD between the X-ray source and the object to be detected based on the first angle and the thickness information of the object to be detected, and calculate the second distance of the first distance relative to the detector plane based on the ratio between the distance SOD and the distance SID.

12. The X-ray imaging system of claim 10, wherein: The second unit comprises: A second mapping unit, which is used to obtain the position coordinates of the boundary points corresponding to the plurality of points on the target area plane based on the position coordinates of the plurality of points on the boundary of the mapping area and the thickness of the detected object corresponding to the positions; A boundary display unit is used to connect and display the real-time boundary based on the position coordinates of the boundary points.

13. The X-ray imaging system of claim 1, wherein: The camera unit is installed on the side of the collimator, and there is a fixed first angle between the camera and the side of the collimator. The control unit can calculate the offset between the center of the collimation area on the optical image and the center of the optical image based on the first angle, the offset between the camera unit and the collimator, and the thickness information of the object to be detected, so as to calibrate the center of the collimation area.

14. An X-ray imaging system, comprising a display unit with a graphical user interface, wherein the graphical user interface can display a real-time optical image of an object to be detected, wherein the real-time optical image also includes an initial collimation area and the center of the collimation area, and based on a starting point input by an input unit, during the movement of the input unit, a reference area formed by a current temporary termination point is displayed in real time on the optical image, and after determining the input of the termination point, the collimation area can automatically align with a target area framed by the starting point and the termination point.

15. The X-ray imaging system of claim 14, wherein: A position indicator is further included at the position of the temporary termination point.

16. The X-ray imaging system of claim 14, wherein: The reference area is a non-rectangular real-time boundary.

17. An X-ray imaging method, comprising: Acquire and display a real-time optical image of the detected object, wherein the real-time optical image includes an initial collimation area and a center of the collimation area; as well as Based on changing the position of the center of the collimation area or reframing the obtained target area, the X-ray source and the detector are automatically moved to align with the center of the target area, and the opening of the collimator is controlled to align the collimation area with the target area.

18. The X-ray imaging method according to claim 17, wherein: The reframing includes calculating and displaying a real-time reference area based on the movement of the input unit after receiving the start point input, and acquiring the target area after receiving the end point input.

19. The X-ray imaging method according to claim 18, wherein: Showing the real-time reference region includes showing the real-time boundary of the reference region.

20. The X-ray imaging method according to claim 19, wherein: Showing the real-time boundaries of the reference area includes: Acquire a mapping area corresponding to the reference area being mapped to the detector plane; and Based on the mapping area and the thickness information of the detected object, the real-time boundary is calculated and displayed on a target area plane.

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