Adaptive X-ray Image Processing Using Acquisition Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional x-ray imaging techniques face challenges in generating optimal images due to varying conditions such as patient weight, constitution, age, and procedural factors, leading to inconsistent image quality that requires different processing parameters.

Innovation Solution

An adaptive image processing system that utilizes acquisition data, image analysis data, and calibration/model data to establish and adjust image processing parameters, including signal and noise levels, to optimize image quality across different conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional x-ray imaging techniques are used under varying conditions (patient weight, constitution, age, procedural factors), then the system can handle diverse patient populations, but image quality becomes inconsistent and requires different processing parameters for each case

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to handle diverse patient conditionsVSAvoidimage quality consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic image processing by continuously adapting processing parameters based on real-time acquisition data and measured signal-to-noise ratios. The system transitions from static, pre-defined processing parameters to dynamic parameters that automatically adjust according to actual imaging conditions, thereby maintaining consistent image quality across diverse patient populations without requiring manual intervention for each case

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms by measuring the actual signal-to-noise ratio of acquired images and using this information to automatically adjust processing parameters. The measured SNR feeds back into the processing algorithm, creating a closed-loop system that optimizes image quality based on actual conditions rather than relying on predetermined parameters, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and consistency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If different image processing parameters are manually adjusted for each patient and procedure, then optimal images can be generated for specific conditions, but the complexity and time required for image processing increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoptimal image qualityVSAvoidprocessing parameter management

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables the image processing system to serve itself by automatically selecting and adjusting processing parameters based on acquisition data and measured signal-to-noise ratios. The system performs self-diagnosis of imaging conditions and self-adjustment of parameters without requiring operator intervention, thereby maintaining optimal image quality while eliminating the complexity of manual parameter management for each patient and procedure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically changes processing parameters based on measured signal-to-noise ratios and acquisition conditions. Rather than requiring manual parameter selection, the system dynamically modifies processing parameters such as filtering strength, contrast enhancement, and noise reduction levels according to the actual imaging conditions, thereby simplifying the process while maintaining optimal image quality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If standard image processing is applied to all x-ray images regardless of acquisition conditions, then the processing workflow remains simple, but image quality varies substantially across different patients and procedures

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing workflow simplicityVSAvoidimage quality consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the static image processing workflow into a dynamic one that automatically adapts to different acquisition conditions. The system maintains ease of operation by requiring no manual input from operators while internally adjusting processing parameters based on measured signal-to-noise ratios and acquisition data, thereby achieving both workflow simplicity and consistent image quality across diverse patients and procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS7474731B2Systems and methods for adaptive image processing using acquisition data and calibration/model data

Publication Date: 2009.01.06 SIEMENS HEALTHINEERS AG

AI summary

A system and method in which image processing parameters that are used globally or which change locally within the image are adapted to improve image quality by using the acquisition parameters, image analysis data, and calibration/model data. Image processing parameters are established as a function of the acquisition parameters. The acquisition parameters include one or more of an x-ray tube voltage, a pre-filtration, a focal spot size, an x-ray source to detector distance (SID), and a detector readout mode. Image processing parameters may also be established as a function of local or global image analysis, such as signal-to-noise ratio, as well as a function of predicted signal-to-noise ratio determined from the calibration data and a predetermined model.