Adjustable Dynamic Anti-Scatter Grid for Mobile Radiography
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Solution Overview
Problem
In mobile radiography, achieving proper alignment of anti-scatter grids with the x-ray source and image receptor is challenging, leading to inferior image quality due to scattered radiation, which diminishes the clinical utility of mobile radiographic exams.
Innovation Solution
A system using an IR transmitter and receiver to locate the x-ray source and adjust grid lines to align with the ideal x-ray beam path, allowing for increased contrast and reduced noise in x-ray images by dynamically adjusting the grid lines to match the x-ray beam path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a high grid ratio anti-scatter grid is used, then scatter control is improved, but alignment difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the anti-scatter grid adjustable and repositionable. The grid can be dynamically repositioned to different locations between the x-ray source and image receptor, allowing optimization of both scatter control and alignment ease depending on the specific mobile radiography configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by allowing variation in the grid ratio selection and adjusting the grid position and orientation. Different grid ratios can be selected based on the specific clinical need, and the grid parameters can be adjusted to achieve proper alignment with the x-ray beam path
2Loss of energy
If the focal spot is misaligned with the focal line of the anti-scatter grid, then primary x-ray transmission decreases, but scattered x-ray transmission remains unchanged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through the use of alignment markers and positioning systems that provide visual feedback to the operator. The alignment markers on the grid and x-ray source allow the operator to adjust the grid position to achieve proper alignment, ensuring optimal primary x-ray transmission while maintaining scatter control
3Ease of operation
If mobile radiography is used for bedridden patients, then patient mobility requirements are reduced, but image quality deteriorates due to alignment challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service through self-aligning features and positioning systems that guide the operator to achieve proper alignment. The alignment markers and positioning indicators enable the operator to independently align the grid without requiring specialized expertise, thereby maintaining image quality while preserving the ease of mobile radiography operation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances x-ray image contrast and reduces noise by ensuring precise alignment of the anti-scatter grid with the x-ray source, improving the clinical utility of mobile radiography.
Implementation Method 1
A system using an IR transmitter and receiver to locate the x-ray source
Implementation Method 2
An anti-scatter grid is generally formed from alternating strips of x-ray opaque (or radiopaque) material and x-ray transmissive (or radiolucent) material
Implementation Method 3
X-rays passing through an object, such as a human body, experience some degree of scatter
Data Source
AI summary
A grid employs dynamic and adjustable grid lines that communicates with a transmitting object and/or a receiving object. The grid lines may be but not limited to liner, crosshatched or pinwheel shaped. The grid may switch between opaque and translucent and the grid lines may target, calibrate to and track an object either transmitting or receiving. The grid may be employed as a filter or a privacy screen on a computer screen for instance. The grid lines are angled to match an angle of a user's position with respect to the grid.