Adjustable Dynamic X-Ray Filter for Mobile Radiography
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Solution Overview
Problem
In mobile radiography, aligning the focal spot with the anti-scatter grid is challenging due to variable separation of the x-ray source and image receptor, leading to inferior image quality and reduced contrast due to scattered radiation.
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 selectively permitting x-ray beams to pass through the grid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a high grid ratio anti-scatter grid is used to improve scatter control and image contrast, then scatter control is improved, but alignment difficulty with the focal spot increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the anti-scatter grid adjustable and reconfigurable. The grid ratio can be dynamically changed by repositioning the grid relative to the focal spot and image receptor, or by adjusting the grid's angle of inclination. This allows the grid to adapt to different imaging scenarios and maintain optimal alignment without requiring manual realignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by modifying the grid ratio parameter dynamically. The grid ratio can be adjusted by changing the distance between the focal spot and grid, or by altering the grid's angular orientation. This enables the system to optimize scatter control for different patient sizes and imaging conditions while maintaining proper alignment through automated or semi-automated adjustment mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If the focal spot and image receptor are rigidly mounted in fixed positions to simplify grid alignment, then alignment is simplified, but mobility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by introducing dynamic adjustment capabilities to mobile radiography systems. The anti-scatter grid is designed with adjustable parameters that can be modified in real-time to accommodate variable distances between the focal spot and image receptor. This allows the system to maintain proper alignment even when components are moved to different positions, thereby preserving both mobility and alignment simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by implementing automated alignment mechanisms that adjust the grid position and orientation based on detected parameters such as focal spot location and image receptor position. The system automatically compensates for misalignment without requiring manual intervention, enabling mobile radiography to achieve alignment simplicity comparable to fixed systems while maintaining full mobility and adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If a low grid ratio is used to reduce alignment problems, then alignment is easier, but image contrast is significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by making the grid ratio dynamic rather than fixed. The system can adjust the grid ratio to match the specific imaging conditions, allowing it to achieve high contrast when needed while maintaining ease of alignment through automated adjustment. The grid can be repositioned or reconfigured to optimize the ratio for each particular examination, eliminating the need to choose between fixed low ratio (easy alignment) and fixed high ratio (high contrast but difficult alignment).
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
The system enhances x-ray image contrast and reduces noise by ensuring proper alignment of the grid lines with the x-ray beam path, improving clinical utility in mobile radiography.
Implementation Method 1
The source locator has an IR transmitter that transmits location information defining the location of the x-ray source
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B~2C
AI summary
A system and method for determining the location of an x-ray source of an x-ray machine and adjusting grid lines in an anti-scatter grid are disclosed. An ideal beam path is obtained and is used to adjust grid lines in the anti-scatter grid. In one embodiment, the invention uses a source locator to locate the x-ray source, communicate this location to the said adjustable anti- scatter grid which could align the grid lines mechanically, by means of servos attached to the grid lines, to the ideal x-ray beam path. In other embodiment electrical currents are used to align grid lines with the beam source. By aligning the grid lines with the beam path, images with increased contrast and reduced noise can be produced.