X-ray CT Protocol Visualization for Dose and Quality Trade-offs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current scan protocol selection methods for X-ray CT scanners are not intuitive, requiring multiple steps to identify and adjust abnormal protocols, and lack guidance on how to adjust them, relying heavily on viewer experience.
Innovation Solution
An imaging planning apparatus and method that includes an obtaining unit for X-ray dose and image quality values, a display control unit for intuitive visualization of these parameters, and an evaluation adjustment unit using a protocol reference standard surface to predict and adjust scan protocols based on positional relationships, facilitating intuitive identification and adjustment of abnormal protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If scan protocols are evaluated using traditional histogram comparison methods, then detailed information can be obtained, but the process requires at least three steps and is not intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the traditional histogram comparison method by adding a visual dimension. It displays multiple histograms and their comparison results simultaneously on a graphical interface, allowing viewers to intuitively identify abnormal protocols through visual patterns rather than step-by-step numerical analysis. This dimensional transformation maintains measurement precision while dramatically improving ease of operation.
2Reliability
If traditional scan protocol evaluation methods are used, then existing protocols can be assessed, but no guidance is provided on how to adjust abnormal protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism that not only evaluates scan protocols but also provides actionable adjustment guidance. When abnormal protocols are detected through histogram comparison, the system automatically generates and displays adjustment recommendations, creating a closed-loop feedback system. This ensures both reliable protocol assessment and informative guidance for correction, preventing loss of adjustment information.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple scan protocols are compared using traditional methods, then protocol selection can be made, but extensive viewer experience is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intelligent intermediary system that mediates between multiple scan protocols and the viewer. This intermediary automatically performs histogram comparisons, identifies abnormalities, and provides adjustment recommendations, thereby reducing the complexity burden on viewers. The system maintains versatile protocol selection capability while significantly lowering the expertise requirement through automated analysis and guidance provision.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging planning apparatus according to one embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry obtains a first value of a first index that is related to an X-ray dose and a second value of a second index that is related to an image quality, based on an X-ray imaging condition of a subject set in a predetermined examination. The processing circuitry displays an association chart indicating an association between the first index and the second index on a display unit, displays an acceptable range of the first index and the second index, the acceptable range being based on information related to a diagnostic reference level corresponding to the predetermined examination, in a manner distinguished from a range other than the acceptable range in the association chart, and also displays a mark at a position corresponding to the first value and the second value in the association chart.