Radiation Detector Grid Joint Positioning for Image Quality

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Solution Overview

Problem

Radiation image capturing systems face challenges in improving image quality due to the inclusion of step and joint images caused by overlapping radiation detectors and grids, which complicates image correction and degrades image quality.

Innovation Solution

A radiation image capturing system is designed with a grid unit that removes scattered radiation and includes a radiation detector group with overlapping detectors, where the positions of step and joint images are determined based on the angle of incidence, allowing for precise correction of the step image and exclusion of the joint image from the search range to enhance image quality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If multiple radiation detectors are arranged with overlapping end portions to photograph large targets, then the coverage area is improved, but step images appear in the captured radiation image degrading image quality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The radiation detector is divided into multiple independent detection units (first radiation detector and second radiation detector) that can be arranged in sequence. Each unit captures a portion of the radiation image, and the overlapping arrangement ensures continuous coverage while the segmentation allows independent processing of each unit's data to correct step images.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary identification of step image positions based on the known geometric relationship between detectors and grid joints. By predicting where step images will appear before full image processing, the system can apply targeted correction algorithms to these specific regions, improving overall image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Object-affected harmful factors

If multiple grids are jointed together to cover all radiation detectors, then scattered ray removal is improved, but joint images appear in the captured radiation image degrading image quality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescattered ray removalVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system extracts and identifies joint image positions from the captured radiation image based on the known positions of grid joints. By separating the joint image detection from general image processing, the system can apply specific correction methods to these artifacts while preserving the quality of the actual radiation image data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses the geometric relationship between the grid unit position and detector arrangement as an intermediary to predict joint image locations. This intermediary information allows the system to identify and correct joint images without requiring complex analysis of the actual image data, streamlining the correction process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Area of stationary object

If both step images and joint images are present in one radiation image, then complete coverage is achieved, but correction of these images becomes inappropriate and image quality degrades

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidimage correction accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies different correction strategies to different regions of the image based on local characteristics. Step images and joint images are identified and corrected using methods appropriate to their specific nature, while the rest of the image undergoes standard processing. This localized approach ensures optimal correction for each type of artifact.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary identification and classification of different image artifacts (step images vs. joint images) before applying correction. By determining the type and position of each artifact in advance, the system can select the appropriate correction method for each, ensuring accurate correction while maintaining overall image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 approach improves image quality by accurately detecting and correcting the step image and preventing the joint image from interfering with the correction process, resulting in enhanced radiation image capture.

Implementation Method 1

a grid unit that removes scattered rays included in the radiation transmitted through the photography target

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScattered radiation removal: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 2

The radiation detector performs capturing of the radiation image by collecting and reading charge generated by the radiated radiation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRadiation detection: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9697923B2Radiation image capturing system
Publication Date: 2017.07.04 FUJIFILM CORP
  • US9697923B2 patent drawing
  • US9697923B2 patent drawing
  • US9697923B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A radiation image capturing system capable of improving image quality of a radiation image is provided. A position of a joint of a grid is determined in consideration of displacement of an angle of incidence of radiation on a grid unit and a radiation detector group, and a joint image caused by the joint of the grid is prevented from being included in a search range of a position of a boundary in the radiation image captured by the radiation detector. The joint of the grid is provided in a position away ±(y1+2×y2)×tanβ or more from a position of a step of the radiation detector.