Digital Detector Sampling Without Source Controller Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray imaging systems using film or computed radiography require time-consuming processing and are costly to replace with digital radiography systems, necessitating a cost-effective retrofit solution that minimizes component changes.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging method and system where a digital detector samples image data without communication from the source controller, using a portable control device to acquire and process data, allowing for on-the-spot image reconstruction and reducing noise by combining data from multiple frames.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If conventional film or computed radiography systems are used, then imaging infrastructure is maintained, but image acquisition time is delayed due to processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical film processing system with a digital detector system that electronically captures and processes X-ray images. The digital detector eliminates the need for physical film development, thereby reducing image acquisition time from minutes to seconds while maintaining imaging infrastructure.
2Measurement precision
If digital radiography systems are implemented, then image quality and workflow are enhanced, but system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the digital radiography system into essential components (digital detector, portable control device, processing system) that can be selectively implemented. This allows hospitals to adopt digital imaging capabilities incrementally rather than replacing the entire system at once, reducing the financial burden while maintaining image quality improvements.
Solution Approach 2:
The digital detector is designed to function with both conventional X-ray sources and portable sources, making it a universal component that can be integrated into existing radiography systems or used with mobile units. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems and lowers overall implementation costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If digital detector samples data without timing signals from source controller, then system independence and portability are improved, but accurate frame selection becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs preliminary action by having the digital detector continuously sample data in anticipation of the X-ray exposure event. The detector prepares multiple frames before the actual exposure, ensuring that when the exposure occurs, the necessary frames are already positioned for accurate selection and processing, eliminating the need for timing signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where the processing system analyzes the sampled frames and identifies the correct exposure frames based on signal characteristics. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically detect and select the appropriate frames without external timing information, maintaining accuracy while preserving system independence.
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
Enables cost-effective retrofitting of conventional X-ray systems to digital, providing quicker image acquisition and diagnosis with reduced noise and transistor leakage, while maintaining image quality.
Implementation Method 1
performing an X-ray exposure via an X-ray radiation source responsive to a source controller
Implementation Method 2
sampling X-ray image data via a digital detector
Data Source
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AI summary
An X-ray imaging method includes performing an X-ray exposure via an X-ray radiation source responsive to a source controller. The method also includes sampling X-ray image data via a digital detector without communication of timing signals from the source controller. The method further includes combining the sampled X-ray image data of at least one imaging frame or two or more imaging frames with at least one of the frames spanning a duration in which the exposure occurred, to produce X- ray image data capable of being reconstructed into a user- viewable image.