Dual-Mode X-Ray Detector EMI Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Digital x-ray detectors are susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI) in portable systems, leading to image artifacts that degrade image quality, and existing shielding methods reduce x-ray sensitivity as well as EMI.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode x-ray detector system that simultaneously acquires image and EMI correction data, using additional scan and data lines to selectively activate pixels and reduce EMI without compromising x-ray sensitivity, allowing operation in normal or EMI correction modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If shielding is used to attenuate electromagnetic radiation, then EMI sensitivity is reduced, but x-ray sensitivity is also reduced and image quality degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The detector array is divided into two distinct arrays: a first detector array for acquiring x-ray images and a second detector array for acquiring EMI correction data. This segmentation allows each array to be optimized for its specific function, with the second array serving as a dedicated reference for EMI effects without compromising the image quality of the first array.
Solution Approach 2:
The second detector array acts as an intermediary reference that measures only EMI effects. By comparing the reference data from the second array with the image data from the first array, the system can identify and remove EMI-induced artifacts while preserving the true x-ray image information.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If additional scan lines and data lines are added for EMI correction, then EMI suppression capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The additional scan lines and data lines serve dual purposes: they enable the acquisition of EMI correction data while maintaining compatibility with the existing x-ray image acquisition process. The reference detector array uses the same basic pixel structure and readout mechanisms as the image detector array, allowing the system to perform both functions with minimal additional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The second detector array is designed as a simplified copy of the first array, containing only the essential photodetector elements and readout circuitry needed to measure EMI effects. This copying approach allows the system to obtain EMI reference data without duplicating the full complexity of the image detection system.
3Measurement precision
If the detector operates in EMI correction mode, then image quality is improved by removing artifacts, but acquisition time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the acquisition of image data and EMI correction data into a single simultaneous process. Both the first detector array (for images) and the second detector array (for EMI correction) acquire their respective data during the same exposure period, eliminating the need for separate acquisition passes and avoiding additional time consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The EMI correction process operates continuously during normal x-ray image acquisition. The second detector array continuously monitors EMI effects throughout the exposure, allowing for real-time correction without interrupting or extending the primary imaging process.
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 effectively suppresses EMI-induced artifacts, maintaining high x-ray sensitivity and image quality in diverse hospital environments, including those with temporally and spatially changing electromagnetic fields.
Implementation Method 1
at least one pixel having an photodetector portion and a non-photodetector portion
Data Source
AI summary
A dual function detector device operates in either a normal operating mode or in an EMI correction mode to suppress effects of EMI within the detector. The detector device may be a flat panel x-ray detectors used in x-ray imaging systems. The device has a pixel architecture and panel read-out technique that enables real-time, high spatial frequency measurement of noise induced by electromagnetic radiation on a digital x-ray detector. The measurement can be used to calibrate the detector in real-time to attain artifact-free imaging in all environments, including those that contain temporally and spatially changing electromagnetic fields.