Hexagonal Pixel Radiography Resolution and Sensitivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Radiographic imaging devices using hexagonal pixels face challenges in achieving high resolution and sensitivity due to pixel density conversion requirements, where existing methods often result in wasted signal data and uneven resolution across directions.
Innovation Solution
A radiographic imaging device and method that employs hexagonal shaped pixels arrayed in a honeycomb pattern, with pixel density conversion processed to ensure the maximum diagonal length of hexagonal pixels is within specific limits to maintain or exceed the resolution in all directions after conversion, using formulas to optimize pixel shape and array configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pixel size is reduced to raise resolution, then resolution is improved, but sensitivity (S/N) is lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional square pixel arrangement to hexagonal pixel arrangement, changing the geometric dimension and spatial relationship of pixels. This hexagonal configuration allows for more efficient space utilization and maintains larger effective detection area per pixel, thereby preserving sensitivity while achieving higher resolution through optimized geometric arrangement rather than simply reducing pixel size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameter of pixel shape from square to hexagonal, and optimizes the ratio between pixel pitch and inscribed circle diameter. By adjusting these parameters within specific ranges defined by the formulas, the system achieves higher resolution while maintaining the charge collection efficiency and signal-to-noise ratio.
2Measurement precision
If hexagonal pixels are used to raise resolution, then resolution is improved, but pixel density conversion causes signal wastage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes specific parameter ranges for the ratio of pixel pitch to inscribed circle diameter (0.866 ≤ ratio < 1.000) and for the relationship between hexagonal diagonal and square lattice diagonal (0.707 × d1max < d2max ≤ d1max). By controlling these parameters, the system ensures that during pixel density conversion from hexagonal to square lattice, the signal information is preserved without wastage while maintaining high resolution.
3Measurement precision
If hexagonal pixels are used, then resolution in all directions is improved, but conversion to square lattice pattern is required for output devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent defines specific parameter ranges that enable effective pixel density conversion: the ratio of pixel pitch to inscribed circle diameter should be 0.866 ≤ ratio < 1.000, and the square lattice diagonal should satisfy 0.707 × d1max < d2max ≤ d1max. Within these parameter ranges, the conversion from hexagonal to square lattice pattern can be performed with minimal information loss, balancing the isotropic resolution advantage of hexagonal pixels with the compatibility requirements of square lattice output devices.
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 secures high sensitivity and resolution in all directions while preventing signal wastage, ensuring effective pixel density conversion that maintains or improves resolution post-conversion.
Implementation Method 1
direct-conversion-type radiation detection elements that convert radiation directly to charge in a semiconductor layer
Implementation Method 2
indirect-conversion-type radiation detection elements that first convert radiation into light with a scintillator, such as CsI:Tl, GOS (Gd 2 O 2 S:Tb), then convert the converted light into charge in a semiconductor layer
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a radiographic imaging device and a radiographic imaging method that secure high sensitivity and raising resolution. Namely, a radiographic imaging device includes: a radiation detection element including plural same sized hexagonal shaped pixels that detect radiation and are arrayed in honeycomb pattern; and a pixel density conversion section that performs interpolation processing such that first image data obtained from the radiation detection element is converted into second image data representing an image of plural pixels arrayed in square grid pattern, wherein d1max is d2max or greater, and d1max is a value of the root of (2 × S1) or lower, wherein d1max denotes the length of a longest diagonal of the hexagonal shaped pixels, S1 denotes the surface area of the hexagonal shaped pixels, and d2max denotes the length of a diagonal of the square lattice of the second image data.