Radiographic Imaging Mode Transition Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing radiographic imaging systems face challenges in efficiently transitioning between different imaging modes, such as pulsed X-ray radioscopic imaging and general imaging, due to variations in mode transition times, leading to inconsistencies and increased X-ray dosage.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a control unit that detects imaging mode changeover instructions and adjusts wait times based on the operating state of the imaging system, using formulas and tables to compensate for variations in mode transition times, ensuring consistent transitions between imaging modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a fixed wait time is used for mode transition, then the system is simple to operate, but the mode transition time varies causing inconsistencies and increased X-ray dosage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode transition consistencyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the wait time variable rather than fixed. The control unit dynamically adjusts the wait time based on the actual operating state of the imaging system, allowing the system to adapt to different conditions while maintaining consistent mode transitions. This resolves the contradiction by enabling reliable transitions without requiring an overly complex predetermined control system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by having the control unit monitor the actual mode transition process and adjust the wait time accordingly. The system detects whether mode transition processing is ongoing and uses this information to determine the appropriate wait time, creating a closed-loop control system that ensures consistent transitions while managing complexity through intelligent decision-making.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Speed

If the imaging mode changes immediately upon instruction, then the response time is fast, but the mode transition processing may be interrupted causing inconsistencies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode changeover speedVSAvoidmode transition completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by checking whether mode transition processing is already ongoing before executing a new mode changeover instruction. The control unit proactively detects the current state and prepares appropriate wait times in advance, preventing interruptions to incomplete processing while enabling fast response to legitimate mode change requests.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements skipping by allowing the system to bypass unnecessary waiting periods when the mode transition processing has already been initiated. Instead of always waiting for complete processing before accepting new instructions, the system intelligently skips redundant wait times while ensuring processing completeness, thereby improving response speed without sacrificing reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #21Skipping (Rushing through)

3Reliability

If a longer wait time is provided for mode transition, then the transition consistency is improved, but the imaging productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode transition consistencyVSAvoidimaging throughput
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the wait time parameter based on the actual mode transition state. Instead of using a consistently long wait time, the control unit modifies the wait duration according to whether processing is ongoing or complete, thereby maintaining transition consistency while minimizing the impact on imaging productivity through optimized timing parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 reduces variation in mode transition times, allowing for more precise control over imaging mode changes and minimizing X-ray dosage by optimizing the timing of mode transitions.

Implementation Method 1

a radiation detection array configured to store charges to acquire an image signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCharge storage:

Data Source

PatentUS9097643B2Imaging control apparatus, radiographic imaging system, and imaging control method
Publication Date: 2015.08.04 CANON KK
  • US9097643B2 patent drawing
  • US9097643B2 patent drawing
  • US9097643B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A radiographic imaging apparatus includes: a radiation detection array configured to store charges to acquire an image signal; an output unit configured to output radiation image data based on the image signal to an external apparatus; a detection unit configured to detect an imaging mode changeover instruction; and a control unit configured to, when the detection unit detects an imaging mode changeover instruction during one unit of imaging processing including the charge storage and the charge-based radiation image data output to an external apparatus, control whether the imaging processing is to be interrupted, based on an operating state of the radiographic imaging apparatus.