Multiple DR Detector Capture and Image Prioritization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Radiographic images may not be properly captured during x-ray imaging due to mismatches between the detector used for image capture and the detector actually capturing the exposures.
Innovation Solution
Simultaneously activate all digital radiographic (DR) detectors assigned to a radiography system when the x-ray source is fired, allowing them to capture images, and prioritize the captured images based on evaluations for proper diagnostic use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple DR detectors are activated simultaneously for image capture, then the reliability of image capture is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the detector management by assigning unique identifiers to each DR detector and implementing individual activation control for each detector. The controller separately manages each detector's activation state, allowing precise control over which detectors are active during an exposure, thereby improving reliability without overwhelming complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where each detector reports its activation status and captured image data back to the controller. The controller processes this feedback to determine which detector successfully captured the exposure and prioritizes images accordingly, ensuring reliable image capture while managing system complexity through intelligent feedback processing.
2Reliability
If all DR detectors are activated for image capture, then the probability of capturing diagnostic images increases, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of activating all detectors in every scenario, the system applies partial action by selectively activating only the necessary number of detectors based on clinical needs and detector availability. The controller can activate one or more detectors depending on the specific examination requirements, reducing unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining sufficient diagnostic image capture probability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of detectors dynamically, switching them between active and idle states based on exposure requirements. Detectors that have completed their capture function are returned to idle mode, changing their power consumption parameters from high (active) to low (idle), thereby reducing overall energy usage while maintaining capture reliability.
3Reliability
If multiple images are captured and prioritized, then the diagnostic effectiveness is improved, but the processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing prioritization criteria and evaluating image quality metrics during or immediately after capture. The controller preliminarily assesses which captured images meet diagnostic quality standards and prioritizes them before full processing, reducing the time required for subsequent diagnostic workflows while maintaining diagnostic effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
A radiography system having multiple digital radiographic detectors captures an image in each of the detectors when the x-ray source is fired. The detectors evaluate the captured images and a controller prioritizes the captured images according to the evaluations to determine which captured images are forwarded and in what order. At least one of the DR detectors captures a suitable diagnostic x-ray image.