Pseudo Projection Image Generation for X-ray SID Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray imaging apparatuses face difficulties in acquiring diagnostically useful X-ray image data due to limitations in setting the Source to Image receptor Distance (SID) and positioning/angling of the X-ray incident on examination targets like the chest and cervical spine, which are crucial for accurate imaging.
Innovation Solution
The medical image processing apparatus generates pseudo projection image data for a larger SID by using processing circuitry to control the X-ray imaging apparatus, allowing for tomosynthesis imaging and adjusting the X-ray tube and detector positions to simulate additional irradiation directions, thereby overcoming physical restrictions in the imaging setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the physical setup is used with fixed X-ray tube and detector positions, then the device structure is simple, but the SID cannot be adjusted to desired values for diagnostic imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the imaging geometry by generating pseudo projection images that simulate what would be obtained at different SID values. Instead of physically moving the X-ray tube and detector to achieve different SIDs, the system computationally reconstructs images as if they were taken at desired SID values, thereby achieving precise SID control without physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physically moving the X-ray tube and detector with a computational system. By using image processing algorithms to generate pseudo projection images from existing data, the system substitutes mechanical adjustment with digital transformation, eliminating the need for complex mechanical positioning mechanisms while achieving the same imaging goals.
2Manufacturing precision
If the X-ray tube and detector are repositioned to achieve desired SID, then the SID can be optimized for diagnosis, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by acquiring projection images at multiple angles and positions during the initial imaging process. These pre-acquired images are then used to computationally generate pseudo projection images at any desired SID, eliminating the need for subsequent physical repositioning of the X-ray tube and detector. The preliminary data collection enables flexible SID adjustment without additional setup operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates virtual copies of the imaging scenario by generating pseudo projection images that represent what would be obtained at different SID values. This computational copying allows operators to obtain images at any desired SID without physically moving equipment, dramatically simplifying operation while maintaining imaging quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional irradiation directions are implemented for tomosynthesis, then the imaging versatility is improved, but the device complexity and imaging time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic versatility by enabling the system to adaptively generate images at any desired irradiation direction and SID through computational methods. Instead of requiring fixed physical configurations for different imaging scenarios, the system dynamically reconfigures the virtual imaging geometry by processing existing projection data, allowing flexible adaptation to various diagnostic needs without physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by using a single set of projection images to generate pseudo projection images at multiple different SIDs and irradiation directions. This universal approach allows the same imaging data to serve multiple diagnostic purposes, eliminating the need for separate imaging setups for different imaging requirements and reducing overall system complexity.
4Productivity
If the X-ray imaging is performed with limited SID options, then the imaging process is fast, but the diagnostic utility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent rapidly generates diagnostic-quality images by creating virtual copies at desired SID values through computational processing of existing projection data. This approach maintains the speed advantage of fixed SID imaging while overcoming the quality limitation, as the pseudo projection images can be generated instantly without requiring additional physical imaging steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical limitation of fixed SID options with a computational solution that can instantly generate images at any desired SID. This substitution maintains the rapid imaging capability while achieving the diagnostic quality associated with optimized SID values, as the computational process is much faster than physical repositioning and re-imaging.
Data Source
AI summary
The medical image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to acquire volume data generated based on tomosynthesis imaging of a subject. The processing circuitry is configured to set a virtual focal point at a position different from a focal position in the tomosynthesis imaging. The processing circuitry is configured to generate a pseudo projection image based on the virtual focal point and the volume data.