Radiation Imaging System AEC Verification via Dose Index Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radiation imaging systems face challenges in determining whether automatic exposure control (AEC) is operating correctly, leading to potential inaccuracies in exposure control during radiation imaging.
Innovation Solution
A radiation imaging system that includes a conversion unit generating electric charge in response to radiation, a transmission unit sending control signals based on electric charge and target values, and a control apparatus with a dose index generating unit, allowable range setting unit, and determination unit to assess whether the dose index values are within a predetermined range, allowing for accurate AEC operation verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automatic exposure control (AEC) is implemented in radiation imaging systems, then the optimum radiation dose can be achieved, but the ability to determine whether AEC is operating correctly is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control apparatus receives dose index information from the radiation imaging apparatus and compares it against expected values. The determination unit provides feedback about whether AEC operated correctly by comparing actual dose index values with calculated expected values, enabling verification of AEC operation status and improving reliability of exposure control validation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dose index as an intermediary parameter that mediates between the radiation imaging apparatus and the control apparatus. This dose index serves as a measurable indicator that allows the control apparatus to verify AEC operation without directly accessing internal AEC control mechanisms, thus enabling external verification while maintaining system independence.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication is used for exposure control signals, then system flexibility is improved, but communication failures may occur causing exposure control inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses feedback through dose index verification to detect and respond to communication failures. By comparing actual dose index values received from the imaging apparatus with expected values calculated from transmission parameters, the system can identify when communication failures have occurred and when AEC did not operate as intended, thereby maintaining reliability despite wireless communication vulnerabilities.
3Measurement precision
If dose index verification is performed across multiple regions, then AEC operation accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the verification process by dividing the imaging area into multiple regions and calculating dose index values for each region independently. This segmentation allows comprehensive verification of AEC operation across different areas of the image, improving measurement precision while maintaining manageable complexity through modular region-based processing.
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
Enables precise determination of AEC operation, ensuring optimal radiation exposure and reducing errors by generating and verifying dose index values across multiple regions, thus enhancing the accuracy of radiation imaging.
Implementation Method 1
a conversion unit configured to generate electric charge in response to irradiation with radiation
Data Source
AI summary
A radiation imaging system includes a radiation imaging apparatus configured to transmit, based on electric charge generated in response to irradiation with radiation and a target value, a signal related to control of irradiation with radiation to an external apparatus; and a control apparatus configured to generate a target dose index value that is based on the target value and a dose index value that is based on information regarding electric charge, and determine whether the dose index value is within an allowable range of the target dose index value.