Radiation Sensor Positioning for X-ray Imaging Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiation imaging systems face challenges in accurately and reliably recognizing the start and end of irradiation due to delays, leading to degradation of X-ray images and potential unwanted radiation exposure, especially at low radiation doses and when the radiation sensor is stationary, limiting its positioning flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A radiation imaging apparatus with a first radiation sensor positioned near the exit aperture of the radiation source, secured by a fastening device such as a magnet or clip, and a flexible support arm, allowing for adjustable placement, along with a second radiation sensor on the detector panel for automatic exposure control, enables precise detection of radiation dose and timely recognition of irradiation start and end.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a radiation sensor is disposed behind the FPD device to detect radiation dose for recognizing start and end of irradiation, then the radiation detector can automatically control storing and reading operations, but the recognition reliability is low especially at low radiation doses
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation detection function is segmented into two separate sensors: a first radiation sensor positioned near the radiation source exit aperture for reliable start/end recognition, and a second radiation sensor (dosimeter) behind the FPD device for automatic exposure control. This segmentation allows each sensor to operate in its optimal position without compromising the other function.
Solution Approach 2:
The first radiation sensor acts as an intermediary element positioned in the radiation path before the patient body, detecting radiation dose changes that trigger recognition of irradiation start and end. This intermediary sensor provides reliable detection signals to the control unit without being affected by body attenuation.
2Measurement precision
If the radiation sensor is positioned behind the patient body, then it can detect transmitted radiation for image creation, but the detection of irradiation start and end is delayed due to body attenuation
Solution Approach 1:
The first radiation sensor performs preliminary detection of radiation dose in the radiation path before the radiation passes through the patient body. By detecting radiation dose changes at this early stage, the system can recognize irradiation start and end timing without the delay caused by body attenuation that would occur if detection were performed only behind the patient.
3Reliability
If a separate radiation sensor structure is used from the FPD device, then the start and end of irradiation can be recognized independently, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it controls the FPD device storing and reading operations, recognizes irradiation start and end based on first radiation sensor signals, and manages automatic exposure control using second radiation sensor data. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated control components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
4Device complexity
If the radiation sensor is stationary, then the device structure is simplified, but the positioning flexibility is limited reducing detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The first radiation sensor is designed with positioning flexibility through a fastening device that allows adjustable placement near the radiation source exit aperture. This dynamic positioning capability enables optimal sensor placement for different imaging scenarios and patient types, improving detection accuracy without requiring a completely complex mounting structure.
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 solution ensures high reliability in recognizing the start and end of irradiation, reducing image degradation and unwanted radiation exposure, while allowing for flexible sensor positioning to improve detection accuracy across varying radiation levels and patient types.
Implementation Method 1
A first radiation sensor detects the radiation dose
Implementation Method 2
The fastening device includes a magnet device
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray imaging apparatus has an electronic cassette, in which an FPD device receives X-rays applied by an X-ray source to a body, and stores charge according to a radiation dose of the X-rays, to create an image. A control unit controls the FPD device. A radiation sensor detects the radiation dose to be used for controlling the FPD device. A magnet as fastening device secures the radiation sensor removably in a radiation path between the X-ray source and the body. Also, an evaluation unit recognizes a start and end of application of the X-rays according to a dose signal from the radiation sensor, for the control unit to control the FPD device. A flexible support arm is disposed between the radiation sensor and the magnet, for keeping the radiation sensor in a changeable position relative to the magnet.