Radiographic Imaging Depth Measurement via Source-Detector Distance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional radiographic imaging machines lack depth information and accurate dimensional measurements, leading to ambiguity in interpreting images and requiring additional technologies like computed tomography, which are costly and time-consuming, and often necessitate repositioning of patients and equipment.
Innovation Solution
A radiographic machine that uses a radiation source and detector positioned on either side of an imaged object, with an electronic computer processing two images taken at different separations to provide depth information and accurate dimensions without substantial angular repositioning, allowing for pseudo-3D imaging and relative positioning of structures without fiducial markers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If computed tomography is used to provide depth information and accurate dimensions, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses two-dimensional radiographic images taken from different source-to-detector distances to infer three-dimensional information about the imaged object. By capturing images at two different magnifications and applying geometric relationships, the system extracts depth information and absolute dimensions without requiring complex volumetric imaging equipment like CT scanners.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a geometric model based on two radiographic images that replicates the depth and dimensional information normally obtained from complex 3D imaging. The method uses the known relationship between image magnification and source-to-detector distance to construct accurate dimensional measurements from simple 2D projections.
2Measurement precision
If computed tomography is used to provide depth information, then measurement precision is improved, but acquisition time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of performing a complete volumetric scan with multiple rotations and angles, the patent uses only two radiographic images taken at different source-to-detector distances. This partial action provides sufficient information for depth and dimensional measurement without the time-consuming full CT acquisition process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-establishes the geometric relationship between image magnification and source-to-detector distance, allowing direct calculation of depth information from the two images without requiring complex real-time processing or additional scanning steps.
3Measurement precision
If computed tomography is used to provide depth information, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent obtains sufficient depth information and dimensional accuracy from just two radiographic images, avoiding the need for complete CT scanning. This partial action maintains measurement precision while dramatically improving clinical workflow efficiency by reducing procedure time and equipment repositioning requirements.
4Measurement precision
If fiducial markers are used to determine absolute dimensions, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the radiographic imaging system self-calibrating by using the known geometric relationship between source-to-detector distance and image magnification. The system automatically determines absolute dimensions through mathematical relationships embedded in the imaging geometry itself, eliminating the need for external fiducial markers or reference objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the source-to-detector distance parameter between two images to create different magnifications. This parameter change provides the mathematical basis for calculating absolute dimensions without requiring physical reference markers, as the magnification ratio directly relates to the distance ratio in geometric projection.
5Measurement precision
If multiple radiographic images are taken at different angles to provide depth information, then measurement precision is improved, but radiation dose increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent obtains sufficient depth information from just two radiographic images taken at the same angle but different source-to-detector distances. This partial action provides the necessary geometric information for 3D reconstruction without requiring multiple angular exposures, thereby minimizing radiation dose while maintaining measurement precision.
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 quick and accurate dimensional measurements and depth information along a single axis, reducing acquisition time and interference with clinical procedures, and eliminating the need for reference objects or extensive equipment repositioning.
Implementation Method 1
Radiographic imaging employs high-energy radiation such as kilovoltage x-rays to image the structures within the body
Implementation Method 2
magnification effects caused by diverging rays of radiation from a point radiation source
Data Source
AI summary
A radiography machine provides information about the absolute dimension of imaged objects with as few as two images taken along a common axis at different separations. The information gathered in this way may also be used to deduce absolute or relative separation of the objects along the common axis.