Radiographic Image Processing Using Overlapping Phosphor Sheets and Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
In portable radiography, accurately obtaining the radiation-source-to-image-surface distance (SID) is challenging due to the dynamic positioning of radiation sources and detectors, leading to difficulties in performing precise image processing, especially when visual observation or additional sensors are not feasible, which complicates the apparatus configuration and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
The method involves obtaining plural radiographic images using overlapping detection means and markers to calculate the SID by determining the distance between detection surfaces and the magnification ratio of marker images, allowing for accurate SID calculation without the need for additional sensors, thus simplifying the apparatus configuration and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If additional sensors or measurement devices are provided to measure SID accurately, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses markers as simplified copies or proxies for direct measurement. Instead of using complex sensors to measure SID directly, the system places markers on the detection means and uses radiographic imaging to capture their positions. The SID is then calculated indirectly from the marker images, effectively copying the measurement function through image analysis rather than direct physical measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement systems (sensors, gauges) with an optical/image-based system. By using radiographic images of markers to determine SID, the system substitutes mechanical measurement with optical detection and computational analysis, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement capability.
2Device complexity
If visual observation is used to measure SID, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enhances visual observation by introducing markers as visual references. These markers provide a standardized, measurable visual element that can be clearly captured in radiographic images, transforming subjective visual estimation into objective measurement through image analysis of marker positions and magnification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct distance measurement to magnification ratio measurement. By measuring the magnification of marker images in radiographic images and using the known relationship between magnification and SID, the system achieves accurate SID determination through a different measurable parameter that is more suitable for image-based measurement.
3Measurement precision
If markers are placed on detection means for SID measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases slightly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple, inexpensive markers that can be easily attached to the detection means. These markers are low-cost objects that serve their measurement purpose effectively without requiring complex or expensive components, aligning with the principle of using simple, disposable-like elements for measurement.
4Ease of operation
If scattered radiation removal processing is performed without accurate SID, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurement of SID using markers before conducting scattered radiation removal processing. By obtaining accurate SID information in advance through marker-based measurement, the system prepares the necessary parameter for subsequent image processing, ensuring high-quality results without complicating the operational flow.
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 approach enables accurate SID measurement and subsequent high-accuracy image processing, including scattered radiation removal, using a simple and cost-effective setup, improving image quality in portable radiography applications.
Implementation Method 1
detection means that detect radiation that has been output from a radiation source and passed through a subject
Data Source
AI summary
An image obtainment unit obtains plural radiographic-images generated by arranging plural storable-phosphor-sheets in such a manner that at least portions of the sheets are overlapped with each other in an irradiation direction of radiation, by arranging a marker at a position to be detected by the plural sheets, and by detecting the radiation that has passed through a subject and the marker by each of the plural sheets. A first-information obtainment unit obtains first-information representing a distance between detection surfaces of the plural sheets. A second-information obtainment unit obtains second-information representing a magnification ratio of a second marker image of the marker included in a radiographic-image obtained by a second sheet with respect to a marker image of the marker included in a radiographic-image obtained by a first sheet of the plural sheets. A distance calculation unit calculates, based on the first and the second information, a radiation-source-to-image-surface distance.