Radiographic Imaging Apparatus Mode Selector for X-Ray Synchronization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray imaging systems with flat panel detectors (FPDs) face challenges in controlling start synchronization and automatic exposure control, especially when there is communication incompatibility between the X-ray generating apparatus and the imaging apparatus, leading to suboptimal exposure and potential overexposure due to continuous X-ray emission during readout steps.
Innovation Solution
A radiographic imaging apparatus with a mode selector that switches between two operating modes based on communication compatibility with the X-ray generating apparatus, using detection signals from radiation detectors to synchronize the start of the storage step with emission and measure total radiation dose, allowing for exposure control and synchronization control without a sync signal, and resetting signal charges before starting the storage step.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the X-ray imaging apparatus uses a flat panel detector (FPD) with digital signal processing, then immediate image viewing is enabled, but communication incompatibility with the X-ray generating apparatus causes failure in start synchronization control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sync signal as an intermediary communication medium between the X-ray generating apparatus and the FPD. This sync signal carries timing information that enables the FPD to synchronize its storage step with the X-ray emission start, resolving the communication incompatibility issue while maintaining immediate digital image viewing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the FPD monitors the sync signal from the X-ray generating apparatus and adjusts its operation accordingly. The control unit receives the sync signal, detects the X-ray emission start timing, and automatically synchronizes the storage step, creating a closed-loop control system that ensures reliable synchronization
2Productivity
If the FPD continuously reads signal charge during the storage step, then real-time image data is available, but X-ray emission continues during readout causing overexposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by dividing the FPD operation into distinct cycles: a storage step where the TFT is off and signal charge accumulates during X-ray exposure, followed by a readout step where the TFT turns on and signal charge is read. This periodic switching prevents simultaneous X-ray emission and readout, eliminating overexposure while maintaining real-time imaging capability through rapid cycling
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by completing the entire signal charge accumulation process during the storage step before initiating the readout step. The TFT remains off during X-ray exposure to ensure complete charge collection, and only after the storage step concludes does the readout begin, preventing any overlap between exposure and readout that could cause overexposure
3Ease of operation
If the TFT remains on during X-ray exposure, then signal charge can be read continuously, but the photo diode cannot properly store signal charge according to radiation dose
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic switching of the TFT between on and off states. During the storage step, the TFT is turned off to create a non-conductive state, allowing the photo diode to properly store signal charge according to the radiation dose. During the readout step, the TFT turns on to enable signal charge reading. This periodic action ensures both accurate charge storage and continuous readout capability
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 suitable control of start synchronization and automatic exposure control regardless of communication compatibility, preventing overexposure and ensuring optimal image quality by synchronizing the storage step with emission start and terminating it correctly, even in cases of communication incompatibility.
Implementation Method 1
Scintillator (phosphor) is provided in the imaging area for converting X-rays into visible light
Implementation Method 2
each of pixels in the imaging area is constituted by a photo diode as a photoelectric conversion element
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray imaging apparatus includes an FPD and short-circuited pixels. The FPD has pixels arranged in arrays for detecting an X-ray image. The short-circuited pixels detect a radiation dose of X-rays in the FPD. The X-ray imaging apparatus is changed over between first and second operating modes. The first operating mode is selected in case of combining with an X-ray generating apparatus with communication compatibility, and performs an exposure control for controlling a total radiation dose according to a detection signal from the short-circuited pixels. The second operating mode is selected in case of combining with an X-ray generating apparatus with communication incompatibility, and performs control of start synchronization for synchronizing operation of the FPD with the emission start of X-rays according to a detection signal from the short-circuited pixels. Thus, control of the X-ray imaging apparatus is changed over appropriately.