Radiographic Positioning Support Apparatus with Simulation Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current positioning support systems for radiographic imaging fail to provide users with clear guidance on correcting positional deviations between radiation detectors and sources relative to subjects, leading to uncertainty about obtaining desired images.
Innovation Solution
A positioning support apparatus and radiographic imaging system that detect the relative positional relationship between radiation detectors and sources and subjects, simulate changes in their positions, and generate simulation-reflected images to help users intuitively understand and correct deviations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a correction amount in numerical form is provided to the user, then the user receives quantitative guidance on positional adjustment, but the user cannot determine whether a desired radiographic image can actually be obtained after correction
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a simulation-reflected image that copies and visualizes the expected radiographic image quality after positional correction. This virtual copy allows users to preview the correction result without actually performing the correction, enabling informed decision-making about whether the desired image quality will be achieved.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary visualization of the correction effect before the actual correction is executed. By generating a simulation-reflected image that shows the expected outcome, users can evaluate whether the correction will achieve the desired result in advance, avoiding unnecessary repeated corrections.
2Reliability
If only a notification about inappropriate positional relationship is provided, then the system alerts the user to the problem, but the user does not know what correction to make and must repeat the process multiple times
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides visual feedback through simulation-reflected images that show the expected result of positional correction. This feedback loop allows users to understand the relationship between current positioning and expected outcomes, enabling single-attempt correction rather than repeated trial-and-error processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary visualization of the correction effect before actual correction is executed. By showing users what the corrected image will look like in advance, they can make accurate positional adjustments in one attempt, eliminating time-consuming repeated corrections.
3Ease of operation
If detailed simulation and visualization functions are added to show correction effects, then users can easily understand and apply corrections, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning support apparatus leverages the existing radiographic imaging system's image generation and processing capabilities to create simulation-reflected images. By reusing existing system functions for multiple purposes (actual imaging and simulation visualization), the system avoids adding complex dedicated simulation hardware while still providing comprehensive visual feedback.
Data Source
AI summary
A positioning support apparatus includes a hardware processor. The hardware processor obtains a radiographic image of a subject taken through a radiography. Based on the obtained radiographic image, the hardware processor detects a relative positional relationship between the subject and at least one of a radiation detector and a radiation source, the positional relationship being at a time when the radiographic image is taken. The hardware processor receives a change input for simulating a change of a position of the at least one of the radiation detector and the radiation source. Based on the detected positional relationship and the received change input, the hardware processor generates a simulation-reflected image that is an image of the subject reflecting the change of the position of the at least one of the radiation detector and the radiation source. The hardware processor outputs the generated simulation-reflected image.