Radiographic Image Stitching with Preliminary Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiographic image capturing systems require a lengthy time to generate and display combined images from long image capturing processes, leading to inefficiencies in workflow and increased patient waiting times due to the need for extensive image processing after radiation emission.
Innovation Solution
A radiographic image capturing system that includes a radiographic image capturing device and an image generator capable of simplifying processing steps for generating a combined image for check, allowing for rapid display of a preliminary combined image, reducing the time from radiation emission to image availability for review.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If extensive image processing is performed to generate a combined image from multiple radiographic images, then image quality and completeness are improved, but the time required for processing and display is significantly increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image processing task into two distinct stages: a simplified first processing stage that generates a preliminary combined image for quick review, and a second processing stage that generates the final high-quality combined image. This segmentation allows the system to provide rapid feedback while maintaining the option for comprehensive processing when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial processing by performing only essential operations in the first processing stage to generate a preliminary combined image that is sufficient for initial evaluation. This partial action approach provides adequate image quality for quick decision-making without executing the full range of processing operations, thereby reducing processing time while still meeting the immediate need for image review.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple radiographic images are captured and combined to cover a large capturing area, then complete coverage of the subject is achieved, but the complexity of the capturing system and processing workflow is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the capturing process into multiple individual radiographic image captures that are subsequently combined into a single comprehensive image. This allows the system to cover large areas using standard-sized detectors without requiring a single large complex detector, thereby managing system complexity while achieving complete area coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computing device as an intermediary that automatically combines multiple radiographic images into a combined image. This intermediary component handles the complexity of image integration, allowing the capturing devices themselves to remain relatively simple while achieving comprehensive area coverage through automated processing.
3Productivity
If simplified processing is used to generate a combined image quickly, then processing time is reduced, but image quality and processing completeness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments processing into two quality levels: simplified processing for rapid preliminary review and comprehensive processing for final high-quality output. This allows the system to prioritize speed when time is critical while maintaining the capability for high-quality processing when needed, resolving the contradiction between processing speed and image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial processing operations in the first stage to achieve sufficient image quality for quick evaluation without performing all possible processing steps. This partial action approach maintains acceptable image quality for initial review while significantly reducing processing time, and allows comprehensive processing to be applied later if higher quality is required.
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 significantly shortens the time from radiation emission to displaying the combined image, enabling quicker decision-making and reducing patient waiting times by allowing for prompt evaluation and processing of radiographic images.
Implementation Method 1
a radiation generator 102 to the capturing site of the patient which is a subject H while moving the radiographic image capturing device P from the upper side to the lower side
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of two-dimensionally arranged (in a matrix) radiation detectors generating electrical charges according to doses of emitted radiation
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a flat panel detection system which is capable of appropriately shortening the time from irradiation with radiation for long length imaging to the display of a stitched image as well as the time taken for photography. Provided is a flat panel detection system 50, comprising: flat panel detectors P1-P3 which respectively read out, from a plurality of radiation detection elements 7, signal values D based on dosages of irradiated radiation; a display unit Ca; and an image generating unit C, 22 which generates a stitched image p. Before generating the stitched image p for output, the image generating unit C, 22 generates stitched images for verification ppre_raw, ppre_cor, by substituting an abbreviated process for any of the processes of a) generating radiological images p1-p3, b) image processing upon the radiological images p1-p3, or c) generating the stitched image p for output, and carrying out said process, and causes the display unit Ca to display the generated stitched images for verification ppre_raw, ppre_cor.