Radiographic System Protocol Matching Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiographic systems require manual input of image processing instructions by medical technicians for each imaging procedure, lacking automation in adhering to specific imaging protocols set by examination orders.
Innovation Solution
A radiographic system that includes a storage unit for multiple imaging methods associated with protocols, a determination unit to match the imaging method with the examination order, and an image processing unit to apply the corresponding processing conditions to the captured images, ensuring appropriate image processing based on the protocol.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual input of image processing instructions is performed by medical technicians for each imaging procedure, then flexibility in handling different imaging cases is maintained, but work efficiency decreases and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically selecting and applying appropriate image processing methods based on examination information. The determination unit autonomously matches imaging methods without requiring manual technician intervention, while the image processing unit automatically applies the selected processing. This automation resolves the contradiction by eliminating manual operations while maintaining appropriate processing flexibility through algorithmic decision-making.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements preliminary action by pre-storing multiple imaging methods and their corresponding processing conditions in the storage unit. Before actual image processing occurs, the determination unit retrieves and selects the appropriate pre-prepared imaging method based on the examination information. This advance preparation eliminates the need for manual selection during the imaging process, thereby improving productivity without sacrificing operational flexibility.
2Reliability
If multiple imaging methods are manually selected and applied for different examination types, then appropriate image processing is achieved, but the complexity of the operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The determination unit serves as an intermediary between the examination information and the multiple stored imaging methods. It automatically matches the examination type with the appropriate pre-stored imaging method, eliminating the need for operators to manually navigate through multiple processing options. This intermediary function maintains processing accuracy by ensuring the correct method is selected while reducing operational complexity through automated matching.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the image processing workflow into distinct functional units: the determination unit for selecting imaging methods and the image processing unit for applying processing. This segmentation allows each unit to specialize in its specific task, with the determination unit handling method selection and the image processing unit handling actual processing. This division reduces operational complexity by creating a clear, automated workflow while maintaining reliability through specialized function execution.
3Productivity
If automated image processing is implemented based on examination orders, then productivity increases and time is saved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The determination unit implements a universal matching mechanism that can handle multiple examination types and select from multiple imaging methods using a single automated workflow. This multi-functional capability allows the system to process different examination orders (chest imaging, abdominal imaging, etc.) through the same automated determination and processing pipeline, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system stores multiple imaging methods as pre-defined templates or copies in the storage unit. Each imaging method represents a copied configuration of processing parameters and conditions that can be rapidly retrieved and applied. This copying approach allows the automated system to maintain a library of processing options without requiring complex real-time decision algorithms, thus improving imaging efficiency while keeping the system structure relatively simple through template-based processing.
Data Source
AI summary
A radiographic system includes a storage unit configured to store a plurality of imaging methods in association with a plurality of imaging protocols, a determination unit configured to determine whether an imaging method of an imaging protocol associated with an examination order matches at least one of the plurality of imaging methods stored in the storage unit, and an image processing unit configured to apply, in a case where the determination unit determines that the imaging method matches at least one imaging method, an image processing condition of an imaging protocol corresponding to the at least one imaging method to a radiographic image captured based on the imaging protocol associated with the examination order.