Radiography System with Dynamic Generator and Detector Sequences

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current radiography systems face challenges in generating clear images of the human spine due to the curvature and angular arrangement of vertebrae, which can obscure details between adjacent vertebrae and discs, hindering effective diagnosis and treatment of spinal anomalies.

Innovation Solution

A radiography system and method that involve a generator and detector with customizable movement sequences based on patient-specific anatomy, allowing for precise positioning and directional alignment of electromagnetic radiation to capture detailed images of the spine, including the use of generator and detector sequences that determine optimal positions and angles to orthogonalize the radiation projection relative to vertebral paths.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional radiography systems use fixed generator and detector positions, then the device complexity is reduced, but the image quality and diagnostic capability deteriorate due to inability to orthogonalize radiation projection relative to curved vertebral paths

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic positioning of the generator and detector through computer-controlled movement along predefined sequences. The generator can rotate and translate to different angular positions, and the detector can move correspondingly to maintain optimal imaging geometry. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to the curved anatomy of the spine, orthogonalizing the radiation projection relative to vertebral paths, thereby improving image quality without requiring multiple fixed imaging stations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The radiography system integrates multiple functions into a single device: the generator can generate electromagnetic radiation at multiple angles and positions, the detector can detect radiation from various orientations, and the computer coordinates these movements according to patient-specific anatomy. This multi-functional design allows one device to perform what would traditionally require multiple fixed imaging stations, improving image quality while controlling overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If radiography systems use standardized imaging sequences, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability to patient-specific spinal anatomy deteriorates, resulting in obscured vertebral details

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to patient anatomyVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating patient-specific imaging sequences based on imported spinal anatomy data before actual image acquisition. The computer determines the optimal generator and detector positions and angles in advance, creating a customized imaging protocol that adapts to the patient's unique vertebral curvature and orientation. This preliminary planning enables the system to automatically execute the customized sequence, maintaining ease of operation while achieving high adaptability to patient-specific anatomy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the computer receives data about the patient's spinal anatomy (from prior imaging or registration), processes this information to determine optimal imaging parameters, and then executes the customized sequence. The system can also receive feedback during the imaging process to adjust positioning, ensuring adaptability to the actual patient anatomy while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 the generation of improved radiography images that provide clearer views of individual vertebrae and vertebral spaces, enhancing the detection of spinal anomalies and facilitating more effective medical treatment.

Implementation Method 1

The generator may generate electromagnetic radiation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation generation:

Implementation Method 2

the detector may detect electromagnetic radiation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation detection:

Data Source

PatentUS10881369B2Systems and methods for enhanced radiography
Publication Date: 2021.01.05 RINDAL STEVEN
  • US10881369B2 patent drawing
  • US10881369B2 patent drawing
  • US10881369B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A radiography system for a patient comprising an electromagnetic radiation generator, an electromagnetic radiation detector, a generator support, and a detector support. The generator support moves the generator according to a generator sequence specific to the patient. The detector support moves the detector according to a detector sequence specific to the patient.