Scattered Radiation Elimination Using Distance-Based Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radiation image processing methods struggle to accurately eliminate scattered radiation from images, especially when there is an air gap between the subject and the radiation detector, leading to over-enhancement of contrast due to incorrect estimation of scattered radiation doses.
Innovation Solution
A radiation image processing device and method that acquires imaging conditions, distance information between the subject and detector, and corrects scattered radiation component information based on this distance to perform precise elimination processing, using sensors for distance measurement and tables correlating imaging regions and directions with distance information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If scattered radiation elimination processing is performed based on conventional estimation methods, then scattered radiation can be eliminated from the radiation image, but when there is an air gap between the subject and radiation detector, the scattered radiation dose is overestimated leading to excessive contrast enhancement
Solution Approach 1:
The system acquires actual distance information between the subject and radiation detector using sensors, and uses this feedback to correct the scattered radiation component information. This closed-loop approach adjusts the estimation based on real measurement data, preventing overestimation when air gaps are present and ensuring accurate scattered radiation elimination while maintaining appropriate contrast enhancement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the estimation parameters by incorporating distance information as a correction factor. The scattered radiation component information is adjusted based on the measured distance, transforming the estimation from a fixed model to a dynamic parameter that adapts to actual imaging conditions, thereby resolving the overestimation problem.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a physical grid is used to eliminate scattered radiation, then scattered radiation can be effectively blocked, but the device becomes heavy and difficult to dispose especially in portable imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical grid system with an image processing approach. Instead of using physical lead or aluminum plates to block scattered radiation, the system uses computational methods to estimate and eliminate scattered radiation components from the digital image data, achieving the same protective function without the weight and disposal issues of physical grids.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual model of the imaging geometry and subject characteristics to simulate and predict scattered radiation patterns. By copying the essential geometric and physical parameters into a computational model, the system can predict scattered radiation distribution and eliminate it through processing, replacing the need for physical interception structures.
3Measurement precision
If distance information acquisition means is added to the radiation imaging device, then scattered radiation can be accurately eliminated by correcting for air gap effects, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation imaging device performs its own distance measurement using integrated sensors, eliminating the need for separate external measurement equipment. The device self-corrects its scattered radiation estimation by using its own measured distance information, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
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 accurate scattered radiation elimination, improving image quality by considering the air gap and reducing over-enhancement of contrast in radiation images.
Implementation Method 1
a radiation detector 5 which detects X-rays transmitted through the subject M to acquire a radiation image of the subject M
Implementation Method 2
sensors 30 and 31 for distance measurement which are housed near two opposing sides in a housing of the radiation detector 5
Data Source
AI summary
When performing processing for eliminating scattered radiation included in radiation transmitted through a subject on a radiation image captured by irradiating the subject with radiation, an imaging condition acquisition unit acquires imaging conditions, and a distance information acquisition unit acquires distance information representing the distance between the subject and a radiation detector. A scattered radiation information acquisition unit acquires scattered radiation component information representing a scattered radiation component of radiation included in the radiation image based on at least the imaging conditions, and a correction unit corrects the scattered radiation component information based on the distance information. A scattered radiation elimination unit performs scattered radiation elimination processing of the radiation image based on the corrected scattered radiation component information.