Tiled Radiography Detector Array for Long-Length Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital radiography systems for long-length imaging require multiple exposures and stitching of images, which can result in parallax artifacts and increased radiation exposure due to the need for separate exposures at different regions of the subject, and lack the ability to capture a composite image in a single exposure with multiple detectors simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A long-length imaging system comprising a host processor, an x-ray source, and multiple radiographic detectors configured to capture a radiographic image simultaneously, with the images transmitted to the host processor for combination into a single composite image, utilizing a low attenuation detector edge and portable positioning devices for efficient imaging across large areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple separate exposures are taken at different regions of the subject using a single flat-panel detector, then the imaging area is extended to cover long-length regions, but parallax artifacts are introduced and radiation exposure is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple flat-panel detectors arranged in a tiled configuration, allowing each detector to capture a separate region of the subject simultaneously. This segmentation eliminates the need for multiple sequential exposures and the associated parallax artifacts while distributing the radiation exposure across simultaneous capture.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple flat-panel detectors are merged into a single tiled imaging array that functions as one unified detection system. The detectors are positioned adjacent to each other with their active imaging areas forming a continuous large-area detection surface, combining their individual imaging capabilities into a unified long-length imaging system.
2Area of stationary object
If separate exposures are taken at different regions and images are stitched together digitally, then long-length imaging is achieved, but the process requires multiple exposures and complex reconstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system uses multiple detectors that physically segment the detection area, allowing simultaneous capture of different regions in a single exposure. This eliminates the need for complex sequential imaging and digital stitching processes.
Solution Approach 2:
A positioning device acts as an intermediary mechanism that precisely positions the tiled detectors relative to each other and to the x-ray source, ensuring proper alignment and minimizing the need for complex post-processing reconstruction.
3Ease of operation
If a single flat-panel detector is used, then the device is simple to operate, but the imaging area is limited to 43 cm in length
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system segments the detection function across multiple detectors of standard size, arranged in a tiled configuration. This allows the system to achieve extended imaging length without requiring a single oversized detector, maintaining operational simplicity while expanding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The tiled detector array provides multi-functionality, allowing the system to image both standard-length subjects (using a subset of detectors) and long-length subjects (using all detectors in the tiled array), making the system adaptable to various imaging requirements.
4Productivity
If multiple detectors are used to simultaneously capture images, then radiation exposure is reduced and imaging speed is improved, but the device complexity and positioning requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system segments the detection area into multiple independent detectors that operate simultaneously, enabling parallel capture of different regions. This segmentation achieves faster imaging and reduced radiation exposure while using standard detector components.
Solution Approach 2:
A positioning device serves as an intermediary mechanism that manages the complex positioning requirements of multiple detectors, coordinating their arrangement and alignment to simplify operation despite the increased number of components.
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 eliminates the need for multiple exposures, reduces radiation exposure, and minimizes seam artifacts by allowing simultaneous capture and stitching of images, providing improved image reconstruction and flexibility in imaging large areas such as 17″×33″ to 17″×49″ active imaging areas.
Implementation Method 1
an x-ray source configured to generate x-ray radiation
Implementation Method 2
a two dimensional array of detector cells (photosensors)
Data Source
AI summary
A digital radiographic detector system includes a number of DR detectors enclosed by a housing. A base section with wheels has attached thereto a vertical column with a height adjustable horizontal arm extending therefrom. The housing with DR detectors therein is attached to a distal end of the horizontal arm. The housing comprises a major surface made from a radiolucent material to allow the detectors to capture radiographic images via x-rays transmitted through the major surface of the housing. The housing is configured to support the plurality of DR detectors therewithin.