X-ray Tomosynthesis Calibration Using Detector Reference Mark
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray imaging devices face challenges in achieving precise alignment of the X-ray source with respect to the detector, particularly in tomosynthesis imaging, and struggle to cope with aging degradation of calibration data, leading to suboptimal image quality and the need for frequent recalibration.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging device with a movable X-ray source, a flat-panel detector, and a marker system that captures images from multiple positions to calculate the slope and position of the X-ray source relative to the detector, allowing for precise alignment and automatic calibration data updates to correct misalignments and account for aging variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a predetermined marker assembly is used to create calibration data, then alignment precision can be improved, but the device complexity and management burden increase due to the need to manage marker preciseness and create calibration data for each imaging condition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the calibration function from the complex marker assembly method and implements it through the detector's built-in reference mark. This eliminates the need for external marker management while maintaining alignment precision, as the reference mark is inherently part of the detector system and automatically captured during normal imaging operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The detector performs self-calibration by capturing images of its own reference mark without requiring external calibration tools or manual marker placement. The system uses its intrinsic reference mark to automatically determine geometric relationships and update calibration data, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining precision.
2Ease of operation
If previously-acquired calibration data is used, then the calibration process is simplified, but the system cannot cope with aging degradation (aging variation)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors the reference mark position in captured images and automatically updates calibration data when deviations exceed predetermined thresholds. This closed-loop approach allows the system to detect and correct aging-induced misalignment while maintaining operational simplicity, as the feedback is processed automatically without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calibration using the reference mark during normal imaging operations, continuously maintaining accurate alignment data before aging degradation becomes significant. By proactively capturing and processing reference mark images during routine operations, the system prepares updated calibration data in advance, ensuring reliability without requiring separate calibration procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the X-ray source and detector are not integrated as a unified body, then the device versatility is improved, but the alignment precision deteriorates because it is not easy to install the X-ray source and detector with high-precision alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reference mark as an intermediary element that mediates between the X-ray source and detector. This reference mark serves as a common alignment reference that both components can be calibrated relative to, enabling high-precision alignment even when the source and detector are separate, non-integrated units. The reference mark translates the geometric relationship between separated components into measurable image data.
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 high-precision tomosynthesis imaging by correcting misalignments and updating calibration data as needed, ensuring consistent high-quality image reconstruction despite aging degradation, thereby maintaining precise alignment and image fidelity over time.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray source (12) that is able to move along a predetermined movement path
Data Source
AI summary
The X-ray imaging device comprises an X-ray source that is able to move along a predetermined movement path, a movement unit configured to cause the X-ray source to move along the predetermined movement path, an imaging platform that is disposed to face the X-ray source, a flat-panel X-ray detector that is provided to the imaging platform, a marker that is disposed in the imaging platform, a control unit that causes the X-ray source to move and to capture images respectively including the marker from at least two positions, and an image processing unit that calculates a position of an image of the marker in each of the captured images and calculates a slope of a movement axis of the X-ray source with respect to the X-ray detector based on a relative relationship between positions of images of the marker.