Tomosynthesis X-ray Apparatus Center Direction Setting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tomosynthesis photography technologies face challenges in accurately setting the turning range of the X-ray generator relative to the subject, leading to difficulties in positioning the subject for optimal imaging.
Innovation Solution
A medical X-ray photographing apparatus that includes a support system allowing the X-ray generator and detector to turn about a predetermined axis, with a center-direction setting mechanism, a turning controller, and an image processor to generate tomosynthesis images, along with additional features like a camera for visual alignment and a light emitter for angle indication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the subject is positioned using a visible light camera to fit the target sectional plane, then the positioning accuracy for the target sectional plane is improved, but the positioning becomes difficult depending on the position of the target sectional plane
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining multiple target sectional planes at standard anatomical positions (e.g., nipple line, pectoral muscle apex) before the actual tomosynthesis photography. The operator selects from these predetermined planes rather than attempting to position a custom plane, which simplifies the operation while maintaining accuracy for standard imaging scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of target sectional plane positioning from continuous custom positioning to discrete selection among predetermined planes. This parameter transformation converts a complex continuous positioning task into a simpler discrete selection task, improving ease of operation while maintaining sufficient measurement precision for standard breast tomosynthesis.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the turning arm is turned by turning angle θ1 and convergence angle θ2 to change photographing direction, then the photographing direction flexibility is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the turning arm mechanism to perform multiple functions: it can be turned by angle θ1 to change the photographing direction and by angle θ2 to adjust the convergence angle. This single mechanism handles both positioning and angle adjustment, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining photographing direction flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the turning arm rotatable about two different axes, allowing dynamic adjustment of both the photographing direction and convergence angle. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to different imaging requirements without adding separate fixed mechanisms, thereby maintaining flexibility while controlling complexity.
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 precise setting of the center direction and swing angle for tomosynthesis photography, improving image quality and ease of use by providing visual feedback and automatic control of the X-ray generator and detector positioning.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray generator configured to emit an X-ray
Implementation Method 2
an X-ray detector configured to output an electric signal according to an incident X-ray
Data Source
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AI summary
A medical X-ray photographing apparatus (20) includes a support (30) configured to hold the X-ray generator (40) and the X-ray detector (45) in a facing state, a base body (support holder) (100) configured to rotatably hold the support (30) on a side opposite to a position where the X-ray generator (40) and the X-ray detector (45) are provided, and a turning driver (180) configured to drive and turn the support (30) about a turning axis. The medical X-ray photographing apparatus (20) also includes a center-direction setting part configured to set a center direction passing through a center of a swing angle ¸ of the support in X-ray photography and a turning controller (180) configured to control the turning driver such that the support (30) turns with a swing angle ¸ around the center direction set by the center-direction setting part.