X-ray Diagnostic Apparatus Automatic Aperture Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In X-ray diagnostic procedures, especially during long ablation procedures, positional shifts between still images and ROI images occur due to subject or equipment movement, requiring operators to interrupt the procedure to update images, reducing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray diagnostic apparatus with an automatic aperture control system that determines anatomical positional shifts between large and small aperture images, automatically adjusting the aperture to maintain image alignment without operator intervention, allowing continuous fluoroscopy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the operator manually updates the still image by switching foot switches to eliminate positional shift, then image alignment accuracy is improved, but procedure continuity is interrupted and productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects positional shifts between still images and ROI images through image processing, and autonomously updates the still image by controlling the X-ray tube and detector without requiring operator intervention. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual foot switch operations while maintaining image alignment accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors image positions by comparing still images and ROI images, detects positional shifts through image processing, and automatically adjusts the still image update timing based on detected shifts. This feedback loop ensures accurate image alignment while maintaining continuous procedure execution.
2Measurement precision
If the operator frequently updates still images to maintain alignment during subject movement, then image alignment accuracy is improved, but radiation exposure increases and harmful factors worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary image position detection and positional shift determination before actually updating the still image. By predicting when alignment is needed based on detected shifts, the system updates images only when necessary, avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of still image update timing from fixed manual intervals to dynamic automatic timing based on detected positional shifts. This parameter change allows the system to update images only when alignment is actually needed, reducing radiation exposure while maintaining image accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If the system continuously monitors and updates images to prevent positional shift, then image alignment accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image processing unit performs multiple functions including still image generation, ROI image generation, position detection, shift determination, and update control within a single integrated system. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity by eliminating the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the image processing functions and control functions into a unified automatic control mechanism. By combining these functions, the system achieves accurate image alignment monitoring and updating without requiring multiple separate devices or complex inter-device communication systems.
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
Enhances procedural efficiency by minimizing operator interruptions and maintaining accurate image alignment during prolonged procedures, reducing radiation exposure and improving operability.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an image generation unit generates a first image during a large aperture period and a second image during a small aperture period. An image combining unit generates a composite image based on the latest second image and the specific first image. A display unit displays the composite image in real time. A determination unit determines whether to update the first image based on an index associated with the anatomical positional shift between the first image and the second image. A driving control unit enlarges a aperture to the large aperture, when the determination unit determines to update, and maintains the aperture at the small aperture, when the determination unit determines not to update.