Dynamic Calibration Timing for X-Ray Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The frequent and time-consuming calibration processes in x-ray devices with complex mechanics lead to unsuitable calibration parameters, resulting in poorer image quality, while frequent calibrations are time-consuming and resource-intensive, and infrequent calibrations may not account for changes in recording geometries over time.
Innovation Solution
A method to predict the optimal time for fresh calibration by analyzing use data and difference information from multiple operating phases, using a relationship between accumulated movement data and calibration parameter changes to determine when recalibration is necessary, allowing for maximized calibration intervals while maintaining image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If frequent calibrations are performed, then calibration parameters remain up-to-date and image quality is maintained, but time and resources are consumed excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration interval is made dynamic rather than fixed. The system continuously monitors use data from multiple x-ray devices and automatically adjusts the calibration timing based on accumulated usage patterns, allowing the calibration schedule to adapt to actual device utilization and wear characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by collecting use data from multiple x-ray devices, analyzing calibration parameter changes over time, and using this information to predict optimal calibration moments. The predicted calibration time is based on the relationship between accumulated use and calibration parameter drift, creating a closed-loop system that prevents both premature and delayed calibrations.
2Loss of time
If infrequent calibrations are performed, then time and resources are saved, but calibration parameters become outdated and image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary analysis of use data and calibration parameter trends from multiple devices to predict the optimal calibration time before calibration parameters actually deteriorate. This advance prediction allows scheduling calibration at the precise moment when it becomes necessary, avoiding both premature and delayed calibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional fixed mechanical calibration schedule is replaced with a predictive system that uses data analysis and algorithms to determine calibration timing. Instead of following a predetermined time interval, the system substitutes mechanical scheduling with intelligent prediction based on actual device usage and calibration parameter evolution.
3Ease of operation
If calibration is performed based on fixed time intervals, then scheduling is simple, but it does not account for variations in device usage and calibration parameter changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically collecting use data, analyzing calibration parameter changes, and predicting optimal calibration timing without requiring manual intervention. The multi-device data collection and analysis are automated processes that continuously improve the calibration prediction accuracy while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors changes in calibration parameters over time and uses these parameter variations, combined with use data, to predict when calibration will become necessary. By tracking parameter drift patterns from multiple devices, the system adapts the calibration timing to actual parameter changes rather than following fixed time intervals.
Data Source
AI summary
A method ascertains a time for a fresh calibration for ascertaining up-to-date calibration parameters of an x-ray device. The x-ray device has multiple degrees of freedom of movement for its recording arrangement. X-ray images of a calibration phantom are recorded for recording positions of the recording arrangement and are evaluated to ascertain the calibration parameters allowing ascertainment of geometry parameters. In multiple operating phases, situated between two calibrations, of a further x-ray device of identical design to the x-ray device, a piece of use information describing the accumulated use of the degrees of freedom of movement during the operating phase and a piece of difference information describing the difference in the calibration parameters between the calibrations delimiting the operating phase, is ascertained and used or determining the time for a fresh calibration.