X-ray Collimator Marker for Source-to-Object Distance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray apparatuses lack an efficient method to accurately determine the distance between the X-ray source and the object, which is crucial for precise imaging and adjusting irradiation conditions, often relying on cumbersome calibration processes or external sensors.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray apparatus equipped with a collimator that projects a marker, such as the center of crossing lines or a point using a laser emitter, and a controller that acquires images to determine the source-to-object distance (SOD) based on the marker's location, utilizing difference images and epipolar lines, and adjusts irradiation conditions accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external sensors or cumbersome calibration processes are used to determine the distance between the X-ray source and the object, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator serves dual functions: it not only adjusts the irradiation region of X-rays but also projects a marker onto the object that can be detected by the image acquirer. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external sensors, allowing the system to determine the source-to-object distance (SOD) using its own imaging components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The collimator is designed with multi-functionality, performing both its traditional role of adjusting X-ray irradiation and the additional function of projecting distance measurement markers. This universal application of the collimator integrates distance measurement capability into the existing imaging system without requiring separate dedicated components, thus avoiding increased device complexity
2Measurement precision
If external sensors are used to determine the source-to-object distance, then the measurement precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines the source-to-object distance using the marker projected by the collimator and detected by the image acquirer. This automated process eliminates the need for manual calibration operations or external sensor setup, making the system easier to operate while maintaining precise distance measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces potential mechanical calibration processes or external sensor-based measurement systems with an optical/image processing approach. By using the marker projection and image analysis method, the system achieves precise distance measurement through computational means rather than mechanical or external sensing methods, improving ease of operation
3Ease of operation
If the collimator projects a marker for distance determination, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator utilizes its existing structural components to project the marker without requiring additional dedicated projection devices. By leveraging the collimator's own structure and the X-ray imaging system's detection capability, the system achieves automated distance measurement functionality without significantly increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The distance measurement function is merged with the collimator's existing irradiation adjustment function. The marker projection capability is integrated into the collimator assembly, combining multiple functions (irradiation control and distance measurement) into a single component system, thereby avoiding the complexity increase that would result from adding separate independent 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
Enables precise determination of the SOD and object thickness, allowing for optimized X-ray irradiation conditions without the need for external sensors, improving imaging quality and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a point projected on the object by a laser emitter of the collimator
Implementation Method 2
an image acquirer configured to acquire an image by imaging an object
Data Source
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AI summary
An X-ray apparatus including an X-ray source configured to radiate X-rays; a collimator configured to adjust an irradiation region of X-rays radiated from the X-ray source; an image acquirer configured to acquire an image by imaging an object; and a controller configured to detect, in the image, a marker projected on the object by the collimator, and to determine a source to object distance (SOD) based on a location of the marker in the image, wherein the SOD comprises a distance between the X-ray source and the object.