X-ray Detector End-of-Life Detection via Accumulated Irradiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray diagnostic apparatuses lack a reliable method to determine the end-of-life of radiation detectors due to variability in usage across different clinical settings, leading to inaccurate detection of sensitivity deterioration from X-ray irradiation.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray diagnostic apparatus is equipped with an end-of-life detection unit that calculates the accumulated amount of X-ray irradiation based on output values from a set area of interest in the X-ray image, allowing for judgment on the detector's end-of-life and notification to the operator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the detector is used in various clinical settings with different usage frequencies, then the detector can serve diverse applications, but the accumulated X-ray irradiation amount becomes unpredictable leading to inaccurate end-of-life determination
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the accumulated X-ray irradiation amount through an end-of-life detection unit that calculates total exposure based on detection values from a set area in X-ray images. This feedback mechanism allows real-time tracking of detector degradation, enabling accurate end-of-life determination regardless of varying usage patterns across different clinical settings
Solution Approach 2:
The detector system performs self-monitoring of its own irradiation accumulation through the end-of-life detection unit, which automatically calculates and tracks the total X-ray exposure without requiring external intervention. This self-service approach enables the detector to independently determine its own operational status and end-of-life point
2Device complexity
If no specific method is established for notifying detector end-of-life, then the system remains simple, but sensitivity deterioration from X-ray irradiation goes undetected
Solution Approach 1:
The end-of-life detection unit performs preliminary monitoring of accumulated X-ray irradiation before the detector actually reaches its end-of-life point. By continuously calculating and tracking the total exposure amount, the system can predict and notify operators of approaching end-of-life conditions, allowing for proactive maintenance or replacement before sensitivity deterioration affects diagnostic quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical inspection methods with an automated computational system that calculates end-of-life based on accumulated irradiation data. The end-of-life detection unit uses mathematical calculations on detection values from the set area, substituting manual assessment with an automated electronic monitoring and notification system
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
This solution enables more accurate determination and notification of the detector's end-of-life, improving serviceability and extending the life of the detector by ensuring even usage and preventing over-exposure.
Implementation Method 1
a photoconductive film configured to convert radiation into charge
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an end-of-life detection unit in an X-ray diagnostic apparatus is configured to detect an end of life of a detector on the basis of an output value in an X-ray image, and includes: a luminance-level-value computation unit configured to calculate an amount of X-ray irradiation of the detector on the basis of the output value in an area of interest which is set on any one of the X-ray image and the detector; an irradiation-amount accumulation unit configured to calculate an accumulated amount of irradiation in the area of interest by adding the amount of X-ray irradiation calculated by the luminance-level-value computation unit to a previous amount of X-ray irradiation in the area of interest; and an end-of-life judgment unit configured to make a judgment on the end of life of the detector on the basis of the accumulated amount of irradiation.