X-Ray Detector Positioning for Low-Attenuation Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray imaging apparatuses face issues where the X-ray detector may become too far from the subject, leading to increased X-ray attenuation and decreased image contrast, necessitating manual adjustment by operators, thereby increasing their workload.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging apparatus with a controller that selects a target position for the X-ray detector closer to the subject based on a first target position derived from the subject model or a second preset position, minimizing the distance between the detector and the subject, thus reducing the need for manual adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the X-ray detector is positioned based only on the subject model, then the device complexity is reduced, but the distance between the X-ray detector and the subject may become too large
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by acquiring actual body information before imaging, calculating the optimal detector position in advance based on both the subject model and measured body thickness/width, and pre-positioning the detector accordingly. This prevents the detector from being too far from the subject while maintaining automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by acquiring actual body information (thickness and width) from the subject, comparing it with the subject model, and using this feedback to adjust and determine the final optimal detector position. This closed-loop control ensures the detector is positioned correctly for each specific subject.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the distance between the subject and the X-ray detector is reduced, then the X-ray attenuation is suppressed, but the device complexity increases due to automated positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by integrating subject model acquisition, actual body measurement, optimal position calculation, and detector positioning control into a single automated positioning system. This unified system handles multiple functions that would otherwise require separate devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to minimize X-ray attenuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically acquiring body information, calculating the optimal detector position, and positioning the detector without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by using its own measurement and control capabilities to optimize the imaging setup, reducing the need for additional manual adjustment mechanisms.
3Length of stationary object
If manual adjustment of the X-ray detector is required, then the distance between the detector and subject can be optimized, but the operator workload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates manual adjustment by performing self-service - it automatically acquires body information, calculates the optimal detector position based on both subject model and actual measurements, and positions the detector autonomously. This removes the burden of manual adjustment from the operator while ensuring optimal detector positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical manual adjustment process with an automated control system that uses electronic measurement and computational algorithms to determine and execute the optimal detector position. This substitution eliminates the need for manual mechanical adjustment while achieving the same or better positioning accuracy.
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 configuration suppresses the increase in operator workload by automatically positioning the X-ray detector closer to the subject, maintaining image quality and reducing X-ray attenuation.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray source configured to irradiate a subject with X-rays; an X-ray detector configured to detect X-rays emitted from the X-ray source
Implementation Method 2
the distance from the X-ray source to the X-ray detector becomes larger than a predetermined distance, which increases the X-ray attenuation. As the X-ray attenuation increases, the contrast of the resulting image decreases
Data Source
AI summary
An Xray imaging apparatus is provided with an X-ray source, an X-ray detector, an arm, an arm driving mechanism, an X-ray detector moving mechanism, a model acquisition unit for acquiring a subject model of a surface shape of the subject, and a controller configured to select a target position where a distance of the X-ray detector to a surface of the subject model is shorter, out of a first target position set based on a position of the subject model and a preset second target position and perform a control to move the X-ray detector toward the selected target position.