Mobile X-Ray Detector Pairing Using Sensor-Based Identification

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Solution Overview

Problem

The pairing of portable X-ray detectors with X-ray systems is cumbersome, requiring manual barcode scanning and re-registration, which is time-consuming and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A method for automatically pairing a mobile X-ray detector with an X-ray tube system using wireless communication and sensors, such as cameras or radiofrequency sensors, to identify and pair the detector based on predefined space and unique identifiers, eliminating the need for manual interaction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual barcode scanning is used for pairing, then the pairing process is simple to implement, but the pairing process is time-consuming and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepairing speedVSAvoidpairing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical barcode scanning process with an automated optical recognition system. The camera captures images of the detector and automatically identifies it through image processing, eliminating the need for manual scanning operations and significantly reducing pairing time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs automatic detector identification and pairing without requiring manual intervention. The camera automatically captures detector images, the processing unit automatically recognizes and identifies the detector, and the system automatically completes the pairing process, making the entire workflow self-service oriented.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If barcode scanning is required for pairing, then device identification is reliable, but the operation becomes cumbersome and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepairing easeVSAvoidpairing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual barcode scanning mechanism with an automated camera-based recognition system. This substitution eliminates the need for operators to manually scan barcodes, reducing operational complexity while maintaining reliable detector identification through automated image processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If re-registration is required upon failed pairing or operator change of mind, then pairing accuracy can be verified, but time is wasted and productivity is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepairing accuracyVSAvoidpairing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides immediate feedback through visual display of the captured detector image and automatic identification results. This real-time feedback allows operators to verify pairing accuracy instantly, and the system can quickly correct or re-pair detectors without requiring time-consuming re-registration processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 method simplifies and speeds up the pairing process, enhances workflow efficiency, and reduces the likelihood of incorrect pairings, providing a more reliable and intuitive operation.

Implementation Method 1

an image of the mobile X-ray detector is captured with a camera

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectImage capture: Photography

Implementation Method 2

The mobile X-ray detector comprises a first wireless communication interface. Said first wireless communication interface may be used for pairing the mobile X-ray detector with the X-ray tube system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWireless communication: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP4684735A1Method for pairing a mobile x-ray detector with an x-ray tube system
Publication Date: 2026.01.28 KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS NV
  • EP4684735A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4684735A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4684735A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a method (10) for pairing a mobile X-ray detector (2) with an X-ray tube system (1), wherein the mobile X-ray detector (2) comprises a first wireless communication interface and the X-ray tube system (1) comprises an X-ray tube (5), at least one sensor (6), a computing unit and a second wireless communication interface. According to the method (10), sensor data is obtained (SI) by the at least one sensor (6) and transmitted (S2) to the computing unit. Based on the received sensor data, a mobile X-ray detector (2) located in a predefined part of space is identified (S3) by the computing unit. Then, the mobile X-ray detector (2) is paired with the X-ray tube system (1) by the computing unit, via the second wireless communication interface, and via the first wireless communication interface. The invention further relates to a corresponding X-ray tube system (1).