X-ray Dose Estimation Using Intensity Profiles

Solution Overview

Problem

Current X-ray imaging and treatment systems face challenges in accurately estimating X-ray doses in real-time, as existing methods like Monte-Carlo simulations are slow, computationally expensive, and lack accurate point-of-service capabilities, particularly in devices that serve multiple patients daily.

Innovation Solution

The X-ray dose estimation technique involves using a processor to determine intensity and attenuation profiles of X-rays passing through an object, estimating energy interaction and mass, and calculating a projected dose based on these parameters, allowing for prospective or retrospective dose assessment and adjustment of settings to achieve desired exposure levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If Monte-Carlo simulations are used for X-ray dose estimation, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to slow computation speed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedose estimation accuracyVSAvoidcomputation speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates simplified copies of the complex Monte-Carlo simulation model by developing lookup tables and analytical models that replicate dose estimation functionality. These simplified models are pre-computed versions that can be quickly queried during clinical procedures, providing near-Monte-Carlo accuracy without the computational burden.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs dose estimation calculations in advance by creating pre-computed lookup tables and calibration data before clinical use. During actual imaging procedures, the system quickly retrieves pre-calculated dose values based on measured parameters, eliminating the need for real-time Monte-Carlo simulations and enabling immediate dose feedback.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If Monte-Carlo simulations are used for X-ray dose estimation, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to computational expense

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedose estimation accuracyVSAvoidpoint-of-service capability delay

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates simplified copies of the complex Monte-Carlo simulation model by developing lookup tables and analytical models that replicate dose estimation functionality. These simplified models are pre-computed versions that can be quickly queried during clinical procedures, providing near-Monte-Carlo accuracy without the computational burden.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs dose estimation calculations in advance by creating pre-computed lookup tables and calibration data before clinical use. During actual imaging procedures, the system quickly retrieves pre-calculated dose values based on measured parameters, eliminating the need for real-time Monte-Carlo simulations and enabling immediate dose feedback.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If X-ray exposure is increased to achieve appropriate imaging results, then reliability of imaging quality is improved, but object-affected harmful factors increase due to higher radiation dose

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging qualityVSAvoidX-ray radiation dose

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements real-time dose monitoring and feedback systems that provide immediate information about the radiation dose delivered to patients. This feedback enables operators to adjust imaging parameters dynamically, optimizing the balance between image quality and dose reduction by making informed decisions based on actual dose measurements rather than relying on fixed protocols.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables dynamic adjustment of X-ray imaging parameters (such as tube voltage, current, and exposure time) based on real-time dose measurements and patient-specific factors. By continuously optimizing these parameters during the imaging process, the system achieves appropriate image quality while minimizing radiation dose through data-driven parameter selection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 approach enables fast, accurate X-ray dose estimation at the point of service, allowing for individualized dose management per patient and treatment, reducing exposure while maintaining effective imaging or treatment results, and can be used in various applications including non-invasive imaging and radiation treatment.

Implementation Method 1

determining an intensity profile of the detected X-rays that pass through the object; determining an attenuation profile of the detected X-rays that pass through the object

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectX-ray attenuation: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentUS9097642B2X-ray dose estimation technique

Publication Date: 2015.08.04 GE PRECISION HEALTHCARE LLC

AI summary

Embodiments of the disclosure relate to projection-based dose estimation for X-ray systems, such as X-ray imaging systems. For example, in one embodiment, an X-ray system is capable of estimating an X-ray dose based on an intensity profile of the detected X-rays that have passed through a scanned object and an estimated mass of the object. In one embodiment, the intensity profile may be compared to a baseline scan to acquire an estimate of energy interaction with the object.