X-ray Imaging Apparatus Automatic Exposure Signal Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray imaging apparatuses face challenges in obtaining high-quality images due to unintentional generation of automatic exposure request signals caused by noise, temperature changes, and vibrations, especially when using non-line trigger type X-ray generators, leading to X-ray loss and image deterioration.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging apparatus that includes a scintillator panel, image detector, gate driver, automatic exposure request signal generator, and controller to verify the validity of the automatic exposure request signal, using a vibration sensor and adjusting bias voltage to prevent unintentional signal generation and rapidly stabilize the image detector, thereby ensuring valid exposure operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automatic exposure request signal is generated by detecting X-rays emitted from X-ray generator, then image data quality is improved, but unintentional signal generation occurs due to noise, temperature changes, and vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a vibration sensor to detect vibration signals and feeds this information back to the controller. The controller compares the detected vibration signal with a reference value to determine whether to invalidate the automatic exposure request signal, preventing unintentional signal generation while maintaining accurate X-ray detection
Solution Approach 2:
A vibration sensor is introduced as an intermediary device to detect environmental vibrations that may cause false exposure signals. The vibration sensor acts as a mediator between the physical environment and the exposure control system, providing additional validation information to the controller
2Measurement precision
If flushing operation is completed throughout overall area before exposure, then image quality is improved, but X-ray loss occurs when using passive or non-line trigger type generators
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary validation of the automatic exposure request signal by checking vibration levels before initiating the exposure operation. This preliminary action ensures that the flushing operation timing is optimized and X-ray loss is minimized while maintaining image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the exposure timing based on real-time vibration detection and signal validation. By making the exposure trigger dynamic and adaptive to environmental conditions, the system optimizes the timing between flushing completion and exposure initiation, reducing X-ray loss
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
The apparatus effectively prevents unintentional automatic exposure request signals and reduces preparation time for recapturing, improving the reliability and quality of X-ray images by validating exposure signals and stabilizing the image detector quickly.
Implementation Method 1
a scintillator panel which converts an X-ray emitted from an X-ray generator into visible light
Implementation Method 2
an image detector which includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix, and charges the plurality of pixels with electric charges proportional to intensity of the visible light converted by the scintillator panel
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure provides an X-ray imaging apparatus and method. When capturing an X-ray image using an automatic exposure request signal generated through detection of X-rays emitted from an X-ray generator, the X-ray imaging apparatus and method may verify validity of the automatic exposure request signal, thereby preventing unintentional generation of the automatic exposure request signal due to vibration, temperature change, noise, etc.