X-ray Filtering Device for Scattered Radiation Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for protecting medical personnel from scattered X-rays in medical settings are inadequate, as dosimeters provide limited coverage, protective clothing is heavy and uncomfortable, and training may not effectively convey the risks of invisible X-rays.
Innovation Solution
A detection and visualization system comprising an X-ray filtering device with oriented plates to spatially filter X-rays and an imager to produce a radiographic image, combined with an optical camera and reading/display device to superimpose radiographic and optical images, making scattered X-rays visible in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If protective clothes made of lead are worn, then radiation protection is improved, but weight and comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical protective measures (lead clothing) with an optical detection and visualization system. The system uses X-ray filtering devices and imagers to detect and display scattered radiation, substituting the need for heavy protective clothing with a lightweight detection system that provides real-time visual feedback about radiation exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary visualization system between the radiation source and the medical personnel. Instead of directly protecting the personnel with lead clothing, the system uses filtering devices and imagers as intermediaries to detect and display radiation patterns, enabling personnel to take protective actions based on visual information.
2Measurement precision
If dosimeters are worn, then radiation dose measurement is improved, but measurement coverage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the radiation detection function across multiple filtering devices and imagers positioned at different locations. Instead of relying on a single dosimeter, the system uses multiple detection elements that collectively provide comprehensive coverage of the radiation field, with each element contributing to the overall visualization of scattered radiation patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from point-based measurement (dosimeter on body) to area-based visualization. The filtering devices and imagers create two-dimensional visual representations of radiation distribution, adding spatial dimensionality to the measurement and enabling assessment of radiation patterns across the entire workspace rather than at a single point.
3Loss of information
If medical personnel are trained about radiation risks, then awareness is improved, but effectiveness is limited due to invisibility of X-rays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color changes and visual representations to make invisible radiation visible. The imaging system displays scattered radiation patterns using visual cues such as color gradients, intensity variations, and spatial distributions, transforming invisible X-ray information into visible visual information that can be easily perceived and understood by medical personnel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a visualization intermediary that converts invisible radiation data into visible images. The system uses filtering devices and imagers as intermediaries to detect radiation and transform it into visual representations, bridging the gap between invisible radiation and human perception, thereby enhancing awareness without relying solely on training.
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 system effectively visualizes scattered X-rays, allowing medical personnel to identify and mitigate exposure risks, enhancing protection and awareness of radiation danger.
Implementation Method 1
A part of the X-rays directed toward the patient is absorbed by the latter and another part of these X-rays is scattered by the patient and by the objects located in proximity
Implementation Method 2
The plates comprise a material capable of absorbing the X-rays
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for detecting scattered rays includes an X-ray filtering device configured to spatially filter the X-rays as a function of their direction of emission; and an imager assembled facing the filtering device so as to receive the X-rays filtered by the filtering device, the imager being configured to produce a radiographic image from the X-rays filtered by the filtering device; the filtering device comprising several plates, the plates comprising a material capable of absorbing the X-rays, the plates being oriented so as to move away from a centre of the filtering device in the direction going from the imager to the filtering device.