X-ray Form Filter Automatic Positioning for Dose Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional x-ray image recording methods require manual re-positioning of form filters, leading to inefficient image quality and excessive x-ray radiation doses due to inadequate positioning during changes in recording parameters.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that automatically positions a form filter using image data to optimize x-ray attenuation, allowing for continuous adjustment of the filter's position based on calculated criteria to minimize radiation dose and maintain image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual re-positioning of form filters is performed, then filter positioning can be adjusted according to recording parameters, but time consumption increases and image quality deteriorates due to lack of time for proper positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic filter positioning using image data analysis and calculation algorithms, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention. The filter positioning device autonomously determines optimal positions based on recorded image data, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and time consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated system that uses image data processing and calculation to determine filter positions. This substitution of mechanical/manual operations with computational methods eliminates time loss while maintaining positioning accuracy.
2Ease of operation
If manual re-positioning of form filters is performed, then filter positioning can be adjusted, but image quality deteriorates and x-ray radiation dose increases due to inadequate positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses recorded image data as feedback to calculate and determine optimal filter positions. By analyzing the actual image data obtained and using it to guide subsequent filter positioning, the system ensures consistent high image quality while eliminating manual positioning errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic positioning system self-adjusts filter positions based on image data analysis, ensuring optimal positioning for each recording scenario without relying on manual operator skill or time availability, thereby maintaining consistent image quality.
3Loss of time
If filter positioning is not updated when recording parameters change, then time is saved, but image quality deteriorates and excessive x-ray radiation dose is administered
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts filter positions based on changing recording parameters by continuously analyzing image data and calculating new optimal positions. This dynamic adaptation ensures minimal radiation dose is administered while maintaining image quality, eliminating the need for static filter positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from manual operator action to automated image data-based calculation. By using image data characteristics as the basis for filter positioning decisions, the system adapts to changing recording parameters automatically, minimizing radiation exposure while maintaining efficiency.
4Measurement precision
If technique of recording test image and detecting edges is used for filter positioning, then filter can be positioned along edges, but image object receives excessively high x-ray radiation dose for the test image
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs filter positioning calculations using image data obtained from the actual recording process itself, rather than requiring a separate preliminary test image. The filter position is determined based on image data that is already part of the diagnostic workflow, eliminating additional radiation exposure while maintaining positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the image data serve multiple functions: it is used both for diagnostic purposes and for filter positioning calculations. This multi-functional use of the same image data eliminates the need for separate test images, reducing radiation dose while maintaining 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
The solution enables precise and efficient positioning of the form filter, reducing x-ray radiation exposure and ensuring optimal image quality by automatically adjusting the filter's position based on real-time image data analysis, thereby minimizing excessive radiation doses and maintaining high image quality.
Implementation Method 1
A form filter is a semi-transparent filter which absorbs more x-ray radiation in the beam path upstream of relatively x-ray transparent body areas like for instance the lungs and/or object parts but absorbs less x-ray radiation in the beam path upstream of body areas which themselves absorb relatively large quantities of the x-ray radiation
Data Source
AI summary
A method to optimally set a position of a form filter in an x-ray image recording apparatus is proposed. The x-ray image recording apparatus has an x-ray radiation source and an x-ray radiation detector. An x-ray image is firstly recorded in a first position of the form filter. A new position of the filter is then calculated and automatically set with the aid of the x-ray image. A new x-ray image is then recorded. With a minimal dose of a patient, the method enables low contrast images to be recorded for a minimal main dose of the patient, in particular in a sequence.