Real-Time X-Ray Image Analysis for Scan Quality Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray imaging systems face challenges in efficiently interpreting scans that do not meet quality standards, leading to time delays in diagnosis and the need for repeated scans or further examinations.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging system with a processing unit that analyzes X-ray images in real time to determine if a scan needs to be repeated or if a different action is required, such as acquiring a different scan or aborting the scan to perform a medical procedure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If X-ray scans are performed in a sequence and analyzed offline after completion, then the scanning process can be completed without interruptions, but time delays occur in diagnosis and repeated scans are required when quality standards are not met
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary quality assessment and diagnostic analysis during the scan acquisition process itself, rather than waiting until the end. The processing unit analyzes images as they are acquired, enabling early detection of quality issues or diagnostic findings that would require repeat scans or additional examinations, thereby preventing time delays later in the workflow
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements real-time feedback by continuously analyzing acquired X-ray images during the scan sequence and providing immediate information about image quality and potential diagnostic findings. This feedback mechanism allows the system to determine whether additional scans are needed while the patient is still present, eliminating the need for repeat visits and reducing overall diagnosis time
2Loss of time
If real-time analysis of X-ray images is performed during scan acquisition, then immediate feedback and reduced diagnosis time are achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processing unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it manages the scan sequence coordination, performs real-time image quality assessment, conducts diagnostic analysis, and controls the X-ray image acquisition unit. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional processing unit, the system achieves real-time analysis capabilities without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-assessment of image quality and diagnostic content during the scanning process. The processing unit automatically evaluates acquired images against quality standards and identifies potential diagnostic findings without requiring external intervention, enabling the system to autonomously determine whether repeat scans or additional examinations are necessary
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 allows for immediate feedback and adjustments during the scan sequence, reducing the need for repeated scans and enabling timely and effective diagnosis.
Implementation Method 1
The X-ray image acquisition unit is configured to provide the processing unit with an X-ray image of the body part for a scan of the sequence of scans
Data Source
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Figure 4
AI summary
The present invention relates to an X-ray imaging system (10), comprising: an X-ray image acquisition unit (20); and a processing unit (30). The processing unit is configured to instruct the X-ray image acquisition unit to carry out a sequence of scans of a body part of a patient. The X- ray image acquisition unit is configured to provide the processing unit with an X-ray image of the body part for a scan of the sequence of scans. The processing unit is configured to determine that the scan needs to be repeated, wherein the determination comprises analysis of the X-ray image of the body part. The processing unit is configured to determine that an action other than acquisition of the next scan in the scan sequence is required, wherein the determination comprises analysis of the X-ray image of the body part. The processing unit is configured to determine that the X-ray imaging unit is required to carry out the next scan in the scan sequence based on a determination that the scan does not need to be repeated and that an action other than acquisition of the next scan in the scan sequence is not required.