X-ray Imaging Apparatus Automatic Positioning Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current X-ray imaging systems require manual and precise control of the X-ray tube and detector positions, leading to user fatigue, increased imaging time, and higher exposure to X-rays due to the difficulty in accurately positioning the large volume X-ray tube.

Innovation Solution

An X-ray imaging apparatus that includes a marker recognition system using a camera to automatically control the movement of the X-ray tube and detector to the correct positions based on pre-stored information, reducing the need for direct user intervention and minimizing X-ray exposure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual control of X-ray tube and detector positions is used, then user control flexibility is maintained, but user fatigue increases and imaging time is extended

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser control flexibilityVSAvoidimaging time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically performs positioning operations without requiring continuous user intervention. The control unit autonomously adjusts the X-ray tube and detector positions based on pre-stored imaging parameters, allowing the system to serve itself in the positioning task while the user maintains overall control flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Positioning parameters and movement paths are pre-stored in the control unit before imaging begins. This preliminary preparation of control data enables rapid automatic positioning during imaging, reducing actual imaging time while preserving user flexibility in selecting imaging protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If manual positioning of large volume X-ray tube is used, then positioning precision is difficult to achieve, but system complexity is kept simple

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A control unit acts as an intermediary between the user and the X-ray tube positioning system. This intermediary automatically calculates and executes precise positioning commands, achieving high positioning precision without requiring complex manual manipulation. The control unit manages the complexity internally while presenting a simple interface to the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated control system that uses pre-stored positioning data and automatic movement control. This substitution achieves superior positioning precision by eliminating human error and fatigue, while the control software manages the system complexity without requiring additional hardware complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Measurement precision

If repeated X-ray imaging is performed to achieve accurate positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but patient exposure to X-rays increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidpatient X-ray exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

All positioning parameters, movement paths, and alignment data are pre-calculated and stored in the control unit before imaging begins. This preliminary preparation ensures that the X-ray tube and detector are positioned accurately on the first attempt, eliminating the need for repeated imaging attempts and thereby minimizing patient exposure to X-rays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that verify positioning accuracy automatically. The control unit monitors the positions of the X-ray tube and detector, compares them with the pre-stored target positions, and makes automatic adjustments if needed. This feedback loop ensures accurate positioning without requiring repeated imaging, thus reducing patient radiation exposure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 reduces user fatigue, shortens imaging time, and minimizes X-ray exposure by automating the positioning of the X-ray tube and detector, ensuring accurate alignment and efficient imaging processes.

Implementation Method 1

an X-ray tube which radiates X-rays toward a subject, an X-ray detector which detects X-rays which propagate through the subject

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray radiation and detection: X-Ray

Implementation Method 2

an imaging unit which generates an image of the subject

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight detection and imaging: Photography

Data Source

PatentUS9649080B2X-ray imaging apparatus and method for controlling the same
Publication Date: 2017.05.16 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US9649080B2 patent drawing
  • US9649080B2 patent drawing
  • US9649080B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed herein are an X-ray imaging apparatus which recognizes a marker located at a part to be subjected to X-ray imaging from an image of a subject imaged by a camera and which controls a respective movement of each of an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector to a respective position which corresponds to the recognized marker, and a method for controlling the same. An X-ray imaging apparatus includes an X-ray tube which radiates X-rays toward a subject, an X-ray detector which detects X-rays which propagate through the subject, an imaging unit which generates an image of the subject, a recognizes which recognizes a part to be subjected to X-ray imaging from the image of the subject, and a position controller which controls a movement of the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector to a position corresponding to the part to be subjected to X-ray imaging.