X-ray Fluoroscopic Imaging Magnification Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional X-ray fluoroscopic imaging devices face challenges in generating long images with high stitching accuracy due to variations in the height of the imaging target from the top board, leading to enlarged or reduced image sizes, which deteriorate stitching precision.

Innovation Solution

An X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatus that includes a top board for placing subjects, an imaging unit with an X-ray source and detector to capture images while changing relative positions, and an image processing unit that corrects magnification based on first and second height information to generate a first and second long image, respectively, allowing for precise adjustment of image sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If imaging is performed with constant height from top board, then imaging process is simplified, but image magnification varies causing deteriorated stitching accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging process simplicityVSAvoidstitching accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary magnification correction using first height information before stitching images to create the first long image. This preliminary action compensates for magnification variations caused by height differences, enabling accurate stitching without requiring complex real-time height adjustment during imaging.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the magnification parameter of X-ray images based on height information. By adjusting magnification according to the distance between the top board and imaging target portion, the system maintains consistent image scale across multiple captures, thereby improving stitching accuracy while keeping the imaging process simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If magnification is corrected using first height information, then first long image is generated, but stitching accuracy can be further improved with second height information

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestitching accuracyVSAvoidimage processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where the generated first long image is evaluated, and if stitching accuracy is insufficient, second height information is used to perform additional magnification correction. This feedback loop allows the system to iteratively improve image quality by incorporating more precise height measurements when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The image processing system is designed to be dynamic, allowing transition from simple first-level magnification correction to more sophisticated second-level correction based on actual image quality requirements. This dynamic approach enables the system to adapt processing complexity to the specific imaging needs, achieving high accuracy only when necessary.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 achieves high stitching accuracy by adjusting image magnification using second height information after generating the first long image, enabling precise size adjustments and improved image stitching quality.

Implementation Method 1

an X-ray source configured to emit X-rays to an imaging target portion in the subject placed on the top board

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray emission: X-Ray

Implementation Method 2

a detection unit configured to detect X-rays emitted from the X-ray source and transmitted through the subject

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray detection: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11051778B2X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatus
Publication Date: 2021.07.06 SHIMADZU CORP
  • US11051778B2 patent drawing
  • US11051778B2 patent drawing
  • US11051778B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatus is provided with an image processing unit that corrects magnification of a plurality of X-ray images based on first height information and generates a first long image by stitching the images together. The image processing unit is configured to generate a second long image in which the magnification of the plurality of X-ray images is corrected based on second height information upon acceptance of an input of second height information after generating the first long image.