X-ray Imaging Device Noise Removal Reference Detectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray imaging devices face challenges in achieving a wide dynamic range due to external noise, which is not fully intercepted by existing shielding methods, leading to a decrease in signal-to-noise ratio.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging device is designed with reference signal detection means and calculation methods to approximate and remove external noise, using a linear sum of reference signals to minimize mean squared error, and incorporating collimators to reduce radiation dose and scattered X-rays, thereby improving signal-to-noise ratio and dynamic range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If electromagnetic shields are used to shield the X-ray detector, then external noise is reduced, but X-ray signal is attenuated and dynamic range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces reference signal detection means as an intermediary component. These reference detectors, positioned in non-irradiated regions, detect external noise signals without being exposed to X-rays. The detected reference signals are then used to subtract noise from the main X-ray detector signals, effectively separating noise reduction from X-ray attenuation problems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the physical electromagnetic shield (mechanical approach) with a signal processing approach. Instead of using metallic plates to block noise physically, the system uses computational methods to subtract noise signals derived from reference detectors, achieving noise reduction without physical barriers that would attenuate X-rays
2Productivity
If the input surface of the X-ray detector is not shielded, then X-ray detection efficiency is maintained, but electromagnetic-wave noise is not fully intercepted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection system into multiple functional components: the main X-ray detector for signal acquisition and separate reference signal detection means for noise acquisition. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the X-ray detector remains open for maximum efficiency while reference detectors provide noise measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
Reference detectors act as intermediaries that measure external noise without interfering with the main X-ray detection path. These intermediary detectors are positioned to experience the same external noise conditions as the main detector but without X-ray irradiation, enabling noise characterization and subtraction
3Measurement precision
If reference signal detection means are added to remove external noise, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the reference signal detection means share the same physical detector structure and technology as the main X-ray detector. This universality allows the reference detectors to be integrated into the existing detector array without requiring completely separate noise measurement systems, reducing overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses part of its own detector elements (the reference signal detection means) to characterize and remove noise from the main signals. This self-service approach eliminates the need for entirely separate external noise measurement equipment, as the detector system itself provides the reference signals needed for noise subtraction
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 effectively suppresses the decrease in signal-to-noise ratio from external noise, enabling a wide dynamic range and improved noise removal precision, even when electromagnetic-wave noise is hard to intercept.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray detection means for detecting an X-rays-transmitted image of a subject
Implementation Method 2
a collimator that limits an X-irradiation range
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray detection technology capable of suppressing a decrease in a signal-to-noise ratio derived from external noise even in a case where it is hard to intercept electromagnetic-wave noise, and offering a wide dynamic range is realized, and an X-ray imaging device utilizing the technology is provided. An electromagnetic-wave noise signal to be mixed in a signal detected by an X-ray detector 2 is inferred from electromagnetic-wave noise signals measured by reference detectors 10A and 10B according to the method of least squares. Noise removal calculation is performed in order to minimize the decrease in a signal-to-noise ratio derived from the electromagnetic-wave noise.