X-ray Imaging Apparatus Reference Plane Pixel Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray imaging apparatuses face challenges in generating smooth subject images when capturing images at multiple positions due to varying incident angles of X-rays, leading to unnatural joins in overlapping images.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging apparatus with a moving mechanism and image processing unit that sets a reference plane to determine pixel values for generating a subject image, selecting the most clearly reflected pixel value from multiple images to ensure smooth image generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple X-ray images are captured at different imaging positions to expand the imaging range, then the coverage area is improved, but the incident angle of X-rays varies causing disparity in overlapping portions and unnatural joins in the generated subject image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reference plane concept that transforms the problem from 2D image overlapping to 3D spatial coordination. By defining pixel corresponding points in three-dimensional space and projecting them onto a reference plane, the system can accurately match pixels from different imaging positions even when captured at varying angles, thereby maintaining image quality consistency across the expanded imaging range
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical image alignment methods with computational image processing. Instead of physically adjusting the imaging device to maintain consistent angles, the system uses image processing units to calculate and match pixel corresponding points based on their three-dimensional spatial relationships, substituting mechanical precision with computational accuracy
2Adaptability or versatility
If the X-ray tube position is changed to capture images at different angles, then the imaging flexibility is improved, but the disparity in overlapping portions increases making it difficult to generate a smooth subject image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic image processing approach that adapts to varying imaging conditions. The image processing unit dynamically calculates pixel corresponding points based on the actual three-dimensional positions and angles of each captured image, allowing the system to maintain image quality consistency regardless of how flexible the imaging position changes are
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter space from simple 2D image coordinates to 3D spatial coordinates including depth information. By representing pixel positions in three-dimensional space and using depth information to determine corresponding points, the system can handle varying imaging angles and positions while maintaining accurate image alignment and quality consistency
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 effectively generates smooth subject images by selecting the most suitable pixel values, improving image quality and flexibility in imaging positions, even when capturing images at different angles.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging unit including an X-ray source for irradiating a subject with X-rays and an X-ray detection unit for detecting the X-rays transmitted through the subject
Data Source
AI summary
The X-ray imaging apparatus (100) is provided with an imaging unit (2), a moving mechanism (4), and an image processing unit (17) for generating a subject image (42). The image processing unit is configured to set a reference plane (34) that is an imaging region when generating a subject image and generate the subject image on the reference plane. In a case where there is a plurality of X-ray images in which pixel corresponding points are reflected, the image processing unit is configured to select the pixels corresponding to the pixel corresponding points in the X-ray image in which the pixel corresponding points are reflected to determine pixel values of the pixel corresponding points.