X-ray Imaging Apparatus Selective Mask Region Synthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray imaging apparatuses require excessive X-ray irradiation when synthesizing images captured with and without a contrast medium, especially when the table moves relative to the X-ray tube and image intensifier, necessitating a reduction in X-ray exposure for subjects.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging apparatus that synthesizes a first X-ray image captured using a contrast medium with a second X-ray image taken without the contrast medium at a specific position, reducing unnecessary X-ray exposure by only reimaging portions of the contrast medium region and allowing relative movement of the table during contrast medium imaging, thus minimizing the need for automated table positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If mask image is captured in all imaging ranges before live image, then complete image synthesis is achieved, but X-ray irradiation amount to subject increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging range is divided into multiple regions, and the mask image is captured only in the region where contrast medium is present, rather than capturing the entire imaging range. This segmentation approach reduces unnecessary X-ray irradiation while maintaining complete image synthesis in the relevant area.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of capturing mask images across all imaging ranges, the system captures mask images only in the necessary region where contrast medium is detected. This partial action principle reduces X-ray exposure while achieving sufficient image synthesis quality for the specific medical imaging task.
2Productivity
If table is moved relative to X-ray tube and image intensifier for dynamic imaging, then real-time imaging is achieved, but image synthesis requires capturing mask image in all ranges increasing radiation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of contrast medium distribution to determine the imaging region before capturing mask images. This preliminary action enables the system to plan and execute mask image capture only in necessary regions, reducing radiation while maintaining dynamic imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system adapts the mask image capture region dynamically based on contrast medium distribution and table position. The imaging range is adjusted in real-time to match the actual area of interest, enabling dynamic imaging with reduced radiation exposure.
3Measurement precision
If mask image is captured first without contrast medium, then subtraction imaging is enabled, but live image must be captured at same position requiring automated table positioning
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of capturing mask image first and then live image at the same position, the system captures live image first with contrast medium, then captures mask image without contrast medium at the same position. This inverted sequence eliminates the need for automated table positioning while enabling subtraction imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the contrast medium injection and table movement operations to automatically position the subject for both imaging sequences. The contrast medium flow and table positioning for live imaging serve the dual purpose of positioning for mask image capture, eliminating the need for separate automated positioning systems.
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 reduces X-ray irradiation to the subject by selectively reimaging regions with the contrast medium, enabling efficient image synthesis while allowing flexible table movement and eliminating the need for complex automated positioning systems.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray irradiation detection unit including an X-ray irradiation unit that irradiates a subject with X-rays and an X-ray detection unit that detects the X-rays transmitted through the subject
Data Source
AI summary
This X-ray imaging apparatus (100) includes an X-ray irradiation detection unit (1) including an X-ray tube (11) and an FPD (2), a table (2) on which a subject (10) is placed, and a control unit (3) that synthesizes a first X-ray image obtained by sequentially performing X-ray imaging using a contrast medium while moving the table relative to the X-ray irradiation detection unit and a second X-ray image obtained by radiographing, without using the contrast medium, the subject at one position selected based on the first X-ray image.