X-ray Apparatus Material Differentiation via Multi-Energy Band Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray imaging technologies face challenges in obtaining high-quality images that effectively differentiate between various materials within an object, particularly in distinguishing calcified and non-calcified nodules or tissues with overlapping structures.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray apparatus and method that apply material-adaptive weights to X-ray data of different energy bands to enhance and separate raw images, allowing for improved image processing and synthesis of X-ray images with enhanced material differentiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If single-energy band X-ray imaging is used, then the imaging process is simple and fast, but the ability to differentiate between various materials (e.g., calcified vs. non-calcified nodules) is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the X-ray energy spectrum into multiple energy bands (e.g., first energy band and second energy band) and processes each band separately. By dividing the imaging process into energy-specific segments, the system can apply different processing strategies to each band, thereby improving material differentiation capability while managing complexity through modular processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an energy dimension by acquiring X-ray data across multiple energy bands. This transforms the imaging from a single-dimensional (single energy) approach to a multi-dimensional approach where data from different energy dimensions are combined, enabling better material differentiation through energy-dependent attenuation characteristics.
2Measurement precision
If multiple energy bands are processed separately, then material differentiation improves, but processing time and computational load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by acquiring and organizing X-ray data from multiple energy bands before final image reconstruction. By preparing the multi-energy data in advance and structuring it appropriately, the system facilitates more efficient subsequent processing and material differentiation without excessive time penalty.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes processing parameters adaptively based on the specific energy band being processed. By adjusting processing parameters according to the energy characteristics of each band, the system optimizes the balance between processing accuracy and computational efficiency, reducing overall processing time while maintaining material differentiation capability.
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 approach results in X-ray images with improved contrast-to-noise ratio and clear visualization of anatomical structures, enabling better material differentiation and image quality compared to single-energy band imaging.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray source configured to radiate X-rays onto an object
Implementation Method 2
an X-ray detector configured to detect X-rays having penetrated through the object among the detected X-rays and obtain pieces of raw data of different energy bands based on the detected X-rays
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray apparatus includes an X-ray source configured to radiate X-rays onto an object, an X-ray detector configured to detect X-rays having penetrated through the object among the radiated X-rays and obtain pieces of raw data of different energy bands based on the detected X-rays, a raw image obtainer configured to obtain raw images in which different materials constituting the object are enhanced using the pieces of raw data, and an image processor configured to process the raw images and generate an X-ray image of the object based on the processed raw images.