X-ray Sensor Frame Summing for Dynamic Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray imaging systems face challenges in achieving a high signal-to-noise ratio and operating effectively across a wide range of dose rates and exposure times, often resulting in image saturation due to the reliance on high saturation dose sensors.
Innovation Solution
The system records multiple X-ray image frames during a single exposure using a sensor near saturation, allowing for the construction of a single image with improved signal-to-noise ratio by summing or averaging these frames, and adjusts the frame rate to accommodate varying dose rates, enabling the same detector system to be used in diverse applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a high saturation dose sensor is used to avoid pixel saturation, then the operating range for dose rates and exposure times is limited, but the signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the exposure process into multiple sequential sub-exposures, each captured as a separate image frame. By using a sensor with lower saturation dose for each sub-exposure and combining multiple frames, the system achieves both high signal-to-noise ratio (through multiple measurements) and extended operating range (by preventing saturation in each individual frame).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by repeatedly exposing the sensor to X-rays at controlled intervals during a single exposure event. The sensor captures multiple image frames at different time points, allowing the system to accumulate signal information while managing saturation risk through temporal distribution of the exposure dose.
2Measurement precision
If the frame rate is increased to reduce pixel saturation risk, then the signal-to-noise ratio improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temporal parameter of frame rate dynamically based on the specific application requirements and dose rate conditions. By adjusting the number of frames and their timing, the system optimizes the balance between signal-to-noise ratio improvement and device complexity, allowing flexible adaptation without requiring overly complex control mechanisms.
3Measurement precision
If multiple image frames are recorded and combined, then the signal-to-noise ratio improves, but the loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by performing all image frame acquisitions within a single continuous exposure event. Rather than taking multiple separate exposures, the system captures multiple frames during one uninterrupted X-ray exposure, eliminating dead time between exposures and maximizing the efficiency of the useful measurement action.
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 enhances the signal-to-noise ratio and allows the X-ray detector system to operate across a broader range of dose rates and exposure times, reducing the risk of pixel saturation and improving image quality.
Implementation Method 1
Most X-ray sensors rely on the conversion of incoming X-rays into visible light using a scintillator
Implementation Method 2
This visible light can subsequently be detected using a light-sensitive component, such as a charged coupled device (CCD) or photodiode
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an X-ray imaging system. The invention further relates to an X-ray sensor to be used in such system and to a method for manufacturing such sensors. According to the invention, the combination of a lower saturation dose and obtaining a plurality of image frames during a single exposure, can be used to form a final X-ray image having an improved dynamic range.