X-ray Imaging Apparatus Stent Visibility Composite Image
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatuses face challenges in improving the visibility of a stent in composite images when its shape differs across multiple X-ray images, leading to blurring during coronary intervention procedures.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging apparatus and method that detects both a marker and a device separately from the stent in each X-ray image, allowing for the generation of a composite image by superimposing these images based on the detected marker and device positions and shapes, thereby reducing blurring and enhancing visibility of the stent.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If alignment is performed based on marker position only, then the alignment process is simple, but the predetermined target object appears blurred in the composite image when its shape differs across images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the alignment process into two independent stages: first aligning based on marker positions, then adjusting based on device shapes. This segmentation allows each alignment stage to focus on specific features, preventing the blurring problem while maintaining manageable complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional marker-based alignment to two-dimensional alignment by incorporating device shape information. This additional dimensional information enables accurate alignment even when the target object's shape varies across images.
2Measurement precision
If multiple parameters are used for alignment, then the target object visibility in composite images is improved, but the alignment process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the alignment process into sequential segments: marker-based alignment followed by device-based alignment. This segmentation manages complexity by breaking down the multi-parameter alignment into manageable steps rather than attempting simultaneous optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs marker-based alignment as a preliminary step before device-based alignment. This preliminary action establishes a rough alignment framework that simplifies the subsequent fine-tuning process, reducing overall computational complexity.
3Speed
If only marker position is used for alignment, then the processing speed is fast, but the composite image quality deteriorates when device shape varies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments alignment into two speed-optimized stages: rapid marker-based alignment followed by refined device-based alignment. This segmentation maintains fast initial processing while improving final image quality through the second alignment pass.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs a preliminary fast alignment using markers, then applies a slower but more accurate device-based alignment. This preliminary action structure preserves processing speed benefits while achieving high image quality through sequential refinement.
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 effectively improves the visibility of the stent in composite images by accurately aligning and superimposing X-ray images, even when the stent's shape varies, thereby enhancing image clarity and precision during coronary intervention procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray tube configured to irradiate a subject with X-rays
Implementation Method 2
an X-ray detector configured to detect the X-rays transmitted through the subject
Data Source
AI summary
This X-ray imaging apparatus is provided with an image controller for generating a composite image by superimposing a plurality of X-ray images. The image controller includes a detection processing unit configured to detect both a marker for indicating a position of a predetermined target object to be indwelled in a body of a subject and a device to be placed in the body of the subject separately from the predetermined target object, in the generated X-ray image. The image controller includes a composition processing unit configured to generate the composite image by superimposing the plurality of X-ray images based on the detected marker and the detected device.