X-ray Apparatus Thickness Determination via Object Distance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray apparatuses lack an efficient method to determine the thickness of objects, which is crucial for adjusting irradiation conditions and obtaining accurate images, as they rely on manual settings and lack automated distance measurement capabilities.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray apparatus and system that includes a collimator to adjust X-ray irradiation regions, an image acquirer to capture object images, and a controller to determine object distance and thickness based on the object image and detector distance, allowing for automatic adjustment of irradiation conditions and output of relevant information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual settings are used for X-ray irradiation conditions, then operator control is maintained, but automation and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-measurement of object thickness using the existing X-ray transmission data. The thickness determination is achieved automatically by the controller calculating based on the transmission rates detected by the X-ray detector, without requiring external measurement devices or manual intervention. This self-service approach increases automation while avoiding additional hardware complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated computational system. Instead of physical thickness gauges or manual measurement tools, the system uses electronic detection of X-ray transmission rates and computational algorithms to determine thickness, substituting mechanical systems with electronic and software-based solutions.
2Measurement precision
If accurate thickness determination is implemented, then irradiation condition optimization is improved, but additional measurement capabilities are required
Solution Approach 1:
The existing X-ray transmission detection system serves dual purposes: both for image acquisition and for thickness determination. The same X-ray detector and transmission rate measurements used for imaging are also utilized to calculate object thickness, making the measurement system multi-functional without requiring separate dedicated thickness measurement devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses X-ray transmission rate as an intermediary parameter to infer object thickness. Instead of directly measuring thickness, the system measures the transmission rate of X-rays through the object and uses this intermediate measurement to calculate thickness, enabling indirect but accurate measurement without complex direct measurement apparatus.
3Reliability
If automated irradiation condition adjustment is implemented, then image quality is improved, but control over irradiation parameters is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automatic feedback control where the measured object thickness is used to adjust the X-ray irradiation conditions. The controller receives thickness information and automatically optimizes irradiation parameters such as exposure time or tube current to ensure consistent image quality. This feedback mechanism maintains reliability while preserving operator ability to override or adjust settings when needed.
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
Enables precise determination of object thickness and optimized irradiation conditions, improving image quality and reducing operator intervention by automating the measurement and adjustment processes.
Implementation Method 1
An X-ray apparatus may acquire an X-ray image by transmitting X-rays emitted from an X-ray source through a target, and detecting an intensity difference of the transmitted X-rays by using an X-ray detector
Implementation Method 2
an image acquirer configured to acquire an object image by imaging an object while the lamp illuminates the object
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray apparatus includes a collimator comprising a lamp and configured to adjusting an irradiation region of X-rays radiated from an X-ray source; an image acquirer configured to acquire an object image by imaging an object while the lamp is turned on; and a controller configured to acquire an object distance based on the object image and acquire a thickness of the object based on a detector distance and the object distance. The object distance is a distance between the X-ray source and the object, and the detector distance is a distance between the X-ray source and an X-ray detector.