X-ray Imaging Apparatus Virtual Image Synthesis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray imaging apparatuses require multiple emission positions to capture comprehensive X-ray images, leading to increased radiation exposure and longer scanning times, while also facing challenges in acquiring stereoscopic and multi-view images efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging apparatus and method that utilizes a limited number of X-ray emission positions by employing an X-ray emitter and detector configured to capture original images, which are then processed to generate virtual images at additional positions, enabling the creation of stereoscopic and multi-view images through image processing techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple X-ray emission positions are used to capture comprehensive images, then image coverage and diagnostic quality are improved, but radiation exposure and scanning time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual X-ray images at additional emission positions by processing and synthesizing data from a limited number of actual emission positions. The image processor generates synthetic images that replicate what would be obtained if the X-ray emitter had physically moved to those positions, thereby copying the diagnostic information without the physical cost of actual movement and exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical movement of the X-ray emitter to multiple physical positions with computational image processing. Instead of mechanically moving the emitter-detector assembly to capture images at each position, the system uses algorithms to synthesize images from a limited set of actual measurements, substituting mechanical complexity with computational processing.
2Measurement precision
If multiple X-ray emission positions are used to capture comprehensive images, then image coverage and diagnostic quality are improved, but radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates virtual images at additional emission positions through computational processing rather than physical X-ray exposure. By synthesizing images that replicate the information obtainable at unvisited positions, the system copies diagnostic data without subjecting the patient to additional radiation that would be required if those positions were actually imaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the limitation of having only a few actual emission positions into a benefit by using advanced image processing techniques. The computational synthesis of virtual images transforms the insufficient physical data into comprehensive diagnostic information, turning the constraint of limited exposure into an advantage of reduced radiation while maintaining full diagnostic capability.
3Productivity
If a limited number of emission positions are used, then radiation exposure and scanning time are reduced, but the number of acquirable X-ray images decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The image processor generates virtual images at additional emission positions by processing data from the limited actual positions. This copying process creates multiple image datasets computationally, increasing the total number of available images for diagnostic review without requiring additional physical emissions or exposing the patient to more radiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a computational dimension to the imaging process. By processing the limited physical measurement data through sophisticated algorithms, the system generates virtual images that provide additional viewing angles and perspectives, effectively increasing the quantity of diagnostic images from a limited set of physical measurements.
4Loss of time
If a limited number of emission positions are used, then scanning time is reduced, but the ability to generate stereoscopic and multi-view images is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates virtual images at additional emission positions through computational processing, enabling the generation of stereoscopic and multi-view images from a limited set of actual emissions. By synthesizing what the images would look like from unvisited positions, the system replicates the geometric information needed for three-dimensional reconstruction without the time cost of actual multi-position scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical requirement of moving to multiple emission positions with computational image processing. The system uses algorithms to synthesize the geometric and spatial information that would result from physical movement, enabling stereoscopic and multi-view image generation through mathematical processing rather than mechanical repositioning.
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 allows for the acquisition of a greater number of X-ray images at various positions with fewer emission positions, reducing radiation exposure and scanning time, while enabling the generation of continuous stereoscopic and multi-view images, enhancing diagnostic efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray emitter which is configured to irradiate an object with X-rays at a plurality of X-ray emission positions
Implementation Method 2
an X-ray detector which is configured to detect a plurality of X-rays which have been emitted by the at least one X-ray emitter and propagated through the object, and to convert the detected X-rays into an electric signal
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an X-ray imaging apparatus. The X-ray imaging apparatus includes at least one X-ray emitter which is configured to irradiate an object with X-rays at a plurality of X-ray emission positions, an X-ray detector which is configured to detect X-rays which are emitted by the X-ray emitter and to convert the detected X-rays into an electric signal, and an image processor which is configured to acquire a plurality of original X-ray images which respectively correspond to the X-ray emission positions from the generated electric signal and to estimate a virtual X-ray image which is acquirable at an X-ray emission position located between at least two of the plurality of X-ray emission positions, based on at least two of the original X-ray images.