Image compression for x-ray imaging devices
Inventors
Assignees
Publication Number
US-11364008-B2
Publication Date
2022-06-21
Expiration Date
2039-09-30
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Abstract
Image compression techniques and image handling and display methods that can be used with imaging devices, including X-ray devices, are described in this application. In particular, this application describes a real-time imaging method by providing a portable x-ray imaging device containing an internal power source and an internal power supply, capturing a first x-ray image using the x-ray imaging device, compressing the first x-ray image using a compression process performed by a processor located within the portable x-ray imaging device and then wirelessly transmitting the compressed first x-ray image to a display device, capturing a second x-ray image using the x-ray imaging device, compressing the second x-ray image using the processor and then wirelessly transmitting the compressed second x-ray image to the display device; and then displaying the first and second x-ray images on the display device at a frame rate of more than about 8 frames per second.
Core Innovation
The invention describes image compression techniques and image handling and display methods specifically designed for portable x-ray imaging devices. The method includes capturing x-ray images using a portable device that contains both an internal power source and power supply, compressing the images within the device itself using an internal processor, and then wirelessly transmitting the compressed images to an external display device. These techniques enable real-time image handling suitable for medical applications, with compressed images displayed at a frame rate exceeding 8 frames per second to generate a motion video sequence.
This approach addresses the need for efficient handling and transmission of large x-ray image data, especially as emerging portable and hand-held x-ray devices become more common in surgical and clinical environments. Traditional x-ray equipment has been bulky and dependent on wired connections, making portability and ease of use challenging. By incorporating wireless transmission and internal compression, the system overcomes the limited bandwidth of wireless protocols, enabling useful frame rates and preserving the necessary image quality for medical analysis.
The portable x-ray device is characterized by its light weight, internal removable battery capable of delivering multiple images per charge, and a support arm that allows hand-held use or mounting on a support structure. The internal processor can be implemented as an FPGA or similar device for real-time compression, sometimes reducing image file size by a factor of 16 or more, and supports functions such as edge enhancement and auto-brightness. This means dynamic imaging, like fluoroscopy, can be conducted efficiently, while the device can also hold and later transmit full-resolution images for more detailed clinical review.
Claims Coverage
There are three independent claims outlining three main inventive features.
Real-time imaging method with in-device compression and wireless transmission
A method where a portable x-ray imaging device, equipped with an internal power source and power supply, captures a first x-ray image, compresses it using a processor within the device, and wirelessly transmits the compressed image to a display device. The method repeats for subsequent images, with each compressed image file being at least 16 times smaller than the original and displayed at a frame rate above about 8 frames per second to create a motion video sequence.
Imaging method triggered by hand with in-device compression and high-frame display
A method involving an x-ray imaging device with a housing that holds an internal power source, an internal power supply, and a trigger or foot switch for manual activation. Upon triggering, the device captures, compresses, and wirelessly transmits x-ray images to a display, ensuring each compressed image is at least 16 times smaller than the original, with image display at frame rates over 8 frames per second.
Hand-held x-ray imaging device with integrated compression and wireless transmission
A hand-held x-ray imaging device comprising a support arm housing an internal power supply and removable power source (capable of delivering 60 or more x-ray images on a charge), an x-ray source at one end, an x-ray detector at the other, and an internal processor configured to compress x-ray images by a factor of 16 or more and wirelessly transmit them to an external display device. The device includes a trigger or foot switch and is designed to be removable from a support structure for stand-alone operation.
The patent claims cover a portable, internally powered x-ray imaging device capable of real-time internal image compression, wireless transmission at high frame rates, and flexible clinical operation, including both hand-held and stand-alone use.
Stated Advantages
Provides a portable, lightweight x-ray imaging device that eliminates the need for data and power cables, enhancing ease of movement and flexibility in clinical settings.
Enables real-time, high-frame-rate wireless transmission of compressed x-ray images, supporting motion video imaging such as fluoroscopy without significant loss of image quality.
Reduces size and weight by including internal removable power and electronics, allowing hand-held operation and easier handling by practitioners.
Increases efficiency of image data handling and transmission over limited bandwidth connections, overcoming prior data bottlenecks associated with wireless image transmission.
Allows detailed full-resolution image review at the end of a fluoroscopy sequence, providing both rapid sequence image utility and high-quality diagnostic analysis.
Documented Applications
Medical imaging in operating room environments where rapid, portable, and wireless x-ray imaging is required.
Hand-held or stand-alone x-ray imaging for patients, animals, and various objects in diverse settings.
Imaging of industrial components such as electronic circuit boards, containers for inspection, and passenger luggage.
Fluoroscopy procedures, providing real-time x-ray image sequences at sufficient frame rates for motion analysis.
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