Jon C. Omernick

Consistent image presentation implemented using DICOM grayscale standard display function

In this paper, we evaluate our ability to achieve consistent image presentation across a wide range of output devices, focusing on digital x-ray radiography for chest applications. In particular we focus on dry versus wet printers of hardcopy prints. In this evaluation, we review the expected theoretical variability using the DICOM grayscale standard display function (GSDF). The GSDF maps DICOM presentation values to luminance values that are perceived by a human. We present our methodology for calibrating devices as evaluated on sixteen printers. Seven devices were selected for a human observer study to determine if there are perceptible differences in the presentation of a given image, focusing on differences between wet and dry processes. It was found that wet printers were preferred, however, there may be other logistical and practical reasons whey dry printers may be used.