3D Image Dataset Generation via Interpolated Projection Matrices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Modern X-ray imaging devices with many degrees of freedom, such as six-axis articulated arm robots, face challenges in obtaining high-quality 3D image datasets due to the impracticality of systematically calibrating every combination of movement parameters, resulting in unsatisfactory 3D reconstructions.

Innovation Solution

A method that involves obtaining models for the X-ray source and detector components, automatically capturing 2D images of a calibrating object to determine model parameters, defining desired trajectories, and calculating imaging parameters for any trajectory, allowing for precise calculation of projection matrices without pre-calibration for specific positions, enabling high-quality 3D image dataset generation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If systematic calibration of every combination of movement parameters is performed, then manufacturing precision of projection matrices is improved, but device complexity and time consumption increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of projection matricesVSAvoidcomplexity of calibration process
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing calibration only at selected positions rather than systematically calibrating every possible position. The calibration data obtained from these selected positions is then used to generate projection matrices for all other positions through interpolation and extrapolation, thus performing the essential calibration action in advance but selectively rather than exhaustively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses copying by creating projection matrices for uncalibrated positions based on copies or approximations from calibrated positions. Instead of obtaining unique calibration data for every position, the method generates projection matrices for all positions by interpolating and extrapolating from the subset of calibrated positions, effectively copying calibration information across the entire parameter space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Device complexity

If interpolation or extrapolation is used for projection parameters, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision of 3D reconstructions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of calibration processVSAvoidquality of 3D reconstruction
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying the selection of calibration positions and using different interpolation and extrapolation methods to generate multiple sets of projection matrices. By changing the parameters of the calibration process (which positions are calibrated, what interpolation methods are used), the method optimizes the balance between simplicity and precision, achieving satisfactory 3D reconstructions without exhaustive calibration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamics by making the calibration process adaptive rather than static. The selection of which positions to calibrate and how to interpolate/extrapolate can be adjusted based on the specific application requirements, object geometry, and desired reconstruction quality. This dynamic approach allows the system to optimize calibration effort while maintaining adequate precision for different scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If all degrees of freedom are utilized for obtaining projections, then productivity of 3D imaging is improved, but manufacturing precision of projection matrices deteriorates without proper calibration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of 3D image acquisitionVSAvoidaccuracy of projection matrices
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a calibration framework in advance that enables rapid acquisition at any position. By calibrating only selected positions beforehand and creating interpolation/extrapolation capabilities, the system prepares the necessary projection matrix generation machinery in advance, allowing full utilization of all degrees of freedom during actual imaging without requiring exhaustive pre-calibration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies universality by creating a calibration and projection matrix generation system that works for all possible positions and trajectories of the X-ray source and detector. The interpolation and extrapolation methods generate universally applicable projection matrices that can be used regardless of which specific combination of degrees of freedom is activated, making the system universally functional across the entire parameter space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 method enables the generation of high-quality 3D image datasets by utilizing all available degrees of freedom without the need for individual calibration for each trajectory, improving the quality of 3D reconstructions in X-ray imaging.

Implementation Method 1

The X-ray source and the X-ray detector each being movable separately relative to the hand... the object of interest is projected onto the plane of the X-ray detector using an X-ray source... grayscale values indicate the degree of attenuation of the X-radiation by the object of interest

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray emission and attenuation: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS8942345B2Method for obtaining a 3D image dataset of an object of interest
Publication Date: 2015.01.27 SIEMENS HEALTHINEERS AG
  • US8942345B2 patent drawing
  • US8942345B2 patent drawing
  • US8942345B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for obtaining a 3D image dataset of an object of interest is proposed. A plurality of 2D X-ray images are captured and a 3D reconstruction is carried out using filtered back projection. The projection parameters have been measured with the aid of a calibrating phantom, possibly using an interpolation or extrapolation of such measurements. A model of effect strings of the components in an X-ray imaging device is obtained, and the model parameters are identified based on imaging of a calibrating phantom. A projection matrix can then be calculated for any positions on any desired trajectories, without having to use imaging of a calibrating phantom at precisely that position and desired trajectory.