Augmented Reality Detector Positioning for Mobile X-Ray Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
In mobile X-ray imaging systems, the manual positioning of portable detectors relative to the X-ray source and patient can lead to inadequate image quality and increased retakes due to human error and lack of precise geometric alignment, especially in three-dimensional positioning.
Innovation Solution
Integration of augmented reality and machine learning-based anatomical atlas registration, using cameras and sensors to determine relative positions and orientations, generating a virtual fluoroscopic image for alignment, and updating it in real-time to facilitate accurate positioning of the detector and patient relative to the X-ray source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual positioning of portable detector is used, then device complexity is reduced, but positioning precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated computer vision system. Cameras capture images of the patient and detector, and software automatically calculates the detector's position and orientation relative to the patient anatomy, eliminating the need for manual mechanical alignment while achieving precise positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy or representation of the patient's anatomy through image processing and registration. By generating a digital model that mirrors the physical patient geometry, the system can simulate and visualize the detector's projected area and alignment without physical trial-and-error positioning.
2Ease of operation
If manual positioning is used, then operation simplicity is maintained, but image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service positioning where the computer vision algorithm automatically determines the optimal detector position and orientation based on captured images. The technology performs the positioning task itself without requiring operator skill or judgment, making complex precision positioning as easy as pressing a button while ensuring consistent high-quality images.
3Loss of time
If manual positioning estimation is used, then setup time is reduced, but positioning accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by capturing patient images and pre-calculating the detector's projected area and optimal positioning before the actual imaging procedure. The system prepares the virtual alignment model in advance, so when positioning is needed, the information is already available, eliminating time-consuming trial-and-error adjustments while ensuring accurate anatomical alignment.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present approach relates to the use of augmented or enhanced reality to facilitate positioning of one or more of a patient 20, X-ray source 16, or detector 22 during an image acquisition. In certain implementations, sensors 102 and/or cameras provide quantitative information about the position of system components and the patient 20, which may be used to generate a positioning image 168 based upon reference to an anatomic atlas.