AR-Visualization Module for Medical Imaging Setup Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical imaging devices lack efficient methods for precise setup and visualization of radiation beams relative to patient anatomy, particularly during fluoroscopic imaging, which can lead to suboptimal exposure and image quality.
Innovation Solution
A medical imaging apparatus incorporating an AR-visualization module and position determination module that creates an augmented reality image by overlaying positional data onto camera images, allowing for precise visualization of the radiation beam's field of view and anatomical structures, enabling better planning and setup of imaging parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional imaging setup methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision of radiation beam position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary AR visualization system that mediates between the physical radiation beam and the operator. The AR-overlay acts as a virtual mediator, projecting the radiation beam's field of view and anatomical structures onto the real-world view through augmented reality glasses, enabling precise position determination without adding complex physical measurement devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the radiation beam's field of view and anatomical structures by generating an AR-overlay that replicates these elements in the operator's visual field. This virtual copying allows operators to visualize and measure beam position accurately without physically altering the imaging system
2Loss of information
If AR-visualization module is added, then information completeness about anatomy and beam position is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The AR-visualization module serves multiple functions simultaneously: it displays the radiation beam's field of view, overlays anatomical structures, provides real-time position feedback, and guides operator positioning. By consolidating these multiple information delivery functions into a single AR interface, the system reduces information loss without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The AR-visualization module acts as an intermediary information layer that bridges the gap between the physical imaging system and the operator's understanding. It mediates by translating complex beam position data and anatomical information into intuitive visual overlays, thereby improving information completeness while adding only one modular component to the system
3Manufacturing precision
If real-time AR-overlay is provided, then image acquisition quality is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The AR-overlay provides real-time visualization information that exceeds the minimum required for basic imaging setup. By offering continuous, comprehensive anatomical and beam position information beyond what traditional methods provide, the system enables more precise image acquisition while the energy cost remains limited to the AR display components rather than the entire imaging system
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to medical imaging apparatus (1) having an AR- visualization module (9) operably coupled to a camera (6) and to a position determination module (8), which is adapted to create an AR-image based on an image received from the camera (6) and an AR-overlay positionally registered with the image, and which includes a display interface (18) adapted to transmit the created AR-image to a medical display (10, 11). The present invention further relates to a corresponding method and a corresponding computer program for presenting an AR-image that is based on an image received from the camera (6) and an AR-overlay positionally registered with the image.