Augmented X-ray and Optical Visualization via Virtual Viewpoint

The patent creates a virtual copy of the X-ray source viewpoint using computer-generated imagery. Instead of physically positioning the camera at the X-ray source location (which would require an X-ray transparent mirror), the system captures optical images from the actual camera position and computationally generates a virtual viewpoint that matches the X-ray source perspective. This virtual copy allows accurate image superposition without occupying physical space below the X-ray source, thus preserving surgeon movement space while achieving precise image alignment.

The patent replaces the mechanical optical system (X-ray transparent mirror and physical camera positioning) with a computational system. Instead of using a mirror to physically redirect light paths and requiring complex mechanical alignment procedures, the system uses software algorithms to calculate and generate a virtual viewpoint that corresponds to the X-ray source position. This substitution of mechanical components with computational processing eliminates the need for mirror alignment while achieving the same viewpoint correlation accuracy.

The patent transitions from a three-dimensional physical space solution to a two-dimensional virtual space solution. Instead of physically positioning equipment in the spatial dimension below the X-ray source (which consumes operating space), the system creates a virtual representation in the digital domain. The virtual viewpoint and computationally generated images exist in a separate digital dimension, allowing complete image integration and superposition without occupying any physical surgical working space.