Breast Incision Indicator Projection Parallax Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the incision point on a breast for interventional procedures rely on visual estimation, which is inaccurate and time-consuming, and existing light sources face challenges such as parallax effects and practicality issues when projecting visual indicators.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for projecting an adjustable incision indicator onto a breast using a light source that can counteract parallax effects by adjusting its position based on the distance from the breast, allowing precise alignment of the incision point with the interventional element's path, utilizing a micro electrical mechanical system (MEMS) or a projector that can project task lighting and an incision indicator concurrently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual estimation is used to determine the incision point, then the process is simple, but the accuracy is poor and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system projects a visual indicator (light pattern) onto the breast surface that replicates the precise location where the interventional element will intersect the surface. This optical copy eliminates the need for manual visual estimation by providing a direct visual representation of the target incision point, achieving high accuracy without time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual visual estimation process with an automated optical projection system. The projector automatically calculates and displays the incision point based on the interventional element's position and trajectory, substituting human judgment with precise computational geometry and optical display
2Measurement precision
If a fixed light source is used to project the incision indicator, then the device is simple, but the alignment accuracy deteriorates due to parallax effects
Solution Approach 1:
The light source is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The system can change the position and orientation of the projector based on the interventional element's location, ensuring the projection angle always provides accurate alignment without parallax errors. This dynamic adaptation maintains high precision while managing complexity through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the position of the interventional element and adjusts the light source positioning accordingly. This feedback loop ensures the projection remains accurately aligned with the actual incision point, compensating for any changes in geometry and eliminating parallax effects through real-time correction
3Productivity
If task lighting and incision indicator are projected separately, then the lighting system is simple, but the overall efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines the task lighting function and the incision indicator projection function into a single integrated device. This merging allows both functions to operate simultaneously from one system, improving procedural efficiency by eliminating the need for separate lighting equipment while managing complexity through unified control architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The projection system is designed to perform multiple functions: providing task lighting for general illumination and projecting the incision indicator for precise localization. This multi-functionality increases productivity by consolidating equipment needs while the modular design manages system complexity through shared components and control mechanisms
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
The system enables accurate and efficient projection of an incision indicator onto the breast, reducing the need for visual estimation and improving the precision of interventional procedures by compensating for parallax effects, thus facilitating better alignment and patient comfort.
Implementation Method 1
projecting task lighting and an incision indicator onto a surface of the breast
Implementation Method 2
adjusting its position based on the distance from the breast, allowing precise alignment of the incision point with the interventional element's path, utilizing a micro electrical mechanical system (MEMS) or a projector that can project task lighting and an incision indicator concurrently
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for projecting a visual indicator onto a breast are disclosed. To better estimate an incision location or a location to apply an anesthetic, a visual indicator may be shown on the breast to indicate an intersection point of an interventional element and a surface of the breast. The visual indicator may be projected from a light source. The source may be positioned on a guidance system for an element near the element itself. The visual indicator may be moved based on a distance between the light and the surface of the breast (e.g., to counteract a parallax effect).