Camera Array for Medical Navigation Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical navigation systems face inaccuracies due to multiple apparatus used for tracking and registering objects, leading to propagated calculation errors in patient and instrument positioning.
Innovation Solution
A method and device utilizing a camera array with at least two cameras to spatially locate and track objects by recording tracking markings and correlating them with stored data sets, eliminating the need for additional camera position tracking through calibration, allowing precise registration and tracking within a common coordinate system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple apparatus are used for tracking and registering objects in medical navigation systems, then the functionality and versatility of the system is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to propagated calculation errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the tracking and registration functions into a single integrated camera array system. The camera array simultaneously captures images for both tracking markings and surface feature identification, eliminating the need for separate apparatus and reducing propagated calculation errors while maintaining functional versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera array serves multiple functions: it tracks movement of objects via tracking markings, registers spatial position by identifying surface features, and provides both inertial and non-inertial reference frames. This multi-functional approach reduces the number of separate apparatus needed while maintaining precision.
2Measurement precision
If a camera array with multiple cameras is used to simultaneously record tracking markings and surface features, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera array is segmented into multiple individual cameras, each capturing images from different positions. This segmentation allows the system to reconstruct three-dimensional spatial information and track objects accurately while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional camera recordings to three-dimensional spatial localization by using multiple cameras at different positions. This dimensional change enables accurate registration and tracking without requiring complex mechanical tracking systems, as the spatial relationships are derived from the geometric arrangement of cameras and their recordings.
3Measurement precision
If tracking markings are used to locate and track objects, then measurement precision is improved, but the object-affected harmful factors increase due to additional markers attached to the object
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using different types of markings for different purposes: tracking markings (such as infrared or fluorescent markers) are placed at specific locations to enable precise tracking, while surface features (such as anatomical landmarks) are identified from the same images for registration. This localized differentiation allows accurate tracking without requiring excessive markers that could interfere with the object.
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 approach enhances the accuracy of object positioning and tracking by using camera arrays to detect and correlate tracking markings and surface features, reducing errors and improving the precision of registration processes in medical navigation systems.
Implementation Method 1
passive markers that, for example, reflect infrared radiation or visible light
Implementation Method 2
active markers that, for example, emit infrared radiation or visible light
Implementation Method 3
recordings of the object can be taken via a camera array
Data Source
AI summary
A device and a method are provided for spatially locating and tracking an object, such as medical instruments, a patient and/or part of a patient's body using a camera array having at least two cameras, and for mutually assigning the spatial position of the object and an acquired, stored data set. Trackable markings are recorded via the camera array, the markings are extracted from the recordings, and a location of the markings is monitored, wherein the spatial position of the object is based on the location of the markings. Further, video recordings of a surface of the object are produced via the camera array and, with computer assistance, surface portions of the object are identified and correlated with corresponding surface portions in the stored data set, wherein the spatial position of the object is assigned to that of the data set.