Camera-Based Height Profile Calculation Using Movable Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current three-dimensional medical imaging modalities face challenges in accurately determining the height profile of a subject within the imaging volume, particularly when using two-dimensional cameras, which can lead to inaccuracies in positioning and imaging.
Innovation Solution
A medical apparatus and method that utilizes a movable subject support and camera system to acquire multiple images at different positions, calculating a height profile by comparing initial and intermediate images, allowing for the determination of spatially dependent height using displacement measurements, even with a two-dimensional camera, and optionally using three-dimensional cameras for enhanced accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a two-dimensional camera is used to determine height profile, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces temporal dimension by capturing images at multiple subject support positions along the longitudinal axis. This transforms a 2D camera system into an effective 3D measurement system by adding the dimension of movement/displacement, enabling height profile determination without requiring a complex 3D camera
2Measurement precision
If multiple images are acquired at different positions, then measurement precision improves, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs periodic image acquisition at discrete positions of the subject support during its movement. This allows height profile determination through a series of snapshots taken at regular intervals, balancing measurement accuracy with time efficiency
3Measurement precision
If a three-dimensional camera is used, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a complex 3D camera, the system creates a virtual 3D representation by combining multiple 2D images taken at different positions. The height profile is calculated through image comparison and displacement analysis, effectively copying the 3D measurement capability through computational methods rather than hardware complexity
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
Enables improved measurement of height profiles using a single camera, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of subject positioning within the imaging volume, thereby improving the quality of medical imaging data acquisition.
Implementation Method 1
a camera (110) configured for imaging the support surface (108) in the first position (124) and configured for imaging a subject (106) reposing on the support surface (108)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides for a medical apparatus (100, 300, 400) comprising a subject support (102) configured for moving a subject (106) from a first position (124) to a second position (130) along a linear path (134). The subject support comprises a support surface (108) for receiving the subject. The subject support is further configured for positioning the subject support in at least one intermediate position (128). The subject support is configured for measuring a displacement (132) along the linear path between the first position and the at least one intermediate position. Each of the at least one intermediate position is located between the first position and the second position. The medical apparatus further comprises a camera (110) configured for imaging the support surface in the first position. Execution of machine executable instructions 116 cause the a processor (116) controlling the medical apparatus to: acquire (200) an initial image (142) with the camera when the subject support is in the first position; control (202) the subject support to move the subject support from the first position to the second position; acquire (204) at least one intermediate image (144) with the camera and the displacement for each of the at least one intermediate image as the subject support is moved from the first position to the second position; and calculate (206) a height profile (150, 600, 604) of the subject by comparing the initial image and the at least one intermediate image. The height profile is at least partially calculated using the displacement. The height profile is descriptive of the spatially dependent height of the subject above the support surface.