Automated Patient Positioning via Real-Time Camera Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical imaging systems rely on human observation to determine patient readiness, which is inefficient and prone to error, as operators must manually assess whether a patient is still and properly positioned for scanning.
Innovation Solution
A positioning system comprising cameras, a processing unit, and a control unit that analyzes images in real-time to automatically detect patient position and region of interest (ROI), generating control information for precise patient positioning and imaging protocol adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual observation by operator is used to determine patient readiness, then human judgment and flexibility are maintained, but efficiency is reduced and human error is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical observation process with an automated optical detection system. Cameras capture images of the patient and patient support, and a processing unit automatically analyzes these images to determine patient readiness, replacing the operator's manual visual assessment with an automated image processing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the imaging system to self-assess patient readiness without external human intervention. The automated detection system continuously monitors patient position and movement, and the processing unit independently determines when the patient is ready for scanning, allowing the system to self-regulate the scanning process.
2Measurement precision
If automated image processing is implemented to detect patient position, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional integrated system where cameras serve both documentation and measurement purposes, and the processing unit performs multiple functions including image acquisition, analysis, and control signal generation. This universal approach reduces the need for separate specialized devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces images as an intermediary medium between the patient's physical position and the control system. Instead of direct mechanical or electronic position sensors on the patient, the system uses optical images as a mediator to convey position information to the processing unit for analysis.
3Reliability
If continuous real-time monitoring is performed to ensure patient stillness, then detection reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic monitoring where the camera captures images at regular intervals during the patient preparation period. The processing unit analyzes these periodic images to detect patient movement, rather than continuous uninterrupted monitoring, reducing energy consumption while maintaining detection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system rapidly processes images to quickly determine patient readiness status. The processing unit efficiently analyzes captured images and quickly generates control signals when readiness is detected, minimizing the total monitoring time and associated energy consumption while ensuring reliable detection.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for scanning a patient in an imaging system. The imaging system may include at least one camera directed at the patient. The systems and methods may obtain a plurality of images of the patient that are captured by the at least one camera. Each of the plurality of images may correspond to one of a series of time points. The systems and methods may also determine a motion of the patient over the series of time points based on the plurality of images of the patient. The systems and methods may further determine whether the patient is ready for scan based on the motion of the patient, and generate control information of the imaging system for scanning the patient in response to determining that the patient is ready for scan.