Camera-Based Patient Positioning for Medical Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional patient positioning methods in medical imaging require human intervention, leading to inaccuracies and inefficiencies due to the need for manual adjustments and real-time monitoring of patient position and region of interest (ROI) changes during imaging sessions.
Innovation Solution
A positioning system comprising cameras, a position processing unit, and a control unit that automatically recognizes patient position and ROI, generating control information for real-time adjustments to ensure accurate targeting and efficient imaging protocols without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional manual positioning methods are used, then the system can be operated with simple equipment, but the positioning accuracy and real-time monitoring capability deteriorate due to human intervention errors and lack of automated tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical copying technology by capturing images of the patient's body surface with cameras to create a visual representation that is processed to determine patient position and ROI location. This replaces manual positioning methods while maintaining system feasibility through software-based image processing rather than complex mechanical positioning systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning operations with an automated vision-based system. Cameras capture images, a processor analyzes the images to determine patient position and ROI, and the system automatically adjusts imaging parameters without requiring manual mechanical intervention, thereby improving precision while managing complexity through software automation
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual positioning adjustments are made during imaging sessions, then the system can adapt to patient position changes, but the imaging time and patient discomfort increase due to repeated manual interventions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous real-time monitoring of patient position through automated image capture and processing during the imaging session. The system continuously tracks patient position changes and automatically adjusts imaging parameters without interruption, eliminating the need to stop the imaging session for manual repositioning and thereby reducing total imaging time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a feedback mechanism where the imaging system continuously monitors patient position through captured images, compares the current position with the target position, and automatically makes adjustments to maintain proper alignment. This closed-loop feedback system enables real-time adaptation without manual intervention, improving both adaptability and efficiency
3Productivity
If automated image processing is implemented, then the positioning speed and accuracy improve, but the computational requirements and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image processing task into distinct segments: image capture by cameras, initial processing to identify patient body parts and landmarks, determination of patient position and ROI, and generation of control information for the imaging system. This segmentation allows each processing stage to be optimized independently, improving positioning speed while managing overall system complexity through modular architecture
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method for scanning a patient in an imaging system. The imaging system may include one or more cameras directed at the patient. The method may include obtaining a position of each of the camera(s) relative to the imaging system. The method may also include obtain image data of the patient captured by the camera(s), wherein the image data may correspond to a first view with respect to the patient. The method may further include generating projection image data of the patient based on the image data and the position of each of the camera(s) relative to the imaging system, wherein the projection image data may correspond to a second view with respect to the patient different from the first view. The method may further include generating control information for scanning the patient based on the projection image data of the patient.