CT Image Correction Using Visual Contour Matching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current CT image correction methods, such as symmetrical mirror data extrapolation and water-mode-data-based extrapolation, are ineffective for subjects with large sizes or complex shapes, leading to significant deviations and potential radiation damage when using additional imaging devices for correction.

Innovation Solution

A method utilizing visual equipment like 3D scanners or thermal imaging devices to obtain contour data, combined with a positioning assisting device for accurate image matching and correction, reduces radiation exposure and improves correction accuracy by reconstructing the shape image and matching it with CT images without additional X-ray radiation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If symmetrical mirror data extrapolation or water-mode-data-based extrapolation is used for CT image correction, then correction can be performed for subjects within the supervision field, but significant deviations occur for subjects with large sizes or complex shapes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorrection accuracyVSAvoidapplicability to complex shapes
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses visual equipment to create a shape image (optical copy) of the subject's contour, which is then matched with the CT image. This copying approach allows accurate representation of complex shapes without relying on extrapolation methods that fail for large or irregular subjects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a shape image obtained from visual equipment as an intermediary element to bridge the gap between the subject and the CT image correction process. This intermediary enables accurate matching and correction by providing a reliable contour reference that works for all subject types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If additional imaging devices are used for correction, then correction accuracy may improve, but radiation damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorrection accuracyVSAvoidradiation damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces additional X-ray imaging devices with visual equipment (such as cameras or 3D scanners) that use non-ionizing light or other harmless radiation. This substitution eliminates the harmful radiation effect while maintaining the ability to obtain contour data for correction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses visual equipment to capture the subject's contour as an intermediary step, avoiding the need for additional X-ray exposure. This intermediary approach achieves correction accuracy without introducing harmful radiation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If visual equipment is used to obtain contour data, then radiation exposure is reduced, but image matching accuracy may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveradiation exposureVSAvoidimage matching accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a positioning assisting device as an intermediary element that appears in both the visual image and the CT image. This device provides common reference features that enable accurate matching between the shape image and the CT image, overcoming the potential inaccuracy of using visual equipment alone.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs image matching algorithms that use feedback from the positioning assisting device to adjust and optimize the alignment between the shape image and the CT image. This feedback mechanism ensures high matching accuracy even when using non-X-ray visual equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 effectively reduces radiation damage and improves correction accuracy by obtaining accurate contour data without additional X-ray exposure, even for complex subjects, enhancing the quality of CT images by minimizing artefacts caused by supervision field limitations.

Implementation Method 1

obtain contour data of a scanned subject by scanning the scanned subject through a piece of visual equipment

Methodology Applied
Scientific Effect3D scanning: LIDAR

Implementation Method 2

A method utilizing visual equipment like 3D scanners or thermal imaging devices to obtain contour data

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal imaging: Thermography

Data Source

PatentUS9993215B2CT image correction
Publication Date: 2018.06.12 NEUSOFT MEDICAL SYST CO LTD
  • US9993215B2 patent drawing
  • US9993215B2 patent drawing
  • US9993215B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and system for CT image correction are provided. Contour data of a scanned subject can be obtained, and a shape image of the scanned subject can be reconstructed according to the contour data, wherein the contour data of the scanned subject can be obtained by scanning the scanned subject through a piece of visual equipment. Original CT projection data of the scanned subject can be obtained, and a CT image can be reconstructed according to the original CT projection data. For determining a supervision field image, image matching can be performed between the shape image and the CT image of the scanned subject. Supervision field projection data can be obtained, and the supervision field projection data can be used to correct the CT image.