3D Perspective Indicator for CT Scanning Range Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional CT scanning methods lack an intuitive and precise way for operators to determine and control the scanning range, relying on manual adjustments and 2D images that can be distorted, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors.

Innovation Solution

A 3D perspective indicator is generated using upper and lower boundary planes and contour lines within a CT system's coordinate space, superimposed on a 2D image, allowing operators to visualize and control the scanning range intuitively and accurately without perspective distortion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a 2D image is used to display the scanning range, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and ease of operation deteriorate due to perspective distortion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay system complexityVSAvoidscanning range determination accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the 2D display limitation into a 3D visualization solution by generating a three-dimensional perspective indicator that includes upper and lower boundary planes, an auxiliary plane, and contour lines representing the scanning range. This dimensional enhancement allows operators to accurately perceive the volumetric scanning region without the perspective distortion inherent in 2D representations, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Device complexity

If manual adjustment of scanning range is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity and reliability deteriorate due to operational inefficiency and potential errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system complexityVSAvoidpre-scanning operation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables operators to independently and intuitively adjust the scanning range by interacting with the 3D perspective indicator displayed in the scanning room. The visual feedback mechanism allows operators to self-correct and precisely define the scanning volume without requiring external assistance or complex manual procedures, thereby improving productivity and reducing operational errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Device complexity

If parameter values are set on a console outside the scanning room, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation and reliability worsen due to the need for dual-location operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system structureVSAvoidscanning range control convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the control functions previously separated between the scanning room and the external console by displaying the 3D perspective indicator directly within the scanning room environment. This integration allows operators to perform all scanning range adjustments and visualizations in one location, eliminating the need to switch between rooms and improving operational convenience and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11357462B23D perspective indicator and generation method therefor and application thereof
Publication Date: 2022.06.14 GE PRECISION HEALTHCARE LLC
  • US11357462B2 patent drawing
  • US11357462B2 patent drawing
  • US11357462B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a 3D perspective indicator and a generation method therefor and an application thereof. The present invention specifically provides a 3D perspective indicator for a CT system and a generation method therefor as well as a method and an apparatus for controlling a scanning range in a CT system. The method for generating a 3D perspective indicator comprises: generating an upper boundary plane and a lower boundary plane perpendicular to a scanning direction and an auxiliary plane perpendicular to the upper boundary plane and the lower boundary plane in a coordinate system space of the CT system, the auxiliary plane being located above a to-be-scanned part of a patient; and identifying an upper contour line intersecting the upper boundary plane and a lower contour line intersecting the lower boundary plane in a point cloud generated based on a depth image of the patient, wherein the 3D perspective indicator comprises the upper contour line and the lower contour line, the upper boundary plane and the lower boundary plane, and the auxiliary plane. The present invention further provides a CT system using the apparatus and a computer-readable storage medium capable of implementing the method.