CT Table Height Alignment Using Gantry-Mounted Organ Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for vertically positioning an examinee before medical examination using a CT scanner are imprecise and inefficient, relying on manual adjustments by technicians, which can lead to misalignment of the examinee's center and the CT scanner gantry isocenter, affecting radiation dose and image quality.
Innovation Solution
A sensor-based method and apparatus for vertically positioning an examinee using a CT device, which includes attaching a sensor to the CT scanner gantry to measure the distance to the examinee during table movement, calculating the organ center height, and adjusting the examination table height to align with the scanner gantry isocenter, minimizing radiation dose and improving imaging quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual adjustment by technician is used, then operation flexibility is maintained, but positioning precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment system with an automated optical measurement system. A sensor (camera) mounted on the CT scanner gantry captures images of the examinee, and a processor automatically calculates the vertical position of the to-be-examined organ and adjusts the examination table height accordingly, eliminating reliance on technician manual adjustment and achieving precise automated positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service positioning by automatically measuring the examinee's body dimensions through imaging, calculating the required table height adjustment, and executing the positioning without requiring technician intervention. The system serves itself by integrating the measurement, calculation, and adjustment functions into an automated workflow.
2Measurement precision
If multiple adjustments are performed to achieve better position, then positioning precision improves, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurement and calculation of the examinee's body dimensions and organ position before the actual CT scanning begins. The system captures images during the examination table's movement, calculates the optimal positioning in advance, and adjusts the table height before topo scanning starts, eliminating the need for multiple iterative adjustments during the scanning process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by using the sensor to continuously monitor the examinee's position and the examination table's height, comparing the measured position with the target position (center of to-be-examined organ at isocenter level), and automatically adjusting the table height to eliminate positioning error in one step rather than requiring multiple trial adjustments.
3Area of stationary object
If 3D camera is installed on ceiling, then full body coverage is achieved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the CT scanner gantry serve multiple functions: it not only performs the primary CT scanning function but also mounts and positions the sensor (camera) for vertical positioning measurement. By utilizing the existing gantry structure and its movement capabilities, the system achieves full-body measurement coverage without requiring a separate ceiling-mounted 3D camera installation, thereby reducing system complexity and installation burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the positioning measurement function with the CT scanning system by mounting the sensor on the gantry. The gantry's rotational and translational movements are utilized to position the sensor over different parts of the examinee's body during the scanning process, combining two functions (scanning and positioning measurement) into a single integrated system rather than using separate ceiling-mounted equipment.
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
The solution enables high-precision vertical positioning of the examinee, reducing radiation exposure and enhancing CT imaging quality without affecting clinical workflow efficiency, suitable for entry-level CT products with low costs.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor-based method and apparatus for vertically positioning an examinee using a CT device, where a sensor for measuring a distance to the examinee is attached to the CT device
Data Source
AI summary
A method for vertically positioning an examinee may include obtaining a position of an examination table after placement of an examinee is completed; determining a measurement range that is corresponding to a to-be-examined organ and that is on the examination table; during movement of the examination table toward a scanner gantry, causing the sensor to start to measure a distance to the examinee and obtaining a height of the examination table while the sensor performs measurement; calculating an organ center height (e.g., average height) based on a measurement result of the sensor, the height of the sensor, and the height of the examination table; and adjusting the height of the examination table based on the organ center height, so that the adjusted organ center height is equal to the isocenter height of the scanner gantry to minimize a radiation dose and improve CT imaging quality.