Dental X-Ray Image Stitching for Large-Area Head Reconstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray imaging technologies in dental clinics struggle to capture large areas, such as the teeth arrangement and jaw joint, due to sensor size limitations, and require multiple images with potential posture changes and prolonged reconstruction times.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using a camera and sensor system to capture two overlapping images, adjusting the subject's position between captures, and employing stitching and reconstruction techniques to generate a comprehensive X-ray image efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the sensor area is increased to capture larger anatomical structures, then the image coverage area is improved, but the device cost and technical complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the large-area imaging task into multiple smaller sub-images captured by a small sensor at different positions. The anatomical structure is segmented into multiple fields of view, each captured separately, then reconstructed into a complete large-area image through image processing algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single two-dimensional sensor plane to a three-dimensional imaging approach by capturing images at multiple positions and angles. This allows a small sensor to cover a large area by moving through space, effectively using the third dimension (depth/position) to overcome the sensor area limitation.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple photographs are taken to capture large areas, then the image coverage is improved, but the reconstruction time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by capturing optical images and extracting feature points before the reconstruction phase. The system pre-processes the images to identify and mark key anatomical features, which are then used to guide the stitching and reconstruction process, reducing the computational burden during final image generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical stitching methods with automated image processing algorithms. Instead of physically manipulating images, the system uses computer vision techniques to automatically detect feature points, calculate transformations, and stitch images together, significantly reducing reconstruction time.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple photographs are taken to capture large areas, then the image coverage is improved, but the risk of posture changes during photographing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring the examinee's head position and posture during the imaging process. Optical cameras capture reference images, and the system uses image processing to detect posture changes in real-time, providing feedback that allows for dynamic adjustment of the imaging parameters to maintain alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes imaging parameters such as camera angles, positions, and transformation matrices based on detected posture changes. When posture variations are detected, the system adjusts the photographing parameters and recalculates the stitching transformations to compensate for the changes, ensuring accurate image integration.
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
Enables comprehensive dental diagnosis by combining overlapping images to reduce reconstruction time and resource usage while maintaining image quality despite potential posture changes.
Implementation Method 1
irradiates a body of an examinee with an X-ray generated from a generator, and receives an X-ray that partially passes through or does not pass through the human body of the examinee and arrives at a sensor facing the generator through the sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for generating an X-ray image and a computer-readable recording medium. The method for generating an X-ray image by photographing an examinee's head by the apparatus for generating an X-ray image including an X-ray photographing unit, a driving unit, a stitching display unit, a camera image obtaining unit, and an X-ray image generation unit includes: obtaining, by the camera image obtaining unit, a first camera image of the examinee's head whose stitching is displayed by the stitching display unit; obtaining a first projection image by photographing a first region of the examinee's head by the X-ray photographing unit; changing a relative position between the examinee's head and the X-ray photographing unit by the driving unit after the first region is photographed; obtaining, by the camera image obtaining unit, a second camera image of the examinee's head whose stitching is displayed by the stitching display unit after the relative position is changed; obtaining a second projection image by photographing a second region of the examinee's head by the X-ray photographing unit after the relative position is changed; and generating the X-ray image by stitching and reconstructing the first projection image and the second projection image on the basis of the obtained first camera image and the obtained second camera image by the X-ray image generation unit.