Dual X-Ray Calibration for Real-Time 3D Tool Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray imaging apparatuses for three-dimensional imaging are either large and expensive (biplane systems) or require complex configurations with multiple X-ray sources (multi-tube systems), and accurately calibrating the position of a specific point in a three-dimensional space is challenging without additional devices.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging apparatus with a compact configuration featuring a first and second X-ray tube, a detector, and a calibration member, which allows for real-time three-dimensional position detection of a treatment tool by calculating the position of a feature part using images from both tubes without rotating the columns, and includes a calibration mechanism for accurate alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a biplane X-ray imaging apparatus is used to achieve three-dimensional imaging, then three-dimensional imaging capability is improved, but the apparatus becomes large and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two C-type arms with different rotation axes into a single integrated apparatus. The first C-type arm rotates about a first rotation axis and the second C-type arm rotates about a second rotation axis, with both arms sharing common components including the X-ray source, detector, and control systems. This merging approach enables three-dimensional imaging capability while reducing overall apparatus size and cost compared to separate biplane systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional apparatus where a single X-ray source and detector system can perform both two-dimensional projection imaging and three-dimensional tomographic imaging. By rotating the C-type arms to different angular positions and acquiring multiple projection images from different directions, the system can switch between 2D and 3D imaging modes using the same hardware components, thereby reducing the need for separate specialized equipment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple X-ray sources are used to achieve three-dimensional imaging, then three-dimensional imaging capability is improved, but the configuration becomes complicated and the apparatus becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic rotation of the C-type arms to achieve three-dimensional imaging. Instead of using multiple fixed X-ray sources, the system rotates the first and second C-type arms about different rotation axes to acquire projection images from multiple directions. This dynamic approach allows the same X-ray source and detector to capture data from various angles, enabling three-dimensional reconstruction without requiring multiple simultaneous X-ray sources or complex multi-source configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces rotational motion as an additional dimension to the imaging system. By rotating the C-type arms about first and second rotation axes, the system transforms a single static projection setup into a dynamic multi-angular imaging system. This dimensional addition allows the acquisition of projection images from different spatial orientations, providing sufficient data for three-dimensional reconstruction without requiring multiple X-ray sources.
3Measurement precision
If additional calibration devices are used to detect position coordinates accurately, then measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-calibration using the imaging apparatus's own components. The system uses the X-ray source and detector to capture images of a calibration object, and then automatically calculates the position coordinates of the calibration object's features through image processing and coordinate transformation. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate external calibration devices, reducing system complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a calibration object as an intermediary element that bridges the real space coordinate system and the device coordinate system. The calibration object contains features with known real space coordinates, which are imaged by the X-ray system. By detecting the images of these calibration features and establishing correspondence between their known real space coordinates and measured device coordinates, the system performs calibration without requiring direct measurement devices, thus simplifying the overall system.
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 real-time three-dimensional position detection of a treatment tool during medical procedures with ease and accuracy, eliminating the need for complex setups and additional calibration devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first X-ray tube that irradiates the subject with X-rays, a second X-ray tube that irradiates the subject with X-rays
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an X-ray imaging apparatus that has a calibration function and can understand a three-dimensional position of a treatment tool in real time during a medical operation without rotating a column of an X-ray tube.A calibration member supported by any one of a first column, a second column, or a top plate, is disposed at a predetermined calibration position in a space irradiated with X-rays from a first X-ray tube and a second X-ray tube. A first X-ray image is acquired by irradiating a subject placed on the top plate with the X-rays from the first X-ray tube supported by the first column and detecting the X-rays transmitted through the subject by an X-ray detector disposed in the top plate. A second X-ray image is acquired by irradiating the subject with the X-rays from the second X-ray tube supported by the second column at a position shifted from an optical axis of the first X-ray tube and detecting the X-rays transmitted through the subject by the X-ray detector. A position of an image of the calibration member included in the first X-ray image and a position of an image of the calibration member included in the second X-ray image are used to calculate a three-dimensional position of the calibration member and to obtain a misregistration amount from the calibration position.