Dynamic Image Correction for Subject Displacement in Medical Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Dynamic imaging in medical diagnostics faces challenges due to subject displacement perpendicular to the detector plane, leading to size variations in radiographic images, which complicates accurate diagnosis and increases radiation exposure and burden on both the photographer and the subject.

Innovation Solution

A dynamic analysis system and correction apparatus that utilize a hardware processor to perform position correction of dynamic images by eliminating the effect of subject displacement perpendicular to the detector plane, either through image processing or the use of a jig to restrict movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If dynamic imaging is performed during subject movement, then diagnostic information about movement dynamics is obtained, but subject displacement perpendicular to the detector plane causes size variations in radiographic images

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic accuracyVSAvoidimage size consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical stabilization methods with computational image processing. A correction apparatus processes dynamic images to calculate and apply magnification correction based on detected subject displacement, eliminating the need for physical stabilization equipment while maintaining image size consistency across frames

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent dynamically adjusts image processing parameters based on detected subject displacement. The system calculates magnification factors for each frame based on the degree of displacement perpendicular to the detector plane, applying variable correction to maintain consistent image dimensions throughout the dynamic sequence

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple images are retaken due to subject wobble, then image quality is improved, but radiation exposure and burden on the subject increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidradiation exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the harmful effect of subject wobble during dynamic imaging into a beneficial correction opportunity. By detecting displacement and applying magnification correction to the captured images, the system transforms what would be discarded retake images into diagnostically useful data, eliminating the need for additional radiation exposure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent maintains continuous image acquisition during subject movement without interruption for retakes. The correction apparatus processes images in real-time or near-real-time, allowing the dynamic imaging sequence to proceed continuously while correcting for displacement, thereby minimizing total imaging time and radiation exposure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Manufacturing precision

If a photographer monitors and corrects subject wobble manually, then image consistency is improved, but operational complexity and burden increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage consistencyVSAvoidoperational burden
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service through automated detection and correction. The correction apparatus automatically detects subject displacement from the dynamic images and applies magnification correction without requiring photographer intervention, making the system autonomous and eliminating manual monitoring burden

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates feedback loops where the correction apparatus continuously monitors image frames for displacement, calculates correction factors, and applies adjustments in real-time. This automated feedback mechanism replaces manual photographer judgment and adjustment, reducing operational complexity while maintaining image consistency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20240423568A1Dynamic analysis system, correction apparatus, storage medium, and dynamic imaging apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.12.26 KONICA MINOLTA INC
  • US20240423568A1 patent drawing
  • US20240423568A1 patent drawing
  • US20240423568A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A dynamic analysis system processes a dynamic image obtained by irradiation of a subject from a radiation irradiation apparatus and by dynamic imaging on dynamics of the subject detected by a detector. The dynamic analysis system includes a hardware processor that performs position correction of the dynamic image by eliminating an effect of displacement of the subject in a direction perpendicular to a detector plane.