Dynamic X-ray Frame Rate Control for Robotic Catheter Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current robotic catheter procedure systems face challenges in controlling x-ray frame rate, leading to excessive radiation exposure and varying image quality during medical procedures, as the existing systems do not effectively adjust the frequency of x-ray images based on the specific parameters of the catheter procedure.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that generate control signals to adjust the x-ray frame rate of an imaging system based on parameters such as the speed of the catheter device, magnification level, and location within the vasculature, allowing for dynamic adjustment of frame rates to optimize image acquisition and reduce radiation exposure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a high x-ray frame rate is used to capture images, then image quality and real-time visualization are improved, but radiation exposure to the patient and medical professionals increases

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

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the x-ray frame rate based on procedural parameters such as catheter speed, magnification level, and anatomical location. The controller continuously monitors these parameters and modifies the frame rate in real-time, transitioning from static to dynamic control to optimize both image quality and radiation dose.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the frame rate parameter according to specific procedural conditions. When the catheter moves quickly, magnification is high, or critical anatomical locations are being imaged, the frame rate is increased to maintain image quality. Otherwise, the frame rate is reduced to minimize radiation exposure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Object-affected harmful factors

If a low x-ray frame rate is used to reduce radiation exposure, then radiation dose is reduced, but image quality and ability to track catheter movement deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveradiation exposureVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the controller monitors catheter position, speed, and procedural context, then uses this information to adjust the frame rate. This closed-loop control ensures the frame rate is optimized for current conditions, maintaining image quality when needed while reducing radiation during stable phases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The frame rate transitions from a fixed value to a dynamic parameter that responds to real-time procedural conditions. The system adapts the imaging frequency to match the actual needs of the procedure, increasing frame rate during critical moments and decreasing it during stable periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If a fixed frame rate is used throughout the procedure, then system operation is simplified, but radiation exposure cannot be optimized and image quality may be insufficient for specific procedural parameters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem operationVSAvoidradiation exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-adjustment by automatically monitoring procedural parameters and modifying the frame rate without requiring manual intervention. The controller autonomously determines when high frame rates are necessary based on catheter speed, magnification, and anatomical location, eliminating the need for constant operator adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The frame rate is transformed from a static setting to a dynamic parameter that automatically adapts to procedural conditions. This maintains ease of operation while enabling optimization of radiation exposure and image quality through automated real-time adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Measurement precision

If a high frame rate is maintained during slow catheter movement, then continuous visualization is maintained, but radiation exposure increases unnecessarily

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisualization continuityVSAvoidradiation exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes the frame rate parameter based on catheter movement speed. When the catheter moves slowly or remains stationary, the frame rate is reduced to minimize radiation exposure. When rapid movement occurs or critical positioning is needed, the frame rate is increased to maintain visualization continuity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of maintaining a constantly high frame rate, the system applies high frame rates only partially—specifically during moments when catheter movement requires enhanced visualization. During stable periods, the frame rate is reduced to the minimum necessary level.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS12150796B2System and method for controlling x-ray frame rate of an imaging system
Publication Date: 2024.11.26 SIEMENS HEALTHINEERS ENDOVASCULAR ROBOTICS INC
  • US12150796B2 patent drawing
  • US12150796B2 patent drawing
  • US12150796B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for controlling x-ray frame rate of an imaging system for a catheter procedure system includes generating a first control signal that indicates a first frame rate and providing the first control signal to an imaging system. The imaging system obtains a first set of images at the first frame rate based on the first control signal. At least one parameter of a catheter procedure performed by the catheter procedure system is determined and a second control signal is generated based on the at least one parameter of the catheter procedure. The second control signal indicates a second frame rate. The second control signal is provides to the imaging system to adjust the first frame rate to the second frame rate. The imaging system obtains a second set of images at the second frame rate and displays the second set of images on a display.