Examination Table Height Control Using Subject Image Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical diagnostic apparatuses, such as X-ray CT and MRI machines, lack the capability to adjust the examination table height based on an analysis of the subject's image, which varies with the subject's physique, condition, age, and other factors.
Innovation Solution
A medical diagnostic apparatus equipped with a processor that acquires and analyzes images of the subject to obtain analysis information, which is then used to control the height of the examination table for easy access and comfort during examinations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the examination table height is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but it is difficult to adapt to subjects with different physiques and conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system captures images of the subject before the examination and analyzes them to determine appropriate examination table height in advance. This preliminary action allows the system to prepare the optimal height setting before the subject needs to be positioned, enabling adaptability without adding complex real-time adjustment mechanisms during the examination process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses images of the subject themselves (not external measurement devices) to determine the appropriate examination table height. The subject's own image data serves as the basis for automatic height adjustment, eliminating the need for separate measurement tools or manual input from operators.
2Productivity
If the examination table height is manually adjusted, then the operation is flexible, but it increases the time required for examination preparation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs height determination in advance by analyzing subject images before the examination begins. This preliminary analysis automates what would otherwise be a manual adjustment process, reducing the time required during actual examination preparation while maintaining flexibility through image-based assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment with automated image analysis and control. Instead of operators physically adjusting the table based on visual estimation or measurement, the system uses image processing algorithms to determine optimal height and automatically controls the adjustment mechanism.
3Measurement precision
If image analysis is used to determine examination table height, then the adaptability to subject characteristics is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses optical images (visual copies) of the subject to determine examination table height instead of direct physical measurement. This copying approach allows the system to extract height information from standard imaging data already captured during the examination workflow, avoiding the need for specialized measurement hardware while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the same imaging capability (camera or existing imaging device) for multiple purposes: both capturing the subject for examination and determining the examination table height. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate measurement devices, reducing system complexity while maintaining the ability to accurately assess subject characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical diagnostic apparatus includes a processor, and the processor is configured to: acquire a subject image which is an image of a subject placed on an examination table; acquire subject analysis information by analyzing the acquired subject image; and execute processing of controlling a height of the examination table based on the subject analysis information.