Feature-Point Image Overlay for Precise Radiography Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radiography technologies face challenges in obtaining high-quality radiation images due to inadequate registration and positioning of the radiation source, detector, and subject, particularly when these components are movable, and there is a need for precise alignment and posture of the subject.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus and method that utilizes optical imaging to extract feature points from a subject, specify a target imaging region, and generate a superimposed image for alignment, including warnings for misalignment, to ensure accurate registration and positioning of the radiation source, detector, and subject.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical imaging is used to extract feature points and specify target imaging regions, then registration precision and positioning accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for integration of optical imaging systems with radiography equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical imaging system as an intermediary to capture images of the subject from a direction different from the radiation direction. This optical imaging system acts as a mediator to extract feature points and determine spatial relationships, which then guide the radiation imaging process. By using this intermediary optical system, the patent achieves precise registration and positioning without directly complicating the core radiography equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning and alignment methods with an automated optical imaging and image processing system. Instead of relying on mechanical adjustment mechanisms to align the subject and detectors, the system uses optical cameras to capture images, extracts feature points algorithmically, and automatically determines the target imaging region. This substitution of mechanical systems with optical and computational methods reduces physical complexity while improving precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If feature point extraction and superimposed image generation are performed to ensure precise alignment, then manufacturing precision of radiation images is improved, but processing time and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary optical imaging of the subject before the actual radiography is conducted. By capturing the optical image in advance and extracting feature points beforehand, the system prepares the necessary spatial information ahead of time. This preliminary action allows the radiography process to proceed more efficiently, as the target imaging region is already determined, reducing the overall processing time while maintaining high image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a superimposed image that combines the optical image with the determined target imaging region information. This superimposed image serves as a copy or representation that guides the radiography process without requiring repeated complex analyses. By using this copied information, the system can quickly align and position the radiation source and detector accurately without re-performing all the complex feature extraction and spatial calculation processes.
3Reliability
If multiple optical images from different directions are acquired to determine subject positioning, then reliability of positioning is improved, but device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the positioning task into separate functional components: an optical imaging system captures images from a specific direction, an image processing system extracts feature points and determines spatial relationships, and a control system uses this information to guide radiation imaging. By dividing the complex positioning reliability into these segmented functional modules, each operating independently with clear inputs and outputs, the system achieves high reliability while reducing operational complexity through automation.
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 high-quality radiography by ensuring precise alignment and registration of the radiation source, detector, and subject, thereby improving the quality of radiation images.
Implementation Method 1
acquire at least one optical image obtained by optical imaging of a subject
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus including a processor, wherein the processor is configured to: acquire at least one optical image obtained by optical imaging of a subject; extract a feature point of the subject based on the optical image; specify a target imaging region that is a target in a case in which the subject undergoes radiography from a direction substantially the same as an imaging direction of the optical imaging in the optical image, based on the feature point; generate a superimposed image in which the target imaging region is superimposed on the optical image; and perform control of displaying the superimposed image on a display.