Gamma Camera Navigation Using Optical Correlation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Gamma detection systems with high resolution and pinhole cameras face challenges in scanning time due to the need to prevent movement of test animals or humans, and navigating the small focusing volume, which is uncomfortable and inefficient, especially when optical cameras cannot be placed within the gamma camera's field of view.

Innovation Solution

A detection device that uses a second detector outside the gamma detection space to create an additional image, allowing for easier navigation and positioning of the object by correlating the second image with the gamma image, using a control device to display both images and facilitate precise alignment before the gamma scan.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a gamma camera with high resolution and pinhole is used, then measurement precision is improved, but scanning time increases and navigation becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegamma image resolutionVSAvoidscanning time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by using the optical camera to capture images of the object and its surroundings before the gamma scan. These pre-captured optical images are stored and later used to automatically navigate and reposition the gamma camera, eliminating the need for manual positioning and reducing scanning time while maintaining high resolution.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses optical images as an intermediary between the operator and the gamma camera positioning system. The optical camera captures visual information about the object's location and orientation, and this information mediates the positioning of the gamma camera by providing reference points for automatic navigation and repositioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If a gamma camera with small focusing volume is used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegamma image resolutionVSAvoidnavigation difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The optical camera serves as an intermediary that captures visual information about the object and its surroundings. This visual information is used to automatically navigate and reposition the gamma camera, making operation easier while maintaining the small focusing volume required for high resolution.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from optical images to automatically adjust and reposition the gamma camera. The optical camera continuously provides visual information about the object's position, and this feedback is used to guide the gamma camera's movement and positioning, simplifying operation while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If the object is positioned roughly before the gamma camera, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepositioning easeVSAvoidimage accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses feedback from optical images to automatically adjust and reposition the gamma camera. The optical camera captures the object's position and provides visual feedback that guides the gamma camera's movement, ensuring accurate positioning while maintaining ease of operation through automatic control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The optical camera acts as an intermediary that captures precise visual information about the object's position and orientation. This information mediates the positioning process by providing reference points for automatic navigation, ensuring measurement precision while keeping the operation simple through automated positioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This approach significantly reduces scanning time by allowing for accurate and efficient navigation of the object, enabling faster and more comfortable gamma detection imaging without the limitations of traditional systems.

Implementation Method 1

a first detector (2), comprising a gamma detection space (4) with a gamma camera (3) having a first field-of-view (4.1) that is located in the gamma detection space (4)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGamma radiation detection: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 2

a second detector (10), comprising an additional camera (10) that is sensitive to radiation that substantially differs from gamma radiation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical radiation detection: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP1999486B1Detection device comprising a gamma imaging device, and a second imaging device which is sensitive to radiation different from gamma radiation

Publication Date: 2015.12.09 MILABS BV

Figure 1~2b
Figure 3

AI summary

The invention provides a detection device and a method of making a gamma detection image. The detection device comprises a gamma camera and an additional camera, that can make an image of the object outside the gamma detection space. Through correlating the positions of the object with respect to the first and the second camera, the images therefrom may also be correlated. The correlation of the images allows quick and accurate navigation through the object.