Independent X-Ray Source-Detector Alignment with Image-Based Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray imaging systems using robotic arms for medical imaging face challenges in accurately aligning the X-ray source and detector without direct line-of-sight, leading to potential misalignments that affect image quality and patient safety, and current calibration methods are often inaccurate and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging system with independent movable holding arrangements for the X-ray source and detector, utilizing a controller and aligner to compute misalignments based on image data, allowing for precise alignment adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If robotic arms are used to replace C-arm structures for X-ray imaging, then the system flexibility and automation are improved, but the alignment accuracy between X-ray source and detector deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment methods with an automated optical alignment system. The aligner uses cameras to capture images of alignment markers and computationally determines misalignment, substituting the need for manual measurement and adjustment with an automated vision-based system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces alignment markers as intermediary objects between the X-ray source and detector. These markers serve as reference points that both the source and detector can observe, enabling the system to calculate and correct misalignment through image processing rather than direct mechanical measurement.
2Ease of operation
If calibration is performed by touching known surfaces with robotic arm end-effectors, then the calibration process is simplified, but the alignment accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical touching-based calibration with an optical vision system. Instead of using end-effectors to physically contact calibration surfaces, the system uses cameras to capture images of alignment markers and computationally determines spatial relationships, achieving higher precision without mechanical contact.
3Manufacturing precision
If alignment adjustments are made during installation, then the initial setup is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs alignment measurement and calculation during the installation process itself rather than requiring separate post-installation adjustment sessions. The aligner captures images and computes misalignment values immediately after the robotic arms are positioned, enabling real-time correction without extending the overall installation timeline.
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
Improves alignment accuracy, reduces installation time, and enables real-time compensation for misalignments, enhancing image quality and safety in medical imaging.
Implementation Method 1
The controller is configured to control the X-ray source to generate an X-ray beam
Implementation Method 2
The X-ray detector has a detector surface area to detect radiation generated by the X-ray source
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
The present invention relates to aligning an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector that are movable in an independent manner. In order to provide a facilitated way of alignment for X-ray imaging systems, an X-ray imaging system (100) for medical imaging is provided. The system comprises a movable first holding arrangement (102) with a movably mounted X-ray source (104), a movable second holding arrangement (106) with a movably mounted X-ray detector (108), a controller (110) and an aligner (112). The controller is configured to control the X-ray source to generate an X-ray beam. The controller is configured to control the movement of the first and the second holding arrangement; wherein the first movable holding arrangement and the second movable holding arrangement are movable independently from each other. The X-ray detector has a detector surface area (116) to detect radiation generated by the X-ray source. The aligner is configured: to receive image data from the X-ray detector based on radiation generated by the X-ray source; to identify a predetermined geometric form (117) in the image data; to determine a spatial relation of the identified geometric form and the detector surface area; to compute a relative misalignment of the X-ray source and the X-ray detector based on the spatial relation; and to provide the computed relative misalignment to the controller for adjustment purposes of at least one of the first and second holding arrangements.