Laser Guided Patient Positioning for Chiropractic X-Ray Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiographic methods for upper cervical chiropractic diagnosis face inaccuracies due to subjective patient positioning, lack of objective tools, and inability to assess range-of-motion biomechanics accurately, leading to compromised image quality and adjustment confidence.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing three independent laser units to precisely position patients in three dimensions, combined with computer animation software for sequencing x-ray films, allowing for precise alignment and analysis of biomechanical dysfunction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional subjective positioning methods are used, then the procedure is simple and quick, but the image accuracy and positioning precision are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical positioning aids (strings, glabella bars, head clamps) with a laser-based optical positioning system. Three laser units project laser lines in three-dimensional space to define precise positioning references, eliminating the need for complex mechanical alignment tools while significantly improving positioning accuracy and reproducibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces laser lines as an intermediary reference system between the positioning apparatus and the patient. These laser lines serve as visual guides that mediate the alignment process, allowing operators to achieve precise positioning without direct mechanical constraint, thereby improving accuracy while reducing the complexity of the positioning mechanism.
2Measurement precision
If multiple radiographic views are taken for upper cervical analysis, then the diagnostic accuracy improves, but the time required and positioning errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal laser positioning system that can be used for all upper cervical radiographic views (lateral, base posterior, vertex, nasium) without requiring separate positioning procedures for each view. The three laser units can be configured to provide accurate positioning references for any view, thereby reducing total positioning time while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes the laser positioning system and calibration references before taking any radiographic images. By pre-positioning the laser lines and verifying alignment beforehand, the system enables rapid and accurate positioning for subsequent views without repeating complex alignment procedures for each image, thus reducing overall time loss.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional positioning tools are used, then the equipment is simple and inexpensive, but the ability to assess range-of-motion biomechanics is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional positioning references (strings on a plane) to three-dimensional spatial references using three laser units that project lines in multiple dimensions. This dimensional expansion enables precise control and measurement of patient positioning in all three spatial directions, providing the versatility needed for accurate range-of-motion biomechanical analysis while maintaining reasonable system complexity.
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 enhances the accuracy of radiographic images by minimizing positioning errors and objectively assessing biomechanical changes, improving the confidence and precision of chiropractic adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
A precision alignment system for radiographic animation according to the present invention employs three independent laser units to aid in precisely positioning a subject patient for radiography
Data Source
AI summary
A radiographic apparatus having a laser positioning system comprising three independent laser units for positioning a patient in three-dimension for the purpose of taking x-rays. Each laser unit is orthogonally oriented in respect to the others, such that the first laser unit projects a laser beam aligned with the x-ray beam in said first lateral direction, and the second laser unit projects a laser beam in a second lateral direction that is orthogonal to the first lateral direction, and the third laser unit projects a laser beam in a vertical direction that is orthogonal to both the first and second lateral directions. With the patient properly oriented by the laser system, x-ray films are taken that can be sequenced for radiographic animation analysis.