LiDAR-Guided CT Auto Gating for 3D Motion Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current CT imaging systems lack accurate three-dimensional measurement capabilities without the need for additional radiation dose, and regular 2D images cannot provide 3D information, leading to inefficiencies in patient positioning and workflow processes.

Innovation Solution

Incorporation of LiDAR-based techniques within a CT imaging system to generate 3D point clouds for patient positioning and motion detection, allowing for improved workflow efficiency by aborting scans or removing motion-affected views.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a 3D scout acquisition is performed to obtain accurate three-dimensional measurement of a patient, then measurement precision is improved, but radiation dose increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethree-dimensional measurement accuracyVSAvoidradiation dose
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces LiDAR technology as an intermediary non-ionizing imaging modality to obtain 3D surface measurements. The LiDAR system uses laser ranging to create 3D point cloud models of the patient's external anatomy, serving as a mediator between the need for 3D information and the desire to avoid additional radiation exposure from CT scout views.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical X-ray based 3D scout acquisition system with an optical LiDAR-based measurement system. This substitution eliminates ionizing radiation while maintaining the capability to obtain accurate three-dimensional surface measurements for patient positioning and motion detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Device complexity

If regular 2D images are used for patient positioning, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging system simplicityVSAvoidthree-dimensional information accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional planar imaging to three-dimensional volumetric measurement by implementing LiDAR-based point cloud acquisition. This dimensional enhancement provides comprehensive 3D spatial information about patient anatomy and position, enabling more accurate positioning and motion detection while maintaining workflow efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If continuous monitoring is performed to detect patient motion, then reliability is improved, but use of energy increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotion detection accuracyVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic LiDAR scanning at controlled intervals during the CT acquisition process to detect patient motion. By performing measurements at specific time points rather than truly continuous monitoring, the system maintains reliable motion detection capability while managing energy consumption and processing requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 accurate 3D measurement and motion detection during CT scans, enhancing image quality and workflow efficiency by reducing the need for additional radiation and improving patient positioning.

Implementation Method 1

laser imaging, detection and ranging (LiDAR) scanning system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight: Light

Data Source

PatentUS12350084B2System and method for LiDAR guided auto gating in a CT imaging system
Publication Date: 2025.07.08 GE PRECISION HEALTHCARE LLC
  • US12350084B2 patent drawing
  • US12350084B2 patent drawing
  • US12350084B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An imaging system and method for using the imaging system are described. In one example, a method of creating representative position information of a patient during a medical imaging scan is provided. The method includes, prior to performing a medical imaging scan, performing initial LiDAR data acquisition to obtain baseline LiDAR data, performing segmentation of the baseline LiDAR data, wherein the baseline LiDAR data includes a three-dimensional (3D) point cloud model, performing continuous LiDAR data acquisition to obtain continuous LiDAR data, which includes a real-time 3D point cloud model, and comparing the baseline LiDAR data with the continuous LiDAR data to detect motion of a patient.