Mammography Guide Light Projection for Breast Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
In mammography, variations in breast positioning between successive images lead to differences in the positions of affected areas and regions of interest, complicating image interpretation and reducing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A mammography apparatus that includes a guide information generator projecting guide light based on previous image data to assist in consistent breast positioning, using a guide light generation unit to emit guide light corresponding to the nipple position, image start position, and image end position, helping to reproduce the previous positioning during image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual positioning is used for breast placement, then the operator has flexibility in positioning, but positioning consistency between successive images deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent projects a guide image (copy of the previous mammography image) onto the pressing plate to show the exact position where the breast should be placed. This visual copy enables consistent reproduction of positioning while maintaining operator flexibility in adjusting the projection based on patient anatomy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a guide image projection system as an intermediary between the previous image data and the current positioning process. The projected guide image serves as a visual mediator that bridges past positioning information with current breast placement, ensuring consistency without direct manual measurement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If positioning varies between successive images, then different breast positions are captured, but the efficiency of image interpretation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary positioning by projecting the guide image before the actual mammography capture. This preliminary visual guidance ensures that the breast is positioned correctly from the start, preventing positioning variations that would later require time-consuming analysis and repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback from previous mammography images to generate guide images that are projected onto the pressing plate. This feedback loop allows the system to learn from past positioning and continuously improve positioning consistency, thereby enhancing interpretation efficiency without sacrificing adaptability.
3Measurement precision
If guide light projection is added to the mammography apparatus, then positioning accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the guide image projection function into the existing mammography apparatus, allowing the same device to serve multiple purposes: capturing mammography images and providing visual positioning guidance. This multi-functionality improves positioning accuracy without requiring a completely separate system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning measurement systems with a simpler optical projection system. Instead of using mechanical markers or complex measurement devices, the system uses projected guide images that are visually aligned with the pressing plate, achieving high positioning accuracy with minimal added complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a mammography apparatus includes an X-ray, an imaging stage, a pressing plate, a guide information generator, and an X-ray detection unit. The X-ray tube generates X-rays. The imaging stage supports a breast. The pressing plate presses the breast supported on the imaging stage. The guide information generator provides the imaging stage with guide information for guiding a placement position of the breast. The guide information is generated based on a nipple position, an image start position, and an image end position of a previous image of the breast. The X-ray detection unit generates X-ray projection data by detecting X-rays transmitted through the breast by an X-ray detector.