Automated MRI Isocenter Determination via 3D Patient Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional MRI device preparation is time-consuming due to manual alignment and data entry requirements, necessitating a more efficient method to determine the isocenter for imaging scans.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing multiple sensors to capture patient data, generating a model of the patient, and automatically determining the isocenter for the imaging scan, allowing for pre-scan alignment and reducing manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If manual alignment and data entry are used to determine isocenter, then operator control and precision are maintained, but preparation time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary scanning and captures patient body data before the actual MRI scan. Sensors record dimensional information and generate a 3D model in advance, allowing automatic isocenter calculation to be prepared beforehand. This preliminary data collection and processing eliminates the need for time-consuming manual measurements and alignment during the actual scan preparation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a 3D digital model (copy) of the patient's body based on sensor data. This virtual model replicates the patient's anatomical dimensions and surface features, allowing the computer to calculate the isocenter on the model without requiring direct manual measurement of the actual patient. The copy enables automated processing while preserving anatomical accuracy.
2Productivity
If automated sensor-based alignment is used, then preparation time is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed to perform multiple functions: capturing patient dimensional data, generating 3D body models, and providing information for isocenter calculation. By consolidating these functions into a single integrated system, the patent reduces overall device complexity despite the advanced capabilities required for automated alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The 3D body model serves as an intermediary between the physical patient and the MRI scanning system. The model translates complex patient anatomy into a simplified digital representation that the computer can process automatically. This intermediary layer enables automated isocenter determination without requiring direct complex interactions between sensors and the MRI system.
3Measurement precision
If manual visual identification of patient alignment is used, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but operator workload and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual visual identification and physical measurement with an automated optical sensing system. Sensors capture patient body contours and dimensions, and a computer algorithm automatically calculates the isocenter based on this data. This substitution eliminates the need for operators to perform manual visual alignment while maintaining or improving measurement precision through consistent, repeatable automated calculations.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method determines an isocenter for an imaging scan. The method includes receiving, by a control panel, patient data generated by at least one sensor, the patient data corresponding to dimensions of a body of a patient. The method includes generating, by the control panel, model data as a function of the patient data, the model data representing the body of the patient. The method includes receiving, by the control panel, a target location on the model data, the target location corresponding to a desired position on the body of the patient for performing the imaging scan. The method includes determining, by the control panel, an isocenter for the imaging scan as a function of the target location.