Multi-Source Single-Detector X-Ray System for Markerless 3D Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical image registration methods for aligning 3D volumetric images with 2D radiography or fluoroscopy projection images are limited in accuracy due to lack of depth resolution, requiring multiple projections or bulky systems, and often rely on external tracking equipment.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using a multiple-source, single-detector configuration for acquiring 3D and 2D images, where a primary and auxiliary x-ray source are integrated on a common platform with a single detector, enabling automatic 3D/2D registration without markers, allowing for accurate 3D localization using iterative numerical optimization to maximize image similarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple projections are used to improve 3D localization accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple x-ray sources (primary and at least one auxiliary source) onto a single detector platform, merging what would traditionally be separate imaging systems into one integrated device. This allows acquisition of multiple projection images from different angles simultaneously or sequentially without requiring multiple separate imaging systems, thereby improving 3D localization accuracy while controlling device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single detector is designed to receive radiation from multiple sources, making it a multi-functional component that can capture projection images from different angular positions. This universal detector design eliminates the need for multiple specialized detectors or complex mechanical positioning systems, achieving enhanced measurement precision through a streamlined device architecture.
2Measurement precision
If external tracking equipment is used to improve registration accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the imaging function and tracking function into a single system. The multiple x-ray sources and single detector combination serves both as the imaging modality and as the tracking reference system, eliminating the need for separate external tracking equipment such as optical cameras or electromagnetic sensors. This merging achieves accurate 3D-2D registration while simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system performs dual functions: it captures diagnostic projection images and simultaneously provides the reference data needed for 3D-2D registration. The same hardware components (multiple sources and single detector) that generate the medical images also generate the geometric reference frames, making the system universal and eliminating redundant external tracking devices.
3Measurement precision
If multiple detectors are used to improve 3D localization, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple detectors, the patent segments the radiation source into multiple sources positioned at different angles, while keeping a single detector. This segmentation approach achieves the same geometric diversity needed for 3D localization by varying the source positions rather than multiplying detectors, thereby maintaining measurement precision while reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional multi-detector approach by using multiple sources with a single detector. Rather than having one source illuminate multiple detectors from different angles, this configuration has multiple sources illuminating a single detector, achieving equivalent geometric information for 3D reconstruction but with reduced system complexity and lower cost.
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 provides precise and efficient 3D localization in medical imaging, reducing errors and the need for external tracking equipment, while maintaining high geometric accuracy and minimizing mechanical motion, thus enhancing surgical guidance.
Implementation Method 1
a primary source and at least one auxiliary source and one common detector for the primary and the auxiliary source
Data Source
AI summary
A method, an imaging apparatus and a computer readable medium are enabled for automatically registering medical images. The imaging apparatus may be an amended C-arm. The image acquisition apparatus has a primary x-ray source and at least one auxiliary x-ray source, a detector for receiving radiation of the primary and auxiliary x-ray source, and an interface to a registration unit. The registration unit computes a 3D/2D registration of a provided 3D image and at least two acquired 2D images. An output interface is configured to provide an output and to display the registered images on a monitor.