Optical Camera Volume Positioning Indicator for CT Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for positioning anatomy for computed tomography imaging, such as using positioning lights or scout X-ray images, are inaccurate and increase radiation dose, while optical camera systems provide poor quality images, leading to inefficiencies and increased patient exposure.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing at least two optical cameras to capture images of the anatomy from different directions, with a volume positioning indicator that enlarges on a display to guide the desired imaging volume, allowing precise positioning without additional radiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If positioning lights or scout X-ray images are used to guide imaging volume positioning, then the positioning process can be facilitated, but the radiation dose to the patient increases and positioning accuracy remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the X-ray-based scout imaging system with an optical camera-based visualization system. Optical cameras capture images of the patient's anatomy from multiple angles, and these images are displayed on a screen with an overlay indicating the planned imaging volume. This substitution eliminates the need for additional radiation-exposing scout images while providing adequate visual guidance for positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates visual copies of the patient's anatomy using optical cameras to generate images that are displayed on a monitor. These optical copies serve as a radiation-free alternative to X-ray scout images, allowing the operator to visualize the anatomy and positioning without exposing the patient to additional radiation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If optical cameras are used to capture anatomy images for positioning guidance, then radiation exposure is reduced, but image quality is insufficient for accurate positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging task into multiple segments by using several optical cameras positioned at different locations around the patient's head. Each camera captures images from its specific angle, and the system combines these segmented views to reconstruct a comprehensive three-dimensional representation of the anatomy, achieving both low radiation exposure and high positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional images to three-dimensional reconstruction by capturing images from multiple angles and synthesizing them into a volumetric representation. This dimensional enhancement allows accurate visualization of the anatomy's spatial relationships, enabling precise positioning guidance without requiring additional radiation.
3Measurement precision
If multiple optical cameras are used to capture images from different directions, then positioning accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the optical camera system with multi-functionality, where the same cameras serve both for capturing anatomical images and for providing real-time positioning feedback. The imaging and guidance functions are integrated into a single system, reducing overall device complexity despite using multiple cameras. The system processes images from all cameras to generate a unified three-dimensional model that serves dual purposes.
4Ease of operation
If the volume positioning indicator size is enlarged on display, then visibility and ease of positioning improve, but the indicator may not accurately represent the actual volume scale
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic volume positioning indicator that adapts its display characteristics based on the viewing context. The indicator's size and orientation are dynamically adjusted according to the camera angle and the anatomical structure being viewed, allowing it to remain clearly visible while maintaining accurate spatial relationships. The system recalculates the indicator's appearance in real-time as the patient or cameras move.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to positioning a volume to be imaged for computed tomography imaging. According to the invention, at least two optical cameras are used for taking a photo or for live imaging an anatomy from different directions. A volume positioning indicator the size of which is adjustable is shown in connection with these images, the volume positioning indicator indicating location of the volume within the area imaged by the cameras to get imaged by the computed tomography imaging apparatus.