Predicted X-Ray Positioning for Accurate Anatomical Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

In X-ray image diagnosis, accurately imaging a desired anatomical part is challenging due to variations in user experience, leading to improper positioning and increased radiation exposure, especially in cases like fracture follow-up observations where correct orientation is crucial.

Innovation Solution

An X-ray diagnostic apparatus equipped with an X-ray tube, detector, image sensor, and processing circuitry that uses a human body model and imaging geometry to generate a predicted X-ray image, assisting in accurate positioning without additional radiation by displaying a predicted image for adjustment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If adjustment of object positioning is performed during preliminary imaging or X-ray fluoroscopy to achieve clinically appropriate positioning, then imaging accuracy is improved, but radiation exposure increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging accuracyVSAvoidradiation exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual copy of the patient's anatomy using a human body model that is registered with the actual patient data. This virtual model allows operators to predict X-ray images and adjust positioning without exposing the patient to additional radiation, thereby resolving the contradiction between achieving accurate positioning and minimizing radiation exposure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary positioning adjustments by generating predicted X-ray images from the registered human body model before actual X-ray imaging is performed. This allows operators to optimize positioning in advance using non-radiative virtual simulations, eliminating the need for multiple radiative trial shots to achieve correct positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Object-affected harmful factors

If camera image with superimposed ideal positioning outline is used to prompt object positioning, then radiation exposure is reduced, but imaging accuracy cannot be guaranteed due to inability to predict actual X-ray image appearance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveradiation exposureVSAvoidimaging accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using a simple camera image with superimposed outline, the patent generates a predicted X-ray image that is a true virtual copy of what the actual X-ray imaging will produce. This predicted image accurately reflects how the anatomy will appear in the actual X-ray, allowing operators to assess positioning accuracy without additional radiation exposure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides feedback by displaying the predicted X-ray image that shows exactly how the current positioning will appear in the actual imaging. This accurate feedback loop allows operators to make informed positioning adjustments based on realistic predictions, ensuring both radiation reduction and imaging accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If re-imaging is performed to achieve desired imaging quality when positioning is incorrect, then imaging accuracy is improved, but time consumption and productivity decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging accuracyVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary positioning verification by generating predicted X-ray images before actual imaging is performed. This preliminary check allows operators to confirm correct positioning in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming re-imaging and thereby improving workflow efficiency while maintaining imaging quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The predicted X-ray image provides immediate feedback on positioning accuracy before actual imaging occurs. This feedback mechanism allows operators to correct positioning issues proactively, preventing the need for multiple imaging attempts and reducing overall time consumption while ensuring imaging accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Reduces the need for re-imaging by allowing users to adjust positioning based on a predicted X-ray image, enhancing accuracy and reducing radiation exposure.

Implementation Method 1

an X-ray tube configured to irradiate an imaging part of an object with X-rays

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray generation: X-Ray

Implementation Method 2

an X-ray detector configured to detect the X-rays

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray detection: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS12569211B2X-ray diagnostic apparatus and image processing method
Publication Date: 2026.03.10 CANON MEDICAL SYST CORP
  • US12569211B2 patent drawing
  • US12569211B2 patent drawing
  • US12569211B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In one embodiment, an X-ray diagnostic apparatus comprising: an X-ray tube configured to irradiate an imaging part of an object with X-rays; an X-ray detector configured to detect the X-rays; an image sensor configured to image the object; and processing circuitry configured to acquire: a human body model; image data from the image sensor; and imaging geometry information, detect positioning of the object from the image data, set the human body model based on detected positioning of the object, generate a predicted X-ray image that is predicted to be detected by the X-ray detector, by using the set human body model and the imaging geometry information, and display the predicted X-ray image.