Rotating Collimator for X-ray Sensor Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray imaging systems face challenges in reliably determining the position of elements equipped with sensors, particularly due to disturbances in inertial sensors used for calibration, which can affect the accuracy and reliability of spatial localization during interventional imaging and calibration processes.
Innovation Solution
A rotating collimator with a disk-shaped support featuring opaque and radiolucent slots is used to accurately determine the position of X-ray sensors by alternately masking and revealing the X-ray source, allowing for precise estimation while minimizing X-ray dose exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If markers are used to determine positioning in fluoroscopy system, then position determination is enabled, but the markers interfere with the final image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the positioning function from visual markers and transfers it to an invisible electromagnetic field-based system. The RFID tags and reading devices enable position determination without any physical markers that would interfere with the fluoroscopy image, thus removing the harmful interference while preserving the measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary electromagnetic field system between the patient and the imaging system. RFID tags embedded in the patient and reading devices positioned on the imaging equipment communicate through electromagnetic fields to determine position, avoiding direct visual markers that would appear on the fluoroscopy image and cause interference.
2Measurement precision
If inertial sensors are used for calibration, then position determination is achieved, but sensor interference and reliability problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical inertial sensor system with an electromagnetic field-based RFID positioning system. Instead of using accelerometers and gyroscopes that are subject to interference and reliability issues, the system uses RFID tags and reading devices that communicate through electromagnetic fields, providing a more reliable calibration mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs RFID tags that can be easily replaced or repositioned on the imaging equipment. These tags are simpler, more reliable, and can be quickly changed if needed, unlike complex inertial sensor systems that are difficult to calibrate and replace.
3Measurement precision
If X-ray beams are used for position determination, then accurate positioning is achieved, but radiation dose to patient increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the position determination function from the X-ray imaging beam and separates it into an independent RFID electromagnetic field system. The RFID tags and reading devices determine position using electromagnetic fields rather than X-rays, eliminating the need for additional radiation exposure while maintaining accurate positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary RFID electromagnetic field system that operates independently of the X-ray beam. This intermediary system enables position determination without requiring the patient to be exposed to additional radiation, as the RFID communication occurs at radio frequencies that are safe for medical use.
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
The solution enables reliable and accurate positioning of X-ray sensors and imaging systems, reducing radiation exposure and improving the reliability of spatial localization and calibration processes, thereby enhancing the precision of X-ray imaging.
Implementation Method 1
the support comprising a region opaque to X-rays, this opaque region being crossed by at least a first slit and at least a second slit, the first slit and the second slit being transparent to X-rays
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 3
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
The invention relates to an X-ray imaging device including a rotary collimator having a region (22) which is opaque to X-rays, a first slot (24) and a second slot (26), which are transparent to X-rays and extend in two different directions, passing through said opaque region, the collimator making it possible to determine the position of an element provided with X-ray sensors in an imaging system.