Self-Calibrating X-Ray Sensor with Fiducial Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable and mobile digital X-ray imaging systems face challenges in geometric calibration due to manual positioning of the X-ray source and detector, leading to suboptimal image quality and the need for frequent recalibration, especially in dynamic environments like bedridden patient imaging, without compromising image quality or mechanical integrity.
Innovation Solution
A self-calibrating position sensor system using radio-opaque fiducials and high-resolution sensor elements that automatically determine the relative position of the X-ray source to the detector, integrated into the imaging apparatus for real-time geometric calibration during image acquisition, ensuring accurate spatial coordinates without compromising image quality or mechanical integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual positioning of detector and X-ray source is used in portable imaging systems, then adaptability to different patient positions is improved, but geometric calibration accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration device performs self-calibration by using its own fiducial markers as the imaging target. The sensor element detects the fiducials, and the processor automatically calculates relative position data without requiring manual intervention or separate calibration procedures, enabling the system to self-correct geometric inaccuracies arising from manual positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning and calibration procedures with an automated optical/electronic system. The sensor element captures images of fiducial markers, and the processor computes geometric relationships through image processing algorithms, substituting mechanical calibration methods with computational geometry approaches
2Measurement precision
If separate geometric calibration is performed for each imaging exam, then image quality is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration process is merged with the normal image acquisition sequence. The same sensor element used for detecting patient anatomy also detects fiducial markers for calibration purposes. The processor simultaneously processes both calibration data and imaging data, combining two previously separate operations into one unified workflow
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration device is pre-positioned on the detector before patient imaging begins. Fiducial markers are pre-attached to the calibration device, so that when the X-ray source activates, both calibration and imaging data are captured in the same exposure, eliminating the need for separate calibration exposures
3Measurement precision
If calibration apparatus is added to portable imaging system, then geometric calibration capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor element serves dual purposes: it detects both fiducial markers for calibration and patient anatomy for diagnostic imaging. The processor handles both calibration calculations and imaging processing. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate calibration hardware, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining calibration capability
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration device is nested on the detector assembly, with fiducial markers attached to the calibration device that sits on top of the detector. The sensor element is coupled to the detector and positioned to detect both the fiducials and patient anatomy. This nested arrangement integrates calibration functionality within the existing detector structure rather than adding separate external calibration equipment
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
Enables precise geometric calibration of X-ray imaging systems, improving image quality and reducing the need for frequent recalibration, while maintaining the mechanical integrity and protective features of the detector, thus enhancing the usability and safety of portable radiographic imaging.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor element that is coupled to the radio-translucent body and that is spaced apart from the one or more fiducials and is energizable to acquire image content during receipt of exposure energy from an X-ray source
Implementation Method 2
one or more fiducials formed of radio-opaque material
Data Source
AI summary
A position sensor has one or more fiducials formed of radio-opaque material and mounted along a surface of a radio-translucent body. A sensor element is coupled to the radio-translucent body and is spaced apart from the one or more fiducials and is energizable to acquire image content during receipt of exposure energy from an X-ray source to the position sensor. The sensor element is in signal communication with a processor and is energizable to generate data that is indicative of a relative position of the X-ray source. A radio-opaque covering is coupled against an outer surface of the radio-translucent body.