Two-Point Rectangular Cropping for X-Ray Image Editing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing x-ray image editing systems face difficulties in restoring a rectangular viewing region after an operator inadvertently converts it into an irregular quadrilateral using the eight-point cropping function.

Innovation Solution

A method is introduced that allows operators to define a viewing region by selecting only two points on the electronic display, which automatically forms a rectangular viewing region, thereby deactivating the eight-point cropping interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the eight-point cropping function is used to adjust the viewing region, then the operator can modify the cropping area, but the rectangle may become an irregular quadrilateral that is difficult to restore to a preferred rectangular shape

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecropping area adjustmentVSAvoidrectangular shape restoration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of allowing free dragging of all eight points that may create irregular quadrilaterals, the system inverts the approach by providing a dedicated two-point rectangular cropping mode. This mode uses only two diagonal points to define the rectangle, eliminating the possibility of creating irregular shapes while maintaining cropping functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The cropping function is segmented into two distinct modes: the traditional eight-point mode for flexible adjustment and a new two-point mode specifically for creating perfect rectangles. This segmentation allows operators to choose the appropriate mode based on their needs, preventing the shape distortion problem in the two-point mode while retaining the flexibility of the eight-point mode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the eight-point cropping interface is activated, then comprehensive cropping control is available, but the interface complexity increases and operation becomes more time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecropping control flexibilityVSAvoidinterface complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cropping system provides multi-functionality by incorporating both the eight-point cropping interface and the two-point rectangular cropping interface within the same system. This allows the system to adapt to different operational needs: use the two-point mode for quick rectangular selections and the eight-point mode for complex, irregular cropping requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

For situations where full eight-point control is not needed, the system offers a partial action mode with only two points. This reduces the complexity and time required for operations where simple rectangular cropping suffices, while still providing the option for complete eight-point control when necessary.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Productivity

If traditional cropping methods are used, then operators can adjust viewing regions, but the process is time-consuming and may require multiple steps to restore rectangular shapes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage cropping efficiencyVSAvoidtime to restore rectangular shape
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The two-point rectangular cropping mode performs preliminary action by directly creating a perfect rectangle in a single operation. This prevents the need for subsequent restoration steps that would be required if the eight-point mode accidentally created an irregular quadrilateral, thereby saving time and improving efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20250130702A1Image cropping
Publication Date: 2025.04.24 CARESTREAM HEALTH INC
  • US20250130702A1 patent drawing
  • US20250130702A1 patent drawing
  • US20250130702A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of defining a viewing region on an electronic display is performed by selecting only two points on the display and forming the viewing region such that the selected two points are located on a border of the viewing region. The selected two points may be configured to be located at opposite corners of a rectangular viewing region.