Vision-Based Patient Positioning System for Medical Imaging

The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning operations with an automated vision-based system. Cameras capture images of the patient and positioning markers, image processing algorithms automatically identify positions and orientations, and the system generates imaging protocols without manual intervention. This substitution of mechanical/manual operations with optical and computational systems resolves the contradiction by achieving high positioning accuracy through automated image analysis rather than simple manual equipment.

The patent uses visual copying of patient anatomy through camera images and positioning markers. Instead of direct manual measurement, the system creates visual replicas (images) of the patient's body surface and anatomical features, then analyzes these copies to determine precise positioning. This allows accurate measurement and positioning without requiring complex physical contact or manual manipulation.

The patent implements continuous real-time monitoring during the imaging session. Cameras continuously capture images, and the system continuously processes these images to track patient position changes. This continuous automated monitoring eliminates the need for intermittent manual checks and updates, maintaining imaging efficiency while reducing the time lost to positioning adjustments and minimizing patient discomfort from repeated repositioning.

The system performs self-monitoring and self-adjustment of positioning information. The automated vision system independently detects patient position changes and generates updated imaging protocols without requiring operator intervention. This self-service capability eliminates the time-consuming manual update process while maintaining high productivity through continuous automated operation.