Volumetric Imaging Data Alignment via Cross-Correlation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing imaging technologies face challenges in aligning multiple volumetric sections of imaging data without introducing artifacts, particularly in CT, SPECT, and PET systems, due to mechanical errors and misalignment during data acquisition, which affects geometrical accuracy and image quality.

Innovation Solution

A method is introduced that chooses a primary and secondary volumetric section for alignment, determining z-axis and x,y-axis parameters to shift the secondary section into alignment with the primary section, using a matching filter and bilinear interpolation to correct for misalignment, allowing for robust and accurate registration even when the imaged subject shifts during acquisition.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If multiple volumetric sections are acquired during imaging, then complete imaging data is obtained, but misalignment and artifacts occur at section borders

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging data completenessVSAvoidsection alignment accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging data is divided into multiple volumetric sections that are processed and aligned separately. Each section is treated as an independent unit that can be individually positioned and oriented, allowing for precise control over alignment while maintaining complete imaging coverage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical alignment systems with image-based alignment methods. By using image data itself to determine alignment parameters through cross-correlation and optimization algorithms, the system eliminates mechanical errors and achieves sub-millimeter alignment accuracy without relying on physical positioning mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If alignment algorithms are applied to correct misalignment, then artifact elimination is achieved, but computational complexity and processing time increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvealignment accuracyVSAvoidalignment process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The alignment process is integrated into the imaging workflow and performed concurrently with data acquisition rather than as a separate post-processing step. By determining alignment parameters during or immediately after acquisition, the system reduces overall processing time and computational burden while maintaining high alignment accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Quantity of substance

If the imaged subject shifts position during acquisition, then complete anatomical coverage is achieved, but misalignment between sections occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging coverageVSAvoidposition accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses feedback from image data to continuously adjust and refine alignment parameters. By comparing overlapping regions between adjacent sections and iteratively optimizing alignment transforms, the system compensates for subject motion and maintains accurate positioning throughout the imaging process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP2513862B1Multi-section alignment of imaging data

Publication Date: 2020.01.15 KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS NV

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AI summary

A method of aligning multiple volumetric sections of imaging data is provided. The method comprises aligning a primary volumetric section and a secondary volumetric section which is adjacent to the primary volumetric imaging section, for moving the secondary volumetric section into alignment with the primary volumetric section. A related apparatus for performing the method is also provided.