Automated X-Ray Collimation via Computer Vision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for reducing spatial ionizing radiation dose in x-ray imaging are time-consuming and complex, relying on manual collimator adjustments, which disrupt clinical workflow and are not user-independent.
Innovation Solution
The use of computer vision techniques to detect objects of interest, predict their location, and autonomously modify the x-ray beam to image the predicted location, reducing the spatial ionizing radiation dose exposed to patients without the complexity of manual collimator adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If manual collimator adjustments are used to reduce spatial ionizing radiation dose, then the radiation dose to the patient is reduced, but the system operation becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the object of interest, predicting its location, and adjusting the collimator positions without requiring manual user intervention. The computer vision system and automated control mechanisms enable the system to service itself, eliminating the time-consuming and complex manual adjustments while maintaining reduced radiation dose.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical adjustment of collimators is replaced with an automated system using computer vision techniques and electronic control. The mechanical system that requires manual operation is substituted with an automated imaging system that detects objects, predicts locations, and mechanically adjusts collimators automatically, thereby reducing operational complexity and time.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If greater flexibility in collimation is provided to reduce radiation dose, then the radiation dose is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated imaging system performs multiple functions: detecting objects of interest, predicting their locations, determining collimator positions, and controlling the x-ray beam. This multi-functional system replaces the need for complex manual collimator operations, providing greater flexibility in collimation while maintaining manageable system complexity through integration of these functions into a unified automated process.
Solution Approach 2:
The computer vision system acts as an intermediary between the object of interest and the collimator control system. It detects the object, predicts its location, and translates this information into appropriate collimator positioning commands. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system complexity by automating the intermediate steps that would otherwise require complex manual coordination.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If manual collimator adjustment is used to achieve proper imaging, then the radiation dose is reduced, but the productivity and speed of imaging procedures decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting the object of interest and predicting its future location before the actual imaging occurs. This advance preparation allows the collimators to be pre-positioned for the predicted location, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual adjustments during the imaging procedure itself, thereby maintaining both reduced radiation dose and high imaging speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from computer vision detection and prediction to continuously adjust collimator positions. By monitoring the object's location and predicting its movement, the system provides real-time feedback control that automatically optimizes collimator positioning, enabling fast imaging procedures with reduced radiation dose without requiring manual intervention at each step.
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
This approach allows for efficient and automated reduction of ionizing radiation dose, improving the usability and speed of x-ray imaging procedures while maintaining effective imaging quality.
Implementation Method 1
Fluoroscopic images and DynaCT are generated using X-rays which are a form of ionizing radiation
Implementation Method 2
conventional systems achieve a reduction of spatial ionizing radiation dose by allowing for manual alteration of collimator positions
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus for obtaining a sequence of x-ray images are disclosed. An object of interest in a first x-ray image is detected and an area of interest, based on a predicted motion of the object of interest, is determined. A second x-ray image of the area of interest is acquired using spatial x-ray modification to control an x-ray to pass through a portion of a patient corresponding to the area of interest.