X-ray Diagnostic Apparatus Camera-Based Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray diagnostic apparatuses require precise positioning of subjects, which can be burdensome for individuals with pain or physical disabilities, limiting their ability to maintain the necessary posture for effective imaging.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray diagnostic apparatus that includes an imaging unit with an X-ray tube and detector, a protocol obtainment unit, a camera for capturing images, and a determination unit to assess geometric alignment between the subject and the apparatus, allowing for adjustments to ensure executable examination items without physically straining the subject, by moving the X-ray tube or detector to align with the prescribed geometric information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the subject is positioned according to prescribed positioning, then the imaging quality is improved, but the subject experiences physical burden
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring the subject to move into a prescribed position, the system inverts the approach by moving the imaging apparatus (X-ray tube and detector) to match the subject's actual position. The determination unit compares prescribed geometric information with actual geometric information captured by the camera, and when they differ, the movement control unit adjusts the apparatus position to match the actual position, thereby eliminating the need for the subject to strain themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by using the camera to capture the actual position of the subject, comparing it with the prescribed position, and using this information to adjust the apparatus. The determination unit continuously monitors whether the first geometric information (prescribed) matches the second geometric information (actual), and provides feedback through the movement control unit to correct any discrepancies, ensuring imaging quality without physical burden on the subject.
2Ease of operation
If the imaging apparatus is moved to match actual position, then the physical burden on subject is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera is integrated into the imaging apparatus to serve multiple functions: it captures images for positioning purposes, provides geometric information for comparison, and enables automatic positioning adjustment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate positioning equipment and manual measurement processes, thereby managing device complexity while achieving the goal of reducing physical burden on the subject.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically comparing the prescribed and actual geometric information and adjusting its own position without requiring external intervention or manual positioning by the subject. The determination unit and movement control unit work autonomously to align the imaging apparatus with the subject's actual position, reducing the complexity of manual positioning procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the apparatus position is adjusted based on camera image, then the examination becomes executable for difficult-to-position subjects, but the measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The camera serves as an intermediary device that captures the actual geometric information of the subject's position. Instead of directly measuring or assuming the subject's position, the camera provides visual data that the determination unit processes to compare with prescribed positioning. This intermediary approach enables the system to adapt to various subject positions while maintaining measurement precision through automated image analysis.
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 X-ray imaging without placing physical burdens on subjects, allowing for effective examination even when precise positioning is challenging, by determining and adjusting the apparatus' position based on captured images, thus facilitating safer and more efficient imaging procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray tube configured to generate an X ray
Implementation Method 2
an X-ray detector configured to detect an X ray that has been emitted from the X-ray tube and passed through a subject
Data Source
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AI summary
An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes an imaging apparatus including an X-ray tube for generating an X ray and an X-ray detector for detecting an X ray emitted from the X-ray tube and passed through a subject. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus further includes a first obtainment unit (245) for obtaining an examination protocol including an imaging condition corresponding to an examination; a second obtainment unit (246) for obtaining a camera image in which the subject has been captured; and a determination unit (248) for determining whether an examination item corresponding to the examination protocol is executable based on first and second geometric information, the first geometric information including a geometric positional relation between the subject and the imaging apparatus associated with the examination protocol, and the second geometric information including a geometric positional relation between the subject and the imaging apparatus detected based on the camera image.