X-ray C-arm Angle Setting with Spatial Zone Visualization

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Solution Overview

Problem

In transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures, the existing methods for setting the angle of the C-arm in X-ray diagnostic apparatuses are cumbersome due to the lack of consideration for non-motion areas and interference zones, leading to decreased operability.

Innovation Solution

The X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes a graph generating unit that reconstructs three-dimensional images from two-dimensional images to provide angle information for optimal C-arm positioning, and a display controller that visualizes non-motion areas and interference zones, allowing operators to determine reachable angles and minimize C-arm movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the angle of the C-arm is set using conventional methods (CAAS A-Valve), then the aortic valve can be observed in the vertical direction, but the operability of the C-arm setting degrades due to lack of consideration for non-motion areas and interference zones

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveangle information accuracyVSAvoidC-arm setting operability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from providing only angular information (2D parameter) to providing spatially-aware guidance by dividing the examination space into motion and non-motion areas (adding spatial dimensionality). This allows operators to visualize the C-arm's reachable zones and interference areas, making angle setting more intuitive and operationally feasible without sacrificing angular precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary spatial model (division into motion and non-motion areas) that mediates between the abstract angular information and the physical C-arm positioning. This intermediary representation helps operators understand the relationship between desired angles and actual C-arm reachability, improving operability while maintaining measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If the C-arm is moved to achieve optimal angle setting, then the aortic valve observation quality improves, but the complexity of angle setting increases and C-arm movement is excessive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaortic valve observation qualityVSAvoidangle setting complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary spatial analysis by dividing the examination space into motion and non-motion areas before C-arm positioning. This preliminary action allows operators to plan the most efficient path to the optimal angle, reducing unnecessary C-arm movements and simplifying the angle setting process while maintaining observation quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by creating a spatially differentiated model where different regions of the examination space have different properties (motion areas vs. non-motion areas). This localized information helps operators make informed decisions about C-arm positioning with minimal movement, reducing complexity while preserving the ability to achieve high-quality aortic valve observation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9259202B2X-ray diagnostic apparatus
Publication Date: 2016.02.16 TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYST CORP
  • US9259202B2 patent drawing
  • US9259202B2 patent drawing
  • US9259202B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes a generating unit and a display controller. The generating unit generates a diagram illustrating the angle information of an arm. The display controller performs display control to visualize, together with the diagram generated by the generating unit, at least one of information showing the status of the arm when the arm is at an angle illustrated in the diagram and information showing the status of a subject to be imaged when the arm is at the angle illustrated in the diagram.