X-ray Collimator Control via 3D Optical Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current x-ray imaging systems require significant time and manual effort for patient and system positioning, including collimation, which increases radiation exposure and reduces image quality due to inefficient collimation and alignment processes.
Innovation Solution
A control apparatus using 3D image data from sensors to automatically or semi-automatically adjust x-ray imager geometry and collimation based on patient anatomy, allowing for patient-specific and adaptive collimation and alignment without the need for markers, reducing radiation exposure and improving image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If manual positioning and collimation adjustment is used, then the system can be operated with simple equipment, but the time required for positioning and alignment increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs collimation and positioning adjustments using 3D sensor data without requiring manual intervention. The control apparatus autonomously computes anatomical landmarks from 3D image data and adjusts the x-ray imager geometry accordingly, enabling the system to serve itself rather than requiring continuous operator input for positioning tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment operations with an automated control system that uses 3D optical sensing and computational algorithms. Instead of operators physically adjusting collimators and positioning devices, the system uses sensors to capture 3D patient anatomy data and automatically computes and applies the appropriate positioning and collimation parameters.
2Measurement precision
If comprehensive manual adjustment is performed, then positioning accuracy can be improved, but the operational complexity and training requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control apparatus autonomously performs the complex task of computing anatomical landmarks and determining optimal collimation and positioning parameters from 3D sensor data. The system self-services by automatically translating raw 3D point cloud data into precise positioning commands without requiring operator expertise in radiological positioning techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces 3D optical sensing technology as an intermediary between the patient and the x-ray imager positioning system. The sensor captures detailed 3D surface geometry of the patient's anatomy, and the control apparatus processes this intermediate data to derive anatomical landmarks, serving as a mediator that bridges the gap between patient anatomy and imager positioning requirements.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional collimation methods are used, then the process can be completed with existing equipment, but radiation exposure to the patient increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary 3D scanning and anatomical landmark computation before the actual x-ray exposure. By capturing the patient's 3D anatomy data in advance using non-ionizing optical sensors and pre-computing the optimal collimation parameters based on detected anatomical features, the system prepares the precise positioning and collimation settings beforehand, ensuring minimal radiation exposure during the actual imaging process.
Solution Approach 2:
The control apparatus uses real-time feedback from 3D sensor data to continuously monitor and adjust collimation and positioning parameters. The system detects anatomical landmarks from 3D surface geometry and uses this feedback information to dynamically optimize the x-ray beam collimation, ensuring that radiation is directed only at the necessary anatomical regions while avoiding unnecessary exposure.
4Manufacturing precision
If precise anatomical alignment is achieved manually, then image quality improves, but the time required for setup increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual alignment operations with an automated system that uses 3D optical sensing and computational algorithms to achieve precise anatomical alignment. The control apparatus automatically computes anatomical landmarks from 3D sensor data and generates precise positioning commands for the x-ray imager, eliminating the time-consuming manual measurement and adjustment process while maintaining or improving alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital 3D copy of the patient's anatomical surface geometry using optical sensors before performing alignment. This 3D digital model serves as a replica of the patient's anatomy, allowing the control apparatus to compute anatomical landmarks and determine optimal positioning parameters from the digital copy rather than requiring direct manual measurement and alignment with the physical patient.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus (130) and method for automatically or semi-automatically controlling a collimator (COL) of an x-ray imager (100) to collimate imager (100)'s x-ray beam and adjusting an alignment of the x-ray imager (100) in respect of an object (PAT). The collimation and alignment operation is based on 3D image data (3DI) of the object (PAT) to be imaged. The 3D image data (3DI) is acquired by a sensor (S). The sensor (S) operates on non-ionizing radiation. The 3D image data (3DI) describes a shape in 3D of the object (PAT) and anatomic landmarks are derived therefrom to define a collimation window (W) for a region of interest (ROI). Based on the collimation window (W) the collimator (COL)'s setting and imager (100) alignment is adjusted accordingly.