X-ray Detector Alignment System Using Computational Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile radiography/fluoroscopic imaging systems are cumbersome and expensive, lacking the ability to continuously determine the spatial location of the detector relative to the X-ray source, which can lead to misalignment and increased delays and costs, especially when imaging fragile or immobile patients.
Innovation Solution
A positioning system that allows continuous monitoring and alignment of the X-ray source with the portable detector within predetermined tolerances, featuring a radiation interlock switch to prevent radiation emission if alignment is not maintained, utilizing an alignment beam calibration system with a communication unit, processor, and memory to compare alignment instance images with calibration images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed mechanical C-arm is used to connect the radiation source and detector, then alignment stability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the fixed mechanical C-arm connection system with a software-based alignment monitoring system. The system uses a processor to continuously calculate the spatial location of the detector relative to the radiation source and determines alignment based on these calculations, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages while maintaining alignment stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors the spatial relationship between the radiation source and detector, compares the current alignment with predetermined tolerances, and provides real-time alignment information. This closed-loop feedback replaces the open-loop mechanical fixation approach.
2Ease of operation
If portable imaging systems are used to reduce patient transport, then patient convenience is improved, but alignment precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical alignment fixation with a computational alignment determination system. The processor continuously calculates spatial locations and determines alignment based on calculated positions, enabling precise alignment monitoring in portable systems without requiring rigid mechanical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-alignment verification by automatically calculating and determining alignment status without requiring external mechanical constraints. The imaging system monitors its own spatial relationship between source and detector, enabling portable operation with maintained alignment precision.
3Reliability
If continuous alignment monitoring is implemented, then alignment reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing processor serve multiple functions: it processes imaging data and simultaneously performs alignment determination by calculating spatial locations. This multi-functionality allows continuous alignment monitoring without adding separate dedicated hardware, thus improving reliability while minimizing complexity increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own computational resources to perform alignment monitoring without requiring external monitoring equipment. The processor leverages existing spatial data to determine alignment, enabling the system to self-monitor its alignment status without significant additional complexity.
4Productivity
If misalignment is not detected, then imaging speed is maintained, but image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback by continuously determining alignment status and providing immediate alignment information. This allows rapid detection of misalignment conditions without slowing down the imaging process, maintaining productivity while ensuring image quality through timely alignment verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs rapid alignment determinations that do not significantly delay the imaging workflow. By efficiently calculating spatial locations and determining alignment in real-time, the system quickly identifies misalignment conditions and allows operators to correct them, preventing image quality degradation without compromising imaging speed.
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
Facilitates easy alignment and maintenance of alignment between the X-ray source and detector, preventing radiation exposure if misalignment occurs, thus enhancing imaging efficiency and safety while reducing costs and patient inconvenience.
Implementation Method 1
The surface of the detector converts the radiation to light photons, which are sensed
Implementation Method 2
detect the presence of an overlap of the alignment instance image pixels' with the calibration image indicating that the detector and the radiation source are aligned
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a positioning system comprising at least a portable detector that enables users to continuously know the spatial location of a detector relative to an x-ray source so that it can be more easily aligned, and monitored for maintenance of alignment, with the portable detector within predetermined tolerances during procedures. In preferred embodiments, the invention further comprises a radiation interlock switch to prevent the emission of radiation in the event of the x-ray source and detector not being aligned within a predetermine tolerance.