3D X-Ray Device Display for Depth-Ambiguous Linear Structures

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing X-ray imaging systems struggle to accurately generate three-dimensional models of devices with linear structures due to the inability to determine the shape in the depth direction along the X-ray irradiation axis, leading to inaccurate reconstructions and potential deterioration of procedural accuracy.

Innovation Solution

An X-ray imaging system that includes a biplane imaging apparatus with two imaging units, capable of generating three-dimensional models based on X-ray images from two different angles, identifies parallel portions along the epipolar line to determine inaccurate shapes, and displays these inaccuracies for user recognition.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If three-dimensional model is generated by reconstructing from two X-ray images at different imaging angles, then three-dimensional visualization of device is achieved, but shape accuracy in depth direction deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshape accuracyVSAvoiddepth direction information
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses an epipolar line as an intermediary reference to identify and mark inaccurate portions in the three-dimensional model. The epipolar line represents the projection direction relationship between two imaging angles, allowing the system to detect where depth information is lost and visually indicate these regions to the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies color coding to different portions of the three-dimensional model based on their accuracy. Accurate portions are displayed in one color while inaccurate portions (where depth direction information is lost) are displayed in another color, enabling users to quickly identify and interpret the reliability of different model regions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

2Ease of operation

If device is positioned parallel to X-ray irradiation axis in one image, then imaging from that angle is simplified, but three-dimensional reconstruction accuracy deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging operationVSAvoidreconstruction accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent provides feedback to the user by visually marking inaccurate portions of the three-dimensional model with distinct colors. This feedback mechanism allows users to understand when reconstruction accuracy is compromised due to device positioning parallel to the X-ray irradiation axis, enabling them to adjust imaging angles or interpret results with appropriate caution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If two mutually different imaging angles are used, then three-dimensional model generation is enabled, but user perception of inaccurate shape increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethree-dimensional model accuracyVSAvoiduser perception of inaccuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses color coding to differentiate between accurate and inaccurate portions of the three-dimensional model. By displaying inaccurate portions in a distinct color, the system reduces user confusion and misperception by clearly indicating which regions should be interpreted with caution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Solution Approach 2:

The epipolar line serves as a visual intermediary that helps users understand the relationship between the two imaging angles and identifies where information is lost. This intermediary element mediates between the technical limitation of two-dimensional projection and the user's need for accurate three-dimensional perception.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

The system effectively suppresses the perception of inaccurate shapes by visually highlighting these areas, allowing for improved procedural accuracy by identifying and correcting potential discrepancies in the three-dimensional model.

Implementation Method 1

an imaging unit (2) equipped with an X-ray irradiation unit (21a, 22a) and an X-ray detection unit (21b, 22b), the X-ray irradiation unit being configured to irradiate a subject in which a device having a linear structure is placed inside a body of the subject, the X-ray detection unit being configured to detect X-rays transmitted through the subject

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray transmission and detection: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS12605217B2X-ray imaging system and device display method
Publication Date: 2026.04.21 SHIMADZU CORP
  • US12605217B2 patent drawing
  • US12605217B2 patent drawing
  • US12605217B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The X-ray imaging system generates a three-dimensional model of a device based on a first X-ray image and a second X-ray image. The X-ray imaging system determines an inaccurate portion of the shape in the three-dimensional model (81) by identifying a parallel portion extending along a direction parallel to the epipolar line, from the device having a linear structure. The X-ray imaging system displays the three-dimensional model and a display based on the determination result of the inaccurate portion of the shape in the three-dimensional model.