X-ray Image Perspective Correction via Pose Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray images often suffer from perspective distortions due to the tilt of the detector relative to the central beam, which can necessitate retaking images, thereby increasing patient radiation exposure.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray image processing system that applies a perspective transformation to original X-ray images based on the relative detector pose and a point of interest, ensuring the detector is perpendicular to the X-ray beam at the point of interest, thereby minimizing perspective distortions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the detector is positioned to capture the anatomical structure, then the X-ray image is acquired, but perspective distortions occur due to detector tilt
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of physically adjusting detector positioning with a computational approach. A processing system applies perspective transformation algorithms to the acquired X-ray images, using detected anatomical landmarks and pose estimation to mathematically correct geometric distortions, thereby substituting mechanical precision requirements with computational correction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter space by estimating detector pose parameters (position and orientation relative to the X-ray source) and using these parameters to apply appropriate perspective transformation matrices. This allows the system to adaptively correct images based on actual geometric conditions without requiring physical repositioning
2Adaptability or versatility
If the detector is tilted to accommodate patient positioning, then flexibility in imaging is improved, but perspective distortions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables flexible detector positioning while maintaining image accuracy by substituting mechanical alignment requirements with computational correction. The system detects anatomical landmarks, estimates the detector pose, and applies perspective transformations, allowing the detector to be positioned flexibly without compromising geometric accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary detection of anatomical landmarks and estimation of detector pose before final image processing. This preliminary action allows the system to prepare the appropriate correction parameters in advance, ensuring that perspective distortions are systematically corrected regardless of the detector's flexible positioning
3Manufacturing precision
If an X-ray image is retaken to correct perspective distortions, then image quality is improved, but patient radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of perspective distortions into a beneficial correction process. By detecting the detector pose and applying perspective transformations, the system transforms distorted images into geometrically accurate images, eliminating the need for retakes and thereby converting a potential source of additional radiation exposure into a solution that prevents it
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the imaging system to self-correct perspective distortions through automated detection of anatomical landmarks, estimation of detector pose, and application of perspective transformations. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual intervention or image retakes, thereby preventing additional radiation exposure to patients
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an X-ray image processing system (4) comprising an X-ray image input interface (8), a computing unit (9) and an X-ray image output interface (11). The X-ray image input interface (8) is configured to receive original X-ray images taken by an X-ray imaging system (1) comprising an X-ray source (2) and an X-ray detector (3). The computing unit (9) is connected to the X-ray image input interface (8) and is configured to obtain at least one original X-ray image from the X-ray image input interface (8), obtain information relating to the relative detector pose of the X-ray detector (3) relative to the X-ray source (2) and obtain a point of interest (P) in the original X-ray image, wherein the point of interest (P) is an anatomical structure or a part within an anatomical structure. The computing unit (9) is further configured to apply a perspective transformation to the original X-ray image to obtain a transformed X-ray image, wherein the transformed X-ray image corresponds to a perspective where the X-ray detector (3) is perpendicular to an X-ray beam (6) from the X-ray source (2) to the point of interest (P). Finally, the X-ray image output interface (11) is configured to transmit the transformed X-ray image.