X-ray Positioning Guidance Using 3D Range Sensor Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inefficient patient positioning during x-ray imaging often results in poor-quality images and unnecessary radiation exposure, particularly when conducted by inexperienced operators who struggle to achieve proper alignment on the first attempt.
Innovation Solution
A system combining an x-ray emitter with a three-dimensional range sensor and a processor that generates virtual maps and reference envelopes to guide operators in positioning body parts correctly, ensuring alignment with selected reference views and preventing unnecessary x-ray exposure by providing real-time feedback on positioning accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual positioning methods are used by inexperienced operators, then the operation process is simple, but the positioning accuracy deteriorates resulting in poor-quality images
Solution Approach 1:
A three-dimensional range sensor acts as an intermediary between the operator and the x-ray imaging system. The sensor captures spatial data of the body part and operator position, converts it into virtual map representations, and provides automated guidance feedback. This intermediary system handles the complex measurement and analysis tasks, allowing inexperienced operators to achieve expert-level positioning accuracy without requiring extensive training or manual skill.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning methods with an automated optical/electronic measurement system. Instead of relying on operators to visually estimate and manually adjust body part positioning, the system uses range sensors to automatically capture three-dimensional spatial data, generate virtual maps, and provide real-time feedback. This substitution of mechanical manual adjustment with electronic measurement and automated guidance dramatically improves positioning precision while reducing the skill requirement for operators.
2Measurement precision
If multiple x-ray attempts are made to achieve proper positioning, then the positioning accuracy improves, but the radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary positioning verification using the range sensor and virtual map technology before the actual x-ray exposure. By capturing three-dimensional spatial data and comparing it against reference envelopes in advance, the system ensures proper positioning is achieved prior to imaging. This preliminary check using non-ionizing optical measurement prevents the need for repeated x-ray attempts, thereby eliminating unnecessary radiation exposure while maintaining high positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a real-time feedback system that provides immediate guidance to operators during the positioning process. The range sensor continuously monitors body part position and operator location, compares the virtual map with reference envelopes, and delivers instant feedback on positioning accuracy. This feedback loop allows operators to make immediate adjustments without taking test x-rays, ensuring correct positioning is achieved on the first attempt and preventing multiple radiation exposures.
3Measurement precision
If automated positioning guidance is implemented, then the positioning accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The range sensor system serves multiple functions within a single integrated unit: it captures three-dimensional spatial data of body parts, tracks operator position, generates virtual maps, performs envelope comparisons, and provides guidance feedback. By consolidating these multiple positioning-related functions into one multi-functional device, the system achieves high positioning accuracy without proportionally increasing overall system complexity. The single sensor unit replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate devices working in coordination.
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 ensures high-quality, properly positioned x-ray images on the first attempt, reducing patient radiation exposure and improving diagnostic readability by providing accurate positioning guidance through virtual maps and real-time feedback.
Implementation Method 1
The processor is in communication with the range sensor and configured to use data from the range sensor to generate a virtual map that includes a body part within the field of view of the range sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A system for assisting an x-ray operator with properly positioning a patient's body part to be x-rayed. The system uses a range sensor supported on an x-ray emitter to collect data about the patient's body part to be x-rayed. The collected data is transmitted to a processor and used to create a mapped envelope of the patient's body part. The processor compares the mapped envelope to a selected reference envelope. If the processor determines that the mapped envelope is not fully contained within the reference envelope, the processor will provide the x-ray operator with a negative notification, indicating that the patient's body part needs to be adjusted. If the processor determines that the mapped envelope is fully contained within the reference envelope, the processor will provide the x-ray operator with a positive notification, indicating the patient's body part is ready to be x-rayed.