Projection Display for X-Ray Imaging Space Constraints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Interventional radiology suites face space constraints with multiple displays and equipment, requiring more intuitive and space-efficient operator interfaces that do not rely on direct physical contact for easier sterilization and improved ergonomics.
Innovation Solution
A projection display system that projects diagnostic and safety information onto the patient or x-ray table using compact projectors, integrated with range scanners to capture distance information, allowing for distortion reduction, automatic configuration, and touch-free operator input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If multiple displays and equipment are added to provide comprehensive diagnostic and safety information, then information availability to the operator is improved, but the operating room becomes more crowded and space constraints are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional displays mounted on walls or tables to three-dimensional projection directly onto the patient's body or surrounding surfaces. This dimensional change allows diagnostic and safety information to be displayed in the operator's field of view without occupying traditional display space, effectively resolving the contradiction between information availability and room space constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces projection surfaces (patient body, table, or surrounding surfaces) as intermediaries to carry diagnostic and safety information. Instead of requiring dedicated display devices that crowd the room, the information is projected onto these intermediary surfaces, allowing comprehensive information display without increasing the number of physical equipment pieces in the operating room.
2Ease of operation
If traditional physical contact operator interfaces are used, then ease of operation is improved, but sterilization difficulty and ergonomic constraints are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical touch interfaces with projection-based visual interfaces. Instead of requiring physical contact with controls that need sterilization, operators interact with projected information displays that can be positioned in the operator's field of view, eliminating the need for sterile-touch surfaces while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces projected visual information as an intermediary between the operator and the system controls. Rather than directly touching sterile surfaces, operators view and interact with information through projection, which serves as a non-contact intermediary that maintains both usability and sterilization requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional equipment and displays are introduced to improve operator interface capabilities, then interface functionality is improved, but device complexity and wiring requirements are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs projection technology that can serve multiple functions: displaying diagnostic information, safety alerts, operational controls, and feedback all through a single projection system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized displays and interfaces for each function, thereby reducing overall device complexity and wiring requirements while maintaining high interface functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple interface functions into a single projection system that can display various types of information (diagnostic, safety, control) on one or more projection surfaces. This consolidation reduces the number of separate devices and wiring connections needed compared to having dedicated displays and controls for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods are provided for projecting a display of information for an x-ray device. The display of information is projected on the patient, on the table 205 area or on a combination thereof. A compact projector 207 is provided to project the display of information on a previously unused region of the patient and table 207, and provides a source of diagnostic and safety information without further crowding the room. The projected display of information may be a system state, a patient state, a surgical tool position or another relevant image. A compact sensor or range scanner 209 may be employed to capture three-dimensional distance information in the x-ray system. The three-dimensional distance information may be used to reduce distortion in the projected image, selectively darken regions of the projected image, automatically configure the x-ray system, capture inputs from the operator and improve safety in the x-ray system.