X-ray source automatic positioning via optical segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for positioning an X-ray source in medical X-ray systems are imprecise due to reliance on visual estimation, leading to inaccuracies and reduced image quality, especially when the X-ray detector is freely positionable and not directly visible to the user.
Innovation Solution
A method using segmentation and machine learning algorithms to automatically position the X-ray source by determining the examination region, focal point, and aperture size through optical position determination systems, including 3D cameras and angle sensors, ensuring precise alignment with the X-ray detector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If visual estimation is used to position the X-ray source, then the user can operate the system with simple equipment, but the positioning accuracy deteriorates leading to reduced image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual estimation method with an automated optical position determination system. The system uses optical sensors and cameras to detect the position and orientation of the examination object and X-ray detector, then automatically calculates and positions the X-ray source focal point, eliminating reliance on user visual estimation and improving positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automatic self-positioning of the X-ray source by using the optical position determination system to detect examination object characteristics and autonomously determine the optimal focal point position and aperture size, without requiring manual intervention for positioning decisions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the X-ray detector is freely positionable, then the system gains flexibility in examination positioning, but the alignment precision between X-ray source and detector deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the optical position determination system continuously monitors the position and orientation of both the examination object and the freely positionable X-ray detector. This information feeds back to the control system, which automatically adjusts the X-ray source position and aperture settings to maintain precise alignment with the detector, regardless of detector placement flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts to the freely positionable detector by using real-time optical detection data to recalculate and reposition the X-ray source focal point and aperture size, allowing the system to maintain precision alignment while accommodating various detector positions and orientations.
3Ease of operation
If the user stands to the side of the patient for direct view, then the user can visually assess positioning, but the positioning accuracy deteriorates due to limited viewing angle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional visual estimation by the user to three-dimensional spatial detection using the optical position determination system. The system captures spatial coordinates and orientation data of the examination object and detector from multiple angles, enabling precise positioning calculations that are not limited by the user's physical viewing position.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method (100) for automatically positioning an X-ray source (3) of a medical X-ray system with a mobile X-ray detector (5) comprising the steps: a. Determining (101) an examination region (7) of the examination object (20), b. Determining (102) a position and orientation of the examination object and the examination region by means of an optical positioning system, c. Localizing (103) the examination region, d. Determining (104) a point of impact (9) of the central beam (4) of the X-ray source and an aperture size of the X-ray source based on the localized examination region, and e. Automatically positioning (105) the X-ray source based on the point of impact and the aperture size.