X-Ray Tube Support Auto-Positioning With RF and Optical Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray imaging systems face challenges in aligning the X-ray tube with the detector, especially when there is no detector support geometry, requiring manual adjustments that are cumbersome and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A positioning system utilizing a radio-frequency (RF) based localization system and an optical camera to facilitate automatic alignment, involving a two-step process: first using RF signals for approximate alignment and then optical camera for precise alignment, eliminating the need for manual adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual alignment is used when there is no detector support geometry, then alignment can be performed, but the process becomes extremely challenging and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated optical alignment system. The system uses an optical camera to capture images of alignment markers on the detector and support structure, then automatically calculates positioning parameters through image processing and coordinate transformation, eliminating the need for manual measurement and adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment system performs self-alignment by automatically capturing images, processing coordinates, calculating positioning parameters, and controlling the movement of the X-ray tube support structure. The system uses its own optical camera and processing capabilities to determine its position relative to the detector without requiring external manual intervention
2Measurement precision
If optical camera-based alignment is used, then alignment precision can be improved, but the camera must have direct view of landmarks which limits applicability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces alignment markers as intermediary objects that can be placed on surfaces where direct optical camera access is blocked. These markers serve as mediators between the camera and the actual alignment targets, allowing the system to calculate positions even when the camera cannot directly view the detector or support structure landmarks
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from requiring direct 2D visual access to achieving 3D spatial alignment by using markers positioned on multiple surfaces (floor, walls, ceiling). The optical camera captures 2D images of these markers, and through coordinate transformation and triangulation, the system calculates 3D positioning parameters, effectively adding a dimensional aspect to overcome line-of-sight limitations
3Reliability
If two-step alignment process is implemented (RF then optical), then alignment accuracy and reliability are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment system is segmented into two distinct functional modules: an RF-based localization module for obtaining initial position information, and an optical camera-based alignment module for precise alignment. Each module operates independently with its own sensors and processing logic, allowing the system to leverage the strengths of both approaches while maintaining modularity
Solution Approach 2:
The RF-based localization system performs preliminary positioning to bring the optical camera into proper range and orientation for capturing alignment markers. This preliminary action ensures that the subsequent optical alignment phase can proceed effectively, dividing the alignment task into preparatory and execution stages
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
Enables automatic and precise alignment of the X-ray tube with the detector, improving workflow efficiency by eliminating manual adjustments and ensuring accurate positioning in real-time.
Implementation Method 1
The RF-based localization system comprises a first RF device that is attachable to the X-ray detector, and a plurality of second RF devices that are arranged in a known geometric relationship to the X-ray tube and configured to use an RF signal to localize the first RF device
Implementation Method 2
the controller is configured to trigger the optical camera to acquire an image to localize the X-ray detector
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to medical imaging. In order to facilitate the alignment of an X-ray tube with respect to an X-ray detector, a positioning system (160) is provided for controlling an X-ray tube support system to align an X-ray tube with an X-ray detector. The positioning system comprises a radio frequency (RF) based localization system (170), an optical camera (180), and a controller (190). The RF-based localization system comprises a first RF device (172) that is attachable to the X-ray detector, and a plurality of second RF devices (174, 176, 178) that are arranged in a known geometric relationship to the X-ray tube (112) and configured to use an RF signal to localize the first RF device so as to provide first position information of the X-ray detector. The controller is configured to generate, based on the first position information of the X-ray detector, a first control signal that is usable for controlling the X-ray tube support system to move the X-ray tube to perform a first alignment of the X-ray tube with respect to the X-ray detector. After the first alignment, the controller is configured to trigger the optical camera to acquire an image to localize the X-ray detector so as to provide second position information of the X-ray detector, and to generate, based on the second position information of the X-ray detector, a second control signal that is usable for controlling the X-ray tube support system to move the X-ray tube to perform a second alignment of the X-ray tube with respect to the X-ray detector.