SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMAGE PROCESSING

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The invention generally relates to the field of medical imaging and more particularly to system and method for performing image processing on an image.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Generally in an image processing system, an image is subjected to various image processing operations and each of the image processing operations is performed based on an image processing parameter set by the image processing system. More particularly, for an X-ray image, image processing parameters are set for obtaining an X-ray image suitable for diagnosis. Selection of the appropriate image processing parameters are important for carrying out effective diagnosis. However, it is very difficult to set such image processing parameters.

[0003] The image processing system relies on parameters like "Patient size" and "Anatomy" to determine the image processing parameters, which are to be used in processing the image. Typical patient sizes used are "Small Pediatric", "Medium Pediatric", "Large Pediatric", "Small Adult", "Medium Adult" and "Large Adult". Different image processing parameters are pre-determined and stored in the image processing system for each anatomy-patient size combination. The selection of the anatomy and the patient size is provided to the technician as a drop-down menu. An incorrectly selected patient size might result in a suboptimal image being generated. The emphasis on selecting the patient size is placed on the technician. Thus, this emphasis adds an additional step to the workflow for the technician.

[0004] Following the selection of the patient size and the anatomy of the patient to be imaged, the technician is also required to set up the imaging device for irradiation. This may involve moving the image detector to a desired position (below the anatomy of interest) manually which adds to the time that the technician needs to spend for the setup. The technician also needs to indicate the receptor that is being used (table/wallstand) by pressing the respective icon on the display screen.

[0005] Thus, one major limitation associated with existing imaging devices is that the devices rely heavily on user input for information such as patient size, receptor, anatomy, detector positioning etc. Each input required is presented to the user as a drop down menu, which the user is required to select. This is tedious, time consuming and error prone.

[0006] Hence there exists a need for an image processing method and system that is easy to use, increases turn around time and yields accurate results.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The above-mentioned shortcomings, disadvantages and problems are addressed herein which will be understood by reading and understanding the following specification.

[0008] In one embodiment, a method of performing imaging using an imaging device is provided. The method comprises steps of automatically selecting an image detector and providing the selection as a first input, automatically selecting a patient size and providing the selection as a second input, obtaining a selection for an anatomy to be imaged and providing the selection as a third input, acquiring one or more image processing parameters based at least in part on the information input, determining approximate location of the anatomy to be imaged based on the information input, auto positioning a radiation generator for generating radiation based on the determined location of the anatomy, sensing an image of the radiation transmitted through an object embodying the anatomy and performing image processing on the image based on the acquired image processing parameters.

[0009] In another embodiment, an imaging device comprising a radiation generator for generating radiation, an image acquisition unit for sensing an image of the radiation transmitted through an object embodying an anatomy of interest and an image-processing unit for performing image processing on the image based on one or more image processing parameters is provided.

[0010] In yet another embodiment, a computer-readable medium storing a computer program of instructions is provided. The computer program of instructions cause a computer to perform a method comprising steps of automatically selecting an image detector and providing the selection as a first input, automatically selecting a patient size and providing the selection as a second input, obtaining a selection for an anatomy to be imaged and providing the selection as a third input, acquiring one or more image processing parameters based at least in part on the information input, determining approximate location of the anatomy to be imaged based on the information input, auto positioning a radiation generator for generating radiation based on the determined location of the anatomy, sensing an image of the radiation transmitted through an object and performing image processing on the image based on the acquired image processing parameters.

[0011] Systems and methods of varying scope are described herein. In addition to the aspects and advantages described in this summary, further aspects and advantages will become apparent by reference to the drawings and with reference to the detailed description that follows.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an imaging device as described in an embodiment;

[0013] FIG. 2 shows a flow diagram describing a method of performing imaging using the imaging device shown in FIG. 1;

[0014] FIG. 3 shows a flow diagram describing a method of selecting patient size as described in one embodiment; and

[0015] FIG. 4 shows a flow diagram describing a method of selecting an anatomy of interest as described in one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments, which may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical, mechanical, electrical and other changes may be made without departing fi-om the scope of the embodiments. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
[0017] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a configuration of an imaging device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The imaging device 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 comprises a radiation generator 102 for generating radiation, an image acquisition unit 104 for sensing an image of the radiation transmitted through an object embodying an anatomy of interest and an image-processing unit 106 for performing image processing on the image based on one or more image processing parameters.
[0018] The imaging device 100 further comprises a display unit 108 coupled to the image-processing unit 106 for displaying processed images, an information unit 114 for receiving information on a patient undergoing imaging, a control unit 112 coupled to the information unit 114 for determining a set of image processing parameters based on the information input in the information unit 114, the control unit 112 further configured for acquiring the image processing parameters, a storage unit 116 coupled to the control unit

112 for storing the image processing parameters and a setting unit 110 coupled to the control unit 112 for configuring the image acquisition unit 104 for acquiring images. Each of the components of the imaging device 100 are further explained in detail in the following embodiments.
[0019] In one exemplary embodiment, the radiation generator 102 comprises an X-ray generator. Accordingly, when a patient is present between the X-ray generator and the image acquisition unit 104, the X-ray generator irradiates the patient with an X-ray. The image acquisition unit 104 serves as an imaging unit for detecting the X-ray, which is irradiated from the X-ray generator and transmitted through the patient, and for imaging the patient. More specifically, the image acquisition unit 104 performs imaging of the patient based on the X-rays transmitted through the patient and outputs a digital X-ray image. Subsequently, this digital X-ray image is input to the image-processing unit 106 of the imaging device 100.
[0020] The image-processing unit 106 performs various image processing, such as correction processing for the image acquisition unit 104, gradation processing, sharpening processing, and dynamic range compression processing, on an X-ray image based on the acquired image processing parameters. The storage unit 116 of the image-processing unit 106 stores digital X-ray images processed by the image-processing unit 106.
[0021] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, a method 200 of performing imaging using an imaging device 100 is provided. The method 200 comprises steps of automatically selecting an image detector and providing the selection as a first input at step 202, automatically selecting a patient size and providing the selection as a second input at step 204, obtaining a selection for an anatomy to be imaged and providing the selection as a third input at step 206, acquiring one or more image processing parameters based at least in part on the information input at step 208, determining approximate location of the anatomy to be imaged based on the information input at step 210, auto positioning a radiation generator 102 for generating radiation based on the determined

location of the anatomy at step 212, sensing an image of the radiation transmitted through an object embodying the anatomy at step 214 and performing image processing on the image based on the acquired image processing parameters at step 216.
[0022] Though the method 200 of performing imaging is described herein with respect to an X-ray imaging device 100, skilled artisans shall appreciate that the method can be used in conjunction with other similar imaging devices such as but not limited to a computed tomography imaging device.
[0023] In one embodiment, the information unit 114 can automatically select the image detector and provide the selection as a first input. The image detector comprises one of a table receptor and a wall stand receptor. Each of the table receptor and the wall stand receptor comprise a weight sensitive plate that can measure the weight of the patient. Due to the patient's weight recording on the weight sensitive plate corresponding to one of the receptors (on either the table or on the wallstand), the information unit 114 automatically selects the receptor being used and provides the selection as the first input.
[0024] The step 204 of automatically selecting a patient size is further explained in conjunction with FIG. 3. Step 204 comprises detecting patient height using at least one echolocation sensor at step 302, determining patient weight using a weight sensitive surface at step 304 and mapping height and weight of the patient to one of a predetermined patient size at step 306.
[0025] Accordingly, in one embodiment, the invention provides a method to automatically determine the size of a patient without user input. The invention considers both the height and the weight of the patient to make this determination. A particular set of weight and height combination can be used to map these to a set of predetermined patient sizes. Typical patient sizes used are "Small Pediatric", "Medium Pediatric", "Large Pediatric", "Small Adult", "Medium Adult" and "Large Adult". However, other patient sizes can also be defined. Further, based on the region of usage, a single patient size may be mapped to a different weight and height combination. For example.

"Medium Adult" in India can be mapped to a person who is 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighs 64 kilo grams. On the other hand "Medium Adult" in USA can be mapped to a person who is 6 feet tall and weighs 70 kilo grams. Likewise, patient size in each region can be mapped to a different weight and height combination to better suit the target population.
[0026] In one embodiment, the echolocation sensor employed to measure the height of a patient comprises an ultrasound sensor. Accordingly, an ultrasound height detection mechanism is used on both the table receptor and the wall stand receptor to determine the height of the patient. A pair of ultrasound emitter-receiver pairs may be added at both ends of the table receptor and at one end of the wall-stand receptor in order to measure the height of a patient. The ultrasound emitter-receiver pair works on the basis of echolocation to determine the height of the patient lying on the table. The ultrasound emitter-receiver pair employs the transit time ultrasonic wave propagation principle to measure the height of a patient. The emitter-receiver pair acts as a sender and receiver of a 5 MHz ultrasonic signal and an internal counter calculates the time taken by the signals between transmission and reception.
[0027] In one exemplary embodiment, a first emitter-receiver pair is located at one end of the table receptor and a second emitter-receiver pair is located at another end of the table receptor. The propagation time of the ultrasonic vibration from the transmitter to the patient boundary and back to the receiver can be measured. Distance between the emitter-receiver pair and the patient can then be derived if the acoustic velocity is known for the mode of propagation. This can be performed for each transmitter-receiver pair. Difference between the length of the table and sum of the distance between the first emitter-receiver pair and the patient and the distance between the second emitter-receiver pair and the patient determines the patient height. Skilled artisans shall however appreciate other methods of determining patient height using other echolocation sensors.
[0028] As described in one of the above embodiments, the surface on the table receptor may be replaced with a weight sensitive plate that can measure the weight of the

patient. Similarly, a weight sensitive plate is placed at the foot of the wall stand receptor for measuring the weight of the patient in wall-stand exams.
[0029] The patient height measured by the ultrasound emitter-receiver pair and the patient weight measured by the weight sensitive plate are input to the information unit 114. These two parameters enable the information unit 114 to determine the size of the patient accurately. The information unit 114 can be pre-configured to establish a particular set of weight and height combination to be that of a predetermined patient size (for example, 6 feet and 70 kilograms would map to "Medium Adult"). Based on this information stored in the information unit 114, the patient size is automatically computed. This eliminates the need for an external input to determine the patient size.
[0030] The step 206 of obtaining a selection for an anatomy to be imaged is further explained in conjunction with FIG. 4. Step 206 comprises displaying a choice for one or more anatomies to be imaged at step 402 and obtaining a selection from a user for the anatomy to be imaged at step 404.
[0031] The display unit 108 of the imaging device 100 is configured to display a choice for the anatomy to be imaged. Once the anatomy of interest is chosen (for example, chest or abdomen) by the user, the information unit 114 records the choice as a third input. Based on the information recorded in the information unit 114, the control unit 112 is configured to determine the approximate location of the anatomy to be imaged. The imaging device 100 further comprises a setting unit 110 coupled to the control unit 112 for configuring the image acquisition unit 104 for sensing the image. The setting unit 110 enables the imaging device 100 to auto-position itself to an appropriate location and perform imaging without any further input from the user.
[0032] Further, the control unit 112 is configured for acquiring one or more image processing parameters based on the information input by the information unit 114. The control unit 112 makes use of the size of the patient and the anatomy of interest to determine which image processing parameters are to be used during image processing.

[0033] The image processing parameters are stored in the storage unit 116 and are acquired by the control unit 112. The acquired image processing parameters are provided to the image-processing unit 106 of the imaging device 100 for further processing of the image.
[0034] The image processing parameters are determined such that the image looks optimal when the patient is of the selected patient size. Accordingly, the image may look sub-optimal if the same set of image processing parameters are used for processing an image of a different patient size. Hence, automatic determination of the patient size and subsequent acquisition of the image processing parameters based at least in part on the information input leads to the generation of an optimal image. The image thus generated is displayed in the display unit 108.
[0035] In yet another embodiment, a computer-readable medium storing a computer program of instructions is provided. The computer program of instructions cause a computer to perform a method comprising steps of automatically selecting an image detector and providing the selection as a first input, automatically selecting a patient size and providing the selection as a second input, obtaining a selection for an anatomy to be imaged and providing the selection as a third input, acquiring one or more image processing parameters based at least in part on the information input, determining approximate location of the anatomy to be imaged based on the information input, auto positioning a radiation generator 102 for generating radiation based on the determined location of the anatomy, sensing an image of the radiation transmitted through an object and performing image processing on the image based on the acquired image processing parameters.
[0036] Each step of the image processing method to be executed by the image-processing unit 106 according to the present embodiment can be implemented by executing a program code stored in a random access memory (RAM) or a read-only memory (ROM) by a central processing unit 106 (CPU) of a computer. The program

code itself and a computer-readable storage medium, which stores the program code, are included in the scope of the invention.
[0037] The program code is provided to a computer by being recorded on a storage medium, for example, a compact disk-read-only memory (CD-ROM), or by being transmitted via various transmission mediums. In addition to a CD-ROM, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, a magneto-optical disk, a nonvolatile memory card, and the like can be used as the storage medium which stores the program code. On the other hand, a communication medium used in a system of a computer network (a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a wireless communication network, or the like) for supplying program information by being propagated as a carrier wave can be used as the transmission medium for transmitting the program code. As a communication medium, such as an optical fiber, and a wireless circuit can be used.
[0038] The invention is not limited to embodiments in which the functions of the image-processing unit 106 according to the invention can be achieved by executing a supplied program code by a computer. In a case where the functions of the image-processing unit 106 are achieved by the program code working together with an operating system (OS) running on the computer, other application software, or the like, such a program code is included in the invention. In addition, in a case where a part or all of processing is performed by executing the program code by a function expansion board or a function expansion unit of the computer to achieve the functions of the image-processing unit 106 according to the present embodiment, such a program code is included in the invention.
[0039] Some of the advantages provided by the system and method described in various embodiments are listed herein.
[0040] Prior art imaging devices require increased input from a technician operating the imaging device, whereas the imaging device described in various embodiments provides increased automation in selecting image processing parameters thereby reducing

the number of inputs required from the technician. Hence, the imaging device is easy to use and simplifies the workflow for the technician.
[0041] Image processing parameters are automatically selected based at least in part on the information input. The input from the user needed is barely reduced to the selection of anatomy of interest. Thus, the technician workflow is streamlined due to the automation provided by the imaging device. As a result, the turn around time of patients in a medical facility is likely to be reduced thereby increasing the number of patients undergoing the imaging procedure within a given time.
[0042] An incorrect selection of the patient size may result in less than optimal images to be generated post processing. By automating the process of determining the patient size, and by completely automating the auto-positioning feature, the imaging device ensures that the information input is appropriate. This results in generation of image providing high diagnosis capability. Therefore, accuracy of diagnosis by a medical professional can be enhanced.
[0043] In various embodiments of the invention, an image-processing imit for an imaging device and an imaging device using an image-processing unit are described. However, the embodiments are not limited and may be implemented in cormection with different applications. The application of the invention can be extended to other areas. The invention provides a broad concept of automating the process of performing imaging, which can be adapted in a similar imaging system. The design can be carried fiarther and implemented in various forms and specifications.
[0044] This written description uses examples to describe the patient matter herein, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the patient matter. The patentable scope of the patient matter is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not

differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A method of performing imaging using an imaging device, the method comprising:
automatically selecting an X-ray image detector and providing the selection as a first input;
automatically selecting a patient size and providing the selection as a second input;
obtaining a selection for an anatomy to be imaged and providing the selection as a third input;
acquiring one or more image processing parameters based at least in part on the information input;
determining approximate location of the anatomy to be imaged, based on the information input;
auto positioning a radiation generator for generating radiation, based on the determined location of the anatomy;
sensing an image of the radiation transmitted through an object embodying the anatomy; and
performing image processing on the image, based on the acquired image processing parameters.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein automatically selecting a patient size comprises:
detecting patient height using at least one echolocation sensor;
determining patient weight using a weight sensitive surface; and
mapping height and weight of the patient to one of a predetermined patient size.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the echolocation sensor comprises an ultrasound sensor.

4. The method of claim 2, wherein the X-ray image detector comprises one of a table receptor and a wall stand receptor.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein obtaining a selection for an anatomy comprises:
displaying a choice for one or more anatomies to be imaged; and
obtaining a selection from a user for the anatomy to be imaged.

6. An imaging device comprising:
a radiation generator for generating radiation,
an image acquisition unit for sensing an image of the radiation transmitted through an object embodying an anatomy of interest; and
an image processing unit for performing image processing on the image based on one or more image processing parameters.

7. The imaging device of claim 6, further comprising a setting unit for configuring the image acquisition unit for sensing the image.

8. The imaging device of claim 6, wherein the image acquisition unit comprises an X-ray image detector comprising one of a table receptor and a wall stand receptor.

9. The imaging device of claim 6, further comprising a display unit configured for displaying a choice for the anatomy to be imaged, an information unit for receiving information on a patient, a control unit coupled to the information unit for acquiring one or more image processing parameters based on the information input by the information unit and a storage unit coupled to the control unit for storing image-processing parameters.

10. A system and method for image processing substantially as hereinbefore described, having reference to the accompanying drawings.