Systems and methods for imaging a target feature of a subject based on tracked positions of the subject and the target feature
Inventors
Draelos, Mark • Izatt, Joseph • KUO, Anthony • ORTIZ, Pablo • McNabb, Ryan
Assignees
Publication Number
US-12310661-B2
Publication Date
2025-05-27
Expiration Date
2040-01-29
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Abstract
Systems and methods for imaging a target feature of a subject based on the tracked positions of the subject and the target feature are disclosed. According to an aspect, a system includes a scanner configured to image a target feature of a subject. The system includes a mechanism configured to move the scanner. Further, the system includes a subject tracker configured to track positioning of the subject. The system includes a feature tracker configured to track positioning of the target feature. A controller is configured to control the mechanism to move the feature tracker to a position such that the feature tracker is operable to track a position of the target feature. The controller controls the mechanism to move the scanner to a position such that the scanner is operable to image the target feature based on the tracked position of the target feature by the feature tracker.
Core Innovation
The invention provides systems and methods for imaging a target feature of a subject by utilizing tracked positions of both the subject and the target feature. The system includes a scanner, a mechanism to move the scanner, a subject tracker to track the position of the subject, and a feature tracker to track the exact position of the target feature, such as the eye or pupil. A controller orchestrates these components, ensuring that the scanner and feature tracker are optimally positioned to image the target feature based on real-time positional data.
This approach addresses existing limitations in imaging systems, particularly for optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the eye. Conventional OCT systems require large tabletop instruments, mechanical head stabilization, and operator expertise, limiting their portability and use to specialized settings. The disclosed system eliminates the need for mechanical stabilization and extensive operator training by actively tracking both subject and feature positions, thus enabling automatic alignment and imaging in a variety of environments.
The innovation allows the scanner, moved by a mechanism such as a robotic arm, to be aligned with the target feature using real-time feedback from the trackers. The controller automates the process by providing feedback via a user interface for subject positioning, determining readiness for tracking, and executing real-time imaging based on the tracked coordinates. This enables imaging in non-traditional settings and accommodates subjects who are unable to cooperate or remain stationary, vastly improving accessibility to high-quality imaging.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes two independent claims, each introducing a collection of inventive features for a system and method enabling imaging of a target feature of a subject based on tracked positions.
System using stationary and mechanism-mounted cameras for subject and feature tracking
The system includes: - A scanner configured to image a target feature of a subject. - A mechanism (e.g., robotic arm) configured to move the scanner. - A subject tracker that uses one or more stationary cameras to track the subject's positioning. - A feature tracker comprised of one or more cameras mounted on the mechanism to track the target feature’s position within an area such that the feature is imageable by the scanner. - A controller that: - Controls a user interface to provide positioning feedback based on the tracked subject position. - Determines if the subject is positioned within a predetermined position for feature tracking. - Controls the mechanism to move the feature tracker (when the subject is in the proper position) for effective tracking of the target feature. - Moves the scanner to a position optimized for imaging the target feature based on feature tracker data. - Controls the scanner to perform imaging, where the scanner is specifically an OCT scanner configured to generate one or more images of the target feature.
Method for imaging using tracked subject and feature positions with feedback and robotic positioning
The method provides steps for imaging comprising: 1. Providing a scanner and mechanism for scanner movement. 2. Tracking the subject's position using stationary cameras. 3. Using a feature tracker mounted on the mechanism to track the target feature within a specific area. 4. Controlling a user interface to present positioning feedback based on the tracked subject position. 5. Determining whether the subject is in a predetermined position for tracking. 6. Controlling the mechanism to move the feature tracker for operative tracking based on the tracked subject position (when in the correct position). 7. Moving the scanner into a position suitable for imaging the target feature as determined by the feature tracker. 8. Controlling the scanner to image the target feature—where the scanner is an OCT scanner generating one or more images.
The independent claims cover a system and a method combining stationary and mechanism-based tracking of subject and feature positions, automated user feedback, and controller-driven robotic alignment for effective OCT imaging without mechanical head stabilization or operator expertise.
Stated Advantages
Eliminates the need for mechanical head stabilization, such as chinrests and forehead braces, normally required for motion suppression in imaging.
Removes reliance on highly skilled operators for imaging, allowing use by individuals without specialized training.
Permits imaging of subjects who cannot sit upright due to illness, injury, or loss of consciousness, thus expanding the scope of use to acutely ill patients.
Provides robust motion compensation and alignment through real-time active tracking of both the subject and specific target features, resulting in high-quality images even with patient movement.
Enables autonomous or automatic imaging workflows, reducing operator intervention through feedback and automated scanner alignment.
Allows OCT imaging to be performed reliably in non-traditional or emergent care environments outside the dedicated imaging suites.
Documented Applications
Imaging the eye's anterior segment and retina, including applications in ophthalmology for diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and corneal edema.
Obtaining optical coherence tomography (OCT) images in settings where patients cannot be stabilized or sit upright, such as in acute care, strict bedrest, or loss of consciousness.
Performing automated and autonomous imaging of both stationary and moving human eyes using robotic and active-tracking OCT systems.
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