Patent Description:
Standard compression methods for mammography and tomosynthesis use a movable, rigid, radiolucent compression paddle. The breast is placed in an imaging area on a breast support platform that typically is flat, and the paddle then compresses the breast, usually while a technologist or other health professional is holding the breast in place. The technologist may also manipulate the breast to ensure proper tissue coverage in the image receptor's field of view.

At least some known x-ray tube heads have a headlamp that generates a light directed towards a breast support platform. This light illuminates the support platform and the area above the platform to aid the technologist in positioning the patient's breast prior to compression. Additionally, this light is also used as a visual mapping indicator of an x-ray field so that the technologist can confirm the positioning of the patient's breast prior to image acquisition. However, as the x-ray tube head tilts relative to the support platform, the accuracy of the visual mapping indicator decreases and no longer reflects the expected x-ray field because of the angle of the tube head.

Document <CIT> discloses an imaging system including an x-ray tube head; a support arm; a compression system coupled to the support art and independently rotable relative to the x-ray tube head, wherein the system includes a light assembly coupled to the support arm and disposed above the compression paddle. The light assembly is configured to direct one or more beams of light towards the support platform.

The invention relates to a method of compressing a patient's breast on an imaging system according to claim <NUM>, and an imaging system according to claim <NUM>.

In one aspect, the technology relates to an imaging system including: a gantry; a compression system coupled to the gantry and rotatable relative to the gantry, wherein the compression system includes a compression paddle, a support platform, and an x-ray receptor disposed below the support platform; and an x-ray tube head coupled to the gantry and including an x-ray source and a light source, wherein the x-ray tube head is independently rotatable relative to the gantry and the compression system, wherein the light source is configured to generate at least a first light type and a different second light type directed towards the support platform, the second light type being mapped to an x-ray field of the x-ray source, and wherein the generated second light type is based on a tilt angle of the x-ray tube head relative to the support platform and a compression force of the compression paddle.

In an example, when the tilt angle of the x-ray tube head is greater than or equal to a predetermined value or the compression force of the compression paddle is less than or equal to a predetermined value, the light source generates the first light type. In another example, the light source is a multi-colored light emitting diode. In yet another example, the first light type is a different color than the second light type. In still another example, the first light type is a white light.

In another aspect, the technology relates to a method of illuminating a support platform of an imaging system, the imaging system including: (a) a gantry, (b) a compression system including a compression paddle, the support platform, and an x-ray receptor disposed below the support platform, the compression system rotatable relative to the gantry, and (c) an x-ray tube head including a light source and independently rotatable relative to the gantry and the compression system, the method including: generating, via the light source, a first light type directed towards the support platform; determining a tilt angle of the x-ray tube head; determining a compression force of the compression paddle; and changing the first light type to a second light type generated by the light source based on the determined tilt angle and the determined compression force, wherein the first light type is different than the second light type.

In an example, the method further includes reverting to the first light type by the light source based on a change in either the determined tilt angle or the determined compression force. In another example, determining the tilt angle of the x-ray tube head includes measuring the tilt angle relative to the support platform, and comparing the measured tilt angle to a predetermined value. In yet another example, when the measured tilt angle is less than or equal to the predetermined value, the first light type is changeable to the second light type, and when the measured tilt angle is greater than the predetermined value, the second light type changes to the first light type. In still another example, the predetermined value is between about <NUM>° to ±<NUM>°. In an example, determining the compression force includes measuring the compression force applied by the compression paddle to a patient's breast, and comparing the measured compression force to a predetermined value.

In another example, when the measured compression force is less than or equal to the predetermined value, the first light type is changeable to the second light type, and when the measured compression force is greater than the predetermined value, the second light type changes to the first light type. In yet another example, the predetermined value is between about <NUM> to <NUM> (about <NUM> to <NUM> pounds). In still another example, the first light type is a different color than the second light type. In an example, the first light type is a white light. In another example, the second light type maps to an x-ray field of an x-ray source of the x-ray tube head.

In another aspect, the technology relates to a method of illuminating a support platform of an imaging system, the imaging system including: (a) a gantry, (b) a compression system including a compression paddle, the support platform, and an x-ray receptor disposed below the support platform, the compression system rotatable relative to the gantry, and (c) an x-ray tube head including an x-ray source and a light source and independently rotatable relative to the gantry and the compression system, the method including: generating, via the light source, a mapping light directed towards the support platform, wherein the mapping light is based on the x-ray tube head being at a substantially orthogonal position relative to the support platform and the compression paddle generating a compression force on a patient's breast, and wherein the mapping light corresponds to an x-ray field of the x-ray source; monitoring a tilt angle of the x-ray tube head relative to the support platform; monitoring the compression force of the compression paddle; and changing the mapping light generated by the light source to a working light generated by the light source based on the tilt angle of the x-ray tube moving away from the substantially orthogonal position or the compression force being less than or equal to a predetermined value.

In an example, the mapping light is a different color than the working light. In another example, the working light is a white light. In yet another example, the method further includes adjusting the intensity of the working light.

In another aspect, the technology relates to a method of compressing a patient's breast on an imaging system, the imaging system including: (a) a gantry, (b) a compression system including a compression paddle, the support platform, and an x-ray receptor disposed below the support platform, the compression system rotatable relative to the gantry, and (c) an x-ray tube head including an x-ray source and a light source and independently rotatable relative to the gantry and the compression system, the method including: generating a working light directed towards the support platform via the light source; compressing the patient's breast between the compression paddle and the support platform, wherein the compression paddle induces a compression force on the patient's breast for immobilization; after compression, positioning the x-ray tube head relative to the support platform such that the x-ray tube head is substantially orthogonal to the support platform; changing the working light generated by the light source to a mapping light generated by the light source based on the position of the x-ray tube head and the compression force of the compression paddle; and verifying the patient's breast is located within an x-ray field of the x-ray source via the mapping light.

In an example, the method further including after the working light is changed to the mapping light, releasing the patient's breast from compression and automatically reverting to the working light. In an example, the method further including after the working light is changed to the mapping light, tilting the x-ray tube head away from the substantially orthogonal position and automatically reverting to the working light.

<FIG> is a schematic view of an exemplary imaging system <NUM>. <FIG> is a perspective view of the imaging system <NUM>. Referring concurrently to <FIG> and <FIG>, the imaging system <NUM> is configured to immobilize a patient's breast <NUM> for x-ray imaging (either or both of mammography and tomosynthesis) via a breast compression immobilizer unit or compression system <NUM>. In the example, the compression system <NUM> includes a static breast support platform <NUM> and a moveable compression paddle <NUM>. The breast support platform <NUM> and the compression paddle <NUM> each have a compression surface <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, with the compression surface <NUM> configured to move towards the support platform <NUM> to compress and immobilize the breast <NUM>. In known systems, the compression surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> are exposed so as to directly contact the breast <NUM>. The support platform <NUM> also houses an x-ray image receptor <NUM> and, optionally, a tilting mechanism <NUM>. The immobilizer unit <NUM> is in a path of an imaging x-ray beam <NUM> emanating from an x-ray source <NUM>, such that the beam <NUM> impinges on the image receptor <NUM>.

The compression system <NUM> is supported on a first support arm <NUM> and the x-ray source <NUM> is supported on a second support arm, also referred to as an x-ray tube head <NUM>. The support arms <NUM>, <NUM> are mounted on a gantry <NUM>. For mammography, support arms <NUM> and <NUM> can rotate as a unit about an axis <NUM> between different imaging orientations such as cranial-caudal (CC) and mediolateral oblique (MLO) views, so that the imaging system <NUM> can take a mammogram projection image at each orientation. In operation, the image receptor <NUM> remains in place relative to the support platform <NUM> while an image is taken. The immobilizer unit <NUM> releases the breast <NUM> for movement of support arms <NUM>, <NUM> to a different imaging orientation. For tomosynthesis, the support arm <NUM> stays in place, with the breast <NUM> immobilized and remaining in place, while at least the tube arm <NUM> rotates the x-ray source <NUM> relative to the immobilizer unit <NUM> and the compressed breast <NUM> about the axis <NUM>. The imaging system <NUM> takes plural tomosynthesis projection images of the breast <NUM> at respective angles of the x-ray beam <NUM> relative to the breast <NUM>. As such, the compression system <NUM> and tube head <NUM> may be rotated discrete from each other, unless matched rotation is required or desired for an imaging procedure.

Concurrently and optionally, the image receptor <NUM> may be tilted relative to the breast support platform <NUM> and coordinated with the rotation of the second support arm <NUM>. The tilting can be through the same angle as the rotation of the x-ray source <NUM> but may also be through a different angle selected such that the x-ray beam <NUM> remains substantially in the same position on the image receptor <NUM> for each of the plural images. The tilting can be about an axis <NUM>, which can but need not be in the image plane of the image receptor <NUM>. The tilting mechanism <NUM> that is coupled to the image receptor <NUM> can drive the image receptor <NUM> in a tilting motion. For tomosynthesis imaging and/or CT imaging, the breast support platform <NUM> can be horizontal or can be at an angle to the horizontal, e.g., at an orientation similar to that for conventional MLO imaging in mammography. The imaging system <NUM> can be solely a mammography system, a CT system, or solely a tomosynthesis system, or a "combo" system that can perform multiple forms of imaging. One example of such a combo system has been offered by the assignee hereof under the trade name Selenia Dimensions.

When the system is operated, the image receptor <NUM> produces imaging information in response to illumination by the imaging x-ray beam <NUM> and supplies it to an image processor <NUM> for processing and generating breast x-ray images. A system control and work station unit <NUM> including software controls the operation of the system and interacts with the operator to receive commands and deliver information including processed-ray images.

One challenge with the imaging system <NUM> is how to efficiently position and compress the breast <NUM> on the support platform <NUM> such that the patient's breast <NUM> is immobilized for the desired or required imaging. For example, a health professional, typically an x-ray technologist, generally places the breast <NUM> on the support platform <NUM>. The technologist will adjust the position of the breast <NUM> within the immobilizer unit <NUM> while pulling tissue towards the imaging area and moving the compression paddle <NUM> toward the breast support platform <NUM> to immobilize the breast <NUM> and keep it in place, and with as much of the breast tissue as practicable being between the compression surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>. However, if the patient's breast is not properly positioned within the imaging area of the imaging system <NUM>, then the breast position and compression procedures may be required to be redone, thus increasing patient discomfort and anxiety. Additionally, an improperly positioned breast may require an x-ray image to be retaken, which then may deliver an unnecessary x-ray dose. Furthermore, once the patient's breast is immobilized on the imaging system <NUM>, the patient (e.g., hair, arms, etc.) also needs to be positioned by the technologist out of the path (e.g., the x-ray field) of the x-ray source <NUM>.

The technologies described herein relate to a breast compression and imaging system that utilizes light differentiation to indicate whether the light source is generating a general working light or an x-ray field mapping light. This light differentiation provides the technologist a visual aid for determining the functionality of the light being directed towards the breast support platform from the x-ray tube head. The general working light generates general illumination of the compression system, which aids the technologist when working with the patient and the imaging system. By illuminating the working area, the technologist can more efficiently position and immobilize the patient, which increases overall patient comfort. In contrast, the mapping light uses the emitted light to indicate the x-ray field of the x-ray source. The mapping light enables the technologist to more efficiently confirm that the subsequent x-ray acquisitions will adequately capture the patient's breast, which increases the overall efficiency of the imaging procedures. These technologies generally improve the accuracy of breast placement and/or compression, enabling the technologist to more efficiently ensure proper immobilization and subsequent imaging.

As described herein, the technologies utilize a light source on the x-ray tube head that is configured to change colors. In an aspect, based on a tilt angle of the x-ray tube head and a compression force generated by the compression paddle, the light source can change between the working light and the mapping light. By monitoring x-ray tube head angle and compression force of the compression paddle, the imaging system ensures that the patient is immobilized and that the light source is able to accurately correspond to the x-ray field before generating the mapping light. This ensures that the mapping light is generated only when it is accurate for the technologist to use. When either the tilt angle or the compression force changes, the imaging system automatically reverts back to the working light. Other imaging system conditions besides tilt angle and compression force are also contemplated herein. By differentiating the functionality of the light type by color, the technologist is aided when working around the compression system <NUM>. In an aspect, the light source may be a multi-colored (e.g., RGB) light emitting diode. Additionally, the imaging system <NUM> includes one or more sensors that monitor the conditions of the components of the imaging system.

Imaging systems <NUM> including the light source that performs any one of the differentiating functions described herein are contemplated, although certain imaging systems may include all of the described imaging modalities, less than the described imaging modalities, or additional imaging modalities as required or desired.

Returning to <FIG>, the imaging system <NUM> is typically disposed within a patient room that is dimly lit to increase patient comfort and reduce patient apprehension. As such, a light source <NUM> is disposed within the x-ray tube head <NUM> so that light is provided for the system <NUM> and to aid the technologist with positioning and imaging the patient's breast <NUM> immobilized within the compression system <NUM>. The light source <NUM> generally points in a downward direction towards the compression paddle <NUM>, the breast <NUM>, and the support platform <NUM>. In addition, the light source <NUM> is configured to not interfere with the x-ray source <NUM> and the x-ray beams <NUM> during the imaging procedures. Functions performed in conjunction with the light source <NUM> are described herein and include generating a general working light for the compression system <NUM> that is configured to illuminate the support platform <NUM> and the area above the support platform <NUM> to assist the technologist with patient breast <NUM> positioning and presentation during compression. Additionally, the light source <NUM> can generate a mapping light that is configured to identify the x-ray field on the support platform <NUM>, and so that the technologist can have confirmation that the patient breast <NUM> is properly positioned within the compression system <NUM> for x-ray image acquisition.

As used herein, the term "working light" is a light that may not necessary be shaped to correspond and identify the x-ray field of the x-ray beam <NUM>, and as such, the technologist should not use the working light to confirm that the patient's breast <NUM> is properly positioned within the x-ray field. Reliance on the working light for confirming breast positioning may result in needing to reimage the patient's breast <NUM> due to error in breast positioning. The term "mapping light," however, is a light that is shaped to correspond and identify the x-ray field, and as such, the technologist can rely on the mapping light to confirm that the patient's breast <NUM> is properly positioned within the compression system <NUM>. Reliance on the mapping light for confirming breast positioning will not result in needing to reimage the patient's breast <NUM> due to position error. With both the working light and the mapping light being visible light, both light types provide general illumination to the compression system <NUM> for the technologist.

Some standards require that for a light to be considered a mapping light, it must be correlated to the x-ray field and be within <NUM>%. However, when the x-ray tube head <NUM> moves or tilts away from a substantially orthogonal position relative to the support platform <NUM> (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>), the accuracy of the mapping light relative to the x-ray field decreases. This is because the x-ray source <NUM> is disposed above a collimator opening (not shown) on the tube head <NUM> and has a focal point that is oriented through the opening and directly towards the support platform <NUM>. The x-ray beam <NUM> emanating from the source <NUM> can be collimated by a collimator (not shown) adjacent to the opening to account for the tilt position of the tube head <NUM> relative to the support platform <NUM>. The light source <NUM> also uses the same tube head collimator opening to project light beams towards the support platform <NUM>. However, the light source <NUM> utilizes one or more mirrors (not shown) to direct the light beams through the opening. These mirrors used by the light source <NUM> make it difficult to account for a tilt angle of the x-ray tube head <NUM>. For example, when the tube head <NUM> is rotated, the light beams are distorted due to the keystone effect. The keystone effect can distort a substantially square shape of the light projected onto the support platform <NUM> into a trapezoid shape. As the distance from the edge of the tube head opening from the support platform <NUM> increases due to rotation, the light expands, and the tube head opening is no longer shown as a regular rectangle. Rather it is shown as more of a polygon or trapezoid shape where the edge towards the tube is shorter than the opposite edge away from the tube. As such, when the x-ray tube head <NUM> is directly over the support platform <NUM>, the light beam can accurately map to the x-ray field and be within the required or desired standard, but when the x-ray tube <NUM> is tilted away from the orthogonal position, the light beam is reduced in its mapping accuracy and is outside of the required or desired standard.

As used herein, the substantially orthogonal position of the x-ray tube head <NUM> is considered a zero degree position relative to the support platform <NUM> and is the position whereby the x-ray source <NUM> is above the support platform <NUM> and the path of the x-ray beam <NUM> is substantially orthogonal to the support platform <NUM>. An example of this orthogonal position of the x-ray tube head <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>. It should be appreciated that because the x-ray tube head <NUM> and the compression system <NUM> can rotate as a unit (e.g., for an MLO imaging procedure), the substantially orthogonal position of the x-ray tube head <NUM> is not necessary in reference to the gantry <NUM> that supports the x-ray tube head <NUM>. Additionally, the x-ray tube head <NUM> can move or tilt for any number of reasons. For example, the x-ray tube head <NUM> may rotate for tomosynthesis imaging procedures. In other examples, the technologist may rotate the x-ray tube head <NUM> while positioning the patient's breast <NUM> and so that the tube head <NUM> will not act as an impediment.

In the example, because some positions of the x-ray tube head <NUM> can generate inaccurate mapping lights, the light source <NUM> described herein is configured to distinguish the usage of the generated light (e.g., between a working light and a mapping light) and provide a visual indicator to the technologist during positioning and compression procedures. In an aspect, the light source <NUM> may generate different colors for the working and mapping lights and can automatically change between the two light types depending on one or more conditions of the imaging system <NUM>. For example, based on a tilt angle of the x-ray tube head <NUM> and a compression force generated by the compression paddle <NUM>, the light source <NUM> changes to provide the mapping light. Once the tilt angle or the compression force changes, the light source <NUM> can change back to the general working light. By increasing the technologist's efficiency in properly positioning and compressing the patient's breast, patient comfort during the imaging procedure is increased and anxiety is reduced.

<FIG> is a schematic view of the light source <NUM> of the imaging system <NUM> and with the x-ray tube head <NUM> in a first position. The first position is when the x-ray tube head <NUM> is substantially orthogonal to the support platform <NUM> and is at the zero-degree position. In this first position, the light source <NUM> generates a light <NUM> directed towards the support platform <NUM>. In certain aspects, the light <NUM> is a general working light. Additionally, because of the position of the x-ray tube head <NUM>, and thus the light source <NUM>, relative to the support platform <NUM>, the light <NUM> can also be configured to map to an imaging area <NUM> that corresponds to the x-ray field of the x-ray beam. This mapping allows the technologist to visualize the x-ray field of the x-ray beam and confirm breast placement prior to image acquisition.

In the example, the light source <NUM> is a light emitting diode (LED) light that is configured to emit at least two different types of light <NUM>. These different types of light <NUM> correspond to either the working light or the mapping light and are used by the technologist as a visual indicator that differentiate between what the light can or should be used for. For example, whether or not the light <NUM> corresponds to the x-ray field of the x-ray beam. In an aspect, the light source <NUM> is a multi-colored RGB LED. This light source <NUM> enables for the existing mirror system within the x-ray tube head <NUM> to still be utilized and allows for the light source <NUM> to change light type as required or desired. In an example, light type may be based at least partially on a change in color, and as such, the working light is a different color than the mapping light. In an aspect, the working light may be a white light, and the mapping light is a colored light. A colored light can be yellow so that illumination of the working area above the support platform <NUM> is still achieved. In other examples, the colored light can be red, orange, green, blue, indigo, violet, etc. as required or desired. Additionally, the colored light may be changed for different technologist so that color blindness does not affect the light differentiation. In other aspects, the mapping light may be a white light, while the working light is a colored light. In still other aspects, the mapping light and the working light may both be a different colored light. Furthermore, the light <NUM> can be adjustable in intensity as required or desired.

Additionally or alternatively, the light source <NUM> can be an incandescent lamp with filters, lasers, or the like that can produce different colored lights. In another example, the light source <NUM> can emit ultraviolet light and/or infrared light that can be used with additional imaging device(s) that are configured to make these light forms visible to the technologist. In yet other examples, a projector system may be used. All of these light sources can also provide light type differentiation to the technologist as described herein.

In still other examples, the types of light can be differentiated by patterns or audible sounds as required or desired. In certain aspects, a substantially similar light (e.g., white, yellow, blue, etc.) may be used for both the working light and the mapping light, one or both of the lights flashes at different speeds. In other aspects, the imaging system <NUM> may produce an audible sound when one or both of the working light and the mapping light are in use.

The light source <NUM> is configured to generate at least two different types of lights <NUM>, and as such, the imaging system <NUM> is configured to monitor one or more conditions of its components so that the light source <NUM> can automatically change back and forth between light types. In the example, the imaging system <NUM> includes a tilt angle sensor <NUM> that measures and monitors the tilt angle of the x-ray tube head <NUM> relative to support platform <NUM>. By monitoring the tilt angle of the x-ray tube head <NUM>, the imaging system <NUM> can determine when the x-ray tube head <NUM> is titled relative to the support platform <NUM> such that the light <NUM> is no longer accurate with regards to the x-ray field of the x-ray beam. In some examples, the tilt angle sensor <NUM> may also measure and monitor the tilt angle of the support platform <NUM>, because during some imaging procedures, the x-ray tube head <NUM> rotates in conjunction with the compression system <NUM>. In an aspect, the sensor <NUM> may be that used for determining x-ray image angle for reconstruction in tomosynthesis imaging.

In the example, when the x-ray tube head <NUM> is tilted and moves away from the illustrated first portion and being substantially orthogonal to the support platform <NUM>, the imaging system <NUM> can automatically change the light <NUM> to the working light if the mapping light is being generated. Additionally, when the x-ray tube head <NUM> is oriented in the first portion and substantially orthogonal to the support platform <NUM>, the imaging system <NUM> can automatically change the light <NUM> to the mapping light if the working light is being generated. This change of the light <NUM> is based at least partially on a tilt angle of the x-ray tube head <NUM> relative to the support platform <NUM> and as measured and monitored by the sensor <NUM>. In the example, the tilt angle of the x-ray tube head <NUM> is compared to a predetermined value to determine whether the tube head <NUM> is in the first position or not. In an aspect, the predetermined value may be between about <NUM>° - ±<NUM>°, which corresponds to the substantially orthogonal position and the acceptable accuracy of the mapping light. In another aspect, the predetermined value may be between about <NUM>° - ±<NUM>°. In yet another aspect, the predetermined value may be about <NUM>°. As such, when the tilt angle of the x-ray tube head <NUM> is greater than the predetermined value, the working light is generated; otherwise when the tub head <NUM> is less than or equal to the predetermined value, the mapping light can be generated.

It should be appreciated that the x-ray tube head <NUM> can tilt to the left or right from the orthogonal first position. Thus, measuring the tilt angle of the tube head <NUM> can be both in the positive direction (e.g., tilting towards the right) and the negative direction (e.g., tilting towards the left), and relative to the <NUM>° position. Additionally, smaller tilt angles (e.g., up to and including about ±<NUM>°) can still result in a relatively accurate image area <NUM> formed by the light <NUM>. As such, the predetermined value may be within this range, and substantially orthogonal can include this accuracy range.

As described above, the change between the working light and the mapping light is based on tilt angle of the x-ray tube head <NUM>. However, other component conditions of the imaging system <NUM> can be included in this determination of when to change between the working light and the mapping light. For example, the technologist typically uses the mapping light when the patient's breast is under at least some compression from the compression paddle <NUM>. Immobilizing the patient's breast before confirming the x-ray field reduces the possibly of the patient's breast undesirability moving after positioning and prior to image acquisition. As such, to further increase performance of the light source <NUM>, the change in light type can also be based on a compression force generated by the compression paddle <NUM>. This further narrows the use of the mapping light for the technologists so that the mapping light is generated when it is actually needed during the breast positioning and compression process prior to image acquisition. Additionally, the light <NUM> also will not undesirably change back and forth during the breast positioning and compression procedures.

The imaging system <NUM> also includes a compression force sensor <NUM> that measures and monitors the compression force applied by the compression paddle <NUM> on the patient's breast. By monitoring the compression force of the compression paddle <NUM>, the imaging system <NUM> can determine when the patient's breast is being compressed by the technologist so that once the technologist has immobilized the patient's breast and is ready for x-ray field confirmation, the light <NUM> will change to the mapping light from the working light.

In the example, when the compression paddle <NUM> generates a compressive force on the patient's breast, the imaging system <NUM> can automatically change the light <NUM> to a mapping light if a working light is being generated. Additionally, when the compression paddle <NUM> is not generating a compressive force on the patient's breast, the imaging system <NUM> can automatically change the light <NUM> to a working light if the mapping light is being generated. This change of the light <NUM> is based at least partially on a compression force generated by the compression paddle <NUM> and as measured and monitored by the sensor <NUM>. In the example, the compression force of the compression paddle <NUM> is compared to a predetermined value to determine whether a compression for is present or not within the imaging system <NUM>. In an aspect, the predetermined value may be between about <NUM> to <NUM> (about <NUM> - <NUM> pounds). In another aspect, the predetermined value may be between about <NUM> to <NUM> (about ½ - <NUM> pounds). As such, when the compression force is greater than the predetermined value, the mapping light can be generated; otherwise when the compression force of the compression paddle <NUM> is less than or equal to the predetermined value, the general working light is generated.

As described herein, two component conditions of the imaging system <NUM> are used to determine what type of light <NUM> is generated (e.g., tilt angle and compression force). It should be appreciated that any other condition of the imaging system <NUM> that can be sensed and/or monitored may additionally or alternatively be used in the determination of what type of light <NUM> is generated. In one example, paddle identification information that is read by the imaging system <NUM> can be used to determine what type of light <NUM> is generated. In this example, reading that a biopsy paddle is attached may be used to base the light type on. In other examples, sensing a biopsy device being attached to the imaging system <NUM> may be used to determine what type of light <NUM>. Other conditions of the imaging system <NUM> are also contemplated herein.

Additionally, in the example, the type of light <NUM> being generated by the light source <NUM> is based on two different conditions of the imaging system <NUM>. The tilt angle of the x-ray tube head <NUM> and the compression force of the compression paddle <NUM>. Two conditions (e.g., the tube head <NUM> being substantially orthogonal to the support platform <NUM> and the compression paddle <NUM> generating a compression force) need to be satisfied so as to change the working light to the mapping light. However, as soon as one condition, either the tilt angle or the compression force, no longer satisfies the predetermined values, then the mapping light changes back to the working light. Exemplary flowcharts of how the type of light <NUM> is determined are illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> and described further below.

<FIG> is a schematic view of the light source <NUM> and with the x-ray tube head <NUM> in a second position. Certain components are described above, and thus, are not necessarily described further. The second position is when the x-ray tube head <NUM> is moved away from being substantially orthogonal to the support platform <NUM> (as illustrated in <FIG>). This tilting movement can be measured and monitored by the sensor <NUM>. In the second position, the light source <NUM> still generates the light <NUM> that is directed towards the support platform <NUM>, however, as described above, the light <NUM> is no longer accurate in regards to mapping the x-ray field of the x-ray source and the imaging area <NUM>. In an example, the light <NUM> directed towards the support platform <NUM> is distorted due to the keystone effect because the platform is disposed at an angle relative to the light source <NUM>. This distortion causes the light <NUM> to be in more of a trapezoidal shape in plan view (rather than a square shape) and with the right edge of the beam longer than the left edge because the tube head <NUM> is tilted towards the right (as illustrated in <FIG>). This trapezoidal shape would be mirrored when the tube head <NUM> is tilted towards the left. As such, in the second position, the light <NUM> is the general working light, and will never change to the mapping light, no matter what the compression force is of the compression paddle <NUM>. Similarly, when the compression paddle <NUM> is not generating a compression force as measured by the sensor <NUM>, the light is the general working light, and will never change to the mapping light, no matter what the tilt angle of the tube head <NUM> is measured. As such, both the tilt angle and the compression force conditions have to be satisfied so as to change the working light to the mapping light. In the example, the working light is the baseline light type of the light <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a flowchart <NUM> illustrating changing a working light <NUM> to a mapping light <NUM>. To have the image system light change from the baseline of the working light <NUM> to the mapping light <NUM> for the technologist, both a tilt angle condition <NUM> and a compression force condition <NUM> need to be satisfied as described herein. Thus, the conditions <NUM>, <NUM> are illustrated in series in the flowchart <NUM>. If only one condition <NUM>, <NUM> is satisfied, the working light <NUM> is maintained by the imaging system and the mapping light <NUM> is not generated. In the example, both conditions <NUM>, <NUM> have input values measured from the imaging system by sensors <NUM>, <NUM> that are used for monitoring and determining when the conditions <NUM>, <NUM> are or are not satisfied. In contrast, <FIG> depicts a flowchart <NUM> illustrating changing the mapping light <NUM> to the working light <NUM>. To have the image system light change or revert from the mapping light <NUM> to the working light <NUM>, only one of the tilt angle condition <NUM> or the compression force condition <NUM> need to be satisfied as described herein. Thus, the conditions <NUM>, <NUM> are illustrated in parallel in the flowchart <NUM>. In the example, both conditions <NUM>, <NUM> have input values measured from the imaging system by sensors <NUM>, <NUM> that are used for monitoring and determining when the conditions <NUM>, <NUM> are or are not satisfied. It should be appreciated that while <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate the conditions <NUM>, <NUM> being monitored by the imaging system are the tilt angle of the tube arm and the compression force of the compression paddle, any other component condition of the imaging system may be measured and monitored as required or desired.

<FIG> depicts a flowchart illustrating a method <NUM> of illuminating a support platform of an imaging system. The imaging system can be the system described above in <FIG>, and the illumination is differentiated based on one or more component conditions of the imaging system to increase breast positioning and compression efficiency for the technologist. Additionally, this differentiation of the illumination enables the technologist to more easily identify when they are able to rely on the light for mapping the x-ray field of the x-ray beam. The method <NUM> begins with generating a first light type by a light source (operation <NUM>). The generated light type is directed toward a support platform for the benefit of the technologist.

The imaging system determines a tilt angle of the x-ray tube head (operation <NUM>) and determines a compression force of the compression paddle (operation <NUM>). Based on the determined tilt angle and the determined compression force, the first light type is selectively changed to a second light type generated by the light source (operation <NUM>). In the example, the first light type is different than the second light type. In an aspect, the first light type is a different color than the second light type and the light source is a multi-colored LED. In some examples, the first light type is a white light and is considered a general working light for the technologist, and the second light type maps an x-ray field of an x-ray source of the x-ray tube head and is considered a mapping light. When a change in either the determined tilt angle or the determined compression force is detected by the imaging system, the light source reverts to the first light type (operation <NUM>).

In some examples, determining the tilt angle of the x-ray tube head (operation <NUM>) can include measuring the tilt angle relative to the support platform (operation <NUM>) and comparing the measured tilt angle to a predetermined value (operation <NUM>). When the measured tilt angle is less than or equal to the predetermined value, the first light type is changeable to the second light type, and when the measured tilt angle is greater than the predetermined value, the second light type changes to the first light type. In an aspect, the predetermined tilt angle value is between about <NUM>° - ±<NUM>° of the x-ray tube head relative to the support platform.

In other examples, determining the compression force (operation <NUM>) can include measuring the compression force applied by the compression paddle to a patient's breast (operation <NUM>) and comparing the measured compression force to a predetermined value (operation <NUM>). When the measured compression force is less than or equal to the predetermined value, the first light type is changeable to the second light type, and when the measured compression force is greater than the predetermined value, the second light type changes to the first light type. In an aspect, the predetermined compression force value is between about <NUM> to <NUM> (about <NUM>-<NUM> pounds).

<FIG> depicts a flowchart illustrating another method <NUM> of illuminating a support platform of an imaging system. The imaging system can be the system described above in <FIG>, and the illumination is differentiated based on one or more component conditions of the imaging system to increase breast positioning and compression efficiency for the technologist. The method <NUM> begins with generating, via a light source, a mapping light directed towards the support platform (operation <NUM>). The mapping light is based on an x-ray tube head being at a substantially orthogonal position relative to the support platform and a compression paddle generating a compression force on a patient's breast. The mapping light also corresponds to an x-ray field of the x-ray source.

The imaging system monitors a tilt angle of the x-ray tube head relative to the support platform (operation <NUM>) and monitors the compression force of the compression paddle (operation <NUM>). Based on the tilt angle of the x-ray tube moving away from the substantially orthogonal position or the compression force being less than or equal to a predetermined value, the mapping light generated by the light source is changed to a working light (operation <NUM>). In the example, the mapping light is a different color than the working light and the light source is a multi-colored LED. In an aspect, the working light can be a white light. In some example, the method <NUM> can include adjusting the intensity of the working light (operation <NUM>). By adjusting the intensity of the working light, the technologist can make the patient more comfortable while still enabling illumination for the breast positioning and compression procedures.

<FIG> depicts a flowchart illustrating a method <NUM> of compressing a patient's breast on an imaging system. The imaging system can be the system described above in <FIG>. The method <NUM> begins with generating a working light directed towards a support platform via a light source (operation <NUM>). The patient's breast is compressed between a compression paddle and the support platform (operation <NUM>). The compression paddle induces a compression of the patient's breast for immobilization. After compression of the patient's breast, an x-ray tube head is positioned substantially orthogonal relative to the support platform (operation <NUM>). Based on the position of the x-ray tube head and the compression force of the compression paddle, the working light generated by the light source is changed to a mapping light (operation <NUM>). The mapping light can then be used to verify that the patient's breast is located within an x-ray field of the x-ray source (operation <NUM>).

In some examples, after the working light is changed to the mapping light, the light source automatically reverts to the working light (operation <NUM>). Reverting back to the working light can occur when the patient's breast is released from compression or when the x-ray tube head is tilted away from the substantially orthogonal position.

This disclosure describes some examples of the present technology with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which only some of the possible examples were shown. Other aspects can, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein. Rather, these examples were provided so that this disclosure was thorough and complete and fully conveyed the scope of the possible examples to those skilled in the art. Any number of the features of the different examples described herein may be combined into one single example and alternate examples having fewer than or more than all of the features herein described are possible. It is to be understood that terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. It must be noted that, as used in this specification, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Claim 1:
A method of compressing a patient's breast on an imaging system (<NUM>), the imaging system (<NUM>) comprising: (a) a gantry (<NUM>), (b) a compression system (<NUM>) comprising a compression paddle (<NUM>), the support platform (<NUM>), and an x-ray receptor (<NUM>) disposed below the support platform (<NUM>), the compression system (<NUM>) rotatable relative to the gantry (<NUM>), and (c) an x-ray tube head (<NUM>) comprising an x-ray source (<NUM>) and a light source (<NUM>) and independently rotatable relative to the gantry (<NUM>) and the compression system (<NUM>), the method comprising:
generating a working light directed towards the support platform (<NUM>) via the light source (<NUM>), wherein the working light generates general illumination of the compression system;
compressing the patient's breast (<NUM>) between the compression paddle (<NUM>) and the support platform (<NUM>), wherein the compression paddle (<NUM>) induces a compression force on the patient's breast (<NUM>) for immobilization;
after the breast has been immobilized, positioning the x-ray tube head (<NUM>) relative to the support platform (<NUM>) such that the x-ray tube head (<NUM>) is substantially orthogonal to the support platform (<NUM>);
changing the working light generated by the light source (<NUM>) to a mapping light generated by the light source (<NUM>) based on the position of the x-ray tube head (<NUM>) being substantially orthogonal to the support platform (<NUM>) and the compression force of the compression paddle (<NUM>) being greater than a predetermined value,
wherein the mapping light corresponds to an x-ray field of the x-ray source (<NUM>); verifying the patient's breast is located within an x-ray field of the x-ray source via the mapping light.