Positioning distance control for x-ray imaging systems

Abstract

The present invention relates to providing guiding information for operating an X-ray imaging system. In order to provide an improved positioning distance control facilitating the work flow, an X-ray imaging system () is provided, comprising a moveable X-ray source () and/or a moveable X-ray detector (). The system further comprises a plurality of object-surface detecting sensors (), a positioning detection arrangement (), a processing unit (), and a display unit (). The sensors are arranged such to detect object data of objects located between the X-ray source and the X-ray detector. The positioning detection arrangement is provided to detect the current position of the X-ray source and/or the X-ray detector and the position of the sensors. The processing unit is configured to compute a situation-map () of the current spatial situation between the X-ray source and the X-ray detector based on the object data provided by the sensors and the current position, the situation-map distinguishing at least between empty spaces and spaces occupied by rigid objects. The situation-map comprises a representation () of the X-ray source and the X-ray detector in relation to the spatial situation. Further, the display unit is configured to display the situation-map to a user operating the X-ray imaging system.