3D Dose Distribution Visualization Using Point Cloud Overlays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current user interfaces for medical interventions, such as radiotherapy and ablation therapy, provide only two-dimensional slices that are difficult to analyze and lack intuitive visualization of how a theoretical three-dimensional treatment dose distribution interacts with the target body area, making it challenging for doctors to optimize treatment delivery.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that generates a cloud of points with distinct displaying characteristics, such as shape, size, intensity, and transparency, overlaid on a three-dimensional model to enhance visualization of treatment plan data, allowing better perception of depth and interaction with anatomical structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a continuous colored overlay is used to represent treatment dose distribution, then the visualization covers the entire dose distribution area, but the visibility of underlying anatomical structures and depth differentiation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous colored overlay is segmented into discrete point cloud elements. Each point represents a specific dose value or range, and the points are distributed throughout the 3D space. This segmentation allows the underlying anatomical structures to remain visible while still conveying the complete dose distribution pattern through the spatial arrangement and density of points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses color variations in the point cloud to represent different dose levels. Points are colored according to their associated dose values, creating a visual gradient that indicates dose intensity without requiring a continuous opaque overlay. This color-coding system preserves depth information and underlying structure visibility while maintaining comprehensive dose distribution visualization.
2Device complexity
If two-dimensional slices are used to display treatment dose distribution, then the device complexity is reduced, but the intuitive understanding of three-dimensional dose localization is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D slice representations to a 3D point cloud visualization. Points are positioned in three-dimensional space with coordinates that reflect their spatial location within the treatment volume. This dimensional enhancement provides intuitive depth perception and spatial localization of dose distribution, allowing physicians to understand the 3D pattern without excessive interface complexity.
3Device complexity
If landmarks are displayed with identical characteristics regardless of depth, then the visualization is simpler, but the depth perception and differentiation between structures at different depths is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different visual characteristics to landmarks based on their depth position. Points closer to the viewer may be displayed with different size, intensity, or color saturation compared to points at greater depths. This local differentiation enhances depth perception and allows physicians to distinguish between structures at various depths within the treatment volume, while the overall system remains relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for medical guidance of a user in the validation of a treatment dose distribution provided by a treatment planning system.