Automated 3D Image Layer Orientation via Model Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Intraoperative 3D image data processing requires manual and subjective determination of layer orientation for 2D layer images, which is time-consuming and prone to errors, especially in situations where the patient's position is not standardized.

Innovation Solution

A method that selects a model with a preassigned default orientation from a model pool, aligns it with the 3D image data to maximize coincidence, and uses this alignment to determine the layer orientation for generating 2D layer images, which can be fully automated using image-processing algorithms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual processing of 3D image data is performed to determine layer orientation, then the determination can be based on subjective assessment and experience, but it consumes extra operating time and requires experienced personnel

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayer orientation determination accuracyVSAvoidoperating time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically determining layer orientation from 3D image data before the surgeon needs to use it. The processing unit analyzes the 3D image data and automatically establishes the optimal layer orientation, eliminating the need for manual manipulation and saving operating time while maintaining accuracy through automated algorithms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical process of turning and moving 3D image data by hand is replaced with an automated image processing system. The processing unit uses computational algorithms to automatically determine layer orientation, substituting the mechanical manual manipulation with an automated digital processing system that eliminates the need for experienced personnel intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If manual processing of 3D image data is performed to determine layer orientation, then experienced personnel can make subjective assessments, but it requires changing between sterile and non-sterile areas

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayer orientation determination accuracyVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically processing 3D image data and determining layer orientation without human intervention. The processing unit independently analyzes the image data and establishes the optimal orientation, eliminating the need for personnel to leave sterile areas or perform manual manipulation, thereby simplifying the operational process while maintaining high accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Extent of automation

If automated image processing is implemented to determine layer orientation, then operating time is reduced and automation is improved, but the system must handle non-standardized patient positions in intraoperative applications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayer orientation determination automationVSAvoidpatient position adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamics by adaptively adjusting layer orientation determination based on the specific characteristics of each 3D image data set. Rather than using fixed predetermined orientations, the processing unit dynamically analyzes the actual patient anatomy and imaging conditions to automatically determine the optimal layer orientation, enabling the system to handle various patient positions and anatomical variations effectively

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8744150B2Method for determining a layer orientation for a 2D layer image
Publication Date: 2014.06.03 SIEMENS HEALTHINEERS AG
  • US8744150B2 patent drawing
  • US8744150B2 patent drawing
  • US8744150B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A layer orientation is determined for a 2D layer image that is to be generated from 3D image data of an anatomical object in the body of a patient. First, a model resembling the object that is imaged in the 3D image data is selected from a model pool. The model has an assigned default orientation in a permanently selected relative position with respect to the model. While the relative position is being maintained, the model is aligned with the 3D image data so as to match the model to the object with maximum coincidence. The default orientation established relative to the 3D image data is then selected as the layer orientation for the 3D image data.