3D Image Segmentation Workflow for Faster Anatomical Model Approval

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Creating and obtaining 3D anatomical models is a time-consuming, manual, and expensive process, limiting the efficiency and accessibility of personalized healthcare tools.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented system that includes a server system receiving DICOM data and segmentation instructions through a web portal, allowing for automated segmentation and 3D printing processes, enabling healthcare professionals to focus on other tasks while ensuring accurate model generation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual segmentation and 3D model creation processes are used, then healthcare professionals can maintain control over the process, but the process becomes time-consuming and reduces productivity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduction speed of 3D anatomical modelsVSAvoidtime required for manual segmentation and model creation

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the 3D model creation process into distinct automated stages: image data reception, automatic segmentation based on pre-defined rules, 3D model generation, and quality verification. This segmentation enables parallel processing and automation of time-consuming manual tasks while maintaining professional oversight at critical decision points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-defining segmentation rules and criteria before the actual 3D model creation process. These pre-configured parameters allow the automated system to quickly segment images and generate models without requiring real-time manual intervention, significantly reducing production time while ensuring quality standards are met.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If automated segmentation processes are implemented, then productivity increases and time is reduced, but the complexity of the system increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethroughput of 3D model productionVSAvoidsystem architecture complexity for automated processing

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary layer of pre-defined segmentation rules and automated algorithms that mediate between the input medical images and the final 3D models. This intermediary automation layer handles the complex segmentation tasks according to established criteria, reducing the need for complex manual operations while maintaining system manageability through rule-based processing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system manages complexity by changing parameters from manual, flexible adjustments to automated, rule-based parameter settings. Pre-configured segmentation parameters, thresholds, and processing rules are established beforehand, allowing the system to automatically adapt to different image types and requirements without requiring complex real-time decision-making infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If manual processes are used for 3D model creation, then system complexity remains low, but manufacturing precision and accuracy may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of 3D anatomical model generationVSAvoidautomation infrastructure required

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where automated segmentation results are verified against pre-defined quality criteria and clinical requirements. The system provides feedback loops that allow for automatic correction of segmentation errors and verification of model accuracy, ensuring high manufacturing precision through systematic quality control rather than relying solely on manual review.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual mechanical segmentation processes with automated computational algorithms. This substitution uses software-based image analysis, automated thresholding, and digital processing to achieve consistent, high-precision segmentation results without the variability and time constraints of manual methods, while the added complexity is managed through rule-based automation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS20250291334A1System architecture for uploading image data and approving segmented image data

Publication Date: 2025.09.18 RICOH 3D FOR HEALTHCARE LLC

AI summary

Techniques for uploading image data are provided. In one technique, based on first input received through a requester computer that includes an image viewer, image data is received from the requester computer. In a database, a record that indicates a print order that is based on the request and that includes the image data is generated. A request for data about 3D printing the image data is transmitted to an entity associated with the requester computer. Second input that includes instructions for segmenting the image data is received from the entity through a web portal. In another technique, a virtual 3D model and a control for approving the virtual 3D model are presented in a user interface of an image viewer. In response to receiving an indication that a user selected the control, 3D files corresponding to the 3D model are transmitted to a manufacturing facility that produces 3D models.