Adaptive User Interface for Intravascular Ultrasound Imaging

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging systems face challenges in providing an intuitive and efficient user interface for operators to control and process IVUS echo data, particularly in multi-modality systems where the complexity of options can overwhelm users and require extensive time and expertise.

Innovation Solution

An adaptive user interface is introduced that presents task-based imaging mode options, allowing users to select modes based on relevant parameters such as previous selections, user preferences, medical procedures, patient information, and sensing data, which configures the IVUS system automatically and dynamically adjusts operating parameters for optimal imaging without additional user input.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the IVUS imaging system provides comprehensive processing options and parameters, then the system functionality and imaging quality are improved, but the user interface complexity increases and overwhelms operators

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging qualityVSAvoiduser interface complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The user interface is segmented into task-based mode options (e.g., plaque characterization, stent imaging, vessel sizing) rather than presenting all individual processing parameters. Each mode groups relevant parameters and algorithms, dividing the complex interface into manageable, purpose-oriented sections that reduce cognitive load while maintaining comprehensive functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Task-based modes act as intermediaries between the user and the complex processing algorithms. Instead of directly exposing numerous processing parameters and algorithms, the system provides pre-configured mode packages that mediate between user intent and system functionality, simplifying the interface while preserving access to advanced features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the system provides extensive processing options and algorithms, then the imaging capability is enhanced, but the operator requires extensive time and expertise to operate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic capabilityVSAvoidoperator expertise requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary configuration by pre-packaging processing algorithms and parameters into task-based modes. Common processing sequences and algorithm combinations are prepared in advance for specific clinical tasks, eliminating the need for operators to manually configure complex parameters and reducing the expertise required to achieve optimal imaging results.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically selects and applies appropriate processing algorithms based on the chosen task mode, reducing operator intervention. The imaging system self-configures processing parameters according to the selected mode, allowing operators to focus on clinical decision-making rather than technical parameter adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the imaging system includes multiple processing algorithms, then the versatility of the system is improved, but the interface becomes complicated and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing capabilityVSAvoidconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple processing algorithms and parameters are merged into integrated task-based modes. Each mode combines multiple processing functions (e.g., tissue characterization algorithms, plaque burden calculation, stent apposition assessment) into a single selectable option, allowing operators to access comprehensive processing capabilities through a single action rather than configuring multiple individual settings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Task-based modes provide universal interfaces that work across different imaging scenarios. Each mode is designed to handle multiple related tasks and processing requirements, making the interface versatile without requiring separate configurations for each specific imaging goal. A single mode selection activates a suite of relevant processing algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution simplifies the user interface, reduces operator burden, and enables efficient control of IVUS imaging systems by providing intuitive and adaptive configuration of operating parameters, enhancing image quality and reducing procedural time.

Implementation Method 1

The transducers emit ultrasonic energy in order to create an image of the vessel of interest. Ultrasonic waves are partially reflected by discontinuities arising from tissue structures

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltrasound: Ultrasound

Implementation Method 2

Echoes from the reflected waves are received by the transducer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEcho: Echo

Data Source

PatentUS9855020B2Adaptive interface for a medical imaging system
Publication Date: 2018.01.02 PHILIPS IMAGE GUIDED THERAPY CORP
  • US9855020B2 patent drawing
  • US9855020B2 patent drawing
  • US9855020B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Intravascular devices, systems, and methods are provided. In one embodiment, an intravascular system includes an intravascular device and a computing device in communication with the intravascular device, the computing device operable to: present a set of mode options to a user at a user display device; receive a mode selection from the presented set of mode options; determine a set of operating parameters based on the mode selection; receive a first set of medical sensing data; and process the first set of medical sensing data according to the operating parameters, wherein the computing device is further operable to determine the set of operating parameters based on at least one of a previous mode selection, a user preference, an operative course of a medical procedure, patient information, the first set of medical sensing data, a second set of medical sensing data, a status indicator, or a sensing device identifier.