Breast Type Identification via Tissue Boundary Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing breast imaging technologies face challenges in accurately identifying breast types, particularly distinguishing between high density and fat type breasts, as current methods require imaging conditions that may not always be available, and existing image processing techniques can worsen image quality or fail to detect lesions effectively.
Innovation Solution
A breast type identification device and method that detects the breast region and skin line from a breast image, calculates a single composition degree index value and a mammary gland clogging index value based on boundary strength and distance, and uses these values to identify the breast type, enabling accurate classification even without specific imaging conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If processing for emphasizing contrast is performed on a fat type breast image, then the contrast is enhanced, but graininess worsens and image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different image processing parameters based on the identified breast type. For high density type breasts, contrast-enhancing processing is applied, while for fat type breasts, different processing parameters are used to avoid excessive contrast and graininess. This resolves the contradiction by dynamically adjusting processing parameters according to the specific breast composition.
2Adaptability or versatility
If breast type identification is performed using only breast image without pectoral muscle, then the method can be applied more widely, but the identification accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and utilizes specific imaging condition information (presence of pectoral muscle in the image) to determine the appropriate breast type identification method. When pectoral muscle is present, one identification approach is used, and when it is absent, a different approach is applied. This extraction of key imaging condition information allows the system to maintain accuracy across different imaging scenarios.
3Measurement precision
If breast type identification requires specific imaging conditions (pectoral muscle inclusion), then the identification accuracy may improve, but the method becomes less applicable in practice
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic identification system that adapts its method based on the actual imaging conditions. The system first determines whether pectoral muscle is included in the breast image, then selects the appropriate identification approach accordingly. This dynamic adaptation allows accurate identification regardless of whether specific imaging conditions are met, resolving the contradiction between accuracy and applicability.
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 approach allows for reliable breast type identification directly from breast images, improving diagnostic accuracy by distinguishing between breast types and providing suitable image processing adjustments for enhanced lesion detection, even when imaging conditions are not optimal.
Implementation Method 1
a breast image obtained by imaging the breast with a mammography imaging apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A first detection unit detects a breast region and a skin line from a breast image, and a first index value calculation unit calculates a first index value indicating the single composition degree of the breast region. A second detection unit detects a boundary between the adipose tissue and the mammary gland tissue in a predetermined range from the skin line toward the inside of the breast region in the breast image. A second index value acquisition unit acquires a second index value indicating the degree of clogging of mammary glands with respect to the breast region based on at least one of the strength of the boundary or the distance from the skin line. An identification unit identifies the type of the breast based on the first and second index values.