Camera Normalization for Healthcare Imaging Consistency
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Solution Overview
Problem
In healthcare imaging, the use of multiple cameras and varying environmental conditions leads to inconsistencies in image capture, making it challenging to accurately assess and compare wound conditions over time, potentially risking missed diagnoses.
Innovation Solution
A camera normalization system that includes a computing environment with a normalization engine to identify and adjust image properties such as lighting, zoom, and metadata, ensuring that subsequent images conform to previous ones, either before or after capture, using a database of image capture devices and environmental factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different image capture devices are used to monitor wound conditions over time, then the ability to capture images in various healthcare settings is improved, but the consistency and comparability of image properties (color, contrast, brightness) deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system captures environmental parameters (lighting conditions, temperature, humidity) and camera settings (ISO, shutter speed, white balance) alongside each image, then uses these parameters to guide normalization adjustments. By changing and recording multiple parameters, the system can compensate for device differences and environmental variations, resolving the contradiction between using diverse devices and maintaining image consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary normalization process that acts as a mediator between images captured by different devices. This intermediary system applies computational adjustments based on captured parameters to transform images from different devices into a consistent reference framework, enabling reliable comparison while maintaining the flexibility to use multiple devices.
2Ease of operation
If environmental conditions (lighting, temperature, humidity) are allowed to vary naturally, then the ease of operation and patient comfort are improved, but the consistency of image properties deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary capture of environmental parameters (lighting, temperature, humidity) and camera settings before the actual wound imaging. This preliminary action allows the normalization process to anticipate and compensate for environmental variations, maintaining image consistency without requiring controlled environmental conditions or disrupting patient comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where captured environmental parameters and image data are analyzed to determine normalization adjustments. This feedback loop enables the system to automatically compensate for environmental variations, allowing natural environmental conditions while maintaining image property consistency through computational correction.
3Measurement precision
If post-capture normalization is performed on subsequent images, then the consistency with previous images is improved, but the time required for image processing and analysis increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary capture of all necessary parameters (environmental conditions, camera settings) at the time of image acquisition. This preliminary action enables efficient post-capture normalization by having all required data ready, reducing the actual processing time needed while maintaining image consistency.
4Measurement precision
If pre-capture notifications and adjustments are provided to users, then the consistency of subsequent images with previous images is improved, but the complexity of the operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides pre-capture notifications that guide users through necessary adjustments, enabling users to self-correct potential consistency issues. This self-service approach improves image consistency while keeping the interface simple and user-friendly, avoiding the need for complex manual configuration or specialized training.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media are provided for camera normalization. Images may be normalized after they are captured to conform to previously captured images. Images may also be preemptively adjusted (prior to capture) to conform to previously captured images.