Capsule Endoscopy Image Display Time Adjustment via Motion Vector Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in efficiently processing and displaying time-series images from capsule endoscopes, where a large volume of images is generated, leading to observer burden due to varying degrees of similarity between images, necessitates an effective method to determine the display time of each image based on its significance.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus and method that calculates motion vectors between successive images, estimates a newly-appearing rate of regions, and adjusts display time accordingly, classifying image motion patterns and determining display times based on these calculations to optimize observation efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If display time of each image is uniformly set, then simplicity of control is maintained, but observer burden increases due to inability to prioritize significant images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the display time variable rather than fixed. The display time is dynamically adjusted based on the degree of similarity between adjacent images, allowing the system to automatically prioritize significant images (those with large motion vectors) while keeping less significant images displayed briefly, thus reducing observer burden without complex manual control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of display time from a constant value to a variable value determined by motion vector analysis. By calculating the degree of similarity between adjacent images and using this information to adjust display time, the system optimizes observation efficiency without requiring manual intervention
2Reliability
If all images are displayed for sufficient time to ensure none are overlooked, then completeness of observation is improved, but observation efficiency deteriorates due to excessive display time for similar images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by displaying only the necessary portion of images for sufficient time. Images with high similarity to adjacent frames are displayed briefly (partial display), while images with significant changes are displayed longer. This ensures that critical images receive adequate attention while minimizing redundant display time for similar images
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual judgment (mechanical system of observer decision-making) with automated motion vector analysis. The system automatically determines which images require extended display time based on calculated similarity metrics, eliminating the need for observers to manually evaluate each image's significance
3Measurement precision
If motion vector calculation is performed for all pixel regions, then precision of motion detection is improved, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the image into multiple pixel regions and calculating motion vectors for each region independently. This allows precise motion detection in different areas of the image while managing computational complexity through localized processing rather than treating the entire image as a single unit
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different pixel regions to have different motion characteristics. Each pixel region's motion vector is calculated based on its local properties, enabling precise motion detection in areas with significant changes while avoiding unnecessary calculations in stable regions
Data Source
AI summary
In an image processing apparatus which processes time-series images picked up by an imaging device in time series, a motion-vector calculating unit calculates a motion vector between plural images constituting the time-series images with respect to plural pixel regions set in the image. A newly-appearing-rate estimating unit estimates a newly-appearing rate which is a rate of a region newly appears in an image between plural images based on the motion vector. A display-time determination coefficient calculating unit calculates a display time of an image according to the newly-appearing rate.